How To Repair A Leaking Bathtub Faucet

How to Repair a Leaking Bathtub Faucet: A Step-by-Step Guide ##

A leaky bathtub faucet is not only annoying, but it can also waste water and increase your water bill. Fortunately, repairing a leaking bathtub faucet is a relatively easy task that can be completed in a few simple steps. ### Step 1: Gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need the following tools and materials to repair a leaking bathtub faucet: * Adjustable wrench * Phillips head screwdriver * Flat head screwdriver * Pliers * Replacement faucet washer * Teflon tape * Bucket * Rags ### Step 2: Turn off the water supply. The first step is to turn off the water supply to the bathtub faucet. This is typically done by turning the valve located under the sink or behind the bathtub. If you are unable to locate the water supply valve, you can turn off the main water supply to your home. ### Step 3: Remove the faucet handle. Once the water supply is turned off, you can remove the faucet handle. On most faucets, the handle is held in place by a screw or a clip. Use a screwdriver or pliers to remove the screw or clip, and then pull the handle off the faucet. ### Step 4: Remove the faucet stem. Once the faucet handle is removed, you will need to remove the faucet stem. The faucet stem is the part of the faucet that controls the flow of water. To remove the faucet stem, use a wrench to loosen the packing nut that is located at the base of the stem. Once the packing nut is loose, you can pull the faucet stem out of the faucet body. ### Step 5: Inspect the faucet stem and washer. Once the faucet stem is removed, inspect it for damage. If the stem is damaged, it will need to be replaced. You should also inspect the faucet washer. The faucet washer is a small, round piece of rubber that creates a seal between the faucet stem and the faucet body. If the washer is worn or damaged, it will need to be replaced. ### Step 6: Replace the faucet washer. If the faucet washer is damaged, you will need to replace it. To do this, simply remove the old washer from the faucet stem and insert the new washer in its place. ### Step 7: Apply Teflon tape to the faucet stem. Before you reinsert the faucet stem into the faucet body, apply a few wraps of Teflon tape to the threads of the stem. This will help to create a seal and prevent leaks. ### Step 8: Reinsert the faucet stem. Once you have applied Teflon tape to the faucet stem, you can reinsert it into the faucet body. Tighten the packing nut until it is snug, but do not overtighten it. ### Step 9: Replace the faucet handle. Once the faucet stem is reinserted, you can replace the faucet handle. Simply insert the handle into the faucet stem and tighten the screw or clip that holds it in place. ### Step 10: Turn on the water supply. Once the faucet handle is replaced, you can turn on the water supply. Check for leaks around the faucet. If there are any leaks, tighten the packing nut or replace the faucet washer as needed.