Dripping Tap or Mixer? Common Causes and How to Fix Them

One drop a second doesn't look like much, but over a day it adds up. Dripping also leaves white scale on basins and marble, and the sound can keep you awake. Most causes are well known and quick to fix.

Which type do you have?

• Two-handle tap: each handle has its own washer or ceramic valve; drips usually come from one side.
• Single-lever mixer: one cartridge controls temperature and flow; when it fails you get drips or trouble setting the temperature.
• Shower mixer: the same idea, but the drip may come from the hand shower or diverter.

Common causes

1. Worn washer or O-ring — hardened by use and heat.
2. Damaged cartridge — scale and sand scratch the ceramic discs.
3. Scale build-up stopping the tap from closing fully.
4. Excess water pressure, often after fitting a powerful pump.
5. Leaks under the handle or at the base — fix these quickly as water can run into the cabinet.

What you can do yourself

• Close the angle valve under the basin if the drip is heavy.
• Clean the aerator with white vinegar.
• Don't over-tighten the handle.

If you open the tap yourself, turn the water off first and photograph the parts as you remove them.

Repair or replace?

Repair if the tap is good quality and parts are available; replace if the body is corroded or cracked, parts are unavailable, or you want a new look. We replace washers and cartridges and fit new mixers as part of our bathroom work, and fix excess pressure with a regulator.

Summary

Don't ignore a drip. It's usually a small part, but waiting means wasted water, scale and damp under the basin. Contact us.