How to Fix a Leaking Mixer Tap

A leaking mixer tap is a water-wasting culprit that quietly inflates your utility bills and reduces your home’s water efficiency. The Australian Water Association points out that even a slow drip can waste 12,000 litres of water per year.

This problem is common in many households, but the good news is that it can be fixed easily with the right approach and a little know-how.

Let’s take a closer look at how to diagnose and fix your leaking mixer tap, so you can stop that constant drip and save water.

What Is a Mixer Tap?

A mixer tap blends hot and cold water to give you the perfect temperature, making it one of the most popular choices for kitchens and bathrooms. Instead of having two separate taps, one for hot and one for cold, a mixer tap combines both water streams.

You’ll often find dual-handle taps, which have separate controls for hot and cold water, and single-handle taps, which let you adjust the water temperature with just one lever.

How to Identify the Source of the Leak

Before you grab your tools, you need to identify the source of the leak to help you select the right fix.

• Faulty Washers/O-Rings: If your mixer taps are leaking from the handle or base, the problem could be with the washers or O-rings. These small rubber seals wear out over time, especially if your tap gets a lot of use.
• Damaged Cartridges: If the water is leaking from the spout, it’s likely that the cartridge inside the tap has worn out. Cartridges regulate the flow and temperature of water. If they’re broken or malfunctioning, water will escape from the wrong places.

By diagnosing the issue correctly, you can ensure you’re replacing the right part and fixing the leak properly.

Tools You’ll Need

• Adjustable Wrench
• Flat-head Screwdriver
• Allen Key (2mm to 2.5mm)
• Replacement Cartridge or O-rings/Washers
• Inox or WD-40
• Plumber’s Tape
• Rag and Bucket
• Rubber Gloves (Optional)

Make sure to take note of your tap’s make and model before buying replacement parts.

Easy Steps to Fix Your Leaking Mixer Tap

Here’s how you can fix a leaking mixer tap in just a few simple steps.

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply

• Find the isolation valves beneath your sink (usually small, round valves attached to the flexi hoses).
• Turn the valves clockwise to close them.
• Once done, turn on the tap to check that no water flows.

Step 2: Remove the Tap Handle

Next, you need to remove the handle or handles. Depending on whether you have a dual-handle mixer tap or a single-handle tap, the process will vary.

• Single-Handle Tap: Find the small screw under the plastic cover on the handle. Use a flathead screwdriver to remove the cover, then use your Allen key to unscrew the grub screw.
• Dual-Handle Tap: The grub screws are usually located under the hot/cold caps. Use a flathead screwdriver to remove the caps, then unscrew the grub screws.

Step 3: Disassemble the Tap

Now that the handle is off, use your adjustable wrench to remove the tap cover. Some taps will have a domed cover right below the handle that can be unscrewed easily.

Once the cover is off, you’ll need to remove the cartridge or spindle. You need to use your adjustable wrench for this, but remember to be gentle to avoid damage to the tap.

Step 4: Replace the Faulty Parts

Once you’ve removed the tap components, you should be able to pinpoint the issue. If it’s a worn-out washer or O-ring, simply replace it with a new one, but make sure you get the right size.

If the problem is with the cartridge, you’ll need to replace it as well. Take a photo of your tap before heading to the hardware store to ensure you grab the correct parts.

Step 5: Reassemble the Tap

Once you’ve bought the new parts, reassemble the tap. Here’s how:

• Install the new washer or cartridge, and make sure it sits securely in place.
• Apply plumber’s tape to the threaded connections to ensure a secure, leak-free seal.
• Tighten everything back into place, but don’t over-tighten. Hand-tightening is usually enough to create a seal.

Step 6: Test Your Work

Turn the water supply back on and check for leaks. Test the tap by running both hot and cold water to make sure everything works as it should.

Challenges You Might Face and How to Solve Them

1. Stuck Components

Over time, mineral deposits or corrosion can cause parts of the tap to get stuck. If you can’t loosen something, try applying some WD-40 or Inox lubricant. Let it sit for a few minutes before trying again.

2. Persistent Drips After Repair

If the drip persists after replacing the parts, the tap seat might be damaged. This is the part where the washer or cartridge sits. If this happens, it’s best to call in a plumber. A professional is needed to fix or replace a damaged tap seat because the component is essential for creating a proper seal between the washer or cartridge and the tap body.

3. Ensuring a Tight Seal

After reassembling your tap, make sure all connections are tight but not overly tightened. Over-tightening can cause damage and lead to more leaks in the future. To avoid this, hand-tighten the components as mentioned previously, and give them a small extra turn with a wrench, but stop once you feel resistance. This should be enough to create a secure seal without risking damage.

Situations That Require a Professional Plumber

While a DIY mixer tap repair can be a simple task, there are times when it’s best to call in the professionals. Here are a few situations where expert help is needed:

1. Complex Tap Mechanisms

If your tap has a complex design or you can’t identify the issue, a plumber can help. They have the expertise to handle intricate tap designs and identify hidden problems.

2. Persistent Leaking

If the leak continues after you’ve replaced the parts, it could mean a deeper issue within your plumbing system.

Final Thoughts

Fixing a leaking mixer tap is easier than it sounds. With the right tools, parts, and a little time, you can solve the problem, reduce water wastage, and save on your utility bills.

If you’ve followed the steps above and are still having trouble, it’s best to contact our team of professional plumbers in Sydney. At Fix N Flow, we’re here to help with all your plumbing needs. Call us at 1300 319 275 or fill out our online form for fast assistance. Sometimes, it’s just easier and quicker to leave it to the experts!