Blog>Expert Advice>Leaking ceramic tap: Problem solve and how to fix it

Last updated: 9 September 2024

Leaking ceramic tap: Problem solve and how to fix it

If your ceramic tap is leaking, you'll need to get it fixed. Let's take a look at what's going wrong with your tap and when to call in a professional.

Leaking ceramic tap: Problem solve and how to fix it
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When your ceramic tap is leaking, it can be frustrating to hear it dripping away. Do not worry; usually, it's a quick fix for a professional.

Often, the issue with a dripping ceramic tap is that the disc or valve needs a clean, tightening, or replacing.

What is a ceramic disc tap?

Ceramic disc taps are different from conventional ones in that they have a cartridge that houses two ceramic discs. These control water flow and temperature.

These discs, typically made of durable ceramic materials, replace traditional rubber washers and are less prone to wear and leakage.

But from time to time, after wear and tear, they can leak/drip.

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Why is my ceramic disc tap leaking?

A dripping quarter-turn tap will occur from time to time, and the issue can be a headache. Not only will a ceramic disc tap leaking create an annoying dripping sound, but it can also result in water wasting and rising water bills.

Here are the main reasons your ceramic disc tap could be dripping:

Damaged ceramic disc

Similar to washers in traditional taps, ceramic discs can wear out over time and fail to create a proper seal, causing the tap to drip.

If you have hard water or water with mineral deposits, the ceramic discs may wear down faster than usual.

The most common signs that your valve or cartridge might need replacing are:

  • Intermittent dripping or a constant leak, even when the tap is fully shut

  • Reduced water flow

  • Unusual noises or vibrations when you turn your tap on

Corroded valve seat

The valve seat is where the tap and the spout meet. Over time, water can cause the valve seat to corrode, which can in turn cause leaks.

The most common signs that your valve seat has corroded are:

  • Dripping even when the tap is turned off

  • Water leaking from the tap body

  • Difficulty to turn the tap on

  • Discoloured or rusty water

Poorly installed tap

If your tap hasn't been installed properly, it may leak. This could be due to the tap being too loose or the components not being fitted together correctly.

The most common signs that your tap hasn't been installed properly:

  • Continuous dripping

  • Low water pressure

  • Loud or whistling noises

High water pressure

Sometimes, if the water pressure in your home is too high, it can cause your taps to leak.

Signs to look for:

  • Banging pipes

  • Leaky taps

  • Increased water bills

  • Lack of hot water supply

Limescale build-up

In hard water areas, limescale can build up and cause problems. Indeed, it is not uncommon for limescale to disrupt water flow and stop a tap from working correctly.

Cleaning and descaling your tap cartridge every so often will prevent the build-up of limescale and stop problems from occurring in the first place. And, when a tap stops working properly, a quick clean might be all that it needs.

Here's what to look out for:

  • White deposits on taps and other surfaces

  • Reduced water pressure

  • Blocked pipes

  • Bitter or salty tasting water

  • Cloudy residue on glassware

Damaged O-ring

The O-ring is a small disc or seal attached to the stem screw that holds your tap handle in place. If this becomes loose or damaged, your tap can start to leak near the handle.

Signs of a damaged O-ring:

  • Unusual squeaky sound when the tap is turned on

  • Uneven water flow or coming out at an odd angle

  • Visible cracks on the O-ring

Remember, while a dripping tap might seem like a minor issue, if left unchecked, it can lead to bigger problems, such as water damage or inflated water bills.

If you have some DIY skills, you can repair a ceramic disc valve that drips.

But if you're unsure about the cause of the leak or how to fix it, it's always best to call in a professional plumber.

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How to repair a ceramic disc valve that drips

Ceramic disc taps are different from conventional ones as they have a cartridge that houses two ceramic discs in place of a washer.

A broken ceramic disc can cause the tap to leak. If so, you'll be forced to replace the whole cartridge.

Follow these steps:

  • As with a worn washer, begin by turning off the water supply

  • Carefully unscrew the tap handles and the valve underneath

  • The entrance screw is often hidden behind a small grub screw below the hot or cold indicator

  • You should now be able to see the ceramic discs

  • If these are damaged or worn, replace them with new ones of the correct size

  • Remove the cartridge, take it to the shop and buy the same one to replace it

  • Flip off or twist open the washer from the tap seat. Look for any damages and replace if required

  • If the rubber seal is worn out, change it

  • Make sure all the replacement parts are correctly sized and fit properly

  • Once replaced, put the tap back together again

  • Turn the water supply back on and test the tap

While a leaking ceramic tap can be fixed by a competent DIYer, most faults need a plumber to get to the bottom of the problem safely and effectively.

So, if you are not really confident in what you are doing, speak to a qualified and recommended local plumber.

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How long do ceramic disc taps last?

Taps with ceramic discs don’t need much maintenance as they are exceptionally durable and designed to last a lifetime. But from time to time, problems do arise.

Factors that will affect the lifespan of your ceramic disc tap include:

  • Water hardness: A build up of limescale can wear down ceramic discs faster and cause problems

  • Tap quality: Choose a good quality tap. Cheap ceramic disc taps won't last as long

  • Maintenance: The insides of your tap cartridges will benefit from a quick clean and descale to prevent limescale building up

How much does it cost to repair ceramic tap?

Every type of plumbing job requires different materials, skills and labour times. This is why your plumber may charge an hourly rate, a day rate, or quote an overall cost for the job.

It's useful to get several quotes as different plumbers will have different prices, however, it’s important to also take the plumbers’ level of experience into account as this will affect the cost.

Simply put, the cheapest quote will not always be the best option.

The average plumber cost is £50 per hour or £350 per day.

FAQs

Why do ceramic tap valves leak?

The ceramic discs contained with a concealed cartridge ensures a ceramic tap remains watertight. Ceramic is considerably more durable and robust than a rubber seal, so with these taps, dripping and leaking is much less of a problem than traditional taps with washers.

However problems can occasionally arise. And if you discover a dripping quarter turn tap it might be because of a faulty or damaged ceramic disc cartridge, a poorly installed tap or a build up of limescale deposits.

Do ceramic taps have washers?

Ceramic taps don't use traditional rubber washers, and instead use durable ceramic discs to control water flow.

Ready to fix your leaking ceramic tap? Pop your details in the search bar below and find local plumbers who can repair a ceramic disc valve that drips as soon as it happens.

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