Your tub faucet’s endless drip is more than irritating: it wastes water, increases your utility bill and can keep you awake at night. But good news: most tub faucet leak problems are easily and cost-effectively addressed through DIY repairs you can perform yourself. Our detailed guide walks through every step in order to answer the question “how do I repair a leaky bathtub faucet?“.
Stopping a leaky tub faucet requires finding and replacing its internal component – such as worn-out washer, O-ring or cartridge. The DIY task can be completed easily using basic tools; specific steps will depend on your faucet type. By following our expert advice today and fixing your bathtub’s drip today you can reduce water waste.
Common Causes of a Leaking Bathtub Faucet
Leaky faucet tubs rarely require major repair efforts; most often the source is an easily replaceable component that has worn down over time. Recognizing which type of faucet and component are likely responsible is the first step toward successful repair.
Faucet Types and Key Components
Bathtub faucets generally fall into one of two main categories. Knowing which one you have tells you what parts you need to check.
Faucet Type | Handles | Mechanism | Common Leak Source |
Compression | Two (Hot/Cold) | Uses a washer to compress against a valve seat, stopping water flow. | Worn washer or corroded valve seat. |
Cartridge | One (or two) | Uses a cylindrical cartridge that moves or rotates to mix and control water flow. | Worn O-rings or a cracked/damaged cartridge. |
The Root of the Problem
When your tub faucet leak starts, it’s usually because of these specific issues:
- Worn Washers or O-Rings: These small rubber pieces create a tight seal inside the faucet. Over time, they stiffen, crack, or wear thin from friction. This is the number one reason for a leaking tub faucet, especially with older, two-handle compression models.
- Damaged Cartridge: In single-handle faucets, the cartridge assembly handles water flow and temperature. Mineral deposits or simple wear and tear can damage it, causing a constant flow or a steady bathtub faucet drip. Replacing the cartridge often fixes the problem right away.
- Corroded Valve Seat: The valve seat is where the washer or cartridge seals to stop the water. Hard water and mineral deposits can cause corrosion or rough spots on the valve seat. This keeps the washer from forming a perfect seal, which results in a persistent leak.
- Faulty Diverter Valve: If the spout leaks only when the shower is running, the problem is most likely a failing shower diverter. The diverter directs water to the showerhead. When its internal seals fail, some water leaks from the spout even when the shower is on.
Tools and Materials Needed for Bathtub Faucet Repair
Before you tackle your tub faucet leaks, gather everything you need. Having the right tools saves you from making extra trips to the hardware store.
Essential Tools
- Adjustable Wrench: Used to unscrew the packing nut or handle nut.
- Screwdriver Set: Flathead and Phillips for removing decorative caps and handle screws.
- Hex Key (Allen Wrench): Sometimes needed to remove specific handle screws.
- Needle-Nose Pliers: Useful for removing small retaining clips or O-rings.
- Small Wire Brush: For cleaning mineral deposits from the faucet body.
- Flashlight or Headlamp: The interior of the faucet can be dark.
- Seat Wrench: An optional but helpful tool for removing a valve seat (compression faucets).
- Cartridge Puller: An optional tool that can be a lifesaver for removing stubborn cartridges.
Necessary Materials
- Replacement Parts: The most important step. Get new washers, O-rings, or a replacement cartridge that matches your faucet’s brand and model. It is best to take the old part with you to match it exactly.
- Plumber’s Grease (Silicone-based): Used to lubricate new O-rings and moving parts for a smooth operation and better seal.
- Plumber’s Tape (PTFE Tape): Apply a few wraps to the stem threads before reassembly for a water-tight seal.
- White Vinegar or Lime Remover: For cleaning mineral buildup inside the faucet body.
- Old Towel or Rag: To protect the tub finish and catch small parts.
Fixing a Leaky Bathtub Faucet: Step-by-Step Instructions
The process of fixing your leaky faucet tub is slightly different based on whether you have a compression or a cartridge faucet. Both start the same way: by turning off the water.
Phase 1: Preparation and Disassembly (Universal Steps)
Shut Off the Water Supply
Before beginning, it’s essential that the water supply to your faucet be completely cut off. Find and close off a main shut-off valve or, ideally, one nearby your bathroom; turn it completely off; open tub faucet handles to drain any leftover water out.
Protect the Tub and Drain
Place a towel or a small rag over the drain opening. This simple step prevents small screws, caps, or parts from falling down the drain forever.
Remove the Faucet Handle(s)
Locate the decorative cap at the center of the handle, using a flathead screwdriver to pry off. Underneath, you will discover a screw, for which an appropriate screwdriver or hex key should be used to unscrew and then pull straight off from its stem.
Phase 2: Compression Faucet Repair (Two Handles)
This is the older, two-handle style. Your constant bathtub faucet leaks are likely due to a bad washer.
Remove the Faucet Stem
Once the packing nut, or stem stopper, is off you can use an adjustable wrench to turn it counterclockwise until it loosens and comes off – at which point, pull the stem assembly directly out from its mount in the faucet body.
Inspect and Replace the Washer
At the very tip of your stem lies a rubber washer secured by a small screw. Remove this screw and the old washer; examine its condition; if its surface has become flattened or grooved it requires replacement and should be replaced by another of exactly similar size; also, use some plumber’s grease on both surfaces before fitting back together again.
Address the Valve Seat (If Necessary)
If the leak persists despite replacing the washer, the valve seat itself could be at fault. Use a valve seat wrench to extract it from inside the faucet body, and replace it with one of equivalent size and color.
Phase 3: Cartridge Faucet Repair (Single Handle)
This style uses a single cylinder to control water. The tub dripping fix here involves replacing the whole cartridge.
Remove the Retaining Clip and Cartridge
After removing the handle, you will see a retaining clip, usually a small metal pin or clip, holding the cartridge in the valve. Use needle-nose pliers to gently pull this clip straight up and out.
Remove and Replace the Cartridge
Your old cartridge should come out easily; if it becomes stuck, a cartridge puller tool may be necessary. Be aware of its orientation before pulling it out; it must reattach in its original place when installed again. Also inspect for damaged or worn O-rings on this old cartridge before replacing with one that matches in terms of size and lubricating its O-rings with plumber’s grease for optimal performance.
Reinstall the New Cartridge
Push the new cartridge into the valve body, making sure it is properly seated and in the correct orientation. Reinstall the retaining clip to hold the cartridge in place.
Phase 4: Reassembly and Testing (Universal Steps)
Clean and Reassemble
Before reassembling everything, use a small brush and vinegar to scrub any mineral deposits out of the faucet body. Reinstall and tighten both compression stem and packing nut as per manufacturer’s directions; screw handle back onto stem; replace decorative cap; tighten all parts snugly but do not over tighten as this could damage new seals and lead to future bathtub faucet leaks.
Test the Repair
Slowly turn the water supply back on. Open and close the faucet several times to check for the tub dripping fix. A successful repair means the dripping has completely stopped when the handle is in the off position.
Broken Bathtub Faucet? When to Repair vs. Replace
When faced with a constant leaking tub faucet, you have two choices: repair the faulty part or replace the entire fixture.
Choose to Repair if… | Choose to Replace if… |
The faucet is less than 10 years old. | The faucet is very old, visibly corroded, or damaged. |
The problem is a simple, cheap part like a washer or O-ring. | The leak is coming from a spot that is not easily fixed, like a crack in the valve body itself. |
You know the make and model and parts are easy to find. | You want to update the look and style of your bathroom. |
The total repair cost is very low (under $50 for parts). | You have a concealed faucet where a replacement involves opening the wall. A new fixture makes the extra work worthwhile. |
In most cases, a simple repair is the most cost-effective solution. If the faucet is very old or corroded, a replacement will prevent future headaches.
How Much Does It Cost to Fix or Replace a Bathtub Faucet?
Understanding the cost helps you make the right choice between a DIY repair and a full replacement.
Repair Costs (DIY)
The cost to DIY a leaky faucet tub is extremely low. You are mostly paying for the replacement components.
- Washers and O-Rings: A few dollars ($2 to $10).
- Cartridge: Usually between $20 and $100, depending on the brand.
- Tools: If you need to buy a wrench or pliers, you might spend $20 to $40.
Total DIY Repair Cost: Typically $5 to $100.
Professional Repair and Replacement Costs
Hiring a plumber brings expertise and a guarantee, but at a higher cost.
- Professional Repair (Labor Only): A plumber usually charges $150 to $350 for a standard repair, including the cost of minor parts.
- Faucet Replacement (Parts and Labor): The national average for replacing a standard tub faucet and valve assembly falls between $450 and $1,000. The price varies based on the type of faucet and how complex the installation is. If the plumber must access pipes inside the wall, the labor cost goes up significantly.
When to Call a Professional?
While a simple tub dripping fix is a great DIY project, some issues require a professional. Knowing when to call in an expert saves you time, money, and the risk of a plumbing disaster.
- You Cannot Turn Off the Water: If the main shut-off valve is stuck, broken, or you cannot locate it, stop the project and call a plumber right away.
- Hidden Plumbing Issues: If your faucet repair requires opening a wall to access pipes or the main valve body. Concealed work carries a higher risk of damage.
- Stuck or Broken Parts: If a handle, screw, or cartridge is completely seized and you cannot remove it without excessive force. Forcing a part can crack the entire fixture or damage the pipes inside the wall.
- Advanced Faucet Types: Cartridge, disk, or ball faucets can be harder to diagnose and repair than simple compression models.
- No Improvement: If you replaced the washer or cartridge but the leak continues. This means the problem is a more complex issue, like a corroded valve seat you can’t access or high water pressure.
For complex plumbing problems, especially when water is involved, it is always a smart choice to call a licensed professional. If you live in Eagle rock, the experts at Derks Plumbing are ready to handle your Faucet Repair quickly and correctly.
Conclusion
Every homeowner must quickly address leaky faucet tubs. From worn-out washers in compression units to malfunctioning cartridges in single handle units, now has all of the knowledge and instruction necessary to address this task. Be sure to shut off the water first, locate replacement parts properly, and reassemble without overtightening anything during reassembly – taking good care in maintaining plumbing is key to having a quiet, water-saving home environment.
FAQs
Why is my bathtub faucet leaking even after I replaced the washer?
It’s an all too common occurrence: when your bathtub faucet leaks after replacing the washer, the most likely cause is likely a damaged valve seat. The valve seat serves as the surface where the new washer seal will sit against corroded or worn surfaces within the faucet body – any corrosion or wear will prevent watertight sealing and require removal with a wrench to correct.
Is it okay to use a generic replacement cartridge for my single-handle faucet?
While generic cartridges are cheaper, we do not recommend them. The internal measurements of cartridges must be very exact. A generic cartridge may fit but could cause pressure issues or a persistent tub faucet leak because the seals do not line up perfectly. Always try to buy a replacement cartridge made by the original faucet brand.
How much water does a bathtub faucet drip actually waste?
An apparently minor leak can waste an amazing amount of water. A faucet dripping at just one drip per second for one year wastes over 3,000 gallons – enough water for 181 full showers! Repairing leaky faucet tubs is an excellent way to both save money and conserve water resources.
How do I know if I have a compression or a cartridge faucet?
Compression faucets feature two separate handles – one for hot and one for cold water – to control hot and cold water temperatures respectively, while cartridge faucets utilize one lever or knob that allows you to turn on and adjust temperature at once.
What is the most common reason for a tub faucet leak?
Most bathtub faucet leaks can be traced back to a worn-out rubber seal – either the washer in a compression faucet or O-rings in a cartridge faucet – that has worn down over time, often faster than their metal bodies. Replacing these rubber parts quickly is often the quickest and simplest way to rectify dripping.
