Fix a tap which isn’t working properly in Oxford

⭐ Introduction

If your tap isn’t working properly—whether it’s dripping constantly, not turning on or off smoothly, or has low water pressure—it’s more than just a minor annoyance. Left unchecked, a faulty tap can waste water and increase your bills or even cause damage from leaks. Fixing or replacing a tap promptly ensures your plumbing runs efficiently and helps you avoid more costly repairs down the line.

This is a common plumbing issue that homeowners often encounter. A plumber can quickly diagnose the problem and carry out repairs or a replacement if necessary. Whether it’s a washer, cartridge, or valve problem inside the tap, addressing it promptly is the best way to restore proper function.

🔧 What the job involves

Fixing a tap that isn’t working properly usually means identifying the root cause of the problem and either repairing or replacing worn components. Here’s what it might involve:

• Diagnosing the issue: Understanding whether the problem is a leak, blockage, stiffness, or pressure drop.
• Turning off the water supply: To safely work on the tap without flooding.
• Taking the tap apart: Removing the handle and body to access internal parts like washers, O-rings, or ceramic cartridges.
• Replacing worn parts: Worn washers or cartridges are common culprits, especially in older taps.
• Reassembling and testing: Putting everything back together and checking for leaks or proper flow.
• Cleaning affected parts: Sometimes mineral build-up or debris can cause issues, so cleaning might be necessary.
• If needed, full tap replacement: In cases of significant damage or if parts are no longer available, the plumber may recommend installing a new tap.

For taps connected to your central heating or boiler system, a Gas Safe registered engineer may be needed if any work impacts gas appliances. Generally, fixing a standard kitchen or bathroom tap does not require special certification but must comply with water regulations and good practice to avoid leaks or contamination.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

1. Initial enquiry: Contact a reputable, local plumber by phone or online to describe the problem.
2. Booking a visit: Arrange a convenient date and time for the plumber to inspect your tap.
3. Survey and diagnosis: The plumber attends, examines the tap, identifies the fault, and explains repair options.
4. Quotation: You receive a clear quote detailing labour, parts, and any other costs.
5. Scheduling works: Agree on a date to carry out the repair (sometimes the same day as the survey if the plumber has parts available).
6. Day-of works: The plumber arrives, isolates your water supply, repairs or replaces parts, reassembles the tap, and tests for proper function.
7. Clean up: The plumber tidies the workspace and disposes of any old parts responsibly.
8. Completion and paperwork: You receive a job sheet or invoice detailing the work done, parts fitted, and any guarantees provided.
9. Post-job advice: The plumber may offer tips on care and warn about warning signs for future issues.

💷 Main costs to expect

• Labour: Most plumbers charge between £40 and £70 per hour, depending on location and experience.
• Materials/parts: Washers or O-rings can cost just a few pounds; ceramic cartridges or more complex parts up to £30 or more.
• Extras: Call-out fees may apply if an initial visit is separate from the repair.
• Disposal: Generally included, but sometimes a small fee applies for disposal of old parts.
• Certification: Usually not required for tap repairs; no additional costs here unless it links to gas or water regulations.

Example itemisation:

📊 What affects the price

• Accessibility of the tap (tight spaces or awkward corners).
• Type of tap (traditional pillar taps usually cheaper to fix than modern mixer taps with cartridges).
• Complexity of the fault (simple washer replacement vs faulty valve or corroded fittings).
• Need for urgent or out-of-hours work.
• Whether water needs to be drained from your system.
• Location (London and the South East typically more expensive).
• If the problem affects other plumbing parts requiring additional work.
• Required certifications or compliance to water regulations if linked to other plumbing upgrades.

⏱ How long does it take?

• Simple repair or cartridge replacement: Usually 30 minutes to 1 hour.
• More complex issues or corrosion: 1 to 2 hours.
• Full tap replacement: Around 1 to 2 hours, depending on access and whether plumbing modifications are needed.

If you have multiple taps or additional plumbing jobs, expect more time accordingly.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

Minor tap repairs, such as replacing washers or cleaning aerators, can sometimes be done by confident DIYers with basic tools. However, there are some cautions:

• Turning off your water supply correctly is essential to avoid damage or flooding.
• Reassembling tap parts must be done carefully to prevent leaks.
• Some taps, especially modern mixers or those connected to mains pressure systems, can be more complicated.
• If your tap is connected to hot water systems or gas appliances, it’s best left to professionals for safety reasons.
• Plumbing work must comply with Building Regulations and water supply safety.

If you’re unsure or uncomfortable, it’s safer and often more economical in the long run to hire a qualified plumber.

💰 Typical UK price range

Expect to pay between £80 and £180 for a straightforward tap repair or cartridge replacement. More complex jobs, full replacements, or emergency call-outs will cost more.

These are rough estimates including VAT at 20%. Always request a clear written quote beforehand.

✅ Handy tips before you start

• Locate your stopcock: Knowing where to turn off your home water supply will speed up repairs and reduce risks.
• Clear the working area: Remove items under sinks or around the tap to give the plumber easy access.
• Keep paperwork: Retain quotes, receipts, and job sheets for any future warranty or servicing.
• Check tap warranty: If your tap is relatively new, check whether it’s still under manufacturer warranty before commissioning repairs.
• Regularly clean taps: Limescale and debris can cause problems; occasional cleaning of aerators helps maintain flow.
• Ask about guarantees: Most plumbers provide a warranty on labour and parts—check the duration.
• Avoid delaying repairs: Even minor drips waste water and money.

Fixing your tap soon not only preserves your plumbing but gives you peace of mind at the tap!