How To Fix A Leaky Faucet Bathtub

How to Fix a Leaky Faucet Bathtub: A Step-by-Step Guide

A leaky faucet can be a major annoyance, not to mention a waste of water and money. If you're dealing with a leaky faucet bathtub, don't worry - fixing it is a relatively simple task that you can do yourself with a few basic tools and materials.

Tools and Materials You'll Need:

Adjustable wrench
Screwdriver
New washer(s)
Plumber's putty (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Turn off the water supply: Locate the water supply valves under the sink or behind the bathtub and turn them off. This will prevent water from flowing into the faucet while you're working on it. 2. Remove the faucet handle: Use a screwdriver to remove the screw that holds the faucet handle in place. Once the screw is removed, pull the handle straight up to detach it. 3. Remove the packing nut: Using an adjustable wrench, loosen the packing nut located just below the faucet handle. As you loosen the nut, you may notice some water leaking out - don't worry, this is normal. 4. Replace the washers: Inside the packing nut, you will find one or two washers. Remove the old washers and replace them with new ones. Make sure that the new washers are the same size and type as the old ones. 5. Reinstall the packing nut: Hand-tighten the packing nut back onto the faucet stem. Use the adjustable wrench to further tighten the nut, but be careful not to overtighten it. 6. Reinstall the faucet handle: Place the faucet handle back onto the stem and secure it with the screw. 7. Apply plumber's putty (optional): If you wish to prevent leaks around the base of the faucet, you can apply a thin layer of plumber's putty to the base before reinstalling the handle. 8. Turn on the water supply: Slowly turn on the water supply valves and check for leaks. If you notice any leaks, tighten the packing nut slightly more and recheck.

Troubleshooting Tips:

* If the faucet still leaks after following these steps, the problem may be with the faucet stem. You may need to replace the stem or call a plumber for assistance. * If you accidentally overtighten the packing nut, you may damage the faucet stem. Be sure to tighten it snugly, but not excessively. * If you have a cartridge faucet, the cartridge may need to be replaced. Cartridges are typically located behind the faucet handle and can be replaced by following the manufacturer's instructions.