How To Stop Bathroom Tub Faucet From Dripping

How to Stop Bathroom Tub Faucet From Dripping

A dripping bathroom tub faucet can be a pesky and annoying problem, wasting water and driving up utility bills. Fortunately, it's often a relatively simple issue to fix yourself with a few basic tools and a little know-how. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you stop that drip.

Identifying the Source of the Drip

Before you start taking apart the faucet, it's essential to identify the source of the drip. Here are a few common culprits:

Faucet handle: If the drip is coming from the handle, it's likely a worn-out washer or cartridge.
Faucet spout: A leak at the spout could indicate a damaged O-ring or aerator.
Showerhead: If the leak is coming from the showerhead, it could be a faulty washer or a loose connection.

Once you know where the drip is coming from, you can focus your efforts on the appropriate repair.

Tools and Materials You'll Need

Depending on the source of the drip, you may need some or all of the following tools and materials:

Phillips head screwdriver
Flat head screwdriver
Wrench
Replacement washers, O-rings, or cartridges
Faucet lubricant
Plumber's putty

You can typically find these items at your local hardware store.

Step-by-Step Repair Instructions

Once you have the necessary tools and materials, follow these step-by-step instructions to stop the faucet drip.

Fixing a Dripping Handle

Turn off the water supply.
Remove the handle by unscrewing the screw or cap on the top.
Replace the old washer or cartridge with a new one.
Apply faucet lubricant to the new washer or cartridge.
Reassemble the handle.
Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.

Fixing a Dripping Spout

Unscrew the spout by turning it counterclockwise.
Replace the old O-ring with a new one.
Apply plumber's putty to the threads of the spout.
Screw the spout back on.
Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.

Fixing a Dripping Showerhead

Remove the showerhead by unscrewing it from the pipe.
Replace the old washer with a new one.
Apply faucet lubricant to the new washer.
Screw the showerhead back on.
Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.

Tips for Preventing Future Drips

Once you've fixed the drip, here are a few tips to help prevent it from happening again:

Use less force when closing the faucet: Overtightening the faucet can damage the washers or O-rings.
Install a faucet aerator: This device can help reduce water pressure, which can contribute to dripping.
Regularly check the faucet for signs of wear: Replace worn-out washers or O-rings as needed.
Use a water softener: Hard water can contribute to mineral buildup, which can cause leaks.

By following these tips, you can keep your bathroom tub faucet drip-free and save water and money in the process.