Leaky Kitchen Tap? Here’s How to Fix It and Prevent Future Issues
A leaking kitchen tap wastes water and costs you money. Fixing it quickly not only saves you from higher water bills but also prevents potential damage to your plumbing. The good news is, fixing the issue is usually easier than you might think. In this guide, we’ll explore the common causes of leaks, provide step-by-step instructions for repairs, and share tips on how to avoid future issues.
Shop for our kitchen taps now at Sim Siang Choon Singapore’s official store on Shopee or Lazada!
What’s Causing the Leak in Your Kitchen Tap?
Even a high-quality kitchen tap can start leaking over time. It’s often a result of everyday use, wear and tear, or even factors like water pressure. While your tap might be built to last, understanding why it’s leaking can help you fix it quickly and effectively:
Worn-Out Washer
The washer seals the tap’s valve, but constant pressure wears it down, leading to drips. A simple replacement can fix it, but ignoring it wastes water and raises bills.
Loose or Damaged O-Ring
This small rubber ring prevents leaks where the handle meets the base. With time, it can crack or loosen, causing leaks around the handle. Replacing it is easy but requires the right size for a proper seal.
Faulty Cartridge or Valve
In mixer taps, the cartridge or valve controls water flow. Wear, mineral buildup, or high pressure can cause leaks or continuous water flow. If a new cartridge doesn’t help, the tap may need replacing.
High Water Pressure
Excessive pressure forces water through tiny gaps, leading to leaks. If your tap started leaking after a pressure surge, check your home’s water pressure and adjust if needed to prevent further damage.
Corroded or Loose Parts
Screws, nuts, and seals inside the tap can loosen or corrode over time, especially in hard water areas. This weakens the seal, leading to leaks. Regular maintenance helps, but worn parts must be replaced.
How to Fix Your Kitchen Tap: A Simple Guide
Fixing a leaky kitchen tap starts with identifying the source of the problem. Some leaks are easy to fix with a quick part replacement, while others might need a bit more effort. Here’s how to approach it:
1. Turn off the water supply
Before doing anything, shut off the water supply to your kitchen tap. This prevents further leaks and avoids a mess while you work. The shut-off valves are usually under the sink—turn them clockwise until they stop. If you don’t have separate valves, you may need to turn off the main water supply.
2. Find where the leak is coming from
Leaks can happen at different points: the spout, the base, or the handle. A dripping spout often means a worn washer or faulty cartridge, while leaks around the base usually point to a damaged O-ring. If water seeps from the handle, the problem is likely inside the valve or cartridge.
3. Gather your tools
Grab a spanner (or wrench), pliers, and a screwdriver. Some leaks may also require replacement washers, O-rings, or a new cartridge, which you can find at most hardware stores.
4. Replace worn parts
Once you’ve identified the issue, remove the faulty component:
- For a dripping spout, unscrew the tap head and replace the washer.
- For a leak at the base, remove the handle and swap out the O-ring.
- For a faulty cartridge, take out the old one and install a new ceramic cartridge that matches your tap model.
5. Reassemble and test
After replacing the worn parts, put everything back together and turn the water supply back on. Check for any signs of leaks. If the problem persists, the issue might be high water pressure or internal corrosion.
6. Check water pressure
If your kitchen tap keeps leaking even after replacing parts, test your home’s water pressure. If it’s too high, it can wear down internal components faster. A pressure regulator can help keep it in check and extend your tap’s lifespan.
How to Keep Your Kitchen Tap Leak-Free
Once your kitchen tap is leak-free, keeping it that way is easier than you think. A few simple habits can help prevent future issues and ensure your tap lasts longer:
Check and replace worn parts regularly
Washers and O-rings naturally wear out over time, so don’t wait for a leak to happen before changing them. If your tap has been in use for years, a quick maintenance check can prevent small issues from turning into major leaks.
Avoid over-tightening the tap
It’s tempting to turn the tap as tightly as possible to stop dripping, but this can damage internal components. A firm but gentle close is enough to prevent unnecessary strain.
Monitor water pressure
High water pressure can speed up wear and tear on your kitchen tap. If you hear banging noises in your pipes or notice that multiple taps in your home leak frequently, it might be worth checking your pressure levels.
The aerator (the small mesh piece at the tip of your tap) can collect mineral deposits over time, restricting water flow. Unscrew it every few months, soak it in vinegar, and give it a good rinse to keep water running smoothly.
Invest in a high-quality tap
A well-made kitchen tap designed for durability can save you money in the long run. Modern taps with ceramic cartridges, leak-resistant designs, and corrosion-resistant materials require less maintenance and offer better performance.
Sim Siang Choon’s Kitchen Taps
If you’re dealing with constant leaks or an outdated kitchen tap, upgrading to a high-quality model can save you time, money, and frustration. Instead of repeatedly fixing the same issues, a new tap gives you a fresh start with better durability, efficiency, and style.
1. Single Lever Tap
With its bold design and smooth single-lever control, this tap makes everyday tasks effortless. Built to last, easy to use, and a sleek addition to any modern kitchen.
This double-handle tap offers easy water flow control with a classic design that never goes out of style. With its vintage-inspired design and durable build, it adds both style and function to your kitchen.
3. Pull-out Tap
This sleek pull-out tap gives you flexibility and control, making dishwashing and food prep easier. The high-arched design offers plenty of space, while the pull-down spray head reaches where you need it most. Practical, stylish, and made to handle everyday use.
Two spouts, less waiting. Use one for washing and the other for rinsing, or run both when you need more water, faster. Ideal for high-traffic kitchens that need efficiency.
Conclusion
A kitchen tap is something you rely on every day, so even a small leak can be a bigger problem than it seems. If you’ve managed to repair your tap, keeping up with regular maintenance will help prevent future leaks. But if the problem keeps coming back, it might be time to consider an upgrade.
Shop for our kitchen taps now at Sim Siang Choon Singapore’s official store on Shopee or Lazada!
