3 Simple Ways to Stop Your Tap from Dripping – And When to Call GladPro Plumbing Services.

A dripping tap isn’t just irritating — it’s costing you money and wasting valuable water. Whether it's a constant drip or a slow leak, ignoring it can lead to larger plumbing issues down the line.

At GladPro Plumbing Services, we help homeowners across Gravesend, Kent, Essex, and South East London with fast, affordable tap repairs and expert plumbing solutions.

In this blog, we’ll show you three common ways to fix a leaking tap yourself, and more importantly — when it’s time to call in GladPro Plumbing Services.

🔧 1. Replace a Worn-Out Washer

The most common cause of a dripping tap is a damaged or worn washer. Over time, the rubber washer inside your tap becomes brittle, worn or compressed, leading to leaks around the spout.

✅ How to Fix It:

• Turn off the water supply at the isolation valve or main stopcock.

• Remove the tap handle and unscrew the valve mechanism.

• Replace the washer with a new one of the same size.

• Reassemble the tap and turn the water back on to test.

🛠️ Tip: Use high-quality tap washers for a longer-lasting fix.

💧 2. Replace the Cartridge or Ceramic Disc

If you have a mixer tap or a modern ceramic disc tap, the cause of your leak might be the tap cartridge or ceramic disc valve. These components wear down with use or can become clogged with limescale — especially in hard water areas like Gravesend, Kent, Essex and South East London.

✅ How to Fix It:

• Turn off the water supply.

• Remove the tap handle and retaining nut.

• Pull out the cartridge and replace it with a matching part.

🔍 Be sure to bring the old cartridge to your local plumbers merchants or hardware store. Alternatively call a plumber to ensure an exact match.

🔍 3. Clean or Repair the Valve Seat

Sometimes, the valve seat — where the washer seals the tap — can become corroded or pitted, especially in older plumbing systems. Even after replacing the washer, this can cause your tap to keep dripping.

✅ How to Fix It:

• Use a valve seat grinder to smooth out minor damage.

• If corrosion is too severe, the tap may need to be replaced by a professional.

🛑 When to Call a Professional Plumber

Sometimes a DIY fix just won’t cut it. If you’ve tried the basics and your tap is still leaking, or if you're not confident with plumbing repairs, it's time to call GladPro Plumbing Services.

📞 Call GladPro Plumbing Services if:

• Your tap still drips after replacing the washer or cartridge.

• There’s water leaking from the base or pipework under the sink.

• You notice low water pressure or strange noises when using the tap.

• You’re unsure what type of tap or parts you have.

• You live in an older home with outdated plumbing.

With local plumbers based in Gravesend, and servicing Kent, Essex, and South East London, we’ll get your tap fixed quickly and professionally—saving you time, money, and stress.

💧 Fix That Dripping Tap Today – Call GladPro Plumbing Services

Every drop adds up. A leaking tap can waste hundreds of litres of water each year—not to mention hike up your bills.

Whether it’s a simple repair or a full tap replacement, GladPro Plumbing Services is here to help.

✅ Fast Response ✅ Affordable Pricing ✅ Trusted by Homeowners Across Gravesend, Kent, Essex & South East London

📞 Call us now on 07375702735

🌐 Visit www.gladproplumbingservices.com

📍 Proudly serving Gravesend, Kent, Essex, and South East London