Quick summary: 💧 A dripping tap wastes water and money — but most leaks can be fixed in under an hour. Turn off the water, identify your tap type, then replace the worn washer, O-ring or cartridge. Use silicone grease on seals and avoid overtightening when reassembling. Learn how to fix your leaking kitchen tap DIY-style below. 🧰
To fix a leaking kitchen tap, turn off the water, identify your tap type (compression or mixer), then replace the worn part (washer, cartridge, or O-ring). Clean limescale, use silicone grease on seals, and reassemble carefully. Test for drips and avoid overtightening. Most fixes take under an hour. 💧🔧
🧱 INTRO
A dripping kitchen tap might seem minor, but over time it can waste litres of water and increase your bill. The good news? In many cases you don’t need a plumber. With a few basic tools and a bit of know-how, you can sort it yourself. ✅
In this easy-to-follow guide, you’ll learn how to fix a leaking kitchen tap DIY — safely and confidently. Whether you have a traditional compression tap or a modern mixer tap, we’ve got you covered. 🧰
📖 View Table of Contents
Why Is My Kitchen Tap Leaking? 💧
Most leaks come from a few common culprits:
Worn Out Washer or Cartridge
The most common cause. A compression tap uses a washer; a mixer tap typically uses a ceramic cartridge — both wear over time.
Damaged O-ring
A small rubber seal near the spout base. If water leaks around the handle or base, this could be the issue.
Corroded Valve Seat
Limescale and hard water can pit the valve seat where the washer rests, letting water seep through.
Loose or Damaged Parts
Handles, collars, or fittings may loosen or crack with use.
Safety First: Before You Begin 🦺
Turn Off the Water Supply
Find the isolation valves under the sink and turn clockwise to close. If none are fitted, turn off the mains.
Drain the Tap
Open the tap to release remaining water - this prevents spills when dismantling.
Plug the Sink
Use a plug or cloth to cover the drain so you don’t lose small screws or parts.
What Tools Will I Need? 🧰
- Adjustable spanner (wrench)
- Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers
- Allen key (for many mixer taps)
- Replacement washer or cartridge (as required)
- O-rings (for handle/spout leaks)
- Silicone grease
- Old towel or sponge
- Cleaning cloth
Tip: Not sure which parts to buy? Remove the old ones and take them to a DIY shop for a match, or check the tap brand/model online. 🔎
Step-by-Step: How to Fix a Leaking Kitchen Tap DIY 🛠️
Step 1: Identify Your Tap Type
There are two main types:
Compression Taps (Traditional)
Separate hot and cold handles that turn several times to adjust flow.
Mixer Taps (Modern)
Single lever controlling both flow and temperature, usually with a ceramic disc cartridge inside.
Step 2: Disassemble the Tap
For Compression Taps
- Remove the tap cap using a flathead screwdriver.
- Unscrew the handle with a Phillips screwdriver.
- Lift off the head (use a spanner if needed).
- Unscrew the tap bonnet to expose and remove the valve.
For Mixer Taps
- Locate the small grub screw under the handle (often beneath a red/blue cap).
- Loosen with an Allen key and remove the handle.
- Remove the collar/shroud (if fitted) and unscrew the cartridge retaining nut.
- Lift out the cartridge.
Step 3: Replace the Faulty Part
Replacing a Washer (Compression)
- Unscrew and remove the old washer from the valve.
- Clean the seat area; remove limescale and debris.
- Fit the new washer — it must be the correct size.
Replacing a Cartridge (Mixer)
- Match the new cartridge to the old (identical size and shape).
- Clean the tap body contact surfaces.
- Seat the new cartridge, aligning tabs/grooves correctly.
Step 4: Reassemble the Tap
- Reverse the disassembly steps.
- Tighten parts gently but firmly.
- Avoid overtightening, which can damage seals and threads.
Step 5: Test the Tap
- Turn the water supply back on.
- Open the tap slowly and check for drips.
- Ensure handles/lever feel smooth and secure.
Still leaking? Re-check seating, orientation, and that the replacement parts are an exact match.
Fixing a Leak from the Base or Handle 🔁
If water leaks from the handle when the tap is on, or from the spout base, the O-ring is likely worn.
How to Replace an O-ring
- Follow the disassembly steps for your tap type.
- Gently remove the spout (straight up or twist, depending on model).
- Locate the O-ring near the base of the spout.
- Use a blunt tool to ease it off - avoid scratching the metal.
- Fit the new O-ring and apply a thin layer of silicone grease.
- Reassemble and test.
What If My Tap Is Still Dripping? 🤔
- Check the valve seat for pitting/corrosion — a seat grinder may be needed.
- Inspect the tap body for hairline cracks (replacement may be best).
- Examine threads and fittings for wear or misalignment.
If problems persist after correct parts and seating, consider replacing the tap or consulting a professional.
Top Tips to Prevent Tap Leaks in Future ✅
- Don’t overtighten taps when turning off — it speeds up washer wear.
- Clean limescale and grime around the spout regularly.
- In hard-water areas, consider a tap filter or softener to reduce mineral build-up.
- Replace washers/cartridges periodically as preventive maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions ❓
Can I fix a kitchen tap without turning off the water?
No. Always shut off the water supply first, or you risk flooding.
How do I know if my tap uses a cartridge or a washer?
If it turns on/off with a quarter or half turn, it’s likely a ceramic cartridge. If it needs several turns, it uses a washer.
What size washer do I need?
It varies by tap. Take the old washer to a DIY shop to match it, or measure with a calliper if you have one.
Summary: Fix That Leak with Confidence 🏁
A leaking kitchen tap is wasteful and annoying, but it’s usually an easy fix. Identify your tap type, replace the worn part (washer, cartridge, or O-ring), clean seats and seals, and reassemble without overtightening. Now you know exactly how to fix a leaking kitchen tap DIY - quick, safe, and budget-friendly. 🙌
🛠 Product Summary
- Gorilla Waterproof Patch & Seal Tape (Black) Creates a permanent, waterproof and airtight seal for holes, cracks and gaps.
- STANLEY Adjustable Wrench (30 × 200 mm) Smooth, durable adjustable spanner for everyday tightening jobs.
- S&R Water Pump Pliers (250 mm) Strong, adjustable pliers ideal for installation and repair work.
- DURATECH 11" Basin Wrench Adjustable wrench for tightening tap and sink back-nuts in tight spaces.
- Bahco 8224 Slip Joint Pliers (250 mm) High-leverage slip joint pliers with excellent comfort and grip power.
- Amazon Basics Heavy-Duty Sealant Gun Smooth-trigger sealant gun for clean, controlled silicone application.
