Is a dripping tap really worth fixing?

Yes. A tap that drips runs constantly, so the wasted water adds up on your bill, and the underlying fault only gets worse. Fixing it early is a small job that prevents a bigger, more expensive repair later.

Why does my tap still drip after I've tightened it?

Because tightening doesn't fix the worn part causing the drip — and forcing it often damages the washer or valve further. A plumber will replace the faulty component so the drip stops properly.

Can a dripping tap cause damage?

Over time, yes. Constant moisture can stain sinks and basins, damage surrounding cabinetry and encourage mould. A sudden increase in dripping can also be an early sign the tap is about to fail completely.

Dripping Tap? What It's Really Costing You

Quick answer

A dripping tap runs 24 hours a day, wasting litres and adding to your water bill, and it usually means a worn washer, seal or valve that will only get worse. Left alone it can lead to staining, water damage and a bigger repair. A plumber can fix the cause quickly. Eagle Plumbing 24/7 helps across Sydney.

Why a small drip is a big deal

One drip a second doesn't look like much, but it never stops. Day and night, that steady trickle adds up to litres of wasted water — water you're paying for — and it's a sign that something inside the tap has started to fail.

›It runs constantly, so the waste adds up over every billing period.
›A drip almost always means a worn washer, seal or valve that won't fix itself.
›Constant moisture can stain sinks and basins and damage nearby cabinetry.
›The problem gets worse over time, not better.

What's usually behind a dripping tap

A dripping tap is a symptom, and the real cause sits inside the tap or the pipework behind it:

›A worn or perished washer or O-ring.
›A damaged valve seat or cartridge.
›Corrosion inside the tap body.
›Water pressure that's too high, stressing the tap's internal parts.

Why it's worth calling a plumber early

It's tempting to leave a drip or crank the tap hard to stop the noise, but over-tightening often damages the washer further and forcing a failing tap can snap it — turning a quick fix into an urgent repair. A licensed plumber will replace the right part properly, so the drip stops for good rather than returning in a few weeks.

If a tap suddenly won't turn off, or water is spraying from the base, turn off your water at the mains and call a plumber straight away.

Fix the drip before it costs more

A dripping tap is a small job that's easy to put off — but the longer it runs, the more water and money it wastes. Eagle Plumbing 24/7 is a family-owned, fully licensed team (NSW Licence 498336C) that can track down the cause and fix it properly, backed by a lifetime workmanship guarantee and a $0 call-out fee on standard call-outs. Call 0489 998 221 to get it sorted.

That Dripping Tap Is Costing You More Than You Think