Quick answer
A tap that keeps dripping when closed usually needs a worn washer, seal or cartridge replaced, although damage to the sealing surface can also be responsible. Fox Plumbing serves Brakpan from Benoni, with owner Evan Pretorius on the tools and the price agreed upfront.
What the position of the leak tells you
Check where the water appears before wiping the tap dry. A persistent drip from the outlet points towards an internal shut-off problem. Water around the handle or swivel spout can indicate a failed seal, while moisture inside the cupboard may come from a supply connection rather than the tap itself.
A few drops after closing a tap can be residual water draining from the spout. Dripping that continues needs attention. Avoid tightening the handle harder: extra force can damage the mechanism without fixing the leak.
- Watch whether the leak happens only while the tap is running or continues after it is closed.
- Check beneath the basin or sink for wet connections and swollen cupboard panels.
- Mention stiff handles, loose fittings or a drip that returned after a previous repair.
What affects the cost of a tap repair?
The repair depends on the tap design and the condition of its internal parts. A conventional screw-down tap may need a washer and attention to its valve seat. A mixer or quarter-turn tap may need a matching cartridge or valve insert; these parts are not universally interchangeable.
Fox Plumbing agrees the price upfront, and the call-out fee includes the first hour of work. Pensioners get a special rate. If inspection reveals a different problem, agree the revised scope and price before additional work proceeds.
- The type, brand and availability of replacement parts.
- Wear or corrosion in the tap body and sealing surfaces.
- Access beneath the sink or basin and whether isolation valves work.
- The number of taps needing attention.
- Whether repair is practical or a complete replacement is needed.
Preparing for a tap repair in Brakpan
Fox Plumbing is based in Benoni and serves the East Rand, including Brakpan, as well as greater Gauteng. When booking, send a photo of the whole tap, a close-up of the leaking area and any visible brand name. Clear the cupboard beneath the fitting so the connections are accessible.
If water is escaping into a cupboard or onto the floor, close the tap’s isolation valve if it is accessible and turns freely. Do not force a seized valve. For an uncontrolled leak, shut off the property’s water supply if you can do so safely, and arrange assistance.
- Tell the plumber if several taps started leaking at the same time; pressure may need checking.
- For a rental or sectional-title property, confirm repair authorisation and access to any shared shut-off.
- Keep the basin or sink outlet clear while waiting for a dripping tap to be repaired.
Book with Fox Plumbing
Owner Evan Pretorius is a qualified registered plumber with more than 20 years’ experience. He is a member of IOPSA and PIRB and issues Certificates of Compliance (COCs). The owner is on the tools, and every job is insured.
Phone or call 084 368 1879 to discuss a dripping tap in Brakpan. Hours are Monday to Friday, 08:00–17:00, with Saturday appointments by arrangement.
- Describe the leak and send photos when you enquire.
- Ask about the pensioner rate if applicable.
- Confirm the appointment and agreed price before work starts.
How we do the job
- 1
Identify the leak
Check the outlet, handle, spout base and supply connections to distinguish an internal tap fault from a connection leak.
- 2
Isolate the water
Close the appropriate supply valve and confirm the water is off before opening the tap assembly.
- 3
Inspect the working parts
Examine the washer, seals, cartridge or valve insert, along with the surfaces they seal against. Check whether suitable replacement parts are available.
- 4
Agree and carry out the repair
Explain whether replacing internal parts is sensible or whether the tap needs replacement. Agree the price before proceeding with the chosen work.
- 5
Restore water and test
Reopen the supply, operate the tap and check for leaks both while running and after closing. Check disturbed connections and investigate pressure where symptoms warrant it.
Common questions
Can I stop a drip by replacing the washer myself? +
Possibly, if it is a conventional washer-type tap and you can safely isolate the water. A mixer may use a cartridge instead, and a damaged valve seat can cause a new washer to leak. Stop if the shut-off valve does not work or the tap parts are seized.
Should I repair the tap or replace it? +
Repair is worth considering when the body is sound and matching parts are available. Replacement may be more practical if the body is cracked, badly corroded or no longer supported with spare parts.
Does a dripping tap mean Brakpan’s water pressure is too high? +
Not necessarily. Worn internal parts can leak at normal pressure. Several fittings leaking together or repeated seal failures are reasons to check pressure rather than assume it is the cause.
Will fixing one dripping tap explain a high water bill? +
It removes one source of water loss, but it may not explain the whole increase. If consumption remains unusual, check for running toilets, other visible leaks and possible concealed leaks.
Do I need a COC for a simple tap repair? +
A minor repair does not automatically mean a COC is required. Ask Evan whether the particular work requires one; he issues COCs where applicable.
