How To Stop A Dripping Bathroom Sink Tap

How to Stop a Dripping Bathroom Sink Tap

A dripping bathroom sink tap can be a frustrating and annoying problem. Not only is it a waste of water, but it can also lead to higher water bills and potential water damage. Fortunately, fixing a dripping tap is often a simple task that can be done in a few minutes.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before you begin, you will need to gather the following materials:

A wrench
A pair of pliers
A screwdriver
A replacement washer or O-ring (if necessary)

Step 2: Turn Off the Water Supply

The first step is to turn off the water supply to the tap. This is typically done by turning off the stop valves located under the sink. If you cannot find the stop valves, you may need to turn off the main water supply to your home.

Step 3: Remove the Aerator

The aerator is the small screen located at the end of the tap. It helps to aerate the water and reduce splashing. To remove the aerator, simply unscrew it counterclockwise.

Step 4: Remove the Handle

Next, you will need to remove the handle of the tap. This is typically done by loosening the setscrew located on the side of the handle with a screwdriver. Once the setscrew is loose, you should be able to pull the handle off.

Step 5: Remove the Cartridge

Once the handle is removed, you will be able to access the cartridge. The cartridge is the part of the tap that controls the flow of water. To remove the cartridge, simply lift it straight up out of the tap body.

Step 6: Inspect the Cartridge

Once you have removed the cartridge, inspect it for any signs of damage or wear. If the cartridge is damaged, you will need to replace it with a new one.

Step 7: Replace the Washer or O-Ring

If the cartridge is not damaged, you may simply need to replace the washer or O-ring. The washer is a small rubber washer that seals the connection between the cartridge and the tap body. The O-ring is a small rubber ring that seals the connection between the handle and the cartridge.

Step 8: Reassemble the Tap

Once you have replaced the washer or O-ring, you can reassemble the tap in reverse order. First, insert the cartridge back into the tap body. Then, replace the handle and tighten the setscrew. Finally, screw on the aerator.