Instructions for Repairing a Leaky Bathtub Faucet

Repairing a leaky bathtub faucet is a good idea from a fiscal standpoint as well as simply for peace of mind. Repairing a leaky faucet will save money that would otherwise be spent on wasted water, the energy required to heat it and the faucet parts that are suffering wear and tear as water constantly leaks through them. A leaky faucet is irritating when it constantly drips and makes noise while the homeowner is trying to sleep. The actual repair requires very little technical knowledge or skill with tools, and the time invested should not exceed two hours.

Things You'll Need

• Flat-head screwdriver
• Phillips head screwdriver
• Crescent wrench
• Channel-lock pliers
• Cloth
• New stem washer
• New O-ring
• Plumber's high-temperature grease

Instructions

1. Turn off the main water supply to the house. The main water supply is usually located next to the water meter where the pipes enter the house. Some water supply valves are operated with a handle, some require a crescent wrench to turn a hexagonal valve nut and others require a specialized, long-handled rod with a U-shaped tip that is inserted into a slot and turned counterclockwise.

2. Use a flat-head screwdriver to pop off the decorative metal cap on top of the faucet handle by slipping it under the cap and twisting.

3. Remove the handle by using a Phillips head screwdriver to take out the screw under the decorative cap; pull the handle straight off. A specialized handle puller is available from hardware stores if the handle is corroded on and won't come off.

4. Grip the hexagonal bonnet nut located under the handle with a crescent wrench, and remove it by turning it counterclockwise.

5. Thread the stem out of the faucet housing by wrapping a cloth around it to protect the threads and using a pair of channel-lock pliers to turn it counterclockwise.

6. Take out the screw at the bottom of the stem that holds in the washer by using a Phillips head screwdriver. Remove the washer and also the O-ring that is around middle of the stem. Lightly lubricate them with plumber's grease and replace them in the same places with the exact same parts.

7. Reassemble the faucet, turn on the water and check for leaks.

Tips & Warnings

• Replace all parts that appear worn out.

• Allocate two hours for the project and plan so it does not conflict with the family's bath schedule.

• Do not apply excessive force while assembling or dis-assembling the faucet because it can cause damage to parts, which will cost money and time.

References

• Denver Water: Repair Leaking Faucet