Why is my tap dripping even when turned off?

The most common cause is a worn-out washer or O-ring inside the tap. Over time, these rubber seals degrade and no longer create a watertight seal, allowing water to drip through. Other causes include loose valve seats, damaged cartridges in mixer taps, or high water pressure.

Can I fix a leaking tap myself or should I call a plumber?

Simple washer replacements and handle tightening can be DIY projects if you have basic tools. However, if the leak persists after replacing washers, involves the valve seat, or requires special tools like seat grinders, it is best to call a professional plumber to avoid damaging the fixture.

How much does it cost to fix a leaking tap in Trivandrum?

DIY repairs cost ₹50-200 for washers and basic tools. Professional plumber visits in Trivandrum typically charge ₹300-500 for simple washer replacement, ₹500-800 for cartridge replacement in mixer taps, and ₹800-1500 for complex repairs involving valve seats or pipe work.

What tools do I need to fix a leaking tap?

Basic tools include: adjustable spanner, flat-head and Phillips screwdrivers, replacement washers (bring old one to match size), plumber tape (Teflon tape), old toothbrush for cleaning, and a cloth for drying. For mixer taps, you may need an Allen key set.

How do I stop water flow before repairing a tap?

Locate the isolation valve beneath the sink (small round or oval handle) and turn it clockwise to shut off water to that tap. If there is no isolation valve, turn off the main water supply at the meter or storage tank inlet. Open the tap to release any remaining water before starting repairs.

How to Fix a Leaking Tap: Complete DIY Guide

Why Taps Leak: Understanding the Problem

Before fixing a leak, it helps to understand why taps drip. Most leaks happen because of worn rubber washers or O-rings that no longer create a watertight seal. In Trivandrum's climate, hard water can accelerate this wear, causing mineral buildup that damages valve seats and washers faster than in softer water areas.

The good news: 80% of tap leaks can be fixed with a simple washer replacement that takes 20-30 minutes and costs under ₹100. This guide covers the most common DIY fixes. For complex issues, we will tell you when to call a professional.

Tools and Materials You Will Need

Adjustable Spanner

For removing headgear and fittings

Screwdrivers

Flat-head and Phillips for handle screws

Replacement Washers

Match size by bringing old washer to hardware store

Plumber Tape

Teflon tape for thread sealing

Old Toothbrush

For cleaning valve seat and threads

Cloth/Rag

For drying and cleaning parts

Pro Tip: Match Your Washer

Take the old washer to a hardware store in Trivandrum (like those in Palayam or Chalai) to ensure you get the exact size. Washers come in 12mm, 15mm, 19mm, and 25mm sizes. The wrong size will not seal properly.

Step-by-Step: Fixing a Dripping Tap

Turn Off the Water Supply

Look under your sink for a small round or oval handle — this is the isolation valve. Turn it clockwise until firm (usually a quarter turn) to shut off water to that tap only. If your sink does not have an isolation valve, you will need to turn off the main water supply at the meter or storage tank inlet.

Important: Never skip this step. Working on a pressurized tap can cause flooding.

Open the Tap to Release Pressure

Turn the tap handle to the fully open position. This releases any remaining water and pressure trapped in the pipe. Leave it open while you work — this prevents accidental pressure buildup.

Remove the Handle

Most tap handles have a decorative plastic or metal cap on top. Pry it off gently with a flat-head screwdriver. Underneath, you will find a screw head:

Traditional taps: Phillips head screw — unscrew counter-clockwise
Modern mixer taps: Allen (hex) key screw — use appropriate size Allen key
Some designs: Hidden screw under a red/blue temperature indicator

Once the screw is out, pull the handle straight up. If it is stuck, wiggle gently side-to-side. Do not force it — you can damage the ceramic disc inside.

Remove the Headgear (Tap Body)

The headgear is the brass or chrome body of the tap that contains the valve mechanism. Use your adjustable spanner to grip the hexagonal section and turn counter-clockwise. It may be tight from years of water pressure — apply steady pressure, not sudden force.

Once loose, lift the entire headgear straight up. Some water will drain out — this is normal. Have your cloth ready to catch drips.

Replace the Washer

At the base of the headgear, you will see a rubber washer held in place by a small brass nut (the jumper valve). Use your spanner to remove this nut — turn counter-clockwise. The old washer will slide off.

Inspection tip: Look at the valve seat (the metal surface the washer presses against). If it is smooth and shiny, good. If pitted, scratched, or has mineral buildup, the seat may need professional re-grinding.

Slide the new washer onto the post, ensuring it sits flat. Replace the brass nut and tighten firmly but not excessively — over-tightening can damage the new washer.

Reassemble the Tap

Reassemble in reverse order:

Lower the headgear back into the tap body
Hand-tighten, then use spanner for final quarter-turn (do not over-tighten)
Replace the handle onto the spindle splines
Insert and tighten the handle screw
Press the decorative cap back into place

If threads were difficult to engage, apply a wrap of plumber tape to the headgear threads before reassembly. This helps create a better seal.

Test for Leaks

Turn the water supply back on slowly. Sudden pressure can damage the new washer. Once fully on, close the tap and wait 60 seconds. Check:

Spout — should be completely dry with no drips
Handle base — no water seeping from where handle meets body
Headgear threads — no water around the base of the tap

If the spout still drips, the valve seat may be damaged. If water seeps from the handle, the O-ring behind the handle needs replacement. If water appears at the base, the headgear needs slightly more tightening.

Common Tap Problems and Solutions

Problem	Likely Cause	DIY Difficulty	Solution
Dripping Spout	Worn washer or damaged valve seat	Easy to Moderate	Replace washer. If leak persists, valve seat may need professional re-grinding.
Leak at Handle Base	Worn O-ring or loose packing nut	Easy	Tighten packing nut or replace O-ring behind the handle.
Leak from Handle Top	Loose handle screw or worn cartridge	Easy to Moderate	Tighten screw. For mixer taps, may need cartridge replacement.
Water Spraying from Spout	Damaged aerator or high pressure	Easy	Clean or replace aerator (the mesh screen at spout tip).

When to Call a Professional Plumber

DIY tap repair works for simple washer replacements, but some situations require professional tools and expertise. Attempting complex repairs without proper equipment can damage your tap or plumbing, leading to costlier fixes.

Call a Professional When:

Leak persists after replacing washer twice
Valve seat is damaged or pitted (requires re-grinding tool)
Tap body is cracked or corroded
You need to replace the entire tap fixture
Leak involves pipe connections behind the wall
No isolation valve exists and main supply is hard to access
Mixer tap cartridge needs replacement (specialized parts)

Book a Plumber in Trivandrum

Cost Comparison: DIY vs Professional

DIY Repair Cost

Replacement washers (pack of 5)₹50-100
Plumber tape₹30-50
Basic tools (if not owned)₹200-500
Total (first time)₹280-650
Subsequent repairs₹50-100

Professional Plumber Cost (Trivandrum)

Simple washer replacement₹300-500
Mixer tap cartridge replacement₹500-800
Valve seat re-grinding₹800-1,200
Complete tap replacement₹1,000-2,000
IncludesWarranty + proper tools + expertise

Our recommendation: Try DIY for simple washer replacements on traditional pillar taps. The learning experience is valuable, and you will save money on future repairs. For mixer taps, expensive fixtures, or when the problem persists after your first attempt, call a professional to avoid causing damage that costs more to fix.

Preventing Future Tap Leaks

Do Not Over-Tighten

Turning taps off with excessive force crushes washers prematurely. Close taps firmly but gently — when you feel resistance, stop.

Install a Water Filter

Trivandrum's water can contain sediment that wears valve seats. A simple filter reduces particles that damage washers and seats.

Annual Maintenance

Replace washers every 2-3 years as preventive maintenance, even if not leaking. Old washers harden and crack.

Check Water Pressure

High pressure accelerates wear. If multiple taps leak frequently, consider a pressure reducing valve (PRV) installation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my tap drip even after replacing the washer?

The valve seat (the metal surface the washer presses against) may be damaged or pitted. Mineral deposits from hard water can also prevent a proper seal. Try cleaning the seat with an old toothbrush and vinegar. If still leaking, the seat needs professional re-grinding with a special tool.

How long should a tap washer last?

In normal conditions, 3-5 years. In Trivandrum with harder water, expect 2-3 years. High-usage taps (kitchen sinks) wear faster than bathroom taps. Quality of the washer matters — cheap rubber washers degrade faster than fiber or ceramic discs.

Can I use any washer size?

No — the washer must match exactly. Too small and it will not seal; too large and it will bunch up and leak. Common sizes are 12mm, 15mm, 19mm, and 25mm. Take your old washer to the hardware store for matching. Some modern taps use flat fiber washers instead of rubber.

Is a dripping tap really wasting that much water?

A tap dripping once per second wastes approximately 11,000 liters per year — enough to fill a small swimming pool. At Trivandrum water rates, this costs ₹500-1,000 annually. Fixing it promptly saves money and helps with water conservation during summer shortages.

Need Professional Help in Trivandrum?

If your tap still leaks after trying these steps, or you would rather have an expert handle it, Homfix plumbers are available across Trivandrum. Same-day service, upfront pricing, and warranty on all repairs.

Book via WhatsApp View Plumbing Services

How to Fix a Leaking Tap: Complete DIY Guide for Trivandrum Homeowners