Leaking Tap Repair Knysna | Stop Dripping Taps Fast

About Leaking Taps & Faucets in Knysna

A dripping tap might seem like a minor annoyance, but a single tap dripping once per second wastes over 20,000 litres of water per year. In a water-scarce country like South Africa, and with rising municipal water tariffs across the Western Cape, fixing a leaking tap is both environmentally responsible and financially smart. Beyond waste, a leaking tap can also stain sinks and basins, erode tap seats, damage the tap body over time, and create damp conditions that encourage mould growth.

Abacas Solution repairs all types of taps - from traditional pillar taps with rubber washers to modern ceramic disc mixers, single-lever kitchen taps, bath mixer taps, and outdoor garden taps. Most tap leaks are caused by worn washers, damaged O-rings, corroded valve seats, or failed ceramic cartridges. We carry a comprehensive range of common washers, cartridges, and repair parts on our vans, so most tap repairs are completed in a single visit.

If a tap is beyond economical repair - heavily corroded, stripped threads, or an obsolete model with no available parts - we can supply and fit a quality replacement. We help you choose a tap that fits your existing plumbing configuration, matches your bathroom or kitchen aesthetic, and offers long-term reliability. We always prioritise repair over replacement where it makes practical and economic sense.

This is one of several specialist services we offer under leaks & pipe repairs in Knysna. As part of our Knysna plumbing team, we bring over 25 years of hands-on experience to every job.

Leaking Taps & Faucets in Knysna - Abacas Solution

When to Call for Leaking Taps & Faucets

Call when a tap continues to drip even when fully closed, when you hear the tap running or vibrating when closed, when water pools around the base of a tap, when tap handles are stiff or difficult to turn, or when you want to upgrade old taps to modern water-efficient models.

Our Leaking Taps & Faucets Process

1

Diagnose the Leak

We identify the type of tap and the source of the leak - whether it is from the spout (washer or cartridge issue), from the base (O-ring failure), or from the handle (gland packing or stem seal). Each requires a different repair approach.

2

Isolate & Disassemble

We shut off the water supply to the tap (either at the isolation valve under the basin or at the main), then carefully disassemble the tap to access the internal components without damaging the tap body or finish.

3

Replace Worn Parts

Worn washers, O-rings, ceramic cartridges, or damaged valve seats are replaced with quality parts. If the valve seat is scored, we re-seat it using a tap reseating tool to ensure a watertight seal.

4

Reassemble & Test

The tap is reassembled, water supply restored, and the repair tested under full pressure. We check for drips at the spout, base, and handle, and confirm smooth operation of the tap mechanism.

Many homeowners in Knysna who need leaking taps & faucets also require burst pipes in Knysna and pipe repair & replacement. We handle everything, so you only need one call.

Safety & Compliance

Always shut off the water supply before attempting any tap repair. Most modern installations have isolation valves under the basin or sink - turn these clockwise to close. If no isolation valves are fitted, you will need to shut off the main water supply. Never force a tap closed harder to stop a drip - this damages the valve seat and makes the problem worse.

Leaking Taps & Faucets Cost in Knysna

Tap repair costs depend on the tap type and parts needed. A basic washer replacement on a standard pillar tap costs R150-R300. Mixer tap cartridge replacement costs R300-R600 depending on the cartridge type. Tap seat re-grinding adds R100-R200. If a full tap replacement is needed, costs range from R400-R1,200 for the tap unit plus R200-R400 for fitting. We provide the price before starting any work.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to fix a dripping tap in Knysna?

A basic tap washer replacement in Knysna typically costs R150-R300 including the callout, parts, and labour. Mixer tap cartridge replacements cost R300-R600. If the tap needs to be replaced entirely, expect R600-R1,600 including supply and fitting of a quality replacement tap. We always quote before starting work.

Why does my tap drip even after I changed the washer?

The most common reason is a damaged valve seat. The seat is the metal surface that the washer presses against to stop water flow. If the seat is scored, pitted, or corroded, even a new washer cannot make a tight seal. The seat needs to be re-ground smooth with a reseating tool, or in severe cases, a new seat insert fitted. This is a quick fix for any plumber.

Should I repair or replace my leaking tap?

We always recommend repair first if the tap is in good overall condition. Most taps can be repaired multiple times with washer and cartridge replacements. However, if the tap body is corroded, the threads are stripped, the finish is badly deteriorated, or spare parts are no longer available for your model, replacement is more cost-effective in the long run.

How much water does a dripping tap waste?

A tap dripping once per second wastes approximately 20,000 litres per year - enough to fill a small swimming pool. At current Western Cape water tariffs, that is R200-R500 per year wasted on a single dripping tap. If the dripping tap is a hot water tap, you are also paying to heat water that goes straight down the drain. Fixing it quickly pays for itself.