How To Fix Leaky Bathroom Taps

A dripping tap is not just annoying but also wastes a significant amount of water. In fact, a single leaky tap can waste up to 2,000 gallons of water per year. That's enough water to take 128 showers! Fixing a leaky tap is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. Here's how to do it: ### Materials You'll Need: - Adjustable wrench - Screwdriver - Replacement washer(s) - Plumber's grease (optional) ### Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply The first step is to turn off the water supply to the tap. There should be two shutoff valves underneath the sink, one for hot water and one for cold water. Turn both valves clockwise to turn off the water supply. ### Step 2: Remove the Handle Once the water supply is turned off, you can remove the handle. Most handles are held in place by a small screw. Use a screwdriver to remove the screw, then pull the handle straight up to remove it. ### Step 3: Remove the Cartridge Once the handle is removed, you'll see the cartridge. The cartridge is a cylindrical-shaped part that contains the washer(s). To remove the cartridge, use an adjustable wrench to loosen the nut that holds it in place. Once the nut is loose, you can pull the cartridge straight out. ### Step 4: Replace the Washer(s) The washer(s) are small, rubber rings that create a seal between the cartridge and the tap body. Over time, washers can become worn or damaged, which can cause a leak. To replace the washer(s), simply remove the old washer(s) and replace them with new ones. Make sure that the new washers are the same size and shape as the old ones. ### Step 5: Reassemble the Tap Once the new washer(s) are in place, you can reassemble the tap. To do this, simply insert the cartridge back into the tap body and tighten the nut. Then, replace the handle and tighten the screw. ### Step 6: Turn On the Water Supply Once the tap is reassembled, you can turn on the water supply and check for leaks. If there are no leaks, then you're all done! ### Tips: - If you're not comfortable replacing the washer(s) yourself, you can call a plumber to do it for you. - If the leak is coming from the base of the tap, it may be necessary to replace the O-rings. - If the leak is coming from the spout, it may be necessary to replace the aerator. - To prevent future leaks, it's a good idea to lubricate the tap's moving parts with plumber's grease.