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
Full Answer
How to fix a leaking bathtub faucet quick and easy?
- Clear any rust, wax or caulk from around the base.
- Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the bolts that hold it together. ...
- Remove the stem and install a new one in the fitting using new bolts. ...
- If the bathtub faucet is still dripping after replacing the handle, washer and stem, you may need to replace the entire bathtub spout.
How to fix a leaking outdoor faucet?
Start with the retaining nut, then look for other problems
- Tighten retaining nut. If you're lucky, you can fix your leaking faucet by simply tightening the nut under the handle. ...
- Remove the stem. Next, remove the faucet stem. ...
- Replace washer assembly. Keep track of the parts as you disassemble the faucet so you can install the new ones in the same order.
- Remove the vacuum breaker cap. ...
- Vacuum breaker parts. ...
What causes bathtub faucet leaks?
- A cracked or worn washer in the stem is a common source of a dripping bathtub faucet. ...
- The tub faucet stem or cartridge itself may be the cause of the leak. ...
- Old or worn faucet handles can also be the source of a dripping bathtub faucet. ...
- The pipe to the bathtub faucet spout may be the source of the leak.
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 I stop my bathtub faucet from leaking?
1:182:08How to Repair a Leaky Bath Faucet - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd a pair of pliers to loosen the cartridge. And then your cartridge will pull. Out. You can takeMoreAnd a pair of pliers to loosen the cartridge. And then your cartridge will pull. Out. You can take it with you down to the supply house match it up once you have your new one goes back into reverse.
What causes leaky 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 I fix a leaking double handle bathtub faucet?
1:093:20Repairing a Leaky Two-Three Handle Tub-Shower Faucet - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIf you have a plastic stem unscrew the retainer nut and pull out the stem. If you have a brass stemMoreIf you have a plastic stem unscrew the retainer nut and pull out the stem. If you have a brass stem remove the stem by using a wrench and rotating it counterclockwise. Until it threads out entirely.
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 tub 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 replace a double handled faucet cartridge?
1:293:02How to Replace Leaky Cartridges in a Bathroom Faucet - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFirst align the tab on the new cartridge to the slot on the faucet. Now screw on the bonnet nut andMoreFirst align the tab on the new cartridge to the slot on the faucet. Now screw on the bonnet nut and tighten with the crescent wrench reinstall the handle and pop the caps back.
How do you take apart a two handle faucet?
1:084:49How to Repair a Leaky Two-Handle Faucet - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou will need to remove it by using a wrench to rotate it in the off direction until it threads outMoreYou will need to remove it by using a wrench to rotate it in the off direction until it threads out entirely. Once removed you'll need to take your stem to your local retailer.
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.
