11 Easy Steps to Fix a Leaky Bathtub Faucet
- Shut off the water supply The first step when fixing a leaky bathtub faucet is shutting off the water supply. ...
- Remove the cap from the faucet The next step is to pry off the cap that covers the faucet handle screw. ...
- Unscrew the handle screw Once the cap has been removed, you will see the screw inside the faucet handle that holds the handle in place. ...
- Remove the handle After removing the screw, you can then remove the handle. ...
- Remove the escutcheon The next step is to remove the escutcheon, the plate that covers the hole in the wall. ...
- Remove the stem assembly With the escutcheon out of the way, you now have access to the stem assembly. ...
- Check the washer The most likely reason for a faucet to start leaking is that the washer needs to be replaced. ...
- Replace the washer If the washer is the culprit, you need to change it. If you have spare washers, simply go ahead and put a new one on. ...
- Check the seat for damage Another possible reason why you might have a leak is that the seat is damaged. ...
- Replace the seat if necessary If you find any signs of damage to the seat, you will need to remove it and replace it. ...
- Put everything back in place
How to repair a leak in a Kohler tub faucet?
- Use a 3/32" hex wrench to loosen the set screw located in the back of the lever handle.
- Use a Philips screwdriver to remove the screw in the bonnet. Set all parts aside for re-use.
- The valve can now be replaced or other repairs made.
- Reassemble handle parts in reverse order.
How to repair a dripping washerless faucet?
Method 1 Method 1 of 4: Getting Started
- Shut off the water. Look under your sink for a water shutoff valve. ...
- Plug the sink drain. Stuff a rag or other object into the drain to prevent small parts from falling into the pipes.
- Consider buying a repair kit. Most washerless faucet leaks require a replacement part to fix. ...
- Move on to the instructions that match your faucet. ...
How to fix a leaky Moen bathroom faucet?
MOEN Cartridge Replacement Help. For service and support call. 1-800-BUY-MOEN. 1-800-289-6636. NOTE: If your Moen faucet was manufactured after 2009 and you are looking at the 1225 cartridge, it is possible that you may actually have a 1255 cartridge because cartridge styles can vary by the date of manufacture.
How do you repair a bathroom faucet leak?
Unscrew the headgear nut using a spanner.
- Locate the headgear nut under the decorative cap
- Keep the screw and handle somewhere safe so that you find it when you want to put the tap back together.
- Put the plug in the plughole to stop any screws falling down the pipes.
How do you fix a dripping bathtub faucet?
0:361:52How to Fix a Leaky Bathtub Faucet | The Home Depot - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTurn clockwise until tight. Now thread the new tub spout on to the pipe. And turn clockwise untilMoreTurn clockwise until tight. Now thread the new tub spout on to the pipe. And turn clockwise until hand tight against the wall. Then turn on the water to flush out any debris.
Why does my bathtub faucet keep dripping?
A cracked or worn washer in the stem is a common source of a dripping bathtub faucet. Each time the water is turned on the washer is pushed against the valve. This repeated friction over time causes the washer to wear out. The tub faucet stem or cartridge itself may be the cause of the leak.
How do you change a washer on a bathtub faucet?
1:222:35How Do I Replace Bathtub Faucet Washers? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd that way you can get a good grip on it just turn that undo the screw remove the old washer.MoreAnd that way you can get a good grip on it just turn that undo the screw remove the old washer. Replace the new washer. Put the screw. Back. In tighten it down don't over tighten it just make it snug.
Why is my tub faucet leaking single handle?
Most leaks in single handle faucets are the result of a worn O-ring around the valve stem. But before you do anything else, make sure to locate the water cutoff so you can turn off the water to the faucet.
Why does my faucet drip after I turn it off?
If you notice your bathroom sink drips or leaks out of the faucet head when turned off, there is likely an issue with the seal inside the faucet head, allowing the water to run through or drip. Before calling a professional plumber, consider whether you're able to repair the leak in your bathroom sink yourself.
How much does it cost to fix a leaky bathtub faucet?
Written by HomeAdvisor. It costs an average of $350 to replace or repair a bathtub faucet, with a typical range of $300 to $400. However, it may cost you as much as $1,000 to replace a faucet entirely or as little as $25 to do a simple repair.
Where are the washers in a bathtub faucet?
If your bathtub faucet is dripping when closed, it is time to replace the washers in the valve assembly. These washers press down on the valve seat and seal off the flow of water when the faucet is closed.
What does a faucet washer look like?
0:221:54How to Replace a Washer in a Leaky Faucet For Dummies - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSome faucets have a spring under the washer like this one valve washers come in many shapes. AndMoreSome faucets have a spring under the washer like this one valve washers come in many shapes. And sizes.
How do you fix a leaky faucet with two handles?
More videos on YouTubeTurn both water supply lines to the faucet OFF.Loosen the set screw on the faucet handle.Take the faucet handle off.Remove the retaining clip/nut.Pull cartridge out. ( use pliers to pull up and out)Drop in a brand new cartridge.Install the retaining clip/nut.Put faucet handle back on.More items...•
How do you take apart a single handle bathtub faucet?
0:172:38Repairing a Leaky Single Handle Tub/Shower Ball-Type FaucetYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTurn off the main water supply to your home. For an obstacle remove the index button by prying offMoreTurn off the main water supply to your home. For an obstacle remove the index button by prying off with the screwdriver. Then unscrew the handle screw. And remove the handle.
How do I fix a single handle bathroom faucet?
1:064:00How to Replace the Seats & Springs in a Single Handle Faucet - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipUse the needle nose pliers to unscrew the adjusting ring. Place a cloth over top and use the channelMoreUse the needle nose pliers to unscrew the adjusting ring. Place a cloth over top and use the channel lock pliers to unscrew the cap. Now pull out the ball the cam and packing.
How do I remove a faucet handle?
Over time, corrosion can virtually weld the handle to the stem. Shut off the water supply to the faucet and open the valves to drain excess water from the system. Pry off the handle insert with the thin blade of a pocketknife. Step 2.
Why does my seat washer leak?
Leaks usually occur for two reasons. Over time, the seat washer stiffens and won't seal tightly. And water pressure gradually erodes the brass rim of the seat. Replace the seat using a special seat wrench. Press the seat wrench firmly into the center of the seat.
Is it cheaper to fix a leaky faucet or a plumber?
The entire job, with special tools, may set you back a bit of cash, but doing it yourself is a lot cheaper than hiring a plumber, and usually much cheaper and easier than tearing out the old faucet and installing a new one.
Where to take old plumbing parts?
Take your old parts to a hardware store or home center. Since there are thousands of replacement parts available, bringing your old parts with you will ensure you purchase the correct replacements. In some cases, the parts may need to be purchased from a plumbing supplies distributor.
How to remove a stem bonnet?
Remove the stem bonnet, which is the packing nut that holds the stem in place . These are sometimes also called “cartridges.”. Insert a bath socket wrench and turn it counterclockwise. If you are unable to find a bath socket wrench, you can use a vice grip to hold onto the stem bonnet and loosen it.
Can a dripping bathtub faucet increase your water bill?
Dripping bathtub faucets can increase your water bill every month. Many people attempt to turn the faucet handles tighter and inadvertently shred the seals even further. Although a plumber is needed to fix major problems, you can repair most broken washers, gaskets and seals yourself with a few special tools. Steps.
Why is my bathtub faucet leaking?
The most common reason for a leaky faucet is an old washer that needs to be replaced. Here are the steps for how to do it – and these steps apply to most kinds of bathtub, including walk-in bathtubs, corner bathtubs and so on. However, for a freestanding bathtub with a separate faucet, the steps would be slightly different.
Why does my faucet leak?
The most likely reason for a faucet to start leaking is that the washer needs to be replaced. When you remove the stem assembly, the first thing you can do is check the washer on the end.
Why is my washer leaking?
Another possible reason why you might have a leak is that the seat is damaged. The seat is the part that is in contact with the washer, and it may become damaged either as the washer wears away or through corrosion.
What happens if you forget to turn off the water in your bathtub?
If you forget to do it, you will end up spraying water everywhere when you start to remove the faucet from its fitting. There may be a simple valve in your house or apartment that allows you to turn off the water to the bathtub.
Can a damaged seat cause a leak?
A damaged seat may cause a leak itself, and it can also quickly damage the new washer you have just fitted, causing the leak to return. For these reasons, before you replace the stem assembly with the new washer installed, you should also check the seat for any signs of damage. Step 10. Replace the seat if necessary.
Is it cheaper to call a plumber?
Calling in the plumber for such a basic job can seem like a waste of money. While you might need to spend some money buying specialist tools like the seat wrench, it’s still cheaper than paying a professional, and you’ll always have the tool ready if you ever need it again.
Can a leaky bathtub faucet be fixed?
However, you may be hesitant to spend money on a plumber because you know they can be expensive. In fact, fixing a leaky bathtub faucet is not ...
How to Fix a Leaking Bathtub Faucet
The first thing to do here before getting down to business is to gather together all the tools and materials needed for the job. These are:
How to Fix a Leaking Single-Handle Bathtub Faucet
These are the steps to follow when fixing a leaking single-handle bathtub faucet:
How to Fix a Bathtub Faucet without Turning off the Water
It is actually possible to fix or replace a bathtub faucet without turning off the water to the whole house. This will however depend on the type of plumbing you have.
What Causes Bathtub Faucets to Drip?
There are many bathtub faucet designs, from single-hole wall-mounted versions to three-hole center-set tub faucet spouts. A stem or cartridge regulates the flow of water from the mixing valve that the hot and cold water lines run into.
Shut Off the Water Supply
The first task is to shut off the water supply to the bathroom. This stops the full flow of water to the house. The shut-off valve is commonly found in the basement or crawlspace of the house. Turn the shut-off valve clockwise to stop the water flow.
Remove the Faucet Handle
Dismantle the faucet next to get access to the faucet hardware and check the hardware for wear and tear.
Assess the Parts
After removing the handle, examine the stem or cartridge and the inside of the handles to determine what kind of condition they’re in.
Replace the Faucet Washer
The exposed rubber part at the top of most faucet stems or cartridges is the washer. Many washers are used for specific brands of stems or cartridges, so you may have to have the washer checked to make sure you get a new one that is compatible with the faucet parts.
Replace the Faucet Stem
The stem or cartridge may be the problem if replacing the washer fails to stop the leak. These steps show how to stop a leaky bathtub faucet if the stem or cartridge is the source of the problem.
Replace the Handle
Replace the bathtub faucet handle with a new one according to your faucet type.
How long does water run in a faucet?
The water needs to run for one minute. For kitchen & bathroom faucets, be sure to put a bucket upside down over top of the faucet in order to direct the water down to the sink, or water will spray everywhere. Turn the water off at the supply lines again before re-assembling. 8.
Do you need an adjusting ring for a faucet?
Depending on the age of your faucet, you may not have an adjusting ring. For those with newer faucets that don’t contain adjusting rings, please skip this step. If you have an older faucet with an adjusting ring, it will not be needed after the repair if the cam/packing is replaced.