What Causes a Leaking Tap Spindle & How to Fix It

A leaking tap spindle can be one of the most common yet frustrating plumbing issues around the house. If you’ve noticed your tap dripping persistently despite being turned off, it’s likely the tap spindle that’s causing the problem. Not only is this inconvenient, but it can also lead to wasted water and higher utility bills. Fortunately, understanding the causes of a leaking tap spindle and knowing how to fix it can save you time and money in the long run.

What is a Tap Spindle?

Before diving into the causes and fixes, let’s first clarify what a tap spindle is. A tap spindle is an integral part of your tap’s valve mechanism. It’s the central shaft that connects to the handle of the tap, allowing you to open or close the water flow by turning it. When you turn the handle, it rotates the spindle, which then moves a rubber washer or ceramic disc to control the flow of water. Over time, various issues can cause the spindle to fail and lead to leaks.

Common Causes of a Leaking Tap Spindle

1. Worn-out Washers: The most common cause of a leaking tap spindle is a worn-out washer. Washers are usually made of rubber and are designed to create a watertight seal when the tap is turned off. Over time, the constant friction of turning the tap handle, combined with the pressure of the water, can cause the washer to deteriorate or become misshapen. When this happens, the washer no longer provides an effective seal, resulting in a slow, constant drip from the tap.
   
   Fix: Replacing the worn-out washer is the most straightforward solution. You’ll need to remove the spindle from the tap, take out the old washer, and replace it with a new one. Make sure you choose a washer that matches the size and type required for your specific tap model.
   
2. Damaged O-rings: O-rings are small rubber seals that help prevent leaks at the joints of the tap. If an O-ring becomes cracked, worn, or displaced, water can seep through and cause a drip. This is particularly common in taps with a compression valve mechanism, where O-rings are used to seal the connection between the spindle and the tap body.
   
   Fix: Inspect the O-rings on the tap spindle. If they appear damaged or degraded, replace them with new ones. O-rings are available in a variety of sizes, so be sure to match the correct size to your tap.
   
3. Corroded or Damaged Spindle Over time, the spindle itself can become corroded or damaged due to exposure to water and mineral buildup. This corrosion can create grooves or uneven surfaces, preventing the spindle from sealing properly when turned off. A corroded spindle can also cause the tap handle to become stiff or difficult to turn.
   
   Fix: If the spindle is corroded or damaged, it will likely need to be replaced. You can remove the old spindle and replace it with a new one that is compatible with your tap. Be sure to clean any mineral deposits from the tap body to prevent future issues.
   
4. Loose Tap Handle: Sometimes, a leaking tap spindle isn’t caused by any of the internal components, but by a loose or worn-out tap handle. If the handle becomes loose, it can prevent the spindle from fully engaging and creating a proper seal. This can lead to water leaking around the handle and dripping from the spout.
   
   Fix: Tighten or replace the tap handle if it’s loose. If the handle is worn out or cracked, it may need to be replaced to ensure a secure fit. You may also need to check the connection between the handle and the spindle to make sure everything is aligned properly.
   
5. High Water Pressure: High water pressure can put additional strain on the components of your tap, including the spindle. If your home’s water pressure is too high, it can lead to excessive wear on the spindle and its associated components, causing them to fail prematurely. This can result in leaks even if the tap spindle itself appears to be in good condition.
   
   Fix: If you suspect high water pressure is the cause of the leak, it’s worth checking the water pressure using a pressure gauge. The ideal water pressure for a typical household should be between 40 and 60 psi. If your water pressure exceeds this range, you may need to install a pressure-reducing valve to regulate the flow.
   
6. Poor Installation: In some cases, a leaking tap spindle may be due to improper installation. If the spindle, washer, or O-rings weren’t installed correctly in the first place, they may not provide a proper seal, resulting in leaks. This could be due to an incorrect fit, or the wrong parts may have been used altogether.
   
   Fix: Double-check the installation to ensure that all parts are properly aligned and fitted. If you’re not sure, consider hiring a professional plumber to inspect and reinstall the components correctly.
   

How to Fix a Leaking Tap Spindle

Now that you know what might be causing your leaking tap spindle, here’s a simple step-by-step guide to fix it:

1. Turn off the water supply: Before you begin any work, make sure to turn off the water supply to the tap. This will prevent any water from spilling out while you work.
   
2. Remove the tap handle: Use a screwdriver or the appropriate tool to remove the handle of the tap. Some handles may have a small screw hidden under a decorative cap, so be sure to check carefully.
   
3. Unscrew the spindle: Once the handle is off, you should be able to access the spindle. Use a wrench to unscrew the spindle from the tap body. Be careful not to damage any surrounding parts.
   
4. Inspect the spindle and components: Examine the washer, O-rings, and spindle for signs of wear and tear. Replace any damaged parts.
   
5. Install the new parts: Once you’ve identified the damaged components, replace them with new ones. Ensure that the washer and O-rings are seated correctly and that the spindle is properly aligned.
   
6. Reassemble the tap: After replacing the necessary parts, reassemble the tap, making sure everything is securely tightened.
   
7. Turn the water supply back on: Finally, turn the water supply back on and test the tap to ensure the leak is fixed.
   

Conclusion

A leaking tap spindle can be caused by several factors, including worn-out washers, damaged O-rings, corrosion, high water pressure, or improper installation. Fortunately, this issue is often easy to fix with a bit of DIY effort. By replacing damaged washers, O-rings, or the spindle itself, you can restore your tap to working order and prevent further leaks. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable handling the repair yourself, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber for assistance. Fixing a leaking tap spindle promptly will save you water, money, and the headache of dealing with persistent drips!