How To Repair Leaking Bathroom Mixer Tap

A leaking bathroom mixer tap can be a real nuisance, wasting water and potentially causing damage to your bathroom. Fortunately, it's usually a relatively simple repair that you can do yourself with a few basic tools and materials.

The first step is to identify the source of the leak. Common causes include worn-out washers, faulty seals, or a loose tap handle. Once you know where the leak is coming from, you can follow these steps to repair it:

Worn-out washers

Washers are small, rubber rings that create a seal between the tap body and the tap handle. Over time, washers can wear out and become less effective at preventing leaks. To replace a worn-out washer, follow these steps:

Turn off the water supply to the tap.
Use a wrench to remove the tap handle.
Unscrew the packing nut that holds the washer in place.
Remove the old washer and replace it with a new one.
Reassemble the tap and turn on the water supply to check for leaks.

Faulty seals

Seals are located at various points in the tap to prevent water from leaking. If a seal becomes damaged or worn out, it can cause a leak. To replace a faulty seal, follow these steps:

Turn off the water supply to the tap.
Remove the tap handle and any other components that are in the way of the seal.
Use a screwdriver or wrench to remove the old seal.
Apply a thin layer of silicone sealant to the new seal and insert it into place.
Reassemble the tap and turn on the water supply to check for leaks.

Loose tap handle

A loose tap handle can cause a leak by allowing water to seep past the base of the handle. To tighten a loose tap handle, follow these steps:

Turn off the water supply to the tap.
Use a wrench to tighten the packing nut that holds the tap handle in place.
Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.

Preventing leaks

The best way to prevent bathroom mixer tap leaks is to take good care of your taps. Here are a few tips:

Don't overtighten the tap handles.
Avoid using abrasive cleaners on your taps.
Replace washers and seals regularly.
If you notice a leak, don't ignore it. Repair it as soon as possible to prevent further damage.