Bathtub Faucet Repair

One fine morning you go into the bathroom, only to find it damp. The problem - a leaky bathtub faucet. You tried calling the plumbing store but all their employees are busy attending other calls. Now you are left with the task of fixing the bathtub faucet, all by yourself. Being an amateur, you are quite apprehensive about trying your hand at this task. However, the good news is that you don't have to be a professional to fix a dysfunctional bathtub faucet. You can purchase the required paraphernalia from any hardware store near your house. Before getting on to the task, make sure you have all the things within hand reach to avoid running off, often to get something or the other.

How to Repair a Leaky Bathtub Faucet

The task of fixing a leaky bathtub faucet is not exactly a Herculean one and you can go about it without hiring a plumber.

• Before you get to the main task of repairing the bathtub faucet, disconnect the main water supply pipe to avoid wastage of water. To disconnect the supply, turn the round knobs that are attached to the hoses, in clockwise direction.
• Once the water supply is cut off, you can proceed to the task of repairing the faucet. Dismantle the cabinet and the countertop where the faucet has been installed. Now remove the handle of the faucet by unscrewing it from the faucet. For this you will need a screwdriver.
• After the handle is removed, the valve stem should be unscrewed from the faucet. Foe this purpose a wrench can be used and the nut, which is hexagonal in shape, should be removed by turning the wrench in counterclockwise direction.
• The next step for a fixing a dripping faucet is to check the valve for any cracks or signs of wear. If the valve stem has been damaged, then you must replace it. You can easily purchase it from any hardware store.
• The rubber washer of the faucet should be checked. If it is worn out or damaged, then it needs replacement. After the new washer has been replaced, it should be secured to the faucet with the help of a screwdriver. A few drops of silicon grease will keep the washer in proper working condition.
• Next, place a thin pipe thread and wind it around the stem threads perimeter. Apply pressure and with the help of your finger push these into the faucet. Tighten the nut and bolt of the faucet with the help of a wrench. After the faucet handle has been replaced and the cap refitted, the water supply can be restored. You are finally done with bathtub faucet repair.

The next time you experience the same problem, you can solve it yourself without seeking professional help. You can also use the same method to repair other leaking faucets in the house. So roll up your sleeves and put an end to the continuous dripping of water.