Bathtub Faucet Leaking? Here’s What to Do

A leaky bathtub faucet can be a major inconvenience, not to mention the potential water damage it can cause. Fortunately, in most cases, fixing a bathtub faucet leak is a relatively straightforward process that can be done by anyone with a few basic tools and some DIY knowledge. Here’s what you need to do if you find yourself dealing with a leaking bathtub faucet.

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply Before you begin any plumbing repair work, you need to turn off the water supply to the area you’ll be working on. For a bathtub faucet, this usually means turning off the water supply to the bathroom. Look for the shut-off valve, which is typically located under the sink or behind the toilet. Turn the valve clockwise until it’s fully closed.

Step 2: Remove the Faucet Handle Once the water supply is turned off, you can start disassembling the faucet. First, remove the handle by locating the screw that holds it in place and using a screwdriver to remove it. Depending on the type of faucet, the screw may be located under a decorative cap, which can be removed with a flat-head screwdriver.

Step 3: Inspect the Washer and O-Ring With the handle removed, you should be able to see the stem of the faucet. Inspect the washer and o-ring for any signs of damage or wear. These parts are often the culprit when it comes to leaky faucets. If you see any signs of wear or damage, it’s time to replace them.

Step 4: Replace the Washer and O-Ring To replace the washer and o-ring, you’ll need to remove the stem. This is typically done by unscrewing it from the faucet body. Once the stem is removed, you should be able to see the washer and o-ring. Use a pair of pliers to remove the old parts and replace them with new ones. Be sure to use parts that are compatible with your faucet.

Step 5: Reassemble the Faucet Once you’ve replaced the washer and o-ring, it’s time to reassemble the faucet. Simply follow the steps you took to disassemble it, but in reverse order. Be sure to tighten all screws and connections properly.

Step 6: Turn the Water Supply Back On With the faucet reassembled, it’s time to turn the water supply back on. Turn the shut-off valve counterclockwise until it’s fully open. Test the faucet for leaks by turning it on and letting the water run for a few seconds. If there are no leaks, you’re good to go.

Conclusion Fixing a leaky bathtub faucet is a relatively easy DIY job that can save you money and prevent water damage. By following these simple steps, you can have your faucet working like new in no time. However, if you’re not comfortable working with plumbing, or if the problem persists even after replacing the washer and o-ring, it’s best to call a professional plumber to help you with the repair.