Why is my bath tap leaking?
A bath tap can leak from the spout, around its base or from a connection hidden below the bath. The position and timing of the water usually give the best clue to the cause.
Where is the water coming from?
If water drips from the spout when the tap is off, a worn washer, valve or ceramic cartridge is a likely cause. This wastes water, but it is different from a leak around the body of the tap.
Water appearing around the base while the tap is running may come from a worn internal seal, a loose fitting or simply splashing. Dry the area, run each tap gently and watch where the first drop appears. Do not remove panels if you cannot do so safely.
What if the leak is below the bath?
A wet patch beneath the tap can come from its flexible hose, rigid pipe or connector. It may only show while the tap is running, or it may continue because the connection is on the pressurised water supply.
Stop using the tap if water is reaching the floor, wall or ceiling below. If the leak continues with the tap off, isolate the hot and cold supplies where safe, or use the main stop tap, then call a plumber.
Can I fix a leaking bath tap myself?
Cleaning visible water and checking whether a loose spray attachment or shower hose is responsible are sensible first steps. Internal tap parts vary, however, and access behind or beneath a fitted bath can be restricted.
Do not force a stiff valve or repeatedly tighten a connector, as this can damage the tap or pipework. A plumber can identify the correct replacement cartridge or seal and check hidden connections without disturbing more of the bathroom than necessary.
Does the whole tap need replacing?
Many leaks can be repaired if compatible parts are available and the tap body is sound. Replacement may be more practical when the tap is badly corroded, cracked, difficult to service or no longer has obtainable parts.
Before choosing a new tap, check the number and spacing of the tap holes, access below the bath and compatibility with your water system. These details can make the difference between a straightforward swap and extra installation work.
Quick leaking bath tap checklist
- Dry the tap and bath rim before looking for the first drop.
- Check whether the leak happens with the tap off, on or both.
- Look for water below the tap only where access is safe.
- Stop using the tap if water is reaching the floor or ceiling below.
- Isolate the water supply if a pressurised connection keeps leaking.
- Ask a plumber to repair hidden joints or identify replacement parts.