A dripping tap might seem like a minor annoyance — just a bit of noise, right? But the reality is that a single leaking tap can waste thousands of litres of water per year, adding hundreds of dollars to your water bill and causing damage to your fixtures and fittings.
Here's why you should never ignore a leaking tap, and what it costs to fix.
How Much Water Does a Leaking Tap Waste?
A tap dripping at just one drip per second wastes approximately 20,000 litres of water per year. That's enough to fill a small backyard pool. At Central Coast water rates, that's roughly $70–$100 per year for a single tap — and most homes have multiple taps. If you have three dripping taps, you could be wasting over $300 a year.
What Causes a Leaking Tap?
The most common cause of a leaking tap is a worn-out washer, O-ring or ceramic disc cartridge. Over time, these components degrade from constant use and water pressure, preventing the tap from forming a proper seal. Other causes include:
- Corroded valve seats
- High water pressure
- Loose or damaged fittings
- Mineral buildup from hard water
Why You Shouldn't Ignore It
Beyond the wasted water and money, a leaking tap can cause:
- Staining: Constant moisture can stain your sink, basin or bathtub with rust and mineral deposits.
- Fixture damage: Ongoing exposure to water can corrode and damage your tapware, requiring a full replacement rather than a simple repair.
- Mould and mildew: Excess moisture around your sink can promote mould growth, which is a health hazard.
- Worsening leaks: What starts as a slow drip can suddenly become a gushing leak if a component fails completely.
The Cost of a Tap Repair
At Dial A Tradie, a standard tap repair on the Central Coast typically costs between $120 and $250, depending on the type of tap and the parts required. This is a fraction of the cost of the water you'll waste by ignoring it. We use high-quality replacement parts and back our work with a lifetime workmanship guarantee.
DIY vs Professional Repair
While some homeowners attempt to fix a leaking tap themselves, it's often more trouble than it's worth. Modern mixer taps with ceramic disc cartridges are more complex than older jumper-valve taps, and incorrect reassembly can cause worse leaks. A professional plumber will have the right tools and parts on hand and can complete the repair quickly and correctly the first time.
Fix It Today
Don't let a dripping tap drain your wallet. Call Dial A Tradie on 1800 048 048 for fast, affordable tap repairs across the Central Coast. With upfront fixed pricing and a $0 call out fee, there's no reason to wait.