Outside Tap Won't Turn Off? Here's the Easy Fix
An outside tap that won't turn off wastes water, creates a muddy patch under the tap, and is one of those jobs that's easier to fix yourself than you'd think. In most cases it's a worn rubber washer — a £2 part and 15 minutes with a spanner.
What Causes an Outside Tap to Keep Running?
Outside taps use a simple washer mechanism. When the tap is turned off, a rubber washer presses against a valve seat to stop the flow. Over time that washer perishes, hardens, or distorts — and when it does, the tap either drips constantly or won't shut off fully. Replacing it takes about 15 minutes and costs around £2.
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Tools You’ll Need
You don't need a fancy plumbing kit for this one. Grab these basics from your shed:
Two spanners(one larger adjustable spanner to hold the tap body, and a smaller one to undo the top)
A replacement flat tap washer (make sure it matches the size of your tap internal component)
How Long Does It Take?
If everything goes smoothly, this is a 10 to 15-minute job at most. Even if you have to hunt around for your tools, you’ll be done well before lunchtime.
Before you start
Do you know where your isolation valve is located?
How I Fixed the Outside Tap
Step 1: Isolate the Water
First things first—do not skip this or you'll get a face full of water! Locate the isolation valve for your outdoor tap and turn the water supply completely off. Open the outside tap to drain any remaining water.
Step 2: Take the Tap Apart
Take your larger spanner and use it to firmly grip the main body of the tap attached to the wall. This stops you from twisting the actual pipework and causing a leak inside the house. Use the smaller spanner on the top hexagonal nut to gently loosen and undo the top section.
Step 3: Swap the Washer
Once undone, the tap mechanism should slide right out. Take a look at the end—the old washer is likely cracked or squashed. Pry it off and push your new flat washer firmly onto the end until it fits tight.
Step 4: Reassembly and Tightening
Carefully re-thread the tap assembly back into the housing by hand so you don't cross the threads. Once it's sitting flush, hold the tap body again with your big spanner and give the top nut a final tighten with the smaller spanner. A gentle twist is all it needs—don’t overdo it! Over-tightening can damage the new washer straight away.
Step 5: The Final Test
Turn the water supply back on. Test the tap by turning it on and off. The water should flow freely when open and stop completely without a single drip when shut. Job done!
Final Thoughts
There you have it! A custom, rock-solid fix that costs pennies and takes minutes. It’s a great little project for honing your practical skills without needing an advanced toolkit. Just remember to take your time, hold the tap body steady so you don't stress the wall joints, and enjoy a drip-free garden.
