What to do when a tap is leaking from the handle

Is your tap leaking from the handle? Getting it sorted could be fairly straightforward if you know what you are doing. From DIY repairs to hiring a reputable plumber, we cover the process of fixing a tap handle when its leaking.

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Causes of a tap leaking from its handle

Kitchen, bathroom and outside taps can spring a leak from time to time. A dripping tap can be annoying and persistent leaks can cause a rise in your water bills. We recommend fixing a leaking tap as soon as possible.

Before you grab the toolbox and start taking the tap apart, it is important to first work out where the leak is coming from.

Common locations for taps to leak water from include:

• The base of the tap

• The tap stem/spindle

• The tap spout

• Beneath the handle

Taps use multiple moving parts to allow water to flow into your home's sinks and bath. Over time these parts can degrade and lead to leaks.

Leaks from a tap handle are typically caused by worn O rings or washers.

These small pieces of rubber are fitted around different parts of the tap and are used to create a water tight seal. You will notice water leaking out of your tap if these vital components are damaged.

How to stop a tap from leaking

The type of repair work needed to stop a leak will be determined by what type of tap you have. Not all taps operate in the same way and this can make a DIY fix more challenging.

Here are the three tap mechanisms most commonly found in household taps:

• Ceramic disk valve - These mechanisms are typically used in taps with two handles - one for hot water and one for cold water. Water will flow when the handle or lever is turned and the two ceramic disks align inside of the tap

• Washer valve - Taps with a washer valve mechanism use rubber washers to create a water tight seal when the valve is closed. When the tap is turned on the valve moves up to allow water to flow out. When the tap is turned off the rubber washer forms a seal around the bottom of the valve

• Ceramic disk cartridge - Taps with this mechanism often only feature a single lever to control both the flow and temperature of the water. Ceramic cartridges work in a similar way to the disk valve mechanism but are more commonly found in mixer taps

Each of these tap mechanisms have a unique design and control water flow in slightly different ways. To stop a tap from leaking around the handle, you first need to find out what type of mechanism your tap uses.

We recommend hiring a professional tradesperson to fix a leaking tap. As you may have already guessed, taps are built with several parts and finding the source of a leak can be challenging if you don't know what to look for.

That being said, if you want to try to fix a leaking tap handle yourself, here is a brief step-by-step guide:

1. Turn off the water supply

Don't want to flood your kitchen? Turn off the water supply before starting any plumbing work.

2. Remove the handle

You won't have to remove the whole tap from the sink if water is just leaking out around the handle.

To remove the handle, locate and unscrew the tap screw. This screw may be hidden beneath a cover plate which you will need to carefully prise away.

3. Inspect the different parts

You will now be able to see the tap's valve or cartridge. Use a wrench to carefully remove this component from the tap.

Once the valve or cartridge has been removed you will need closely inspect the different parts. Pay close attention to the rubber washers and O rings. Look out for any signs of wear and tear.

4. Replace damaged parts

Replace damaged O rings and washers. You will need to make sure the new components are the correct size for your tap. Water will continue to leak if the new parts are too big or not securely held in place.

Damaged valves and cartridges will also need to be replaced. Again, it is vital that you order the correct replacement parts for your specific tap model.

5. Add plumbers tape

Consider adding plumbers tape if your tap valve or cartridge is connected to the handle with a threaded connection. Carefully wind the tape around the top of the connection to make the seal completely water tight.

This step will not be needed for all taps.

6. Reassemble the tap

Carefully put all of the tap components back in the correct position and secure the faucet back together.

Reattach the tap handle and turn the water supply back on. Run the tap and check to see if any water is still leaking out from the handle.

When to hire a professional

Is your tap still leaking after your DIY repair work? If so, it is time to call the professionals.

The process for fixing monobloc mixer taps and double lever taps can vary slightly. O rings, washers are cartridges are not always installed in the same location and plumbing work can be complicated if you don't have the tools, skills and experience needed.

Stopping a tap from leaking from the handle will be an easy task for an experienced handyperson. Alternatively, a professional plumber will be able to fix the leak in no time.

However, you may have difficulty booking a plumber for such a small job. It can often work out more cost-effective to get all of your plumbing work done at once.

We recommend you avoid 'just giving it a go' when it comes to any plumbing work. If something goes wrong you can end up flooding the house! Stop the leak without causing any further damage by hiring a professional to get the job done.

How much does it cost to fix a leaking tap?

The following factors determine the cost of fixing a leaking tap:

• Type of tap - Different tap models use different components. For example, a replacement ceramic cartridge is more expensive than rubber washers

• Type of damage - The more parts that need to be replaced, the more the repair work will cost

• Your location - Tradespeople charge varying rates across the UK

It should not take more than an hour for an experienced tradesperson to fix a leaking tap. On average, you can expect to pay a handyperson an hourly rate of £30.

If you decide to hire a plumber, the average hourly rate is £50. Some plumbers charge a day rate as standard and this has an average cost of £350. If you are quoted a day rate, it is a good idea to get any other small plumbing jobs done at the same time.

Key takeaways

• Tap handle leaks are often caused by worn O rings or washers

• Repair work can differ between different tap models

• Tap handle leaks can be fixed by replacing the O rings and washers or adding plumbers tape

• Plumbers charge an average of £50 per hour

Finding a plumber near you

Use the Checkatrade directory to find checked and approved plumbers near you. We vet all of our members and only approve tradespeople who work to our high quality standards.

FAQs

How do I stop my lever tap from dripping?

You can stop a lever tap from dripping by replacing the ceramic cartridge inside. This component can degrade over time and inserting a new one can be all that is needed to stop a leak.

Why is my tap leaking from the handle when off?

Worn and corroded components can cause a tap to leak from the handle. If water is leaking when the tap is off, you likely need to replace the washer, O ring or valve seat.