How To Repair Leaky Bathtub Faucet

How to Repair a Leaky Bathtub Faucet

A leaky bathtub faucet is a common household problem that can waste water and increase your utility bills. Fortunately, it's usually a relatively easy repair that you can do yourself with a few basic tools. Tools and Materials Needed:

Adjustable wrench
Pliers
Phillips-head screwdriver
Flat-head screwdriver
Allen wrench (if applicable)
Teflon tape
Faucet repair kit (if needed)

Step-by-Step Guide: 1. Turn Off the Water Supply: Before you start any work, turn off the water supply to the bathtub faucet. There should be a shut-off valve located under the sink or behind the bathtub. Turn the valve clockwise until the water is completely turned off. 2. Remove the Faucet Handle: Use the Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the faucet handle in place. Once the screws are removed, you should be able to pull the handle off the faucet. 3. Remove the Cartridge or Stem: Depending on the type of faucet you have, you will need to remove either the cartridge or the stem. * For a Cartridge Faucet: Use the adjustable wrench to loosen the retaining nut that holds the cartridge in place. Once the nut is loose, you should be able to pull the cartridge out of the faucet body. * For a Stem Faucet: Use the flat-head screwdriver to pry off the cap that covers the stem. Once the cap is removed, use the Allen wrench to loosen the screw that holds the stem in place. Once the screw is loose, you should be able to pull the stem out of the faucet body. 4. Inspect the Cartridge or Stem: Once the cartridge or stem is removed, inspect it for damage or wear. If the cartridge or stem is damaged, you will need to replace it. 5. Clean the Faucet Body: Use a damp cloth to clean the inside of the faucet body. Remove any dirt, debris, or mineral deposits that may have built up. 6. Apply Teflon Tape: Wrap a few layers of Teflon tape around the threads of the new cartridge or stem. This will help to create a watertight seal. 7. Reinstall the Cartridge or Stem: Insert the new cartridge or stem into the faucet body. Tighten the retaining nut or screw until it is snug. 8. Reinstall the Faucet Handle: Replace the faucet handle and tighten the screws until they are snug. 9. Turn On the Water Supply: Turn on the water supply to the bathtub faucet and check for leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the retaining nut or screw until the leak stops. 10. Test the Faucet: Turn the faucet on and off several times to make sure it is working properly. There should be no leaks and the water should flow smoothly. Tips: * If you are not comfortable working on plumbing fixtures, you can call a qualified plumber to repair the leaky bathtub faucet. * If the leak is coming from the base of the faucet, you may need to replace the O-rings. * If the leak is coming from the showerhead, you may need to replace the shower hose. * If the leak is coming from the drain, you may need to tighten the drainpipe or replace the drain gasket.