Are you tired of hearing the constant dripping sound of your shower tap? Do you want to save water and money by fixing the leak as soon as possible?
We understand that a leaking shower tap is one of the most common plumbing problems that homeowners face. It can be annoying, costly, and even damaging to your property.
No need to worry anymore!
This blog post will explain the why and how of leaking taps, simple fixes you can do yourself, and what it might cost if you decide to call in a pro in Ireland.
Ready to get rid of that drip and save on your bills? Let’s explore everything you need to know about fixing your leaking shower tap without the hassle.
What Causes a Leaking Shower Tap?
A leaking shower tap is usually caused by a faulty washer, which is a small rubber ring that seals the valve stem and prevents water from dripping out.
Over time, the washer can wear out, crack, or become dislodged due to corrosion, mineral deposits, or water pressure. When this happens, water can leak through the gap between the valve stem and the faucet handle.
Other possible causes of a leaking shower tap include:
- A damaged or loose O-ring, which is another rubber ring that seals the valve cartridge and prevents water from leaking around the handle.
- A worn-out or broken valve cartridge, which is the part that controls the flow and temperature of the water.
- A faulty or misaligned diverter, which is the part that switches the water flow from the faucet to the showerhead or vice versa.
- A cracked or corroded faucet body, which is the part that connects the faucet handle to the water supply pipes.
How to Fix a Leaking Shower Tap Yourself?
If you have a leaking shower tap, you may be able to fix it yourself with some basic tools and skills. However, before you attempt any repairs, make sure you turn off the water supply to the shower faucet, either by using the isolation valve or the main stopcock.
This will prevent water from spraying out and causing damage or injury. You should also wear gloves and eye protection to avoid contact with any dirt or debris.
The steps to fix a leaking shower tap yourself depend on the type and design of your faucet. There are two main types of shower faucets:
- Compression faucets
- Cartridge faucets
Compression faucets have two handles, one for hot water and one for cold water, and use washers to seal the valve stems.
Cartridge faucets have one handle that controls both the flow and temperature of the water, and use a cartridge to regulate the water flow.
Here are the general steps to fix a leaking shower tap yourself for each type of faucet:
How to Fix a Compression Faucet?
| Step | Description |
| Remove the faucet handle | Unscrew the screw that holds the handle in place. You may need to pry off the decorative cap or use a handle puller to remove the handle. |
| Remove the valve stem | Unscrew the packing nut that holds the stem in place. You may need to use a wrench or pliers to loosen the nut. |
| Replace the washer | Remove the old washer from the end of the stem and slide a new one of the same size and shape onto the stem. You may need to use a screwdriver or a knife to pry off the old washer. |
| Reassemble the faucet | Reverse the steps above. Make sure the washer is properly aligned and the stem is securely tightened. Turn on the water supply and check for leaks. |
How to Fix a Cartridge Faucet?
| Step | Description |
| Remove the faucet handle | Unscrew the screw that holds the handle in place. You may need to pry off the decorative cap or use a handle puller to remove the handle. |
| Remove the cartridge | Unscrew the retaining nut or clip that holds the cartridge in place. You may need to use a wrench or pliers to loosen the nut or clip. Pull out the cartridge from the faucet body. You may need to use a cartridge puller to remove the cartridge. |
| Replace the cartridge | Insert a new cartridge of the same model and size into the faucet body. Make sure the cartridge is properly aligned and the retaining nut or clip is securely tightened. Turn on the water supply and check for leaks. |
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Plumber in Ireland?
If you are not confident or comfortable with fixing a leaking shower tap yourself, you may want to hire a professional plumber to do the job for you.
A plumber can diagnose the cause of the leak, provide the necessary parts and tools, and ensure the repair is done correctly and safely. However, hiring a plumber can also be expensive, depending on your location, the type and complexity of the job, and the plumber’s hourly rate.
The average cost of hiring a plumber in Ireland in 2024 is €67.50 per hour, excluding VAT. This is based on the average of €75 per hour in Dublin and €60 per hour outside of Dublin. However, this does not include any additional expenses, such as call-out fees, materials, or extra labour hours.
The cost of hiring a plumber can vary based on the following factors:
Call-out Fees
Call-out fees are charges that plumbers apply for visiting your property and assessing the problem. They can range from €60 to €150, depending on the distance and the type of job.
Some plumbers may waive the call-out fee if you hire them to do the repair, while others may include it in the total quote.
Materials
Materials are the parts and supplies that plumbers use to fix the leak, such as washers, O-rings, cartridges, or faucets. They can vary in price depending on the quality and availability of the products.
Some plumbers may charge you for the actual cost of the materials, while others may mark up the price to cover their overheads.
Extra Labour Hours
Extra labour hours are the additional time that plumbers spend on the job, beyond the first hour. They can be influenced by the difficulty and duration of the repair, as well as any unforeseen complications or delays.
Some plumbers may charge you for the exact time they spend on the job, while others may round up to the nearest half-hour or hour.
Conclusion
A leaking shower tap is a common plumbing problem that can be annoying, costly, and damaging. It can be caused by a faulty washer, O-ring, cartridge, diverter, or faucet body. You can try to fix it yourself by following the steps above, or you can hire a plumber to do it for you.
The cost of hiring a plumber in Ireland depends on your location, the type and complexity of the job, and the plumber’s hourly rate. But on average, it ranges from €50 to €150.
If you are looking for a professional and affordable plumber in Ireland, contact us at New Century. We are a team of qualified, experienced, and friendly plumbers who can handle any plumbing issue, including leaking shower tap repair.
Don’t let a leaking shower tap ruin your day, let New Century fix it for you.
FAQs
What is the average cost to repair a leaking shower tap in Ireland?
The cost can vary widely depending on the complexity of the job and whether parts need replacement, but typically, it ranges from €50 to €200.
Can I fix a leaking shower tap myself?
Yes, many leaks are caused by worn-out washers or seals, which can be replaced with basic DIY skills and tools. However, if the issue is more complex, consulting a professional is advisable.
How long does it take to fix a leaking shower tap?
For simple repairs, it might take as little as 30 minutes to an hour. More complex issues, especially those requiring a plumber, could take a couple of hours.
Will repairing a leaking shower tap save me money?
Absolutely! Fixing a leak can prevent water waste, reduce your water bill, and prevent further damage to your home’s structure and plumbing system.
What causes a shower tap to start leaking?
Common causes include wear and tear of the tap’s internal components like washers, o-rings, or valves, and sometimes high water pressure.
Do I need to turn off the water supply before fixing a leaky shower tap?
Yes, it’s essential to turn off the water supply to prevent water from gushing out while you’re working on the repair.