What Actually Causes a Leaking Tap
A dripping tap has a handful of likely causes. Knowing which one you have tells you whether it is a five-minute job.
3 min read
The cartridge or washer
In mixer taps a ceramic cartridge controls the flow. Once its surfaces wear, water passes even with the handle closed. Replacement is inexpensive but the cartridge must match the tap model.
Scale on the valve seat
Mineral deposits stop the washer seating cleanly. Cleaning helps temporarily, but a pitted seat will keep dripping until it is resurfaced or the tap is replaced.
Leaks around the base
Water appearing at the base rather than the spout usually means a failed O-ring or a loose connection underneath. Check inside the cabinet before assuming the tap body is at fault.
When to replace rather than repair
If the tap body is cracked, the threads are stripped or parts are no longer available, replacement is the more economical option.