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Why Is My Tap Dripping? Common Causes and How to Identify the Problem

Noticing a persistent drip from your kitchen tap can be frustrating — and costly if left untreated. Dripping taps are one of the most common plumbing issues, yet many people are unsure what causes the problem, or what they should do next. This guide will help you identify the root cause of your dripping tap so you can take the right steps to fix it, whether you’re dealing with a modern mixer tap or an older model.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Dripping Tap

While a small drip may not seem urgent, it can waste a surprising amount of water over time and may indicate a larger issue developing inside your tap. In addition, ignoring the problem can lead to more extensive wear and tear, especially if the wrong parts are replaced or if the damage worsens. That’s why it’s best to diagnose the issue as early as possible.

Step 1: Identify Where the Drip Is Coming From

Is your tap dripping from the spout, the base of the spout, or from under the sink? The source of the drip is one of the best clues to what might be wrong.

• Drip from the spout: This usually points to worn valves or cartridges inside the tap.
• Drip from the base of the spout: This could be due to worn O-rings or seals where the spout connects to the body.
• Drip from under the sink: This may indicate loose or damaged connections underneath, not the tap itself.

Step 2: Consider the Type of Tap You Have

Taps come in different styles — and not all take the same parts. For example, ceramic disc taps typically use valves, while older models might use rubber washers. Mixer taps can have different configurations depending on whether they’re single or dual handle.
Example Compression Valve / Twist Turn Valve

Example Ceramic Disc Valve

Example Cartridge

If you’re not sure what kind of tap you have, see our guide to identifying your tap model. If you don’t know what Brand / Model your tap is, email us a photo — we may still be able to help identify it.

Step 3: Are You Using Genuine Replacement Parts?
We regularly hear from customers who’ve unknowingly installed a non-genuine part, only to find that the leak persists or worsens. Many “compatible” parts are made to a different specification and can cause long-term issues. Always check whether the replacement matches your tap’s original specifications — especially for older or discontinued models.

If you’re unsure, we stock genuine kitchen tap spares for a wide range of brands including Abode, Bristan, Carron Phoenix, CDA, Clearwater, Franke, Homebase, Howdens, John Lewis, Perrin & Rowe, Rangemaster, San Marco and more. Feel free to  email us a picture of your tap and we’ll help you identify the correct part.

What Happens Next?

Once you’ve identified the likely cause, you can move on to fixing it. In many cases, it’s a straightforward process — and we’ve created a step-by-step guide to help you.

Go to How to Fix a Dripping Kitchen Tap for our DIY repair instructions.

Need Help?

If you’re unsure what to do next, get in touch. We’ve helped thousands of customers find the correct parts — even for discontinued taps. You can also visit our Helpful Tips section for more advice.

Want to Rule Out Other Issues?

Water pressure problems can also cause dripping or uneven flow. You might find these resources useful:

• Fixing Kitchen Tap Water Pressure
• Choosing the Right Kitchen Tap – Understanding Water Pressure
• How to Test Your Water Pressure

Proper diagnosis is the first step in saving money, preventing waste, and extending the life of your kitchen tap. Whether you’re calling in a plumber or tackling the fix yourself, understanding the cause of the problem ensures you’re on the right track from the start.