Leaking Tap Solutions: How to Stop Drips and Save Water
Is that relentless drip from your tap getting on your nerves? You’re not the only one! Leaking taps are a headache for many Aussie homeowners. Beyond being annoying, they can waste incredible water and send your bills soaring if left unchecked. Let’s fix it with our expert plumbing services before it drives you up the wall!
We understand how frustrating a leaky tap can be and are here to help. From minor drips to major tap troubles, we’ve seen it all. In this guide, we’ll walk you through why taps start leaking, how to catch the signs early, and when to give us a call to get it sorted for good. Let’s dive in!
Why Do Taps Leak?
Taps may look straightforward, but a lot is happening behind the scenes. Here’s a look at the usual suspects causing those annoying drips:
- Worn Washers: A worn-out washer is the most common cause of a leaky tap. When you turn off the tap, these little rubber discs create a watertight seal. Over time, they can get stiff, torn, or dislodged, letting water sneak through.
- Loose Parts: Sometimes, the nuts or O-rings inside your tap can work themselves loose, creating gaps where water can escape.
- Corroded Valve Seat: The valve seat connects the tap to the spout. If it gets corroded, the spout might leak.
- High Water Pressure: If your home’s water pressure is too high, it can force water past the seals in your taps, causing leaks.
- Old Age: Like everything else, taps wear out over time. If your taps are getting old, they might leak simply because they’re past their prime.
The Hidden Costs of Leaky Taps
You might think a small drip isn’t worth worrying about, but you’d be surprised how quickly those little drops add up. Here’s why ignoring a leaky tap is a bad idea:
- Wasted Water: A tap that drips once per second can waste over 20,000 litres of water in a year — enough to fill a small swimming pool!
- Higher Water Bills: All that wasted water doesn’t come free. Over time, a leaky tap can add a hefty sum to your water bill.
- Potential Water Damage: If left unchecked, a leaking tap can damage your home’s water, which might mean stained sinks, corroded fixtures, or mould growth.
- Environmental Impact: Every drop of water wasted is a drop that could be better used elsewhere. Conserving water is crucial in our dry Australian climate.
DIY Fixes for Minor Leaks
Sometimes, you can sort out a leaky tap yourself. Here are a few things to try:
- Tighten the Tap: If your tap is slightly loose, try tightening it with a spanner. Be gentle – you don’t want to overtighten and cause more problems.
- Replace the Washer: For more confident DIYers, replacing a worn washer can often stop leaks. You’ll need to turn off your water supply, disassemble the tap, and swap out the old washer for a new one.
- Check the O-ring: If the leak comes from around the handle, the O-ring might be the problem. These can be replaced relatively easily.
When to Call the Professionals
While some tap troubles can be sorted with some elbow grease, others need professional plumbing solutions. Here’s when you should give New Vision Plumbers a bell:
Complex Leaks
If tightening or replacing the washer doesn’t fix the problem, there might be a more complex issue, like a worn valve seat or internal corrosion, which requires professional tools and expertise to repair correctly.
Damage to the Tap Body
If the tap is cracked or damaged, it’s usually best to replace the whole thing. A damaged tap body can lead to hidden leaks inside the walls or under the sink, potentially causing more extensive water damage.
Multiple Leaking Taps
If you have leaks in several taps, your plumbing system might have an underlying issue, such as high water pressure, deteriorating pipes, or a malfunctioning pressure regulator, that needs to be addressed to prevent widespread problems.
Lack of DIY Confidence
If you’re uncomfortable removing your tap, it’s best to leave it to the experts. A slight mistake can lead to stripped threads, broken components, or a more extensive leak, so we recommend calling us to save you the hassle and potential extra costs!
How We Can Help
We’re your trusted local specialists for all your tap needs. our services include:
Comprehensive Tap Services
Whether you need a quick washer replacement or a complete tap overhaul, we’ve got you covered. Our plumbers are skilled in working with all types of taps, from your standard kitchen mixer to fancy bathroom fixtures.
Leak Detection
Sometimes, leaks are more evident than a dripping tap. We use state-of-the-art equipment to find hidden leaks before they can cause significant damage.
Water-Saving Solutions
We can advise on and install water-efficient taps that reduce water usage and save you money in the long run.
Emergency Services
Have you got a tap that’s gone from a drip to a gush? Our emergency plumbing service is available 24/7 to stop those after-hours floods.
Quality Guarantees
We stand behind our work. All our tap repairs and replacements come with a satisfaction guarantee.
Preventing Future Leaks
Whether you’ve just had a leaky tap fixed or are adding new ones during a bathroom renovation, follow these helpful tips to ensure they last.
- Don’t overtighten your taps, as this can damage the washers.
- Clean your taps regularly to prevent mineral build-up.
- If you have hard water, consider installing a water softener.
- Get your plumbing system checked annually to catch potential issues early.
What Sets Us Apart
You’re not just getting a quick fix when you choose us for your tap troubles. You’re getting:
- Experienced, licensed plumbers who know taps inside and out
- Upfront, honest pricing with no hidden fees
- A commitment to water conservation and environmental responsibility
- Friendly, professional service that respects your home and your time
Don’t let a leaky tap drain your patience or your wallet. If you’re in Mt Eliza or anywhere on the Mornington Peninsula, give us a call. We’ll have your taps running right in no time. Alternatively, email us or use our interactive online form.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes a leaking tap?
A leaking tap can have several underlying causes. These causes may vary depending on the type of faucet and its specific design, but here are some common reasons why taps can develop leaks:
- Worn out washer
- Corroded valve seat
- Loose parts
- High water pressure
- Sediment buildup
- Improper installation
- Wear and tear
- Faulty cartridge or valve stem
- Freezing temperatures
- Excessive water hammer
What types of taps can you repair or replace?
How do I know if I have a leaking tap?
Common signs include a constant drip or the sound of water running even when the tap is off, water stains around the faucet, or an increase in your water bill.
Can a leaking tap be fixed, or do I need to replace it?
Is a leaking tap an emergency, or can it wait?
Do you offer guarantees on your tap repair and replacement services?
What can I do to prevent future tap leaks?
Regular maintenance, checking for signs of leaks, and addressing them promptly can help prevent future tap leaks. Additionally, installing water pressure regulators and using water softeners can extend the lifespan of your taps.
