How to Repair Leaky Handles of Bathtub Faucets
The homeowner should learn how to repair leaky handles of bathroom faucets. These repairs can be performed quickly, and stop the steady drip of water. Most bathroom faucets are the two-handled type. To determine exactly which handle is leaking, turn the water supply off to one handle. If the faucet is still dripping, it is due to the handle that still has water supply. If the drip stops, the handle without water supply is the culprit.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
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1
Turn off the water supply to the entire faucet assembly. The shutoff valve will be located inside the sink cabinet.
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2
Remove the decorative cap on the faucet handle. Insert a screwdriver between the cap and the handle to pop the cap off.
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3
Use a screwdriver to unscrew the Phillips head screw that secures the handle to the valve stem. Lift the handle off of the valve stem, and set it aside.
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4
Use an appropriate wrench to remove the packing nut that attaches the valve stem to the faucet cavity.
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5
Remove the valve stem by first attempting to unscrew it from the cavity. Your stem will either unscrew or it will pull out when you attempt to unscrew it from the cavity. If you had to unscrew it, chances are that you have a washer attached to the bottom of the valve stem. If your stem simply pulled out, the washer and a spring will be inside the faucet cavity.
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6
Inspect the washer on the valve stem if one is attached to your model. If it is flat or damaged, unscrew the brass screw that holds it in place. Take the washer with you to a plumbing supply store to get a replacement that matches.
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7
Remove the washer and spring from the faucet cavity with a pair of needle nose pliers if your model uses them. Take the washer with you to obtain a replacement from a plumbing supply store.
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8
Inspect the washer cavity, and clean it if necessary using an old toothbrush and a few shots of canned air.
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9
Insert the new spring and washer assembly into the faucet cavity. If your model uses a washer on the end of the stem, attach the washer with the brass screw.
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10
Insert the stem back into the faucet cavity. If necessary on your model, screw the stem back into place.
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11
Slide the packing nut back over the stem, and screw it into place. Use a wrench to tighten the packing nut securely.
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12
Reinstall the faucet handle on the valve stem, securing it with the attaching screw. Press the decorative cap back into place over the handle.
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13
Turn the water supply back on to the bathroom faucet.
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