Easy Fixes for a Leaky Kitchen Tap (No Plumber Needed)

Chrome bathroom faucet with water droplet on a white background

A dripping kitchen tap might seem like a minor issue, but over time, it can waste litres of water and increase your bill. Luckily, in many cases, you don’t need to call a plumber. With a few basic tools and a bit of know-how, you can sort it yourself.

In this easy-to-follow guide, we’ll walk you through how to fix a leaking kitchen tap DIY style, safely and confidently—no special skills required. Whether you have a traditional compression tap or a modern mixer tap, we’ve got you covered.

Why Is My Kitchen Tap Leaking?

Leaking taps usually come down to one of a few common problems:

Worn Out Washer or Cartridge

The most common cause. Inside every tap is a washer (or cartridge in modern taps) that helps stop water flow. Over time, they wear down.

Damaged O-ring

An O-ring is a small rubber seal located at the base of the spout. If your tap is leaking around the handle or base, this could be the culprit.

Corroded Valve Seat

Hard water and limescale build-up can corrode the valve seat where the washer rests, allowing water to drip through.

Loose or Damaged Parts

Over time, components like the tap body, handle or fittings can become loose or cracked.

Safety First: Before You Begin

Turn Off the Water Supply

Look under the sink for the isolation valve. Turn it clockwise until it’s tightly shut. If you don’t have isolation valves, you’ll need to turn off the mains.

Drain the Tap

Turn the tap on to release any remaining water. This prevents water from spilling when you dismantle it.

Plug the Sink

Use a plug or cloth to cover the drain—just in case you drop a screw or small part.

What Tools Will I Need?

  • Adjustable spanner or wrench
  • Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers
  • Allen key (for mixer taps)
  • Replacement washer or cartridge (based on tap type)
  • O-rings (optional, for handle leaks)
  • Silicone grease
  • Old towel or sponge
  • Cleaning cloth

Tip: If you’re not sure what parts to buy, remove the old ones and take them to a DIY shop for a match.

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 Style)

These have separate hot and cold handles. You turn them several times to increase or decrease flow.

Mixer Taps (Modern Style)

These have a single lever or handle that controls both flow and temperature. Inside, they usually use a ceramic disc cartridge.

Step 2: Disassemble the Tap

For Compression Taps:

  1. Remove the tap cover – Use a flathead screwdriver to gently prise off the cap at the top of the handle.
  2. Unscrew the handle – Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screw underneath.
  3. Remove the tap head – Lift off the head or use a spanner to loosen it.
  4. Unscrew the tap bonnet – You’ll see the valve. Use a spanner to remove it from the tap body.

For Mixer Taps:

  1. Look for a small grub screw under the handle (often under a red/blue cap).
  2. Use an Allen key to loosen it, then remove the handle.
  3. Remove the collar or shroud if present, then unscrew the cartridge retaining nut.
  4. Take out the cartridge – This is what controls water flow.

Step 3: Replace the Faulty Part

Replacing a Washer (Compression Tap):

  1. Use a screwdriver to remove the old washer from the bottom of the valve.
  2. Clean the seat area of any debris or limescale.
  3. Insert the new washer—make sure it’s a perfect match in size.

Replacing a Cartridge (Mixer Tap):

  1. Match the new cartridge with the old one—it must be identical in size and shape.
  2. Clean around the tap body.
  3. Insert the new cartridge, making sure it aligns properly with the grooves.

Step 4: Reassemble the Tap

  1. Reverse the disassembly steps
  2. Tighten all parts gently but firmly
  3. Avoid overtightening, which can damage parts

Step 5: Test the Tap

  1. Turn the water supply back on
  2. Slowly open the tap and check for drips
  3. Make sure handles feel smooth and tight

If the leak persists, it could be due to deeper corrosion or an incorrectly seated washer or cartridge. Recheck your installation before considering a professional.

Fixing a Leak from the Base or Handle

If water leaks from the handle when the tap is turned on, or from the base of the spout, it's likely due to a worn O-ring.

How to Replace an O-ring

  1. Follow disassembly steps for your tap
  2. Gently pull off the spout (some pull straight up, others twist)
  3. Look for the O-ring near the base
  4. Use a blunt tool to pry it off—don’t scratch the metal
  5. Slide the new O-ring on
  6. Apply a little silicone grease for a snug fit
  7. Reassemble and test

What If My Tap Is Still Dripping?

If you’ve replaced the washers, cartridge, or O-rings and the tap still leaks:

  • Check the valve seat for corrosion. You may need a seat grinder to resurface it.
  • Examine for cracks in the tap body—this usually requires a replacement.
  • Inspect internal threads and fittings for wear or misalignment.

At this point, if the tap continues to leak, it may be time to replace the tap altogether or consult a professional plumber.

Top Tips to Prevent Tap Leaks in Future

  • Don’t overtighten taps when turning them off—this wears out washers faster.
  • Regularly clean limescale and grime build-up around the spout.
  • If you live in a hard water area, consider a tap filter or softener to reduce mineral build-up.
  • Replace washers and cartridges every few years as preventive maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fix a kitchen tap without turning off the water?

No—it’s essential to shut off the water supply before starting. Otherwise, you risk flooding your kitchen.

How do I know if my tap uses a cartridge or washer?

If your tap turns on and off with just a quarter or half-turn, it likely has a ceramic cartridge. If it needs several turns, it uses a washer.

What size washer do I need?

The size varies by tap. Take the old washer to your local DIY shop for a perfect match, or measure it with a calliper if you have one.

Summary: Fix That Leak with Confidence

A leaking kitchen tap is not only annoying—it’s wasteful and can lead to bigger problems if ignored. Thankfully, with a bit of time and a few simple tools, you can fix most leaks yourself without needing a plumber.

Whether you’re dealing with a worn washer, a tired cartridge, or a sneaky O-ring problem, now you know exactly how to fix a leaking kitchen tap DIY. It’s easier than you think—and the savings (and satisfaction) are well worth it.