leaking tap SERVICES and repairs for residential and commercial

It's easy to overlook a dripping tap, but this small nuisance can potentially contribute to water hammer. When a tap leaks, it often means there's a fluctuating pressure in the pipes. This irregular pressure can trigger the hydraulic shock associated with water hammer, especially if the pressure build-up suddenly releases when the valve opens or closes. 

Can a leaking tap be fixed? Absolutely! With a little know-how and some basic tools, you can tackle this common household issue yourself, saving both water and money. 

Otherwise, you can contact our friendly team 03 9501 3777 and we can fix your leaking tap

Leaking taps are more than just a minor annoyance; they can cause a multitude of problems if not addressed promptly. A dripping tap might seem insignificant at first, but the implications can be far-reaching. 

One of the primary reasons to fix a leaking tap immediately is water conservation.

Beyond the environmental impact, there's also a considerable financial hit. Continual leaks can significantly inflate your water bill. When you pay for water that simply goes down the drain, you're essentially throwing money away. 

• Increased Water Bill: Every drop wasted adds up, leading to unexpected hikes in your monthly bills.

• Structural Damage: Persistent leaks can seep into walls and floors, causing serious structural issues over time.

• Mould Growth: Damp environments from leaks are perfect breeding grounds for mould, which can jeopardize your health.

All these issues highlight the importance of addressing a leaking tap sooner rather than later. It's not just a question of convenience but a matter of sustainability and safeguarding your living environment.

First, let's look at the condition of the O-ring. The O-ring is a small rubber ring often found in the tap's stem screw. Over time, it can become worn out or slack, which results in leaks. If you notice water leaking around the base of your tap, it's likely that the O-ring needs replacing. 

Another common culprit is the washer. The washer sits on the valve seat and creates a seal that prevents water from leaking. However, wear and tear from constant use can cause the washer to degrade and result in dripping or leaking taps. Replacing the washer is a simple fix that can often resolve the problem quickly. 

• O-Ring: Provides a seal in the tap's stem screw but wears out over time.

• Washer: Sits on the valve seat; wear and tear can cause it to degrade.

• Valve Seat: Where the tap seals to stop water; corrosion can lead to leaks.

• Cartridge: Modern taps may use cartridges that can wear out and need replacement.

"Can a leaking tap explode?" The thought of such a catastrophe is understandably alarming.

First, it’s important to understand what usually causes a tap to leak. Common culprits include worn-out washers, seals, or gaskets, which can lead to the familiar and annoying drip-drip sound. But would these minor issues lead to an explosion? Not really. 

However, ignoring a leaking tap can have other repercussions. Let's break down some potential problems: 

• Increased Water Bills: Those little drips can add up over time, impacting your water bill significantly.

• Water Damage: A persistent leak can lead to water damage, potentially causing mold and harming the structure of your home.

• Wasted Resources: Each drop is a waste of a precious resource, contributing to environmental issues.

While these problems are concerning, they are a far cry from the dramatic explosion scenario. Understanding the actual risks can help you sleep better at night and take practical steps to manage the issue. So, rest assured, your leaking tap isn't a ticking time bomb. But it’s still wise to address it sooner rather than later!

Step one: Gather your tools. You will need an adjustable wrench, a screwdriver, plumbers’ grease, and O-rings or replacement parts specific to your faucet model. Having all these on hand will save you time and frustration. 

Step two: Prepare your workspace. Clear the area around your sink and place a towel or bowl underneath to catch any drips or small parts that might fall during the process. 

• Turn off the water: Locate the water shut-off valves under the sink. Turn them clockwise to close.

• Drain the excess water: Open the tap to drain any remaining water from the pipes.

Once you're ready, you're well on your way to fixing that leaky tap handle! In the following sections, we'll dive into dismantling the tap and identifying common causes of leaks. 

Whether it's a steady drip or a small trickle, addressing the problem early can save you time, money, and unnecessary frustration.

If you are worried about wasting water or causing damage, shut off the water supply to the tap.

Call Outright Plumbing Maintenance 03 9501 3777 to fix your leaking tap.