Kitchen Tap Repair Guides
Having issues with your kitchen tap? Whether it’s leaking, dripping, stiff to turn, or losing pressure, this hub brings together our most helpful DIY resources for fixing common kitchen tap problems – with the right parts from the start.
At Taps and Sinks Online, we specialise in genuine spare parts for top UK kitchen tap brands including Franke, Howdens (Lamona), and Carron Phoenix. With over 40 years’ experience, our guides are written by experts who understand how each tap works – and what goes wrong.
All parts recommended are genuine manufacturer spares, not copies or generic ‘compatibles’. If you’re not sure which part you need, just send us a photo and we’ll assist.
Do I need a plumber?
If you’re confident with DIY and have the right tools, many kitchen tap repairs can be done at home. But even if you’re calling a plumber, identifying the correct part in advance can save time and reduce your repair costs.
Use the sections below to diagnose the problem, identify your tap model, and find the correct part.
Before You Start – Common Tap Questions
Not sure if you need a valve, cartridge, washer, or gland? You’re not alone – even plumbers often use these terms interchangeably.
Most two lever taps use ceramic disc valves (hot and cold). Most single lever taps use a cartridge that controls both hot and cold water in one unit. Some filter taps combine both.
O-Rings are the rubber seals around the base of the spout. If your tap is leaking where the spout meets the body, it’s likely an O-ring issue.
Important: Changing the cartridge in a tall tap can be more difficult than in a low-profile model, as the cartridge is often recessed into the base. Our step-by-step guides below explain the difference.
Kitchen Tap Repair by Brand
- Franke Tap Guides
- Howdens / Lamona Tap Guides
- Carron Phoenix Tap Guides
Fix Dripping or Leaking Kitchen Taps
Cartridge & Valve Replacement – Step-by-Step
- Replace a Kitchen Tap Valve – 7 Easy DIY Steps (with Tips)
- Replace a Cartridge – General Guide
- Video – Change Cartridge & O-Ring Kit
- Video – Low Profile Tap Cartridge
- Single Lever Tap Replacement Cartridge – Buy the Right Part
Identify Your Kitchen Tap – Step One in Any Repair Guide
- What Tap Do I Have?
- My Tap is Dripping at the Base?
- Tap Valves: Clockwise & Anti-Clockwise
- SMR Is Stamped on My Valve – What Does It Mean?
Why Genuine Parts Matter
Troubleshooting Kitchen Tap Issues – What to Look For
Spout dripping? Likely a valve or cartridge issue.
Leaking at the base? Probably worn O-rings.
Stiff handles? Could be limescale or valve wear.
Low water flow? May be a blocked aerator or pressure issue.
Use the guides above to match the symptom to the right fix.
Need help with a specific tap brand?
Still Need Help?
We’re happy to help identify the right part. Send us a photo of your tap and we’ll assist: sales@tapsandsinksonline.co.uk.
Other Useful Guides
- How to Choose the Right Kitchen Sink Plug
- How to Test Kitchen Tap Water Pressure
- Fixing Kitchen Tap Water Pressure
This guide was written by Taps and Sinks Online, a family-run business supplying genuine kitchen tap spare parts across the UK.
All content is original and based on our in-house knowledge. If referencing or quoting this page, please link to the original source.