How to Stop a Leaking Faucet on a Bath Tub
Water leaks cause the water bill to increase. The dripping could also keep loved ones awake at night. The cause of a leaking faucet is normally worn out washers in the valve stem assembly. These washers seal off water or allow it through to the faucet. When the washers start to wear, a leak forms, and it will only get worse the longer it is left like that. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Flat head screwdriver
- Phillips screwdriver
- Adjustable wrench
- Packing washer
- Retaining washer
Instructions
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1
Shut off the main water supply to the home. The main valve is usually located outside of the home or in the garage. Turn the handle in line with the main water pipe.
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2
Turn on the faucet that is leaking in the home. This releases pressure that may still be in the lines. Remove the cap that sits on the center face of the handle. Pry it off with a flat head screwdriver. Remove the screw located below the cap with a Phillips screwdriver. Pull the handle off of the valve stem assembly.
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3
Remove the nut that sits furthest from the wall. This is called the packing nut. Use an adjustable wrench to remove this washer. Pry out the washer inside the packing nut with a flat head screwdriver. Replace it with a new washer. Tighten the nut back onto the valve stem assembly.
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4
Unscrew the valve stem assembly from the wall. Place an adjustable wrench at the base of the valve stem assembly and unscrew it from the water pipe. Locate the screw on the base of the valve stem assembly. Unscrew it with a Phillips screwdriver. With a flat head screwdriver, pry out the washer that is held on by the screw. Replace it with a new washer. Screw the screw back into the valve stem assembly
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5
Screw the valve stem assembly back into the water pipe using the adjustable wrench. Place the handle back on the valve stem assembly. Tighten the screw that holds it in place. Snap the cap back onto the handle. Turn the main water supply back on.
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