How to Fix a Leaky Bathtub Faucet

Dripping faucets are more than just an auditory nuisance; they are silent thieves stealing gallons of water and hiking your utility bills every month. Whether it's a steady rhythm keeping you awake or a slow seep that leaves stains in your tub, the root cause is almost always a worn-out component inside the valve body that has lost its ability to create a watertight seal. Successfully tackling this repair requires patience and a systematic approach to disassembly. Once you strip back the handle and trim, the path to the fix becomes clear. By replacing the internal seals or the entire cartridge, you restore the faucet's integrity and save yourself the cost of a plumber's service call. Let's get that leak under control.

1. Stop the Water First. Locate the water shut-off valves for your bathroom or the main house line. Turn them clockwise until tight, then open the faucet handle to bleed the remaining pressure from the lines.
2. Pop Off the Handle. Identify the screw holding the handle in place, usually hidden under a decorative cap on the front or side. Use a screwdriver or hex key to loosen it and pull the handle straight off the valve stem.
3. Pull Out the Cartridge. Remove the trim plate and the retaining nut using an adjustable wrench. Once the nut is clear, pull the cartridge or stem assembly straight out, using pliers if it feels stiff.
4. Check the Brass Inside. Look inside the valve housing for signs of scale or debris. Use a soft brush to clean out any mineral deposits that might prevent the new seal from seating correctly.
5. Install Fresh Seals. Match your old parts exactly with the new replacements from the hardware store. Install the new cartridge or new rubber washers and O-rings, ensuring they are seated firmly in their grooves.
6. Test for Leaks. Slide the cartridge back into the valve, tighten the retaining nut, and reattach the handle. Turn the water supply back on slowly and check for leaks before fully tightening the trim plates.