Leaky Tap: How to Stop the Dripping

Symptom

The tap drips drop by drop from the spout while closed. Sometimes the water runs intermittently, sometimes a faint water sound is heard under the tap. A single drop may seem small, but over time it adds up to real water waste.

Quick decision guide

• Does water drip only from the spout while the tap is closed? Note the location; check the tap model and manual before replacing parts.
• Is water coming from the body, a connection, inside the cabinet, or a wall? Identify a safe shut-off point before dismantling anything; call a plumber if unsure.
• Did the valve close easily, and does the manual describe simple user maintenance? If yes, follow only that step; if dripping continues, shut off the supply and get professional help.

Stop immediately: Do not dismantle the tap if water is flowing quickly, the isolation valve is stuck/broken, or water is near electrical equipment. Shut off the main supply only if safely accessible; keep clear of the area and call a plumber urgently.

Possible causes

1. The washer in the valve mechanism is worn out.
2. The tap joint has loosened.
3. The valve washer is torn or displaced.
4. The valve inner ring is limescaled or seized.
5. The pressure in the main water line is high.

What you can do yourself

1. Observe whether water drips from the spout or from around the handle, body, or connection. A photo before disassembly can help identify the correct part.
2. Place a cloth or container in the sink to catch drips, and move cleaning products and electrical items away from the wet area.
3. If shut-off is needed, locate the local isolation valve, often under the sink. Close it only if it turns easily; do not force a stuck valve. If there is no local valve or water will not stop, close the main supply if safe and call a plumber.
4. Do not dismantle the tap until you have confirmed the water is off. Check the manufacturer's instructions for the exact tap model and its cartridge/seal type; do not guess the replacement part.
5. After any permitted repair, reopen the valve slowly and dry the connections with a cloth to check for new moisture. If dripping or dampness continues, shut off the water and contact a plumber.

When to call a professional

If the valve is seized or rusted, forcing it open yourself can damage the pipe. If it will not turn after 2–3 attempts, or if water is seeping from the shut-off valve, call a service. A cracked valve body requires repair.

When contacting a plumber, describe exactly where the water appears, whether it drips only while the tap is running or also when closed, and whether you could shut off the supply. Share the tap model or a photo taken without dismantling it, if available.

FAQ

How much water does a dripping tap waste?

The amount depends on the drop size and rate, so there is no single reliable figure for every tap. Catching the drip temporarily can help show how quickly it is leaking.

Is replacing the washer hard?

It depends on the tap design. Some use a cartridge rather than a replaceable washer; check the model instructions or ask a plumber before buying parts.

Does standing water change the taste or smell?

Yes. Water left standing in the lines for a long time can change smell and taste; run the tap for a few seconds.

What if the dripping does not stop?

Check the valve; if you cannot remove and replace it, or the internal mechanism is damaged, call a service.

10 More Practical Checks

1. Distinguish a drip from the spout from water around the handle or base; the exit point helps narrow down the possible fault.
2. Dry the area, wait briefly, and check again with a dry paper towel; the first spot that becomes wet may help locate the leak.
3. Clear items from under the sink and visually inspect pipes and joints; do not use pliers to tighten connections.
4. If hot- and cold-water isolation valves are separate, observe safely which side is involved; do not turn unlabelled valves at random.
5. Do not force an isolation valve that will not turn easily; an old or corroded valve can break and worsen the leak.
6. If dampness seems to come from inside a wall, the floor, or a concealed pipe, consider the main shut-off and call a plumber rather than focusing only on the tap.
7. If the leak is on a hot-water line, avoid touching hot surfaces or water and keep children and pets away.
8. Match replacement parts to the make/model and the existing part; cartridges that look alike may not be interchangeable.
9. Do not pour cleaners or descaler into the tap; chemicals can damage finishes and internal materials.
10. Leave connections dry after any permitted repair and recheck them; if moisture returns, shut off the supply and get professional help before the leak worsens.