A leaky faucet is a slow drip that often leaves a growing stain in your tub or shower. Fix it and you'll avoid those headaches and save money on your water bill. With the right tools, the entire project may only cost a few dollars, but it's much cheaper than hiring a plumber and is often easier and cheaper than ripping out the old faucet and installing a new shower faucet.
What Causes a Leaky Tub Faucet?
The most common reasons for a dripping tub faucet include:
Worn Washers
Constantly turning the faucet handle can wear out the washers, causing water to leak around them.
Loose or Damaged O-Rings or Other Parts
Worn or deteriorated plastic or rubber O-rings can cause a faucet or control handle to leak.
Corroded Valve Seats
After repeated use, the valve seat under the handle can develop mineral buildup that can cause water to leak out of the valve seat.
Water Pressure Problems
The water pressure in your tub faucet may be set too high.
Worn Gaskets
Gaskets are subject to a lot of friction from daily use, so they can wear out and start leaking after enough time.
Faulty Valve Cartridges
Modern single-handle faucets come with valve cartridges that regulate temperature and water flow. The valve cartridges can eventually break, causing leaks.
How to Temporarily Fix a Leaky Tub Faucet
To stop a persistent dripping faucet sound—at least temporarily, until you can fix the problem once and for all:
Fill a Basin with Soapy Water
Plug the tub drain and fill the tub with a few inches of water. Pour in a generous amount of dish soap and gently stir. Changing the surface tension of the water can eliminate the dripping sound.
Add a Sock to the Faucet
Secure a long sock or bathrobe strap to the faucet to create a channel for the water to trickle down to the drain.
Put a Sponge in the Basin
Putting a sponge or towel under the tub faucet can mask the dripping sound. You'll still hear the dripping sound, but it'll be quieter.
Bathtub Faucet Replacement Parts
The first step in bathtub faucet repair is to make sure you have the new parts you need. Most bathtub repairs can be done with replacement parts found at hardware stores and home improvement centers. Plumbing parts dealers will have a wider selection and may even offer hard-to-finish parts on special order. There are thousands of different faucet replacement parts available to fix a leaky bathtub faucet, so bring your old part to a store to find the right replacement part to fix your leaky bathtub faucet. If the valve is severely corroded or the surface is worn, replace the entire faucet. Do-it-yourself simple plumbing repairs can save money.
Tools Needed for Bathtub Faucet Replacement
Single-Handle Faucet
Slotted screwdriver
Phillips screwdriver
Adjustable wrench
Allen wrench set
Nose pliers
Cartridge puller tool
Towel
Double-Handle Faucet
Adjustable wrench
Slotted screwdriver
Phillips screwdriver
Flashlight
Seat wrench
Towel
Materials Needed for Bathtub Faucet Replacement
Single-Handle Faucet
1 replacement valve cartridge
Double-Handle Faucet
1 rubber flat faucet washer and screw set, complete assortment
2 replacement faucet seats
How to Fix a Leaky Single-handle Tub Faucet
Single-handle faucets use a plastic, metal, or rubber valve cartridge system to control water flow. When a single-handle tub faucet leaks, the valve cartridge or its rubber O-ring may be worn or corroded. The cartridge must be replaced with a new one that matches the faucet brand and model.
Step1 Turn Off the Main Water Valve
Turn off the water to the faucet at the main water shutoff valve.
Step2 Remove the Faucet Handle
Use the Allen wrench set to unscrew and remove the screws on the single-handle faucet. Slide the handle off and remove the trim cover. Grip the top of the U-shaped wire retaining clip with needle-nosed pliers. Lift it straight up to remove.
Step3 Remove and Replace the Cartridge
Note the location of the cartridge. Grasp the end of the cartridge with needle-nosed pliers or a cartridge puller. Pull it straight out. Push the new cartridge into the same position as the previous cartridge by hand. Replace the retaining clip.
Step4 Reassemble the Faucet
Slowly open the main water valve. Use a flashlight to check the faucet area for leaks. Screw the faucet faceplate back into place. Replace the faucet handle.
Tips: The hole in the surround of the tub or shower should be several inches wide and large enough to remove the valve cartridge. If not, use a multi-tool or hacksaw to cut through the surround for removal. Don't cut a hole larger than the diameter of the trim.
How to Fix a Leaky Double-Handle Tub Faucet
When a two-handle tub faucet is leaking, it's likely that the rubber gasket portion of the metal faucet seat has cracked, corroded, or worn badly over time. If the gasket is severely stressed or damaged and can no longer block the flow of water, it will leak. Replacing the rubber gasket can solve most leaks.
Step1 Identify a Leaky Faucet
Determine which side is leaking (hot or cold). One of the best indicators is to feel the temperature of the dripping water.
If the dripping water is hot or warm, the water is coming from the hot side; if the water is cold, the water is coming from the cold side.
If the drip is slow, turn off the hot or cold water supply. Turn off only one valve at a time. Wait and see if the dripping occurs. If the dripping does not stop after you turn off the first valve, the other side is leaking.
Step2 Turn off the Water
Find your home's main water shutoff valve and turn it off.
Open the bathtub faucet in the bathroom to drain any water that remains in the pipe after it was turned off.
Place a towel over the drain to prevent small items from falling into the drain.
Step3 Remove the Faucet Handle
Use a small flat-head screwdriver or butter knife to pry off the plastic or metal cover covering the screw on the faucet handle.
Remove the screw inside the faucet handle with a Phillips screwdriver. Remove it by pulling straight out on the handle. The screw may still be in the handle, but it will fall out once the handle is removed.
Remove the decorative metal or plastic trim covering the pipe opening, called an escutcheon, by pulling straight out or unscrewing it. Alternatively, use a Phillips screwdriver to unscrew a small set screw on the side of the escutcheon.
Step4 Remove the Stem Assembly
Use an adjustable wrench to unscrew the brass nut that holds the stem assembly in place. Pull the stem assembly out.
Step5 Remove and Replace the Rubber Washer
Look at the back of the stem assembly.
Using a Phillips screwdriver, unscrew the set screw that holds the rubber washer in place.
Discard the washer.
Clean the back of the stem assembly with a clean cloth.
Install the replacement rubber washer into the assembly.
If a new screw is included in the kit, use the new screw.
If not, clean the old screw and reinsert it.
Step6 Replace the Faucet Seat
Use a flashlight to inspect the brass faucet seat for damage.
If the tapered portion is chipped, corroded, or worn, it must be replaced.
Unscrew and remove the faucet seat with a seat wrench.
Install the replacement faucet seat on the seat wrench and tighten it into place.
Be careful not to drop the old (or new) seat into the wall opening.
Tips: Replacing the faucet seat requires a seat wrench, a tool similar to an Allen wrench.
Step7 Reassemble the Bathtub Faucet
Replace the stem assembly in place and secure it with the brass nut.
Replace the trim.
Slide the faucet handle back onto the stem.
Tighten the faucet into place.
Snap the cover into place.
Step8 Test the Faucet
Turn off the faucet. Turn on the water line and turn the water pressure to full. Move very slowly to avoid damaging the water line or the faucet.
Test the faucet for leaks by turning the faucet on for a few seconds and then turning it off.
How to Temporarily Fix a Leaky Bathtub Faucet
To stop a persistent dripping faucet sound—at least temporarily, until you can fix the problem once and for all:
Fill a basin with soapy water: Block the tub drain and fill the tub with a few inches of water. Pour in a generous amount of dishwashing liquid and stir gently. Changing the surface tension of the water will eliminate the dripping sound.
Add a sock to the faucet: Secure a long sock or bathrobe strap to the faucet to create a channel for the water to slowly trickle down to the drain.
Put a sponge in the basin: Placing a sponge or towel under the tub faucet can mask the dripping sound. You'll still hear the dripping sound, but it'll be quieter.
How to Prevent a Leaky Bathtub Faucet
One of the best ways to avoid the hassle of a leaky bathtub faucet is to prevent it in the first place. Here are some tips to help you prevent future leaks and keep your plumbing system in tip-top shape.
Check Your Faucets Regularly
Take the time to inspect your faucets for signs of wear and tear. Watch for drips, loose handles, or other anomalies. Catching these problems early can save you from major repairs later.
Don 't Ignore Small Leaks
If you notice a small leak, don 't ignore it or assume it will go away on its own. Even a small drip can lead to bigger problems if not taken care of. Fix any leaks promptly to prevent further damage and water waste.
Maintain Proper Water Pressure
Too much water pressure can put pressure on the faucet, causing leaks. It is recommended to install a pressure regulator to keep the water pressure within a safe range.
Avoid Using Too Much Force
When turning off the faucet, use gentle force. Using too much force can wear out the internal components and cause leaks.
Clean the Faucet Regularly
Mineral deposits and debris can build up inside the faucet, causing clogs and leaks. Clean the faucet regularly to ensure it is functioning properly.
By following these tips, you can reduce the risk of future leaks and keep your bathtub faucet in good condition.
FAQs About Bathtub Faucets
Is a dripping faucet a bad thing?
Yes, a dripping faucet is indeed a nuisance for many reasons. First, it wastes water, leads to higher water bills, and creates environmental issues. Secondly, constant moisture can lead to mold growth and water damage to surrounding areas, and may even cause structural problems. Additionally, ignoring a dripping faucet can exacerbate the problem over time, leading to larger repairs and replacements. It is recommended to promptly address a dripping faucet with proper maintenance or repairs to prevent these negative consequences.
What are the most common causes of leaking bathtub faucets?
The most common causes of leaking bathtub faucets are worn washers on single-handle faucets or valve core failure on two-handle faucets.
Is a leaking bathtub faucet an emergency?
A leaking bathtub faucet is not usually an emergency. However, if the faucet is still leaking after repair, it may be worth calling in a plumber for another consultation. You may need to tighten or replace the faucet stem.
What causes my bathtub faucet to drip?
A dripping bathtub faucet is usually caused by wear on internal components, such as rubber washers, o-rings, or valve core seals. Over time, these components deteriorate from daily use, mineral deposits, or temperature fluctuations. When these parts fail to create a watertight seal, water leaks out, causing the faucet to drip. Taking care of these worn parts with proper maintenance or replacement is crucial to preventing further dripping.
How to Fix a Leaky Tub Seal?
Tub leaks can come from a number of places, including the drain, the caulk around where the tub joins the tile, or cracks in the tub itself. Try patching the seal around the drain with new plumber's putty, getting a new drain gasket, or replacing the drain stem. Remove old or worn caulk and reseal the rim of the tub. Use sealant to patch cracks in the tub itself before replacing the entire tub.
How to Stop a Leaky Tub Faucet from Dripping?
To fix a dripping tub faucet, you can follow these steps:
- Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
- Depending on the type of faucet handle, use a screwdriver or Allen wrench to remove the handle.
- Inspect the faucet's components to see if there is wear on the washers, O-rings, or seals.
- Replace any damaged parts.
- Reinstall the faucet handle and turn the water back on. If the dripping persists, consider consulting a professional plumber for further evaluation and repairs.
Why does my tub faucet leak after I turn off the water?
If your tub faucet continues to leak after you turn off the water, it is likely due to a faulty valve or worn internal parts of the faucet. The valve may not be fully closed, allowing a small amount of water to pass through and form a drip. In some cases, mineral deposits can build up and interfere with the proper functioning of the valve. Resolving this issue promptly is critical to conserving water and avoiding potential damage.