Let everyone in your household know that you’re working on your tub faucet and shut off the water. [2] X Expert Source David BalkanProfessional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Water Main Expert Interview. 23 February 2021.
If your faucet has a decorative plate on the end, then the screw is hidden underneath it. Use a flathead screwdriver to pry it off. Be careful not to force the handle off the faucet, or you could damage the pipes. Instead, secure a bathroom handle puller to the end to remove it. If that still doesn’t work, then you may need to contact a plumber.
If you’re repairing a leaky faucet with two handles, then also remove the decorative escutcheon plate at the base of the faucet. Cut any caulk with a utility knife and loosen any screws to take it off.
If the hex nut sticks out past the wall, then you may be able to loosen it with a standard wrench. If you have trouble turning the wrench, try applying lubricating spray to the hex nut to loosen it. Remove both of the faucet handle stems since either of them could cause a leak.
It’s normal if a little water drips out of the faucet or pipe once you remove the cartridge.
When the seat starts wearing away, it doesn’t form a watertight seal when you turn the faucet off, which may cause it to leak or drip. To replace the neoprene seats in a ball-lever faucet, pry them and the springs out from the holes in the back of the faucet. Use a screwdriver or needlenose pliers to pull them out. Get new seats and springs for your brand of faucet and feed them back into the holes. [9] X Research source
The seat washer presses against the seat to make a watertight seal to stop leaks. Buy a faucet replacement kit to get a pack of assorted washer sizes if you can’t find washers specific for your model of faucet. [11] X Expert Source David BalkanProfessional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Water Main Expert Interview. 23 February 2021.
An old and cracked bonnet washer could cause a dripping faucet since small amounts of water can leak through. If the bonnet washer is crooked or raised, try straightening it out so it lies flat.
If the packing nut corrodes, then it can’t create a watertight seal where it connects to the handle.
Ensure the faucet is in the full, open position so it fits all the way into the valve. Apply pipe sealant around the threading on a new faucet stem to help prevent the valve connection from leaking.
If you removed any escutcheon plates, put a layer of plumber’s putty underneath them to prevent leaks from getting underneath and into your walls.
The old spout may have worn out threadings that water could leak through. If your faucet still leaks after you change the spout, then contact a plumber to find out what’s causing it.
