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Got a tap that just won’t stop dripping? You’re not alone. Leaking taps are one of the most common plumbing problems we come across here in Newcastle, and while that little drip might seem like no big deal, it can actually waste thousands of litres of water over time, and bump up your water bill too.
So, what’s causing the leak? Here are five of the most common reasons your tap might be leaking, and a few tips on what to do about it.
1. Worn-Out Washer
This is probably the most common cause of a leaky tap. Washers are the little rubber rings inside your tap that help create a tight seal. Over time, they can wear out, harden or even fall out of place, which means water can sneak through and drip out even when the tap’s turned off. If that’s the case, the washer will need replacing. It’s not a huge job, but if you’re not confident with tools or just don’t want to deal with turning off your water, give us a call, we’re happy to sort it out. Note that modern mixer taps use a ceramic cartridge instead of a rubber washer, so the fix looks a bit different but the symptom is the same.
2. Loose or Damaged O-Ring
If your tap is leaking from around the handle rather than the spout, it could be the O-ring. This small part helps keep the handle sealed, but just like the washer, it can wear out or come loose over time. Swapping it out is a relatively quick fix if you know what you’re doing. If not, we’ve got you covered.
3. Corroded Valve Seat
The valve seat is the part that connects your tap to the spout. If it gets corroded, often due to mineral build-up in the water, you might start noticing leaks around the base of the tap. This one’s a bit trickier to fix, and might need professional attention. If you’ve got hard water stains or crusty build-up around your taps, it’s a sign the valve seat could be on its way out.
4. General Wear and Tear
Taps go through a lot of use, especially in busy households. All those internal bits like screws, seals and washers can loosen up or wear down over time, leading to little leaks around the base or under the sink. Sometimes a simple tighten-up will do the trick, but in other cases you might need to replace parts. If the leak is getting worse or starting to damage your cabinetry, it’s worth getting it looked at properly.
5. Water Pressure’s Too High
We get it, strong water pressure feels great in the shower. But if it’s too high, it can actually cause leaks by putting too much strain on your plumbing system. You might notice your tap only leaks at certain times, or when other taps are turned on, that’s a clue it could be a pressure issue. A plumber can test your water pressure and fit a pressure-reducing valve if needed.
Don't want to deal with it yourself?
Our licensed Newcastle plumbers fix leaking taps same day in most suburbs. Call 02 4006 8330 or book a visit online.
How We Fix a Leaking Tap
1. Isolate the Water Supply
We shut the water off at the tap’s under-sink stop valve where possible, or at the main if an isolation valve is not fitted. This protects your floor, cabinetry and the rest of your plumbing while we work.
2. Diagnose the Cause
We open the tap and inspect the washer, O-ring, valve seat and, on mixer taps, the ceramic cartridge. Most of the time the cause is visible the moment the spindle comes out. For intermittent leaks we test water pressure as well.
3. Replace the Faulty Component
4. Pressure Test the Repair
We turn the water back on, test the tap through its full range, and confirm the handle operates smoothly with no drip. Every repair is backed by our workmanship guarantee.
When in Doubt, Call the Experts
It might just seem like a little drip, but leaking taps can lead to big problems if left too long, like water damage, mould, and higher water bills. At Leak Hunters, we help homeowners all across Newcastle find and fix their leaks quickly, whether you’re in Hamilton, Charlestown, Mayfield or out near Lake Macquarie. We’ll get your tap sorted, your water bill back under control, and your peace of mind restored.
Need help with a leaking tap in Newcastle?
Give Leak Hunters a call on 02 4006 8330 or book a visit online. We service Newcastle and surrounding suburbs, and most leaking taps are fixed inside a single visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common cause of a dripping tap?
A worn-out rubber washer is the single most common cause, especially on older twin-handle taps. On modern mixer taps, a worn ceramic cartridge is the equivalent fault. Both are routine repairs for a licensed plumber and usually fix in a single visit.
Why does my tap drip after I turn it off?
The most likely reason is that the washer, O-ring or ceramic cartridge can no longer form a tight seal against the valve seat. That lets a small amount of water creep past even when the handle is fully closed. Tightening the handle harder will not fix it and can actually damage the internal components faster.
Can a leaking tap increase my water bill?
Yes. A slow drip can waste more than 20,000 litres a year, and a faster leak can waste significantly more. If your latest water bill is noticeably higher without any change in usage, a leaking tap is one of the first things worth checking.
Is it safe to ignore a dripping tap?
Not really. Beyond the water bill, a persistent drip can stain the sink, rot under-sink cabinetry, promote mould around the base, and in some cases point to a bigger pressure or pipework issue. The longer a leak sits, the more likely damage extends beyond the tap itself.
Should I fix a leaking tap myself or call a plumber?
A simple washer replacement on a standard twin-handle tap can be a DIY job for a confident homeowner with the right tools. Mixer tap repairs, corroded valve seats, and taps that have already been taken apart a few times are best left to a licensed plumber, so you are not chasing the fix into a full tap replacement later.
Do you need a licensed plumber to fix a dripping tap in NSW?
Many small tap repairs do not legally require a licence to carry out yourself. That said, any work involving alterations to fixed plumbing, backflow prevention or connection to the mains must be done by a licensed plumber under NSW law. Leak Hunters holds NSW Contractor Licence 156870C.
Local Newcastle Plumbers
Why Choose Leak Hunters
Welcome to Leak Hunters, your trusted local plumbing experts servicing Newcastle and surrounding suburbs. We are dedicated to providing top-quality plumbing solutions with a focus on customer satisfaction and exceptional workmanship.
Experienced and Licensed Plumbers
Our team of skilled plumbers is fully licensed and insured, with years of experience in handling all types of plumbing issues.
24/7 Emergency Services
Plumbing emergencies can happen at any time. That's why we offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services to ensure you get the help you need, when you need it.
Transparent Pricing
We believe in fair and upfront pricing. You’ll receive a detailed quote before we start any work, so there are no surprises.
Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed
Our commitment to excellent service means we won't consider the job done until you are completely satisfied with the results.
Comprehensive Plumbing Services
From leaky faucets to major pipe repairs, we handle it all. No job is too big or too small for our dedicated team.
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Enjoy exclusive discounts and loyalty benefits at Leak Hunters. Save more with our special offers and rewards program for returning customers.
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