Quick answer
A tap that keeps dripping after you close it normally needs its washer, valve seat, seals or mixer cartridge checked. Fox Plumbing repairs dripping taps in Benoni, with owner Evan Pretorius on the tools and the price agreed upfront. Repair or replacement depends on the tap’s condition and whether suitable parts are available.
What the leak tells you
Where water appears helps narrow down the fault. A drip from the spout while the tap is closed points towards an internal shut-off problem. Water around the handle or swivel spout can indicate a worn seal, while wetness beneath a sink may come from a supply connection rather than the tap itself.
Avoid forcing the handle tighter: extra pressure can damage washers and threads without fixing the cause. If water is reaching a cupboard or floor, stop using the fixture and close its isolation valve if it is accessible and turns freely.
- A traditional screw-down tap may have a hardened washer or a damaged valve seat.
- A single-lever mixer may need a replacement cartridge matched to its make and model.
- Water around the tap base needs checking; it may be a seal leak or water running down from elsewhere.
- A drip that returns soon after a washer change warrants inspection of the seat, not just another washer.
What affects the cost of a tap repair?
The type of tap, the fault and access to the fittings all affect the work involved. Replacing an accessible washer is different from removing a seized mixer or reaching connections behind a fitted cupboard. Cartridge availability also matters: similar-looking mixers do not necessarily use interchangeable parts.
A sound tap body may be worth servicing. A cracked body, extensive corrosion or unavailable spares can make replacement the more practical choice. Fox Plumbing agrees the price upfront, and the call-out fee includes the first hour of work. Pensioners receive a special rate.
- Washer, seal or cartridge type and availability.
- Condition of the valve seat, tap body and mounting hardware.
- Access beneath the basin or sink and the condition of isolation valves.
- Whether the existing tap can be repaired or needs replacing.
- Additional faults found in connecting pipework.
Booking a dripping-tap repair in Benoni
For a Benoni booking, send a photo of the whole tap and a close-up of where the water escapes. Include any visible brand name and say whether the leak happens with the tap closed, running or both. Clear the cupboard beneath the sink or basin so the connections can be inspected.
Dampness without an obvious tap leak needs a different investigation. Fox Plumbing also offers non-invasive leak detection using harmless tracer gas and a detector, without digging to locate the leak. Most leaks are found within the hour; this describes detection, not the time or access needed for the repair.
- Mention whether one tap or several fixtures are affected.
- Say if the nearby isolation valve is missing, stuck or leaking; do not force it.
- If the property is rented or in a sectional-title scheme, confirm who must authorise the work.
Why choose Fox Plumbing?
Fox Plumbing is based in Benoni on the East Rand, Gauteng. Owner Evan Pretorius is a qualified registered plumber with more than 20 years’ experience, is a member of IOPSA and PIRB, and works on the tools. Fox Plumbing issues Certificates of Compliance (COCs), and every job is insured.
Call or call 084 368 1879 to arrange a visit. Working hours are Monday to Friday, 08:00–17:00, with Saturdays by appointment. Fox Plumbing serves the East Rand and greater Gauteng.
- Owner on the tools.
- Price agreed upfront.
- Call-out fee includes the first hour of work.
- Special rate for pensioners.
How we do the job
- 1
Identify the source
Check the tap with the water running and with it closed. Inspect the spout, handle, base and accessible supply connections to distinguish a tap fault from a pipework leak.
- 2
Explain the options and agree the price
Assess the tap’s condition and suitable spares, then explain the proposed repair or replacement and agree the price before proceeding.
- 3
Isolate the water and open the tap
Shut off the relevant water supply and release pressure before dismantling the tap. Inspect the washer, seat, seals or cartridge as appropriate.
- 4
Repair or replace the faulty components
Fit compatible parts and address the sealing surface where suitable. If the tap cannot reasonably be repaired, replace it as agreed.
- 5
Restore the supply and test
Turn the water back on and test operation, shut-off and all disturbed connections. Check for drips both while the tap runs and after it closes.
Common questions
Can I stop a dripping tap by tightening it harder? +
Do not force it beyond normal closing pressure. Overtightening can damage the washer, threads or mechanism. A persistent drip needs the internal sealing components checked.
Does a leaking mixer always need replacing? +
No. A compatible replacement cartridge or seal may solve the problem if the body is sound. Replacement becomes more sensible when the body is damaged or the correct spares cannot be obtained.
What should I do while waiting for the plumber? +
Keep the area dry and protect cupboard contents. If the leak is causing damage, close the fixture’s isolation valve if it turns freely. If you cannot isolate it safely, call for guidance rather than forcing a stiff valve.
Will a new washer fix every dripping tap? +
No. A damaged valve seat can prevent a new washer from sealing, and mixer taps may use cartridges instead. The leak needs diagnosing before choosing the replacement part.
How do I arrange a visit in Benoni? +
Call Fox Plumbing on 084 368 1879. Send your location, photos of the tap and a short description of the leak. Hours are Monday to Friday, 08:00–17:00, and Saturday by appointment.
