THE SYDNEY HOMEOWNER’S COMPLETE GUIDE TO LEAKING TAPS

After inspecting thousands of tap systems across Sydney, these are the true culprits:

1. Worn Tap Washers

The most common cause in traditional taps.
Washers harden over time and can no longer form a seal.

2. Ceramic Disc Failure (Mixer Taps)

Mixer taps use ceramic cartridges.
When they fail, the tap drips.

3. High Water Pressure

Many Sydney suburbs suffer from dangerously high mains pressure (500–800 kPa).
High pressure destroys:

• Washers
  
• Cartridges
  
• O-rings
  
• Tap bodies
  

High water pressure = short tap lifespan.

4. Worn O-Rings

O-rings inside the tap dry, split or deteriorate.

5. Corroded Internal Parts

Especially in:

• Older homes

• Coastal suburbs (salt exposure)

• Hard-water areas

6. Poor Installation or DIY Repairs

Incorrect tap assembly always leads to leaks.

7. Faulty Mixer Cartridges

Cheap or low-quality mixers fail early.

8. Old or Poor-Quality Taps

Not all taps are built to last.
Cheaper taps wear out quickly.

9. Hidden Leaks Under the Sink

A leaking tap doesn’t always drip visibly.
Sometimes the leak is:

• Behind the vanity
  
• In a cupboard
• Behind wall tiles

Repair If:

• Tap is under 10 years old
  
• Tap body is still strong
  
• Only the internal parts have failed
• Minor leaks or drips

Replace If:

• Tap is old or corroded
  
• Mixer cartridge keeps failing
  
• High-end taps no longer have replacement parts
  
• Tap is leaking from multiple places
  
• Flexi hoses are ageing
  

A modern mixer tap is often the simplest long-term fix.