If you’ve changed the tap washer and it’s still leaking, most likely, the valve “seat” that the tap washer pushes down on is worn, allowing water to pass no matter how much you tighten it. The tap valve seat, mostly made of brass, becomes worn and burred over time, mainly due to minerals in the water such as lime.

Do you need a plumber to fix a dripping tap?

Fixing a dripping tap Not only are they famously annoying, but they can waste a huge amount of water and money. However a dripping tap is usually easy to fix, and doesn’t need a call out to a plumber.

Why won't my tap stop dripping?

Traditional taps drip because an internal rubber seal, or washer, has perished and needs replacing. … It is generally hiding under the decorative cap on top of the tap handle. Sometimes you can unscrew the cap by hand, or you may need the help of a slot-headed screwdriver or adjustable spanner.