Troubleshooting

Dripping taps and leaking pipes

A dripping tap wastes water and money, and even a small leak can damage cupboards, ceilings and floors if it is ignored.

Safe checks you can do

Turn off the water supply to the tap or pipe at the isolator valve or stopcock.
Put a bowl or towel under the drip to limit damage while you wait.
For a leaking pipe, switch off the stopcock and open the cold taps to drain the system down.
Do not overtighten a tap to stop a drip; it usually makes the washer or ceramic cartridge worse.

Likely causes

A worn washer, O-ring or ceramic cartridge inside the tap.
A damaged tap seat or loose packing nut.
A compression joint that has worked loose, or a corroded pipe section.
A burst or weeping pipe in a cold space after freezing weather.

When to call Tignite

If you cannot isolate the leak, if water is coming through a ceiling, or the drip returns after changing a washer, call us. Leaks rarely stay small; we can repair the pipe or fitting properly and check for hidden damage.

Book an engineer

Prefer we handle it?

Not sure what is wrong, or would rather leave it to a professional? Our qualified engineers cover Chesterfield and the Peak District.

Get in touch