Tools and Materials
What Causes a Bathtub Faucet to Leak?
The most common causes of a leaking bathtub faucet are a corroded washer or a failing cartridge. In some cases, it could be old bathtub faucet handles that have worn over time, that’s usually easier to identify since you will notice rust or cracking. If the source of the bathtub faucet leak is the pipe leading to the faucet, it may be a trickier repair that could require a plumber to help fix.
Before You Start Your Bathtub Faucet Repair
Locate your home’s water shut-off valve, they’re typically in the basement, and turn off the water supply. Once your valve is closed, turn your bathtub faucet on to drain any remaining water in the pipe.
Step 1: Remove the Bathtub Faucet Handle
Every bathtub faucet cover might be slightly different. Start by assessing what screwdriver or Allen wrench you need to remove the cover from your single-handle bathtub faucet. Gently remove the handle and set aside on a towel with its corresponding screws.
Step 2: Remove the Trim Sleeve or Trim Plate
Unscrew the screws using whatever corresponding screwdriver or Allen wrench best suits your bathtub faucet.
Step 3: Remove the Bonnet or Retainer Clip
Depending on how your bathtub faucet is constructed, you’re either going to use channel lock pliers to remove the bonnet/ retainer nut or use your pliers to grab the top of the retainer clip and pull up to remove the retainer clip. Place these pieces on the towel as well.
Step 4: Remove the Bathtub Faucet Cartridge
Use your hand or a pair of pliers to remove the cartridge from the faucet pulling it straight out of the faucet handle. Don’t be discouraged if it takes a little bit of strength to remove this piece. Once it’s out, compare your old cartridge to the new one to ensure that you’ve purchased the right one. Check the interior opening to make sure the metal doesn’t look corroded or damaged.
Step 5: Install the New Bathtub Faucet Cartridge
Push the new cartridge into the bathtub faucet opening, making sure to line up the corresponding grooves so it clicks into place. Replace the bonnet nut or retainer clip.
Step 6: Check Your Work for Leaks
Go to the water valve that you turned off and turn it back on to check for leaks around the bathtub faucet. Look beyond the cartridge you just replaced to see if there is another source for the leak. If everything looks good reassemble the bathtub faucet with its trim plate and bathtub faucet.
Fixing Your Leaking Bathtub Faucet: A Great DIY
As far as DIY projects go, this is a great one to try if you're a beginner. The steps are fairly simple, and you don't need complex tools. Plus, changing a bathroom faucet cartridge yourself saves money. While it's always good to consult a pro if you feel out of your depth, it's worth giving this a try first. You've got this.