Fixing Leaky Bathtub Faucet

Fixing a Leaky Bathtub Faucet: A Step-by-Step Guide

A leaky bathtub faucet can be a nuisance, wasting water and increasing your utility bills. Fortunately, fixing a leaky bathtub faucet is a relatively simple task that you can do yourself with a few basic tools. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Identify the Type of Faucet

There are two main types of bathtub faucets: compression faucets and cartridge faucets. Compression faucets have two handles that control the water flow, while cartridge faucets have a single handle that controls both the water flow and the temperature. Once you know the type of faucet you have, you can purchase the correct replacement parts.

2. Gather Your Tools

To fix a leaky bathtub faucet, you will need the following tools:

Adjustable wrench
Phillips head screwdriver
Flathead screwdriver
Replacement faucet parts (if necessary)

3. Turn Off the Water Supply

Before you start working on the faucet, you need to turn off the water supply. This will prevent water from leaking out while you are working.

4. Remove the Handle

If you have a compression faucet, you will need to remove the handle. To do this, use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screw that is holding the handle in place. Once the screw is removed, you can pull the handle off.

If you have a cartridge faucet, you will need to remove the cap that is covering the handle. To do this, use a flathead screwdriver to pry the cap off. Once the cap is removed, you can pull the handle off.

5. Replace the Washer

Once you have removed the handle, you will need to replace the washer. The washer is a rubber or plastic disk that seals the faucet and prevents water from leaking out. To replace the washer, simply remove the old washer and replace it with a new one.

6. Reassemble the Faucet

Once you have replaced the washer, you can reassemble the faucet. To do this, simply reverse the steps that you took to disassemble it. Once the faucet is reassembled, turn the water supply back on and check for leaks.

If you follow these steps, you should be able to fix a leaky bathtub faucet in no time. However, if you are not comfortable working on plumbing, it is always best to call a professional plumber for help.