A dripping tap might seem minor, but even a slow drip can waste thousands of litres of water every year. In Scotland, where water is often unmetered, you may not notice it on your bill, but it still causes unnecessary wear on your plumbing and can lead to bigger problems if ignored.
Why taps drip
Most dripping taps are caused by worn internal parts. In older taps, this is usually a rubber washer that no longer forms a tight seal. In newer mixer taps, the issue is often a worn or damaged cartridge or O-ring. Less commonly, high water pressure or a worn valve seat inside the tap can cause persistent dripping.
Simple steps to stop a drip
If you’re confident with basic DIY, many dripping taps can be fixed fairly easily.
First, turn off the water supply using the isolation valve under the sink, or the main stopcock if needed. Open the tap to drain any remaining water. Remove the handle, usually by lifting a small cap and undoing the screw underneath. Once the handle is off, you can access the internal valve or cartridge.
If your tap uses a washer, replace it with a new one of the same size. Check any O-rings at the same time and replace them if worn. For mixer taps, the cartridge usually needs replacing as a complete unit. Clean away any grit or limescale inside the tap before reassembling.
Turn the water back on slowly and test the tap. In many cases, this is enough to stop the drip completely.
When DIY doesn’t work
If the tap still drips after replacing parts, the valve seat inside the tap may be worn, or the tap itself may be past repair. In these cases, continued DIY attempts can cause more damage.
When to call a plumber
If you can’t isolate the water, the tap won’t come apart easily, or the drip persists after repair, it’s best to call a professional. A plumber can quickly diagnose the issue and advise whether repair or replacement is the better option.
If you’re in Edinburgh or the Lothians, Calore can help. From fixing leaking taps to full plumbing and heating projects, we offer clear advice, fixed pricing, and reliable local service.