How to Fix a Dripping Garden Tap
Last updated: 4 September 2026
Quick Answer
Turn off water, replace the washer or O-ring, and reassemble.
Overview
A dripping garden tap wastes water. This guide covers fixing a leaky outdoor tap.
Step-by-Step Fix
Safety & Preparation
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).
- First, locate the isolation valve for your outdoor tap, which is usually found indoors near the pipe that feeds the tap. Turn this valve clockwise fully to shut off the water supply to prevent flooding before you begin any work. If you cannot find a specific isolation valve, you may need to turn off the main stopcock for your property, typically located under the kitchen sink or near the water meter.
- Using a screwdriver, carefully remove the screw holding the tap handle in place and then pull the handle off the spindle. Next, use an adjustable spanner to loosen the large hexagonal nut, known as the packing nut or gland nut, located directly beneath where the handle was. Turn this nut anticlockwise to remove it completely.
- Once the packing nut is off, gently pull the tap spindle assembly straight out from the tap body. Inspect the small rubber washer at the end of the spindle for signs of wear, hardening, or damage; this is often the cause of a drip. Also, check the O-ring (a rubber seal) located around the spindle shaft for any cracks or flattening, as this can cause leaks around the handle.
- Carefully remove the old, worn washer from the spindle, typically by unscrewing a small retaining screw, and replace it with a new washer of the correct size and thickness. If your tap uses an O-ring, slide the old one off and fit a new, correctly sized O-ring onto the spindle shaft to ensure a tight seal. Ensure both new components sit snugly in their designated positions.
- Reinsert the spindle assembly back into the tap body, making sure it aligns correctly. Hand-tighten the packing nut, then use your adjustable spanner to tighten it snugly, but do not overtighten, as this can damage the new O-ring or make the tap stiff. Finally, refit the tap handle, secure it with its screw, and then slowly open your indoor isolation valve or main stopcock to restore the water supply and check for any leaks.
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 | Worn washer | Replace the washer. |
| Tap leaks from handle | Worn O-ring | Replace the O-ring. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prevent my outdoor tap from freezing?
Turn off the internal isolation valve and drain the tap in winter.
Can I use PTFE tape on a garden tap?
Yes, on the threads for a better seal.