Bathtub Faucet Leaking When Shower Is On

Bathtub Faucet Leaking When Shower Is On: Causes and Solutions

A leaky bathtub faucet can be a frustrating and costly problem. Not only does it waste water, but it can also damage the surrounding area and lead to mold and mildew growth. If you're experiencing a bathtub faucet leak when the shower is on, there are a few common culprits that you can check.

1. Worn-Out Washer

The washer is a small rubber or plastic disc that sits between the faucet stem and the faucet body. When the faucet is turned on, the washer is compressed against the faucet body to create a watertight seal. Over time, the washer can wear out or become damaged, which can cause the faucet to leak.

2. Damaged O-Rings

O-rings are small rubber rings that are used to create watertight seals in various parts of the faucet. If an O-ring is damaged or worn out, it can cause the faucet to leak.

3. Loose Packing Nut

The packing nut is a large nut that holds the faucet stem in place. If the packing nut is loose, it can allow water to leak out from around the faucet stem.

4. Cracked or Damaged Faucet Body

In some cases, a bathtub faucet leak can be caused by a cracked or damaged faucet body. This is more likely to occur with older faucets or faucets that have been subjected to excessive force.

5. Faulty Cartridge

If your bathtub faucet has a cartridge-style design, a faulty cartridge can be the cause of the leak. The cartridge is a self-contained unit that controls the flow of water through the faucet. If the cartridge is damaged or worn out, it can cause the faucet to leak.

How to Fix a Bathtub Faucet Leak When the Shower Is On

If you've identified the cause of the leak, you can take steps to fix it. The following are some general instructions for repairing a bathtub faucet leak when the shower is on:

Turn off the water supply to the faucet. This is usually done by closing the valve under the sink or by turning off the main water supply to the house.
Disassemble the faucet. The specific steps for this will vary depending on the type of faucet you have. However, most faucets can be disassembled by removing the handle, aerator, and escutcheon plate.
Inspect the washer, O-rings, and packing nut. Look for any signs of wear, damage, or deterioration.
Replace the worn or damaged parts. If the washer, O-rings, or packing nut are worn out or damaged, they should be replaced with new ones.
Reassemble the faucet. Once you've replaced the worn or damaged parts, reassemble the faucet in the reverse order that you disassembled it.
Turn on the water supply and check for leaks. Once the faucet is reassembled, turn on the water supply and check for leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the packing nut or replace the O-rings until the leak stops.

When to Call a Plumber

In some cases, a bathtub faucet leak may be too difficult or dangerous to fix on your own. If you're not comfortable working with plumbing fixtures, or if the leak is caused by a cracked or damaged faucet body, it's best to call a plumber for help.

By following these steps, you can fix a bathtub faucet leak when the shower is on and save yourself the time, money, and hassle of a more serious plumbing problem.