How to fix a Leaking Bathtub Faucet

Leakage in the bathroom is a big issue especially when you have to pay a high water bill.

Leakage, whether it is minor or major is not good for the bathroom. It leads to several problems

that over a period can become quite costly to fix. Some of the issues, which are related to the

leakage in the bathtub or bathroom, are:

- Water wastage: The larger the leak is the more water will be wasted. Even though you are

not using the bathtub spout, it will keep on allowing seepage through the leaking corners.

- Rusting of faucet: You might be using a good quality faucet but if it stays in contact with

the water for long time, especially unwanted usage, it can be rusting. The faucet joints

will develop rusty patches thus resulting in the need to loosen the faucet to prevent

further damage.

- Staining of bathtub: Regular dripping water from the valve can cause staining on the

bathtub surface due to the minerals present in the water. These stains look very dirty

because they stand out on the clear surface of the tub. You might keep the tub squeaky

clean and dry but if the water will drip from the valve throughout the day, it will leave

stains.

- Mold growth: Where there is moisture in a warm environment, mold can flourish.

Bathrooms are the perfect place for corrosion or mold to grow. You will have to keep it

very clean to avoid it from becoming another burden within your daily tasks.

To face all these problems, it is better to get rid of the leaking problem. Repairing the leaking

bathtub faucet is very easy given you are aware of the plumbing tidbits. If not, you should not

play with those pliers and valves as they can sometimes cause more damage than do good. Call a

professional plumber and get the leaking problem tended as soon as possible. Apart from this, if

you can handle minor plumbing works easily, here are a few tips to do it:

- Remove faucet handle: Before starting the repairing, you will have to remove the faucet

handle, so start with cutting off the water supply to avoid getting drenched with water

while removing it. Drain all the water from the supply pipes by opening all the valves.

Now you can remove the faucet by using a screwdriver. If it will not come off easily or

breaks, you should contact a plumber.

- Remove stem bonnet: using a bath socket wrench, unscrew the stem bonnet also known

as the cartridge. Take out all the different parts and check for damage. You will likely

find the part, which was causing the leakage. If not, you should try to change the entire

set.

- Replacement of damaged parts: First start with replacing the parts in the stem bonnet.

Grease each part before screwing it in. remove the bonnet washer, seat washer, grease

them and screw to their place again. Replace the faucet trim, valve handle, collar, valve

screw and faucet insert. Tighten all the parts well and turn on the water supply to check

your work.

Always use a good quality faucet and stem bonnet parts to avoid short term damages regularly.

Also, consult your plumber for better advice on it.

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