You’ve got plumbing questions. Meticulous Plumbing has plumbing answers! Wondering how to fix a leaky single-handle bathtub faucet?
Let’s take a look.
Form vs. Function
Modern plumbing fixtures come in a variety of styles and configurations. Prefer something bright, shiny and a little elegant? Or something that’s more function than form? You’re sure to find it in your local hardware stores.
With all those creative configurations, it can be difficult to know how to repair a bathtub faucet handle.
Fortunately, despite the outward appearance of your particular faucet handle, the internal mechanics are likely similar to other bathtub faucets.
Strip away the outer (and often purely cosmetic) material and most bathtub faucets function exactly the same behind the scenes.
Leaky Single-Handle Bathtub Faucet
A bathtub faucet handle is comprised of several parts, some moving, some not. A likely culprit with a leaky single-handle bathtub faucet is a washer that’s gone bad.
If you’re handy around the house, you may be able to fix this one yourself.
If there’s a bigger problem, however, we suggest calling a professional plumber. In Portland, your best choice is Meticulous Plumbing.
Here are the basic steps if you’re thinking about doing it yourself. This process is for a typical compression valve bathtub faucet. (The kind with the occasionally failing washers.)
We’d like to emphasize that it’s best to call a professional for even the smallest jobs. The info provided here is just an overview. It doesn’t take the place of a professional inspection and is presented here for informational purposes only.
Fixing A Leaky Single-Handle Faucet
- Shut off the water supply
- Remove the faucet handle with a screwdriver. You’ll probably need to first remove the decorative cap to remove the handle.
- Once you’ve removed the tub faucet handle, give it a good inspection. Can you see any corrosion or problem areas? Over time, bathtub handles can develop rust, cracks, and corrosion in the faucet stems or even the handle itself. Rubber washers are also susceptible to deterioration over time. Replacing the washers often fixes the leak.
- Take pictures, if necessary, and visit your local hardware store for replacement parts.
- Replace the eroded and malfunctioning parts.
- Turn the water back on.
- Turn the handle on your bathtub faucet. If leaks persist, then the solution is beyond the bounds of this broad outline. Call (or text!) a professional plumber.
Meticulous Plumbing in Portland
Check back later for new blog posts on how to fix a leaky two handle shower faucet? We’ll also examine how to replace bathtub faucet handles altogether in a later compilation blog post.
In the meantime, contact Meticulous Plumbing in Portland for all your plumbing needs!
