Fix a Common Household Nuisance With These Tips
A leaky bathtub faucet is more than just an irritating sound; it can lead to higher water bills and additional damage if not addressed promptly. Luckily, with a few tools and a bit of DIY know-how, fixing this all-too-common issue can be straightforward. The following guide provides three methods on how to fix a leaking bathtub faucet and stop that drip once and for all:
Tighten the Packing Nut
The first step in stopping a leak is to inspect the packing nut located on the handle itself. Over time, this nut may loosen slightly, causing water to escape around the handle when the faucet is turned off. By simply tightening the packing nut with an adjustable wrench, you may be able to stop the leak without any further work needed.
Replace Worn Washers or Seals
If tightening the packing nut doesn’t solve the problem, your next move should be checking for worn-out washers or seals inside the valve assembly. Turn off your water supply before dismantling the handle and valve components. Once you access the valve’s inner workings, inspect and replace any rubber washers or seals showing signs of wear or damage. This is often one of the most effective repairs for putting an end to dripping faucets.
Address Valve Seat Corrosion
In some cases, correcting a leaky bathtub faucet may involve dealing with corrosion on the valve seat, which can prevent a watertight seal even when new washers are in place. If after replacing washers or seals the leak persists, remove the faucet stem and examine the valve seat for mineral deposits or corrosion. A valve seat wrench can help remove it so that you can either clean it thoroughly or replace it if necessary.
How to Fix a Leaking Bathtub Faucet: Leak-Free Bathtub Fixtures
Fathoming the process of how to fix a leaking bathtub faucet should arm you with practical approaches towards achieving seamless functionality again. If DIY repairs feel daunting or time-intensive, however, residents in Kissimmee, FL can always turn to DCM Plumbing and Remodeling LLC for expert plumbing repair services. Reach out at (863) 250-9787— our team is well-versed in restoring bathtubs to their tip-top condition without that problematic pitter-patter of droplets.