How to fix a dripping bathtub faucet?

Hi there,

A few months back my bathtub faucet kept dripping water. I wondered how to fix a dripping bathtub faucet and what causes it to leak. Well, I have learnt that most of the leakages are caused by the washer since it is pushed against the valve everytime we turn it on and off. Leaks can also occur due to faulty stem, cartridge or rusty handle. I have done research on this one since I have faced this trouble before. I will share with you how to repair a leaking bathtub.

How to fix a dripping bathtub faucet?

1. Mostly damaged washers are the reason for leaky faucets, so it's better to keep a new one handy as you may need to replace it.

2. To begin with, turn off the water supply. You need to remove the components and the water can damage the parts. 

3. Drain the residual water by turning on the faucet to repair the leak.

4. Now you need to reach the cartridge which is behind the faucet or handle plate wall. If you are facing trouble understanding where the cartridge is located check your manual once.

5. In my case, the handle was attached to the faucet. So, I took a screwdriver to remove the screw and release the handle. 

6. Now you need to withdraw the faucet from the wall with the help of screwdrivers.

7. After unscrewing you will be able to see the faucet or the handle plate. 

8. Carefully keep the screw along with the handle and faucet in place you won't lose.

9. You might find the escutcheon which you need to remove. The escutcheon resembles a keyhole. Twist it to remove it from the components.

10. Now you have to check the cartridge. Take an adjustable wrench to check out where the damage is.

11. You will find a small rubbery band just on top of the stem. This is a washer. If the washer is cracked or worn out you have to replace it with a new one. You need to replace the cartridge if you are unable to find the washer.

12. If the leaking doesn't stop you have to replace the handle or stem. So, check these two components properly as well.

13. Now keep every back to its place and turn on the switch. This should stop leaking bathtub faucet.

If you are not professional you should let plumbers do this job. You can end up damaging more if you don't know how to fix a leaky faucet. 

I hope you understand how to fix a dripping bathtub faucet now.

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