That persistent drip, drip, drip from your kitchen tap isn’t just annoying - it’s literally money down the drain. A single leaking tap can waste up to 20,000 litres of water annually, adding unnecessary costs to your water bill. While fixing a leaking tap might seem daunting, it’s often a straightforward job that many Melbourne homeowners can tackle themselves with the right guidance.
To fix a leaking tap, start by turning off the water supply and plugging the drain. Remove the handle, unscrew the headgear to access the spindle, and replace the worn rubber washer (for traditional taps) or the ceramic cartridge (for modern taps). If the leak is coming from around the handle, a damaged O-ring may be the cause and should be replaced. Lightly lubricate the new parts and reassemble the tap carefully.
If the tap continues to leak, the valve seat may be corroded and need resurfacing, or the issue could be related to high water pressure. In these cases, or if the repair feels too complex, it’s best to call a licensed plumber.
At Lexity, we’ve been helping local families keep their homes running smoothly for years. Sometimes a quick DIY fix is all you need, but we’re always here when you need professional help.
Common Causes of a Leaking Tap
Understanding why your tap is leaking helps determine the best fix. Through our years servicing Melbourne homes, we’ve found these are the most common culprits:
Worn-Out Washers: The rubber washer at the base of the valve creates a watertight seal. Over time, constant use causes wear, leading to that telltale drip.
Damaged O-Rings: These small rubber rings seal various tap components. When they perish or crack, water finds its way through.
High Water Pressure: Melbourne’s water pressure can vary significantly between suburbs. Excessive pressure stresses tap components, causing premature wear.
Mineral Deposits: Our water contains minerals that build up inside taps, particularly in older homes, affecting proper sealing.
Faulty Cartridge: Modern mixer taps use cartridges instead of traditional washers. These can wear out or become damaged over time.
What You’ll Need
Before starting your tap repair, gather these tools:
- Adjustable spanner
- Screwdriver (flathead and Phillips)
- Replacement washers or O-rings
- Penetrating oil (for stubborn parts)
- Towel or cloth
- Bucket (to catch water)
Pro tip: Take photos as you disassemble the tap - it makes reassembly much easier!
Step-by-Step Guide to Fix a Leaking Tap
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
First things first - locate your main water supply or the isolation valve beneath the sink. Turn it clockwise to shut off water flow. Open the tap to release any remaining water and pressure. If your plumbing doesn’t have one, consider getting a kitchen plumber to install it for future convenience.
Step 2: Remove the Tap Handle
Look for the screw holding the handle in place - it’s often hidden under a decorative cap. Use a screwdriver to gently pry off the cap, then remove the screw. The handle should lift away, revealing the tap mechanism beneath.
Step 3: Disassemble the Tap
Using your adjustable spanner, carefully unscrew the tap body. Some older taps might need penetrating oil if they’re stuck. As you remove parts, place them on a towel in order - small parts have a habit of disappearing down drains!
Step 4: Inspect and Replace the Washer or O-Ring
Once you’ve got the tap disassembled, examine the washer at the base of the valve seat. If it’s worn, compressed, or damaged, that’s likely your culprit. Remove the old washer and replace it with a new one of the same size.
For O-ring issues (common when taps leak around the base of the spout), carefully remove the old O-ring and roll on a new one, ensuring it sits properly in its groove.
Step 5: Check the Valve Seat
While you’ve got everything apart, inspect the valve seat for damage or mineral deposits. A damaged valve seat will cause even new washers to wear quickly. Clean any buildup with a cloth, or consider calling a professional plumber if the seat needs replacing.
Step 6: Reassemble the Tap
Now comes the satisfying part - putting your tap back together. Work in reverse order, ensuring each component is properly seated. Don’t overtighten - firm is good, forced is not.
Step 7: Test the Tap
Turn your water supply back on and test your handiwork. Check for leaks both when the tap is running and when it’s off. If you still notice water leaking, the issue might be more complex than a simple washer replacement.
Fixing a Leaking Mixer Tap
Mixer taps work differently from traditional taps. Instead of washers, they typically use a ceramic cartridge. If your mixer tap is leaking:
- Turn off both hot and cold water supplies
- Remove the tap handle (usually held by a grub screw)
- Unscrew and remove the mixer cartridge
- Replace with an identical cartridge (take the old one to your hardware store)
- Reassemble and test
When to Call a Professional Plumber
While many tap repairs are DIY-friendly, some situations need expert attention:
- Persistent Leaks: If your tap still drips after replacing washers or cartridges
- Multiple Tap Issues: When several taps start leaking simultaneously
- Damaged Tap Body: Cracks or corrosion in the tap itself
- Low Water Pressure: Could indicate bigger plumbing issues
- No Isolation Valve: Working on plumbing without proper shut-offs is risky
Our licensed plumbers handle everything from simple tap repairs to complete plumbing overhauls. We’ve seen every type of tap problem Melbourne homes can throw at us!
How to Prevent Future Leaks
Prevention beats repair every time. Here’s how to keep your taps flowing smoothly:
Regular Maintenance: Check tap washers annually and replace them before they fail completely.
Address Issues Early: A small drip becomes a big leak over time. Fix problems when you first notice them.
Monitor Water Pressure: High pressure accelerates wear on all plumbing fixtures. Consider installing a pressure reduction valve if needed.
Quality Parts: Use proper replacement parts - cheap washers might save money today but cost more tomorrow.
Professional Servicing: Annual plumbing check-ups catch problems before they become emergencies.
The Real Cost of Ignoring a Leaking Tap
Beyond the annoying drip, a leaking tap can:
- Waste thousands of litres annually
- Increase your water bills
- Cause water damage to cabinets and floors
- Create conditions for mould growth
- Lead to more expensive repairs down the track
Your Local Melbourne Plumbing Experts
At Lexity, we understand that not everyone’s comfortable tackling plumbing repairs. That’s perfectly fine - it’s why we’re here! Our family-run team has been keeping Melbourne homes leak-free for years. We treat every home like it’s our grandmother’s place: boot covers on, drop sheets down, and everything left spotless.
Whether you need help fixing a stubborn leak, upgrading old taps, or just want peace of mind with a plumbing inspection, we’re your neighbours you can trust.
Ready to Stop That Leak for Good?
Whether you’re tackling the repair yourself or need professional help, don’t let that leaking tap waste another drop. For expert plumbing services across Melbourne, call Lexity on 1300 993 447. We offer fixed upfront pricing, same-day service, and all work is backed by our Lifetime Workmanship Guarantee.
Got multiple plumbing issues? Ask about our comprehensive home plumbing check-up - because prevention is always better than emergency repairs!
