Plumbing Basics · 7 min read · Intermediate

Dripping Tap Basics: Washer, Cartridge or Something Else?

Identify whether a dripping tap uses a traditional washer or a cartridge/disc valve before buying parts or dismantling the tap.

Key points & steps

Identify the tap style and, if possible, the make/model. Traditional taps may use replaceable washers, while many modern quarter-turn and mixer taps use ceramic cartridges.
Isolate the relevant water supply and confirm the flow stops before removing tap handles, covers or valve components.
Protect the basin/sink from dropped tools and keep small screws, clips and decorative caps organised as the tap is dismantled.
Inspect the serviceable valve, washer or cartridge for wear, limescale and damaged seals. Compare replacement parts carefully rather than buying by appearance alone.
Clean the seating/contact areas gently where the manufacturer permits and replace worn components with compatible parts.
Reassemble without overtightening delicate screws, cartridges or retaining nuts, then restore the supply slowly.
Check the tap operation and inspect below the sink as well as the spout. If the leak continues, the tap body, seating, pipework or replacement part may need professional attention.

Do not force decorative caps or seized handles; many taps have hidden grub screws or model-specific disassembly methods.
A ceramic cartridge is not repaired in the same way as a traditional rubber washer.
Persistent leaks, corroded valves or inaccessible pipework are good reasons to stop before a small repair becomes a larger leak.