The domestic taps is normally fitted with one of 3 valve types, so to start you should try and by identify the type that you have. Traditional and older type will use rubber washers fitted to the end of a compression valve in the tap body. Another, perhaps of a younger and modern type will have a washer arrangement in the shape of a ceramic disc that makes up the valve in the tap. Finally, there is a ceramic cartridge, which works in a similar way to a ceramic disc but is made for single monobloc taps (ie the ones where a single handle controls the flow and temperature).

With the first two options you just turn the tap, if you can turn the handle one or more times, it is usually a rubber washer type of fitting. Should the handle only move a quarter of one turn, it will be ceramic disc fitting. If you are not confident call a professional like Twickenham Plumbers who are trained in all plumbing work. You could look inside the tap, even if its only a washer problem you might not have a spare, but if the washer is only lightly damaged on one of it’s faces, you could refit it the other way up. The usual mixer taps are repairable, however the new monobloc design of taps often feature ceramic discs inside and not washers. These discs are tough, but if they fail you will need to fit a new cartridge.

Basic Washer Replacement:
Isolate the water supply and open up all taps. Undo the top plate, which is usually hand tight, however, if not, use pliers or an adjustable spanner. A Twickenham Plumber is a professional. take off the tap handle, usually with the majority you can undo a retaining screw, to remove it’s handle, this will expose the headgear nut. Undo the body cover by hand, but, or with an adjustable spanner or pipe wrench. Protect the chrome with a cloth or towel. Unscrew the headgear nut. If tight, do not force it, but, pad the base of the tap with some cardboard and use a pipe wrench to hold it firm so you can apply the force required. Undo the headgear assembly. Pull out the old washer. Insert the new washer and push it into the jumper. Reassemble the unit in reverse and check for leaks.