Repairing Guides

how to repair a leaking faucet in the bathtub

by Haley Gorczany Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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11 Easy Steps to Fix a Leaky Bathtub Faucet

  1. Shut off the water supply The first step when fixing a leaky bathtub faucet is shutting off the water supply. ...
  2. Remove the cap from the faucet The next step is to pry off the cap that covers the faucet handle screw. ...
  3. 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. ...
  4. Remove the handle After removing the screw, you can then remove the handle. ...
  5. Remove the escutcheon The next step is to remove the escutcheon, the plate that covers the hole in the wall. ...
  6. Remove the stem assembly With the escutcheon out of the way, you now have access to the stem assembly. ...
  7. Check the washer The most likely reason for a faucet to start leaking is that the washer needs to be replaced. ...
  8. 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. ...
  9. Check the seat for damage Another possible reason why you might have a leak is that the seat is damaged. ...
  10. Replace the seat if necessary If you find any signs of damage to the seat, you will need to remove it and replace it. ...
  11. Put everything back in place

How to fix a leaking bathtub faucet quick and easy?

  • The first step is to remove the faucet spout. ...
  • Use a utility knife to score the sealant where the spout and bathtub wall meet for easier removal.
  • Remove the length of pipe, called a pipe nipple, with a wrench.
  • Wrap the threads of both ends of the nipple with plumber’s tape or Teflon tape.
  • Install the nipple into the 90-degree elbow pipe within the wall. ...

More items...

How do I fix a leaky washerless faucet?

Method 1 Method 1 of 4: Getting Started

  1. Shut off the water. Look under your sink for a water shutoff valve. ...
  2. Plug the sink drain. Stuff a rag or other object into the drain to prevent small parts from falling into the pipes.
  3. Consider buying a repair kit. Most washerless faucet leaks require a replacement part to fix. ...
  4. Move on to the instructions that match your faucet. ...

How to repair a squealing bathtub faucet?

What Causes a Water Faucet Squeal?

  • Loose Faucet Washers. A loose washer or an improperly sized washer inside the faucet often causes a screeching or squealing sound, according to HowStuffWorks.
  • Worn-Out Faucet Stems. The stem is the part inside the handle of the faucet containing the valve to shut off or turn on the water.
  • High Water Pressure. ...
  • Hot Water Squealing. ...

How to replace a washer in a leaky faucet?

You will need:

  • Adjustable spanner or pipe grips
  • Cloth or rag
  • Slotted screwdriver
  • Replacement washer, O-ring or ceramic disc cartridge

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How do you fix a dripping faucet in the bathtub?

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 is water dripping from my bathtub faucet?

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.

How do you fix a bathtub faucet valve?

0:311:53How to Repair a Tub & Shower Valve - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipUse a stem wrench to remove. It. To fix a leaking compression faucet first try replacing the packingMoreUse a stem wrench to remove. It. To fix a leaking compression faucet first try replacing the packing nut washer just under the escutcheon.

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?

0:152:39Bathroom Fix-It Tips : How to Replace Washers in a Tub Valve - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou're gonna have one or all over your lap. So you just want to unscrew the handle pop the handle.MoreYou're gonna have one or all over your lap. So you just want to unscrew the handle pop the handle. Off. And inside here you're gonna see a valve a shower valve.

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 replace a old bathtub faucet stem?

3:428:31How To Remove Bathtub Faucet Stems Quick And Easy - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo there's a couple of ways that we can do this i'm going to go ahead and take out the hole removeMoreSo there's a couple of ways that we can do this i'm going to go ahead and take out the hole remove the whole stem. Itself. And check to see if i can replace the seats. And the rubber gaskets.

How do you remove an old bathtub faucet stem?

Remove it with a special bath socket wrench, which looks like a spark plug wrench on steroids. Slide the bath socket onto the stem bonnet and turn it counterclockwise to break the stem loose. If it sticks, soak it with penetrating lubricant. Unscrew and remove the stem.

How do you remove a bathtub faucet without set screws?

If there is no set screw, you have a threaded tub spout. You can remove your tub spout by twisting it counter-clockwise to see how your existing spout is threaded, if desired, but it is recommended you leave the spout on if you might need to use the tub before your new spout arrives.

Why does my faucet keeps running after I turn it off?

Worn rubber washers are often the cause of a constantly running faucet. Rubber washers attach by screw to the innermost end of compression-style faucets. In the closed position, the washer compresses over an opening to halt water flow. Years of use reduce the washer's size until it no longer covers the entire opening.

How do you fix a shower diverter pull up?

0:096:11Tub faucet spout diverter pull lever broke off - DIY fix - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAround the actual medium point of your spout. And the shower wall just carefully grab a utilityMoreAround the actual medium point of your spout. And the shower wall just carefully grab a utility knife and remove. It. And again in our case we just got this rubber seal you can purchase.

How do you fix a shower tub diverter?

0:143:21Repair Leaking Tub Spout Diverter Pull in Shower Mode - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd pulling up on the diverter. Knob once that comes off all of the parts will come loose. So we'llMoreAnd pulling up on the diverter. Knob once that comes off all of the parts will come loose. So we'll take a look inside the tub spout in a little bit but first let's check out the washer.

How do you fix a bathtub faucet that won't turn off?

0:362:57Bathroom Fixture Repair : How to Fix a Bathtub Faucet That Will Not Turn OffYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou need to pull out you're going to have to use a wrench. You know if I have to find the one thatMoreYou need to pull out you're going to have to use a wrench. You know if I have to find the one that fits it. And you're going to have to pull this out.

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.

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.

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