That constant drip-drip-drip sound from your tap isn't just annoying — it's expensive. A single dripping tap wastes over 20,000 litres of water per year, which adds hundreds of rupees to your water bill. The good news? In most cases, fixing a dripping tap is a simple DIY job that takes less than 30 minutes.
Why is My Tap Dripping?
Understanding the cause helps you fix it correctly. The most common causes of a dripping tap in India are:
- Worn-out washer: The most common cause. The rubber washer inside the tap compresses every time you use it, eventually wearing out.
- Damaged O-ring: A small ring on the stem screw that deteriorates over time.
- Corroded valve seat: The valve seat connects the tap and the spout — sediment build-up causes corrosion and dripping.
- Worn-out cartridge: Common in single-lever mixer taps — the cartridge controls hot and cold water.
- Loose packing nut: The packing nut secures the stem — if loose, water leaks around the handle.
Tools You'll Need
- Adjustable spanner or wrench
- Flat-head and Phillips screwdrivers
- Replacement washers (₹20–₹50 at any hardware store)
- Plumber's grease / Vaseline
- A dry cloth
How to Fix a Dripping Tap – Step by Step
Turn Off the Water Supply
Locate the isolation valve under the sink or the main stopcock for your home. Turn it clockwise until it stops. Turn on the tap to release any remaining pressure and water.
Remove the Tap Handle
Unscrew the decorative cap on top of the handle (pry gently with a flat screwdriver). Remove the screw underneath to detach the handle. Pull the handle straight up — it should come off easily.
Remove the Packing Nut
Use your adjustable spanner to loosen and remove the packing nut (turns anti-clockwise). Once removed, you'll see the stem — pull it out by turning it in the same direction you'd open the tap.
Replace the Washer
At the bottom of the stem, you'll find the old rubber washer held by a brass screw. Remove the screw, take out the worn washer, and replace it with the new one of the same size. Apply a small amount of plumber's grease.
Reassemble and Test
Reassemble in reverse order: stem → packing nut → handle → screw → cap. Turn the water supply back on slowly. Test the tap — the dripping should have stopped.
💡 Pro tip: Take the old washer to a hardware store and match it exactly. Using the wrong size washer will cause dripping to continue.
When to Call a Plumber Instead
Some tap issues are beyond a simple washer replacement. Call a professional plumber if:
- The tap continues dripping after washer replacement
- The tap body itself is cracked or corroded
- Water is leaking from the base of the tap (not the spout)
- You have a mixer tap or thermostatic tap (these are more complex)
- Multiple taps are dripping (may indicate a pressure issue)
⚠️ Never overtighten tap fittings — this can crack the tap body or damage the thread, turning a simple ₹50 washer job into a ₹2,000 replacement.
Plumbing Service Cost in India (2026)
If you'd rather have a professional handle it, here are typical plumbing rates:
- Tap repair / washer replacement: ₹200 – ₹500
- Tap replacement: ₹500 – ₹1,500 + tap cost
- Pipe leak repair: ₹500 – ₹2,000
- Bathroom fitting installation: ₹800 – ₹2,500
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