How Do You Fix A Leaky Bathtub Faucet

A leaky bathtub faucet is a common plumbing problem that can waste water and increase your water bill. Fortunately, it is a relatively easy problem to fix with the right tools and materials.

Here are the steps on how to fix a leaky bathtub faucet:

1. Gather your materials

You will need the following materials to fix a leaky bathtub faucet:

Adjustable wrench
Phillips head screwdriver
Flat head screwdriver
Replacement faucet washer
Plumber's putty

2. Turn off the water supply

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

3. Remove the faucet handle

Use a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the faucet handle in place. Once the screws are removed, pull the handle straight up to remove it.

4. Remove the faucet stem

Once the faucet handle is removed, you will see the faucet stem. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the packing nut that holds the stem in place. Once the packing nut is loose, pull the stem straight out of the faucet.

5. Replace the faucet washer

The faucet washer is a small rubber washer that sits between the faucet stem and the faucet body. Over time, the washer can become worn or damaged, causing the faucet to leak. To replace the washer, simply remove the old washer and replace it with a new one.

6. Reassemble the faucet

Once the new washer is in place, reassemble the faucet in the reverse order that you disassembled it. First, insert the stem into the faucet body. Then, tighten the packing nut to hold the stem in place. Finally, replace the faucet handle and tighten the screws to hold it in place.

7. Turn on the water supply

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 washer until the leak is stopped.

Preventing future leaks

To prevent future leaks, it is important to regularly clean and lubricate the faucet. You should also replace the faucet washer every few years to ensure that it is in good condition.