The bathtub faucet is what balances the water flow into the bathtub. It is the link that joins the water supply in the household. A leaking bathtub faucet is one that is defective. It drips water from the spout, and it is impossible to shut it off entirely. The constant dripping not only irritates but also places unnecessary pressure on the washers, making them damaged quickly before their time.
In addition, you’ll overpay for your water bills and potentially need to make aesthetic repairs, as leaky water will force out ugly bathtub stains. So, if you are keen on rolling up your sleeves and getting a few basic tools, carrying out the repairs yourself will not be huge work.
8 Simple Steps To Fix a Leaking Bathtub Faucet in Florida
1. Shut Off the Water Supply
Shut off the water to the bathroom. Forgetting this, you may incur water damage when you start to remove the faucet from its fitting and water begins to splash about. The water supply valve is usually located in your house’s basement or crawl space. Some households have it located outside.
2. Disassemble the Faucet
- Detach the faucet handle insert with the slim blade of a pocket knife or a slotted screwdriver. A screw inside the faucet handle pins the handle in position.
- Unscrew the screw, then shake the handle and pull it off. Don’t pull too hard, though, so it does not break. It is prone to breakage.
3. Remove the Escutcheon
Now, remove the escutcheon, the decorative plate that disguises the hole in the wall. Depending on what faucet it is, to cause it to work, you may simply need to unscrew it or twist it off.
4. Remove the Stem
Now you will be able to access the stem assembly. The stem assembly manages the amount and water temperature administered through the tub spout or shower head. Find an adjustable wrench and use it to take it out. If you find a special bath socket wrench instead, it works just as well.
5. Check and Replace the Washer
When the stem is out, you will need to know whether the washer on the end needs replacing. How you find out is by inspecting. For the water to leak, the condition of the washer surely has to be impaired and hardened. If you have extra washers, go ahead and install them.
- Unscrew the washer screw.
- Switch the washer with the new one.
- Replace the screw.
6. Inspect the Seat for Damage
The seat is that part that touches the washer. It may become deformed either through corrosion or as the washer gradually wears away. So, inspect if the seat is damaged while replacing the stem and also the new washer.
7. Replace the Seat if Necessary
For any signs of damage to the seat, with a seat wrench, take out the seat and replace it.
8. Put Everything Back in Place
After replacing the washer and inspecting the seat, regroup the bathroom faucet.
- Fasten the stem with a good adjustable wrench,
- Fix the escutcheon, and screw it back into its original place.
- Screw the handle back into its correct position and replace the cap that covers it.
- Turn the bathtub faucet off. Turn on the water main for a few seconds and watch the bathtub spout to see if it drips.
Related Content: How To Fix a Leaky Tap
