How to Repair a Dripping Tub Faucet
A dripping tub faucet can be aggravating and wasteful. Not only is the sound of a leaking faucet annoying, but it also can cause water spots in your tub over a period of time. The amount of water lost by a dripping tub faucet can equal 15 gallons per day or 450 gallons per month, which can add up on your water bill. Basically, the problem is that gaskets or O-rings get old and worn, allowing water through. O-rings look just like they sound--an O--and, depending upon the type of faucet you have, you will need an O-ring or possibly an inlet seal with springs to repair a dripping tub faucet. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Straight screwdriver
- Phillips screwdriver
- Pliers
- Replacement O-rings or seals
Instructions
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How to Fix a Dripping Tub Faucet
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1
Go to your local hardware store and purchase needed O-rings or seals. Most hardware stores carry an assortment pack with multiple sizes of O-rings.
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2
Turn off the water supply to the faucet. Turn off either the main supply or a cut-off valve located close to the tub faucet.
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3
Loosen the handle screw from the faucet handle by turning the screw counter-clockwise. If you have a decorative handle, there is usually a cap in the center of the handle that you can remove with a flat screwdriver.
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4
Remove the valve unit by applying pressure to the faucet handle. Twist the handle from side to side to free the valve unit if needed.
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5
Match the old O-ring with the correct size of replacement O-ring or seal and replace the old one with the new one. Make sure it is sealed well.
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6
Replace the valve unit back on the faucet in the order it came off. Make sure no pieces are in the wrong order or missing.
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7
Tighten the packing nut by turning clockwise and turn back on the water supply. Do not over-tighten, which can damage the faucet handle.
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8
Turn on the faucet and check for leaks.
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1
Tips & Warnings
You may want to take the old faucet with you when buying the O-ring or seal to make sure you have the correct part. If you know the manufacturer of your faucet such as Delta or Kohler, you can check their web site or do a web search for the specific part number to be sure you are getting the correct part.
Be aware when removing the decorative cap on the faucet handles that these handles sometimes become brittle with age and break easily. Also, when turning back on the water supply, watch and listen for any signs of water leaking.
