Common Causes Of Leaking Taps And How Professionals Fix Them

A leaking tap may seem like a small inconvenience at first, but over time it can become a constant reminder that something is not quite right with your plumbing. The steady drip, the wasted water, and the growing frustration often prompt homeowners to try quick fixes or temporary solutions. Yet many leaks return shortly after, usually because the real cause lies deeper within the tap’s internal components or the property’s plumbing system. Understanding what leads to leaking taps helps you recognise why professional support from a plumber in Coffs Harbour is essential for lasting repairs.

This guide explores the most common reasons taps leak, how they affect household efficiency, and the proven methods professionals use to restore proper function.

1. Worn Washers: The Simple Issue Behind Many Leaking Taps

Washers play a crucial role in sealing the tap mechanism, and once they wear out, they can no longer create the tight seal needed to stop water flow. Over time, friction, ageing rubber, and repeated daily use cause washers to stiffen, crack, or lose their shape. When this happens, water begins to escape, leading to that familiar drip.

Professional plumbers assess the type of washer, the condition of the tap body, and whether the leak has caused additional wear inside the tap. Their detailed approach ensures the problem is fully resolved rather than temporarily patched.

• Hard or brittle washers causing poor sealing
• Washers that have shifted out of place
• Washers that no longer match the tap seat due to wear
• Signs of corrosion around the washer housing



Replacing a washer may seem simple, but ensuring the correct fit and alignment prevents further leaks.

2. Damaged Cartridges in Mixer Taps Lead to Persistent Drips

Modern mixer taps use cartridges instead of traditional washer mechanisms. These cartridges regulate both temperature and flow, and once they crack, degrade, or become stiff, the tap struggles to shut off completely. Homeowners often notice inconsistent flow, difficulty turning the handle, or water leaking from the spout even after tightening.

A plumber in Coffs Harbour can identify the exact cartridge model required, something many DIY attempts overlook, and replace it with precision. They also check for surrounding wear, ensuring the new cartridge works smoothly within the tap body. This not only fixes the leak but ensures the tap operates as intended.

3. Mineral Build-Up and Debris That Interfere with Tap Function

Mineral deposits can accumulate inside taps over time, especially in homes with hard water or ageing plumbing. These deposits form around the tap seat, spindle, and cartridge, preventing components from sealing properly. The result is often a slow but persistent leak.

Plumbers use specialised tools and cleaning solutions to break down mineral build-up, restore smooth surfaces, and ensure components move freely. They also inspect the broader plumbing system to check whether sediment or corrosion elsewhere may be contributing to the problem.

• Build-up causing friction in moving parts
• Deposits creating uneven sealing surfaces
• Debris preventing the tap from closing fully
• Sediment travelling through older pipes



Cleaning and restoring internal surfaces significantly improves tap longevity.

4. High Water Pressure and the Hidden Strain It Places on Taps

Excessive water pressure can damage washers, cartridges, and seals far more quickly than normal. Homeowners may not realise their property has elevated pressure until leaks, bursts, or noisy pipes start appearing. When pressure is too high, taps struggle to hold back the force of the water, leading to drips or sudden failures.

A professional plumber tests the property’s water pressure and identifies whether a pressure-reducing valve or system adjustment is needed. Addressing pressure issues is essential for protecting not only taps but the entire plumbing network.

5. Ageing Tap Fixtures That No Longer Seal Properly

Over time, tap bodies, spouts, and internal components naturally degrade. Metal can corrode, rubber hardens, and mechanisms loosen from years of daily use. In older properties, taps may also be incompatible with modern replacement parts, making DIY repairs difficult or impossible.

A plumber in Coffs Harbour evaluates whether repairing the tap is worthwhile or if a full replacement will deliver better long-term value. Their experience helps homeowners choose fixtures that offer improved efficiency and durability, reducing the chances of future leaks.

• Structural wear inside the tap body
• Corroded metal preventing firm seals
• Outdated fixtures with limited replacement options
• Handles or stems that have become loose



Replacing old taps often leads to noticeable improvements in water usage and performance.

6. Faulty O-Rings That Cause Leaks at the Base of the Spout

When a leak appears at the base of the tap rather than the spout itself, the O-ring is usually the culprit. This small but important component sits around the spout stem to prevent water from escaping. Once it becomes worn, cracked, or stretched, water begins pooling around the base of the tap.

Plumbers disassemble the tap, replace the O-ring with the correct size, clean the spout seat, and reassemble the fixture to ensure a tight seal. This prevents water damage to benchtops and cabinetry, something homeowners often don’t notice until the leak has progressed.

7. Poor DIY Repairs That Cause More Harm Than Good

DIY tap repairs can quickly turn into bigger issues if components are forced, mismatched, or reassembled incorrectly. Common mistakes include overtightening cartridges, installing the wrong washer size, damaging threads, or scratching sealing surfaces. These errors often lead to leaks that are worse than the original problem.

Professional plumbers provide lasting solutions by identifying the true cause of the leak, replacing parts correctly, and ensuring the tap operates smoothly. Their expertise prevents further damage and avoids the frustration of repeated DIY attempts.

• Stripped threads requiring re-seating
• Incorrect components causing new leaks
• Damage to polished or internal surfaces
• Repairs that void tap manufacturer warranties



Plumbers ensure repairs are safe, compliant, and long-lasting.

8. Why Regular Plumbing Maintenance Helps Prevent Leaking Taps

Leaking taps are often a sign of broader plumbing issues developing in the background. Regular inspections by a plumber in Coffs Harbour help identify early signs of wear, corrosion, pressure imbalances, and ageing components. Routine maintenance reduces the risk of sudden leaks, protects water efficiency, and extends the life of taps and fittings.

Professional plumbers provide tailored advice on fixture upgrades, pressure adjustments, and preventative care. With proactive checks, small issues are addressed early, saving homeowners significant time, stress, and repair costs in the long run.

We at Nambucca Plumbing help homeowners across Coffs Harbour keep their plumbing systems running smoothly. If you’re dealing with constant dripping, rising water bills, or need leaking tap repairs in Coffs Harbour, our team can diagnose the issue and provide long-lasting solutions. Visit https://www.nambuccaplumbing.com/ to book an appointment with a trusted plumber in Coffs Harbour today.