Leaking Tap

Causes of Leaking Taps

There’s no one cause of leaky taps. They’re made up of multiple parts that can wear out over time and cause a pesky drip. But, if you can figure out which part is broken, you can fix it:

• Worn-out washers: Washers are the most common cause of leaky taps. Constant friction and pressure can cause them to wear out, resulting in a steady drip from the spout.

• Deteriorating valve seals: The minerals in your water can corrode the seals on the valves over time, making them unable to close fully. 

• O-ring issues: O-rings are little rubber discs that sit around the valve stem to create a watertight seal. However, being rubber, they can wear out or break due to constant use, breaking the seal and allowing water to escape.

• Corroded valve parts: Similar to the valve seals, other components within the valve, such as the stem, can also corrode and cause leaks. 

• Improper installation: While this usually won’t be the cause of a sudden leak, if you’ve recently installed a tap and it’s leaked ever since, this may be the reason. Loose parts, incorrect positioning or inadequate seals can all contribute to leaks.

• High water pressure: High water pressure can stress plumbing components and wear them out quickly. Thus, weakening seals and letting water seep out.

Risks and Consequences

While a dripping tap may seem like something that you can drop to the bottom of your to-do list, it’s really not. Delaying repairs can cause the drip to get worse and even result in significant issues, including: 

• Water waste: Did you know a steady drip can waste up to 3 litres of water per day? This equates to approximately 90 litres per month. And you pay for every litre. This can make your water bills significantly higher than they need to be, not to mention the environmental impacts of this wastage.

• Structural damage: If the leak drips perfectly into the drain, it should be okay. But if the leak is around the base of the tap and is left to sit on the bench top or near the wall, it can damage your walls, vanity, or floor if it seeps that far.

• Health risks: This sitting water can also encourage the growth of mould. This not only makes your room look drab, but can also have serious health risks if you’re constantly breathing in the spores.

Step-by-Step Repair Guide

Now that you know the common causes and the risks of ignoring your leak taps, it’s time to do the repairs:

1. Turn off the water supply: The last thing you need is to make it worse by spraying water around the room. So, start by shutting off the main water supply. You should find the valves out the front of your property under a council cover plate. 
2. Plug the drain: There are lots of small components inside taps that can easily fall through the drain and cause a blockage. To avoid this, plug the drain or place a cloth over it to catch any parts that come out.
3. Identify the type of tap: Different taps will require different replacement parts. Take a moment to figure out what type of tap you have to make sure you buy compatible parts. If your tap is on the older side, you may need to replace the whole thing instead.
4. Disassemble the tap: Once there’s no risk of losing parts or causing blockages, you can start to pull the tap apart with a screwdriver or wrench. Remove the handle to expose the inner components. Before moving on take note (or a photo) of how it’s arranged so you know how to put it back together later.
5. Inspect and replace faulty parts: Then, try to figure out what is causing the leak. Check each component for signs of damage, corrosion or wear. You can then replace any parts that look old or damaged with new ones.
6. Clean and lubricate: Before putting it all back together, take a minute to clean the parts. By removing any minerals or debris, you can help each part and the repairs last longer. Minimising the risks of another leak.
7. Reassemble and test: Now you can finally put everything back together, making sure to tighten each part securely to create a water-tight seal. Then, turn the water supply back on and check for leaks. If there are none, congratulations, you successfully fixed your tap. However, if there are, you may need to call a plumber.

With these simple steps, you can safely take control of the situation and bid farewell to leaky taps! But, remember that each tap is slightly different, so if you encounter any issues, it’s important to consult the manufacturer’s instructions or a professional plumber.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

The most important thing to know about DIY plumbing is when to put the tools down and call the experts. While most minor issues can be addressed through simple repairs–like the above steps–certain circumstances are best left to those with training and specialised tools:

• Persistent leaks: If you’ve tried to fix your tap with the above steps and yet it continues to leak, there’s likely a more complex underlying problem that needs to be addressed with more specialised skills and equipment.
• Water damage: If the leak is extensive and causing significant damage to your cabinets, walls or flooring, it likely extends beyond the surface leak that you can see. There may be an issue hidden within the pipes that requires more specialised attention and repairs.
• Complex issues: If you pull your tap apart and can’t find any parts that are worn or damaged the issue may be more complex. Or if along with the leak, you also have irregular water pressure or if the tap is making usual sounds, these are all signs of a complex plumbing issue. 

If you notice any of these problems along with your leaking tap, it’s time to call our experienced plumbers at Essendon Plumbing Services. Our team is fully trained in finding the source of and repairing leaking taps.

Manage Leaking Taps Effectively

Leaking taps are not only an annoyance but can also lead to significant consequences such as water waste, increased utility bills, and potential damage to your home if left unattended. By promptly addressing and repairing leaky taps, you can save water, keep your bills where they should be, avoid costly repairs, and contribute to environmental sustainability.

If a constantly leaking tap is driving you crazy and you don’t know how to make it stop, our experts are here to help! Call Essendon Plumbing Services today to stop the drip for good!