How to Repair a Leaking Outside Tap – A Homeowner’s Guide

How to Stop a Dripping Tap – Worcester Handyman’s Step-by-Step Guide

A dripping tap might seem like a small problem, but over time it can waste thousands of litres of water and increase your water bill. In many cases, a leaking tap is caused by worn washers, damaged cartridges or general wear and tear.

  • At Worcester Handyman Services, we regularly repair leaking taps throughout Worcester and the surrounding areas. Here’s our guide to understanding why taps drip and what you can do about it.

Why Does a Tap Start Dripping?

The most common causes include:

Worn ceramic cartridge

Damaged rubber washer

Loose internal components

Limescale build-up

High water pressure

Old or worn tap seals

Sometimes replacing a small internal part is enough, while older taps are often more economical to replace completely.

Can You Fix It Yourself?

If you’re confident with basic DIY, you may be able to repair a dripping tap by:

Turning off the water supply.

Removing the tap handle.

Replacing the washer or ceramic cartridge.

Cleaning away any limescale.

Reassembling the tap carefully.

Always make sure the correct replacement parts are used, as different manufacturers use different cartridges.

When Should You Replace the Tap?

If the tap is old, badly corroded or has been repaired several times before, fitting a new tap is often the better long-term solution.

Modern taps are more reliable, more water efficient and improve the appearance of your kitchen or bathroom.

Our Recent Tap Installation

Close-up of a leaking kitchen mixer tap before repair. Worcester Handyman Services provides tap repairs, tap replacements and general plumbing maintenance throughout Worcester and the surrounding areas.
Dripping kitchen mixer tap before repair by Worcester Handyman Services
This image shows a newly installed kitchen mixer tap fitted by Worcester Handyman Services. The old tap was removed and replaced with a modern, reliable tap, improving water flow, reducing the risk of leaks, and giving the kitchen a fresh new look. We provide tap replacements, plumbing repairs, and general handyman services throughout Worcester and the surrounding areas.
New kitchen mixer tap installed by Worcester Handyman Services in Worcester

These photographs show one of our recent tap replacement jobs carried out by Worcester Handyman Services. The existing tap had developed a leak and was replaced with a new quality mixer tap, leaving the customer with a reliable, modern finish.

We always check for leaks, ensure everything is securely fitted and leave the work area clean and tidy.

Need Help With a Dripping Tap?

If your tap won’t stop dripping or you’d prefer a professional repair, Worcester Handyman Services can help.

We carry out:

Dripping tap repairs

Tap replacements

Kitchen tap installations

Bathroom tap installations

General plumbing repairs

Property maintenance across Worcester

If you’d like a free quotation, simply get in touch and we’ll be happy to help.

 

About Worcester Handyman Services

Our team shares practical advice based on real experience working in homes and businesses across Worcester.

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