How to Fix a Dripping Ceramic Disc Tap
Last updated: 30 September 2026
Turn off the water, remove the ceramic cartridge, clean it with vinegar, or replace it if the discs are damaged.
Overview
A dripping ceramic disc tap is a common problem that wastes water and can stain your sink. This guide covers diagnosing and fixing a dripping ceramic cartridge tap without needing a plumber.
Step-by-Step Fix
Before beginning any repair, ensure you have isolated power or water supplies. Clear your workspace, gather standard hand tools, and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Turn off the water supply to the tap using the isolation valve, which is usually located under the sink on the pipe feeding the tap. If there is no isolation valve, turn off the main stopcock. Open the tap to release any residual water and confirm the supply is off before starting work. Place a towel or small container under the tap to catch any drips.
- Remove the tap handle by gently prising off the decorative cap on top of the handle using a small flat head screwdriver. This will expose the retaining screw underneath. Use the correct size screwdriver to unscrew it, then pull the handle straight off the cartridge spindle. Set the screw and cap aside in a safe place so they do not get lost down the drain.
- Use an adjustable spanner to unscrew the retaining nut that holds the ceramic cartridge in place. This nut is usually chrome plated and sits just above the tap body. Turn it anti clockwise to loosen. Wrap the spanner jaws with tape if you are worried about scratching the chrome finish. Take care not to lose the nut down the plughole.
- Carefully pull the ceramic cartridge out of the tap body. Take note of its orientation and the position of any locating lugs or tabs. Ceramic cartridges are specific to each tap model, so if cleaning does not solve the problem you will need to identify the exact replacement cartridge before ordering a new one.
- Inspect the cartridge for limescale deposits, which are the most common cause of dripping ceramic taps. Soak the cartridge in white vinegar for several hours or overnight to dissolve the limescale. Scrub gently with an old toothbrush, rinse thoroughly under clean water, and dry completely before reinserting.
- Check the ceramic discs inside the cartridge for cracks or chips. Even a small chip can prevent the discs from sealing properly and cause the tap to drip continuously. If the discs are damaged the cartridge cannot be repaired and must be replaced with an identical new one.
- If cleaning does not resolve the drip, purchase a replacement cartridge that matches your tap make and model. Apply a small amount of silicone plumbers grease to the seals on the new cartridge before inserting it into the tap body. This helps prevent future sticking and extends the life of the seals.
- Reassemble the tap in reverse order. Insert the cartridge ensuring correct alignment, reattach the retaining nut and tighten snugly but not overtightened, then reattach the handle and decorative cap. Turn the water supply back on slowly and test the tap for drips.
- If the tap still drips after replacing the cartridge, the valve seat inside the tap body may be damaged. In this case the entire tap may need to be replaced. If you are unsure about any step or the tap is a complex mixer design, call a qualified plumber.
Common Symptoms & Diagnostic Resolutions
Review the common error codes and operating symptoms below to quickly identify the root cause of the fault before ordering replacement parts.
| Symptom / Code | Likely Root Cause | Recommended Resolution |
|---|---|---|
| Tap drips continuously | Worn or limescaled ceramic cartridge preventing a proper seal | Soak the cartridge in white vinegar to dissolve limescale. If the drip persists after cleaning, replace the cartridge with a matching model. |
| Tap drips only when turned off | Ceramic disc not sealing properly due to debris or minor damage | Remove and clean the cartridge. Check the discs for chips and replace the cartridge if any damage is found. |
| Tap handle is stiff | Limescale buildup in the cartridge or dried out seals | Clean the cartridge with vinegar and apply silicone grease to the seals. If the handle remains stiff, replace the cartridge. |
| Water leaks from under the handle | Worn seal on the cartridge body or loose retaining nut | Remove the cartridge, replace the seals, apply silicone grease, and re tighten the retaining nut firmly. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which ceramic cartridge to buy?
Take the old cartridge to a plumbing merchant or hardware store to match it. If you cannot remove it, note the tap brand and model number and search online for the correct replacement cartridge.
Can I fix a dripping ceramic tap without replacing the cartridge?
Yes if the drip is caused by limescale. Soaking the cartridge in white vinegar overnight often resolves the issue. If the ceramic discs are chipped or cracked, replacement is the only reliable fix.
How long do ceramic tap cartridges last?
Ceramic cartridges typically last ten to fifteen years in soft water areas and five to ten years in hard water areas. Regular cleaning with vinegar can extend their lifespan significantly.
Is it cheaper to fix or replace a dripping tap?
Fixing a dripping tap by cleaning or replacing the cartridge is much cheaper than replacing the whole tap. A new cartridge costs between five and twenty pounds while a new tap costs thirty to one hundred and fifty pounds.