How to Fix a Leaking Bathtub Faucet

Drips from a bathtub faucet are more than just an annoyance; they are a constant drain on your water bill and a slow erosion of your home's hardware. Most leaks occur because the internal seal—usually a cartridge or a seat washer—has hardened or cracked after years of exposure to mineral deposits and water pressure. Getting this fixed isn't about plumbing mastery; it's about having the patience to disassemble the handle and replace the exact match of the failed component. Success here relies on preparation. Before you touch a wrench, you must shut off the water supply to the bathroom or the entire house to prevent a pressurized geyser when you pull the handle. Once the water is off, the process becomes a straightforward matter of unscrewing the housing and swapping out the parts. Take your time, keep your small screws in a bowl so they don't vanish down the drain, and you will have a silent, leak-free tub by the afternoon.

  1. Cut Water Supply First. Locate the water shut-off valves for your bathroom or the main house line and turn them completely to the off position. Open the faucet handle to drain the remaining water in the pipes before starting work.
  2. Expose Hidden Hardware. Pry off the decorative cap on the handle to expose the screw underneath, then loosen the screw to pull the handle off the stem. If it is stuck, use a light tapping motion or a handle puller tool rather than forcing it, which could damage the internal valve.
  3. Extract the Valve Cartridge. Use a deep-socket wrench to unscrew the packing nut and remove the valve stem or cartridge from the wall. Inspect the unit for cracks or worn O-rings while you have it out.
  4. Swap Worn Seals Out. Take the old cartridge or washer to a hardware store to ensure an exact match, as many brands use proprietary sizes. Install the new component, ensuring it seats firmly into the valve body.
  5. Rebuild the Handle Mechanism. Slide the stem back into the valve body, tighten the packing nut with your wrench, and reinstall the handle. Do not overtighten the nut, as this can crack the internal plastic components.
  6. Verify Zero Drips. Slowly turn your water supply back on and check the faucet for any signs of dripping. If it is still leaking, double-check that the cartridge is seated correctly and the retaining nut is snug.