How to Fix a Leaking Tap: Replace the Tap Phase in 10 Minutes

A tap that keeps dripping after you close it wastes a lot of water – and the fix is usually cheap. In most Indian bathroom and kitchen taps, the culprit is a worn tap phase: the small valve part inside the tap that opens, closes and regulates the flow of water.

First, find where it leaks

• Drips from the spout when closed → the tap phase is worn. Replace it (steps below).
• Leaks from under the handle → also usually the tap phase or its seal.
• Leaks where the tap meets the wall → the thread joint needs fresh Teflon tape.

What you need

• A new tap phase 0.5 inch (most bathroom and kitchen taps are ½ inch)
• An adjustable spanner or pliers, and a soft cloth
• Teflon tape

Step-by-step

1. Shut off the water. Close the bathroom's concealed stop valve or angle valve, or the main line if there is none.
2. Open the tap fully to drain the water left in the line.
3. Remove the handle. Prise off the cap on top, undo the screw and pull the handle off.
4. Unscrew the tap phase. Wrap the cloth around the body to protect the chrome, then turn the phase anti-clockwise with the spanner.
5. Match the new part. Compare the old and new phase – same size and thread. Take the old one with you if unsure.
6. Fit the new phase. Screw it in by hand first, then snug it with the spanner. Do not over-tighten.
7. Refit the handle, open the water and test. The drip should stop.

Leak at the wall?

Unscrew the tap from the wall point, clean the old tape off the thread, wrap 8–10 turns of Teflon tape clockwise (the same direction you screw the tap in), and screw it back firmly.

When to replace the whole tap

If the body is cracked, the thread is damaged or the tap is very old, a new bib cock or pillar cock may be the better fix. Browse all taps and faucets.

Prefer not to do it yourself? Book a plumber in Noida and add the tap phase to the same order.

Need it today? THS Now delivers in 2–3 hours across Noida, Greater Noida and East Delhi, 9am–9pm daily. Free delivery on orders of ₹499+. Questions? Call or WhatsApp +91-9818558934.