How To Fix Bathtub Faucet Drip

How to Fix a Bathtub Faucet Drip: A Step-by-Step Guide

A dripping bathtub faucet is not only annoying, but it can also lead to wasted water and higher utility bills. Fortunately, fixing a dripping faucet is a relatively easy task that can be completed in a few simple steps. ### Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Materials Before you begin, you will need to gather the following tools and materials: * Adjustable wrench * Phillips head screwdriver * Flat head screwdriver * Pliers * New washer * New O-ring * Plumber's putty * Utility knife * Rags ### Step 2: Turn Off the Water Supply The first step is to turn off the water supply to your bathtub faucet. This can typically be done by turning the valve under the sink. If you cannot find the valve, you may need to turn off the main water supply to your home. ### Step 3: Remove the Faucet Handle Once the water supply is turned off, you can remove the faucet handle. To do this, use the Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the handle in place. Once the screws are removed, you should be able to pull the handle off of the faucet. ### Step 4: Remove the Cartridge Once the handle is removed, you will see the cartridge. The cartridge is a cylindrical-shaped part that controls the flow of water from the faucet. To remove the cartridge, use the adjustable wrench to loosen the nut that holds it in place. Once the nut is loosened, you should be able to pull the cartridge out of the faucet. ### Step 5: Inspect the Cartridge and Replace the Washer Inspect the cartridge for any signs of damage. If the cartridge is damaged, it will need to be replaced. If the cartridge is not damaged, you can simply replace the washer. To do this, use the flat head screwdriver to pry the old washer off of the cartridge. Then, place the new washer on the cartridge and press it into place. ### Step 6: Replace the O-Ring The O-ring is a small rubber ring that helps to seal the cartridge in place. If the O-ring is damaged, it can cause the faucet to leak. To replace the O-ring, simply use the pliers to remove the old O-ring and then place the new O-ring in its place. ### Step 7: Reinstall the Cartridge Once the washer and O-ring have been replaced, you can reinstall the cartridge. To do this, simply insert the cartridge into the faucet and tighten the nut that holds it in place. ### Step 8: Reinstall the Faucet Handle Once the cartridge is reinstalled, you can reinstall the faucet handle. To do this, simply slide the handle back onto the faucet and tighten the screws that hold it in place. ### Step 9: Turn on the Water Supply Once the faucet handle is reinstalled, you can turn on the water supply. Check the faucet for any leaks. If there are no leaks, then you have successfully fixed the dripping faucet. ### Step 10: Apply Plumber's Putty If there is still a leak, you can apply plumber's putty around the base of the faucet. Plumber's putty is a type of sealant that can help to stop leaks. To apply plumber's putty, simply roll it into a rope and then press it into the gap between the faucet and the sink. ### Step 11: Clean Up Once the leak is fixed, you can clean up the area. Use a rag to wipe up any water or plumber's putty. You can then dispose of the old washer and O-ring. ### Conclusion Fixing a dripping bathtub faucet is a relatively easy task that can be completed in a few simple steps. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can save yourself the time and money of calling a plumber.