7 Easy Steps to Fix Leaking Bathtub Faucet

Leaking bathtub faucet is most likely the consequence of a bad leaves or a worn out washer. The bathroom stem is most important equipment the flow of water throughout the bathroom faucet. Integrated to the stem may be the faucet handle. Because the faucet handle switched, the idea raises and reduces the rubber washing machine that allows the water for you to flow. Correcting to fix leaking bathtub leak is actually a matter associated with examining these 2 parts and replacing whatever is very important. Below we will talk how to fix bathtub faucet with seven easy steps.

Bathtub Leaking Faucet Instructions

1. Firstly, you must switch off water supply for bathtub leaking faucet. Please find out a split water supply shutoff valve for the bath faucet. This will likely be inside a bathroom cabinet or maybe behind an entry panel next to the bath faucet. Switch the bath faucet knob clockwise to switch off water. In the event you cannot locate a separate shutoff control device, go out the waters supply on your household. The principle water cutoff valve is often next for the water meter. Turn the control device with pliers or maybe a wrench to take off the drinking water.
2. The next step is you can open bath faucet and allow the water inside to run out. Take out the bath faucet handle screw cover, commonly covered as the warm water or cool water labels on the faucet handle, by inserting a sharp knife under the cap. Pop off. Remove the faucet handle screw with a Phillips screwdriver. Pull the faucet handle straight off.
3. The third step of leaking bathtub faucet is removing any escutcheons (if present). They might held in their place with a small screw on the underside that needs to be taken out or merely screws out.
4. Remove the packing nut, which is the first hexagonal nut at the top of the valve stem, with the adjustable wrench. Remove the valve stem by unscrewing the second hexagonal nut, which is the base of the stem. Pull the valve out of the socket.
5. Analyze the valve stem. A cracked or broken stem could be the cause of the leak and needs to be replaced. Turn the stem over to examine the rubber O-ring washer. This, also, can be the cause of the leak if torn. To fix a malfunctioning washer, remove the retaining nut with a screwdriver, then pull the washer out of the socket. Replace with a new one and secure with a screw. Lightly apply a coat of silicone grease to the bottom face of the washer.
6. Apply pipe thread compound to the threads on the valve stem. Insert into the socket and tighten with the wrench. Slip the packing nut over the stem and tighten. Replace the escutcheon and secure. Place the faucet handle over the end of the valve stem. Insert the faucet handle screw and tighten with the Phillips screwdriver. Press the faucet handle cap back into place.
7. Restore the water supply. Open the faucet and check for proper operation.

[source: ehow]