How To Stop Dripping Bathtub Faucet

How to Stop a Dripping Bathtub Faucet

A dripping bathtub faucet is not only annoying, but it can also waste a significant amount of water. If you're tired of the constant drip-drip-drip, there are a few things you can do to fix it. In this article, we'll discuss the most common causes of a dripping bathtub faucet and provide step-by-step instructions on how to repair it.

Causes of a Dripping Bathtub Faucet

There are several factors that can cause a bathtub faucet to drip. The most common causes include:

Worn-out washer
Damaged O-ring
Loose or damaged handle
Clogged aerator
Faulty cartridge

How to Repair a Dripping Bathtub Faucet

The steps to repair a dripping bathtub faucet will vary depending on the cause of the leak. Here are the most common repairs:

Replacing the Washer

To replace the washer, you will need to:

Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
Remove the aerator (if there is one).
Use a wrench to unscrew the handle.
Remove the packing nut and stem washer.
Replace the washer with a new one.
Reassemble the faucet in reverse order.

Replacing the O-Ring

To replace the O-ring, you will need to:

Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
Remove the handle.
Use a wrench to unscrew the bonnet nut.
Remove the O-ring and replace it with a new one.
Reassemble the faucet in reverse order.

Tightening the Handle

To tighten the handle, you will need to:

Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
Use a wrench to tighten the packing nut.
Reassemble the faucet in reverse order.

Cleaning the Aerator

To clean the aerator, you will need to:

Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
Unscrew the aerator.
Clean the aerator screen with a soft brush or cloth.
Reinstall the aerator.

Replacing the Cartridge

To replace the cartridge, you will need to:

Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
Remove the handle.
Use a wrench to unscrew the cartridge nut.
Pull out the old cartridge and insert a new one.
Reassemble the faucet in reverse order.

Conclusion

If you're handy, you can usually fix a dripping bathtub faucet yourself. However, if you're not comfortable working on plumbing, it's best to call a plumber. A plumber can quickly and easily diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.