
Dripping tap
A dripping tap makes an annoying noise but, even worse, it drives up your water consumption. Follow our tips to solve the problem quickly and to stop it happening in the first place.
Content
At a glance
A dripping tap is often caused by limescale build-up on the rubber washer or by a dirty valve bonnet
You can often fix the tap yourself without calling in a tradesperson
Clean your taps regularly to prevent stubborn limescale deposits
High-quality taps are less susceptible to damage and have a longer service life
What should you do if your tap is dripping?
There are various causes for a dripping tap. The most common scenario is the rubber washer becoming clogged with limescale or dirt building up in the upper part of the valve. Rather than calling a specialist straight away, you can try to find the cause yourself. With a few practical skills, you can often repair a dripping tap without professional assistance.

How does a tap work?
A tap works according to a specific principle. It controls the flow of water inside by means of a ball or valve. Very simple taps have just a cold water pipe with a ball valve that is opened and closed using a lever. Modern taps, on the other hand, usually have a mixer that allows hot and cold water to flow from the tap. Just like a regular tap, a rotating handle is used to activate the flow of water. The fitting also needs to be able to withstand a certain amount of water pressure inside the tap. A built-in valve therefore controls the water flow and shuts off the pipe when water is no longer required.