A Leaking Tap Isn’t Just a Leaking Tap: What’s Really Behind Dripping Taps

It’s Never “Just a Dripping Tap”

We get dozens of calls every week from homeowners saying they’ve got a dripping tap or maybe a small water leak. Sounds simple, right? Should be a 10-minute fix. But in reality, it’s rarely that straightforward.

One of the most common causes behind leaking taps is actually high water pressure. There’s a valve called a pressure-reducing valve (PRV) that’s supposed to be installed on the water meter of every home. It keeps the pressure under 500 kPa, which is the limit most tap and appliance manufacturers require. If it’s any higher, it starts blowing out rubber seals, cracking cartridges, and voiding warranties.

We’ll often go to a house for what sounds like a basic fix, only to find there’s no PRV at all. The water pressure is at 700 kPa or more. At that point, it’s not just about replacing the tap—it becomes about protecting the entire home’s plumbing system.

A Dripping Tap Turned into A $2,000 Job: A Case Study

One job that stands out: the customer called us for a single dripping tap. When our plumber arrived, he did a quick water pressure test at the meter – sure enough, 720 kPa. The house had no PRV, which meant every fixture was at risk of long-term damage.

To fix it properly, we installed a PRV, which is about $800 to $900 supplied and installed. Then we had to replace the T-section on the meter to accommodate the valve, which brought the total to over $2,000.

It might sound steep, but here’s the thing: without that fix, the customer could’ve lost their dishwasher, washing machine, and mixer taps within a year – and none of it would be covered under warranty. So in the big picture, that $2000 fix saved them thousands more in the future.

The Problem You Can’t See

One job nearly drove us mad. A homeowner called us in to replace a hot water system that wasn’t sending hot water to the other side of the house. We installed a brand new unit. Still didn’t work.

We checked everything: gas pressure, water flow, and replaced the system again. We even spoke to the manufacturer. Still no fix.

Eventually, we had to push the customer to open up a wall cavity that had been sealed during a renovation. Turns out, there was a faulty valve buried inside. That valve was blocking hot water flow. The homeowner insisted there was nothing in there – until we proved otherwise.

That’s why we always say: if your plumber isn’t asking enough questions, they’re probably missing the real issue.

Why General Plumbing Needs Diagnostics Too

Every time we go to a job, whether it’s for a leak, a loose tap, or a mysterious water stain, our first step is diagnostics. We don’t just fix the symptom. We find the cause. That’s the difference between a plumber who’s doing it right and one who’s just putting a band-aid on the problem.

Older homes around areas like Brunswick, Moonee Ponds, Essendon, and Fitzroy tend to have outdated plumbing. No pressure regulators. Old copper pipes. DIY renovations hiding old valves or dodgy connections. If your house hasn’t had a plumbing check in 20 years, chances are there’s more going on than meets the eye.

Fix Your Leaking Taps to Protect Your Home (and Your Wallet)

Small leaks turn into big repairs when they’re ignored. Whether it’s a dripping tap or inconsistent water pressure, it pays to have someone experienced take a look. We might find something small. Or we might catch a serious issue before it causes damage.

We’re not about scare tactics. We’re about prevention and transparency. That’s how we build trust, and that’s why our customers keep calling us back.