DRIPPING AND LEAKING TAPS

Leaking Tap Repair in Poole

A tap that keeps dripping after it is turned off, or water gathering around its handle, body or base, is worth sorting out before it gets worse. We provide leaking tap repair in Poole for kitchen, bathroom and utility taps in homes and businesses, finding where the water is coming from and repairing or replacing the affected parts.

Call 01202 125678 to describe the leak, or request a free quote. Help is available 24/7.

SPOTTING A LEAK

When a Tap Starts Dripping or Leaking

Most leaking taps start small, so they are easy to put off. Even so, our article on whether a dripping tap can increase your water use explains why a drip is worth fixing.

You might notice a steady drip from the spout after the tap is closed, a damp patch on the worktop, or water collecting around the handle each time the tap is used.

A drip means water is getting past a part that should be holding it back. A leak that runs down behind a tap may also reach the worktop, cabinet or vanity unit underneath, so it is worth having it checked early.

WHERE THE WATER COMES FROM

Where Can a Tap Leak From?

Where the water appears is a useful clue, but not always the full answer.

Dripping From the Spout

A tap that drips from the spout after being turned off is usually not sealing fully inside. Which part is involved depends on the tap design. Our article on why a tap keeps dripping when it is turned off explains this in more detail.

Leaking Around the Handle or Control

Water around a handle, lever or spindle may point to a worn seal or internal component near the control.

Water Around the Tap Body or Base

Water here may come from the tap, but it can also run down from the spout or come from a connection below. It does not necessarily mean the tap body is leaking.

Leaks at the Connections Underneath

Water under a sink or basin may come from the tap connectors, an isolating valve or nearby pipework rather than the tap itself.

POSSIBLE CAUSES

What Can Cause a Leaking Tap?

A leaking tap can have several causes. Internal parts wear with use, seals and O-rings can harden or perish, and limescale or debris can stop parts from closing properly.

A tap that drips after closing does not necessarily have one specific failed part, so checking it first helps avoid replacing parts that were working.

Why the Tap Design Matters

Some older pillar taps use a rubber washer that presses against a seat to stop the flow. Many modern taps, including lots of mixer and quarter-turn taps, use a cartridge or ceramic discs instead.

That is why a new washer is not the answer to every dripping tap, and why a leaking mixer tap does not always need a new cartridge. The repair depends on how the tap is made, which part has failed and whether compatible parts are available.

Repairing a Dripping or Leaking Tap

We start by finding where the water is actually coming from.

The repair may then involve replacing a worn washer, seal, O-ring, cartridge or ceramic disc, cleaning a component, or remaking a connection. We explain what we have found and the options before any work goes ahead.

If your tap is stiff, loose or has another fault that is not a leak, our tap repair page covers those wider problems.

CALL 01202 125678

REPAIR OR REPLACE

When Tap Replacement May Be Considered

Many leaking taps can be repaired, but not all. Replacement may be more practical if the body is cracked or corroded, the same leak keeps returning, or compatible parts are no longer available.

Repair is not always cheaper, and replacement is not always better. It depends on the tap design, the source of the leak, the condition of the tap and its connections, and how practical a repair would be.

If a Leak Is Getting Worse

If a leak becomes significant and you can safely find and use the isolating valve under the sink or the stopcock, turning off the supply may help reduce further water escape. Do not force a valve that is stiff.

Please avoid taking apart an unfamiliar tap, as some designs are easily damaged. If water is near sockets or electrical appliances, keep clear and seek appropriate help.

KITCHENS, BATHROOMS AND BUSINESSES

Leaking Kitchen and Bathroom Taps

Kitchen mixers with swivel spouts or pull-out sprays have extra seals that can wear, while bathroom basin and bath taps may leak around the base or controls.

We repair leaking taps in homes, rented properties and commercial premises such as offices, shops and holiday lets. Wasted water matters too, and Dorset Council’s water-saving advice suggests checking for drips and leaks as one way to use less water at home.

What Can Affect Leaking Tap Repair?

We do not give fixed prices without understanding the leak first. The work can depend on the tap design, the source of the leak, the parts needed, access under the sink or basin and whether repair or replacement suits best.

We offer free quotes so you know what is involved before work starts. If a leak cannot wait, you can contact an emergency plumber in Poole at any time.

COMMON QUESTIONS

Leaking Tap Repair FAQs

Why does my tap drip after I turn it off?

Usually something inside is not sealing fully. Depending on the design, that could involve a washer, seal, cartridge or ceramic disc.

Does every dripping tap need a new washer?

No. Many modern taps use cartridges or ceramic discs instead. The repair depends on the tap and the part that has failed.

Can a leaking mixer tap be repaired?

Often, yes, depending on where it leaks and whether suitable parts are available.

Why is there water around the base of my tap?

It could be the tap, splashing or a connection underneath. It needs checking to find the source. Our guide on water leaking from the base or handle of a tap explains the possible sources.

Should a dripping tap be repaired promptly?

It is a good idea. A drip wastes water and may get worse as parts continue to wear.

Will my leaking tap need replacing?

Not necessarily. Replacement may be more practical if the tap is badly worn or damaged, or parts are unavailable.

What affects the cost of leaking tap repair?

The tap design, the source of the leak, the parts needed and access. We offer free quotes so you know what is involved first.

GET IN TOUCH

Arrange Leaking Tap Repair in Poole

If you need leaking tap repair in Poole, call 01202 125678 to describe the leak, or contact us to request a free quote. Our plumbing help is available 24/7.

At Emergency Plumber Poole Pro, we specialise in emergency plumbing help for homes and businesses, available 24/7. Our team deals with leaks, burst pipes and blocked drains across Poole and the surrounding areas.