How to Fix a Leaky Bathtub Faucet

A leaky bathtub faucet is not only a huge water waster, it can also cause staining in the tub, especially if the water has minerals such as iron or lime in it. That's why it is important to fix the problem as soon as possible after it is discovered.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Screwdriver (flat or Phillips head, depending on the type of screw) Adjustable wrench Old bath cloth, hand towel or rag (for protecting the area around the handles and/or wiping up water) New washer

1. Turn the water supply to the bathtub off. If a cutoff valve for the bathtub is not available, the water supply to the entire house will have to be shut off while the repair is being made.

2. Loosen the handle (or handles, if there are two or more). The screw holding everything together may be easily seen, or it may be under a small decorative plate. If this is the case, simply pry the plate off in order to get to the screw.
   Screws come in two types---flat or Phillips head. Each type requires a specific screwdriver in order to loosen it. Since you may not be able to tell which type of screw it is, it is best to have both a flat head and a Phillips head screwdriver available.

3. Remove the handle(s), and determine which size washer will be needed to replace the worn washer (this is usually the main cause of bathtub faucet leaks). The smart handyman will have a package of washers in assorted sizes, so that it can be easily replaced.

4. Remove the old washer, and replace with a new, fresh washer.

5. Replace the handle(s), tighten the screw(s). Do not overtighten. Once the screwdriver starts becoming hard to turn, stop. The handle should be secure.

6. Turn water back on, and operate handle(s). Check to make sure the faucet has stopped leaking when the water is turned. Also check to make sure that no water is coming from around the handle(s). If this is happening, it may be necessary to tighten the handle just a little more.

7. If the washer looks OK, the problem may be that the faucet has loosened with use. If this is the case, the adjustable wrench can be used to slightly tighten the faucet. Again, overtightening is possible. Stop as soon as the wrench will not turn any more.

8. If replacing the washer(s) and/or tightening the faucet do not solve the problem, then it will be necessary to call a plumber.

Tips & Warnings

• Assemble all tools and materials BEFORE starting the job. This will prevent you from having to go back and forth. If the bathtub has more than one handle, go ahead and replace all the washers or tighten the other handles. If one washer is worn out, or a handle is loose, it's probably a good bet that others are, too. Don't forget to replace or tighten the one for the shower, if it operates on a separate handle.
• Take care when using the screwdriver or wrench. A slip can cause damage to the surrounding area. Use the cloth or rag to protect surfaces. Make sure the water is completely off before beginning work. It is a good idea to open the faucet and drain all the water out before starting. If there is water behind the faucet or handles, it may gush out, causing a mess or even injury if the pressure loosens the screw. Because water could be present, it is NOT a good idea to use an electric screwdriver. Dangerous electric shock can occur.

Resources

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