Why Is My Bathtub Faucet Leaking And What To Do About It?

A leaky bathtub faucet can be a frustrating and costly problem. Not only does it waste water, but it can also lead to water damage in your bathroom. If you’re wondering “why is my bathtub faucet leaking,” this comprehensive guide will help you identify the cause and find a solution.

Common Causes of Bathtub Faucet Leaks

• Worn Washer: The washer is a small rubber or plastic seal that creates a watertight seal between the faucet handle and the valve stem. Over time, the washer can become worn or damaged, allowing water to leak.
• Loose Handle: A loose handle can cause water to leak from the base of the faucet. This can be due to a loose screw or a worn O-ring.
• Faulty Cartridge: The cartridge is a self-contained unit that controls the flow of water through the faucet. If the cartridge is faulty, it can leak water from the spout or the base of the faucet.
• Corrosion: Corrosion can damage the metal components of the faucet, leading to leaks. This is especially common in areas with hard water.
• Damaged O-Rings: O-rings are small rubber seals that create watertight seals at various points in the faucet. If an O-ring is damaged, it can allow water to leak.
• Clogged Aerator: The aerator is a small screen that attaches to the end of the faucet spout. If the aerator becomes clogged, it can restrict the flow of water and cause it to leak from the base of the faucet.
• Loose Supply Lines: The supply lines are the flexible hoses that connect the faucet to the water supply. If the supply lines are loose, they can leak water at the connection point.

Troubleshooting and Repairing a Leaky Bathtub Faucet

1. Identify the Source of the Leak

Before you can repair a leaky bathtub faucet, you need to identify the source of the leak. To do this, turn off the water supply to the faucet and then check for leaks at the following points:

• The base of the faucet
• The handle
• The spout
• The supply lines

2. Replace the Washer

If the leak is coming from the base of the faucet, it is likely caused by a worn washer. To replace the washer, you will need to:

• Remove the handle by unscrewing the screw that holds it in place.
• Use a wrench to remove the packing nut.
• Remove the old washer and replace it with a new one.
• Reassemble the faucet in reverse order.

3. Tighten the Handle

If the leak is coming from the handle, it is likely caused by a loose handle. To tighten the handle, you will need to:

• Unscrew the screw that holds the handle in place.
• Tighten the screw until the handle is snug.
• Reinstall the handle.

4. Replace the Cartridge

If the leak is coming from the spout or the base of the faucet, it is likely caused by a faulty cartridge. To replace the cartridge, you will need to:

• Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
• Remove the handle by unscrewing the screw that holds it in place.
• Use a wrench to remove the packing nut.
• Pull out the old cartridge and insert a new one.
• Reassemble the faucet in reverse order.

5. Clean the Aerator

If the leak is coming from the base of the faucet, it is possible that the aerator is clogged. To clean the aerator, you will need to:

• Unscrew the aerator from the faucet spout.
• Soak the aerator in vinegar for 30 minutes.
• Use a small brush to remove any debris from the aerator.
• Reinstall the aerator.

6. Tighten the Supply Lines

If the leak is coming from the connection point of the supply lines, you will need to tighten the supply lines. To do this, you will need to:

• Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
• Use a wrench to tighten the nuts that connect the supply lines to the faucet.
• Reopen the water supply and check for leaks.

7. Call a Plumber

If you are unable to stop the leak on your own, you should call a plumber. A plumber will be able to diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.

How to Prevent Bathtub Faucet Leaks

The best way to prevent bathtub faucet leaks is to perform regular maintenance. This includes:

• Checking the faucet for leaks on a regular basis.
• Tightening the handle and supply lines as needed.
• Cleaning the aerator every few months.
• Replacing the washer every few years.

Takeaways: Stop the Drip, Save the Drop

A leaky bathtub faucet is a common problem that can be easily fixed with the right tools and knowledge. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can identify the source of the leak and make the necessary repairs to stop the drip and save the drop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is my bathtub faucet leaking from the base?
A: The most common cause of a leak from the base of a bathtub faucet is a worn washer.

Q: How often should I replace the washer in my bathtub faucet?
A: You should replace the washer in your bathtub faucet every few years.

Q: Can I replace the cartridge in my bathtub faucet myself?
A: Yes, you can replace the cartridge in your bathtub faucet yourself with the right tools and knowledge.