How to Fix a Tub Spout
A tub spout that leaks between the wall and the spout is not a sign of a faulty faucet. Most likely either the threads that the spout attaches to need to have new plumber's tape, or the spout itself has corrosion and needs replacing. You can fix or replace the spout yourself and save money on an expensive plumbing repair bill. Replacement spouts are available at most hardware stores and home improvement centers. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Allen wrench
- Phillips-head screwdriver
- Cloth
- Channel lock pliers
- Stiff brush
- Plumbers tape
- Replacement spout
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Instructions
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Place a sheet or towel in the bottom of tub and over the tub drain. This will help protect the tub finish as you work in the tub and also prevent you from losing the small retaining screw if you accidentally drop it while removing it from the spout.
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Look under your spout to see if there is a set screw securing the spout to the water pipe. The set screw will be close to the wall on the spout. Some spouts do not have a set screw and simply thread on and off the water pipe.
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Remove the set screw with an Allen wrench or Phillips-head screwdriver, if your spout uses a set screw. Pull the spout straight off the water pipe. These types of spouts simply need replacing if they are leaking.
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Place a cloth over the tub spout if you do not have a set screw. Grab the spout over the cloth with a pair of channel lock pliers. Carefully turn the spout counter-clockwise with the channel lock pliers until you can twist the spout off by hand. Continue turning the spout by hand and remove the spout from the water pipe.
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Inspect the threads on the water pipe, looking at the condition of the old plumber's tape. If there is no plumber's tape, you can probably wrap the threads with the tape and reinstall the spout. However, if you want to be sure of no more leaks, it is a good idea to replace the spout.
Remove old plumber's tape from the pipe threads with a stiff brush.
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Take the old spout to the hardware store for a replacement. You want the same type of spout, whether it is slip on or screw on. You want to be sure you get a spout that is the same length as well.
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Wrap plumber's tape around the water pipe threads. Place the spout over the threads and turn the spout clockwise by hand until the spout is hand tight if you have a screw-on spout. Place a cloth over the spout and tighten the spout securely with the channel lock pliers.
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Slide the spout over the water pipe if you have the slide-on system. Press the spout against the wall with one hand and secure the spout with the retaining screw.
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