Bathtub Faucet Won't Turn Off

Bathtub Faucet Won't Turn Off: Essential Troubleshooting Guide

Nothing can be more frustrating than a bathtub faucet that won't turn off. Not only does it waste water, but it can also create a major mess and lead to costly repairs. If you're facing this problem, don't worry – with the right approach, you can often fix it yourself.

Identify the Type of Faucet

Before you start troubleshooting, it's important to identify the type of faucet you have. There are two main types: compression faucets and cartridge faucets.

Compression faucets have two handles, one for hot water and one for cold water. They work by using a washer to create a seal against the valve seat.
Cartridge faucets have a single handle that controls both hot and cold water. They work by using a replaceable cartridge to control the flow of water.

Troubleshooting Compression Faucets

If you have a compression faucet, here are some common causes of a faucet that won't turn off:

Worn washer: Over time, the washer in a compression faucet can wear out and become less effective at creating a seal. This can cause water to leak from the faucet even when it's turned off.
Damaged valve seat: The valve seat is the part of the faucet that the washer seals against. If the valve seat is damaged, it can prevent the washer from creating a proper seal.
Loose packing nut: The packing nut is a small nut that helps to keep the stem of the faucet in place. If the packing nut is loose, it can allow water to leak around the stem.

Troubleshooting Cartridge Faucets

If you have a cartridge faucet, here are some common causes of a faucet that won't turn off:

Faulty cartridge: The cartridge is the heart of a cartridge faucet. If the cartridge is faulty, it can allow water to leak from the faucet even when it's turned off.
Debris in the cartridge: Debris can build up in the cartridge over time, which can interfere with its operation and cause it to leak.
Loose cartridge: If the cartridge is not properly tightened, it can allow water to leak around the edges.

How to Fix a Bathtub Faucet That Won't Turn Off

Once you've identified the type of faucet you have and the possible cause of the leak, you can start to fix the problem.

If you're not comfortable working on plumbing, it's best to call a qualified plumber for help. However, if you're handy and have some basic tools, you may be able to fix the leak yourself.

Here are some general steps to follow:

Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
Remove the faucet handle. If you have a compression faucet, you may need to use a screwdriver to remove a screw that is holding the handle in place. If you have a cartridge faucet, the handle may simply pull off.
Inspect the washer or cartridge. If the washer is worn or damaged, replace it. If the cartridge is faulty, you will need to replace the entire cartridge.
Reassemble the faucet. Tighten all of the nuts and screws securely.
Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.

If you have followed these steps and the faucet is still not turning off, it may be necessary to call a plumber for help.

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