How to change the bathtub faucet washer: Step by step Guide 

Is your bathtub faucet leaking? It’s likely due to a worn-out faucet washer. Learning how to change a bathtub faucet washer can save you from costly water damage and high utility bills. Replacing this small but essential part is a straightforward DIY task that can restore your bathroom’s functionality without the need for a plumber.

This guide will walk you through each step to replace the washer and fix that leaky bathtub faucet.

How to Change a Bathtub Faucet Washer: Step-by-Step Instructions

Before starting the repair, it’s essential to understand that changing a bathtub faucet washer is a simple yet crucial task that can prevent ongoing leaks and save you from costly water damage. This guide will provide you with clear and detailed steps, ensuring that even if you’re new to DIY plumbing, you’ll be able to complete the job efficiently.

Important Tips:

• Safety First: Always wear protective gear, such as gloves and goggles, to avoid injuries from old or corroded parts.
• Correct Tools: Using the right tools and materials is critical for a smooth process. Double-check that you have everything on hand before beginning.
• Shut Off Water Supply: Never attempt to work on the faucet without first turning off the water supply. This prevents accidental flooding and makes the job easier.

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process.

1. Gather Your Materials

Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials on hand. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and save you time.

Tools and Materials Needed:

• Screwdriver
• Pliers
• Adjustable wrench
• Replacement washer (ensure it’s the right size)
• Plumber’s grease (optional)
• Safety gear (gloves, goggles)

Wearing safety gear, such as gloves and goggles, is important to protect yourself injuries, especially when dealing with old or corroded parts. Now that you’re equipped with the right tools, let’s move on to the first step.

2. Turn Off the Water Supply

Before doing any work on your faucet, it’s crucial to turn off the water supply to avoid flooding your bathroom.

• Locate the Water Supply Valve: Find the shut-off valve for your bathtub. This is usually located under the sink or in the basement. If you can’t find it, you may need to turn off the main water supply to your house.
• Turn Off the Water: Once you’ve located the valve, turn it clockwise to shut off the water. This step is vital to ensure you don’t end up with a soaked bathroom floor.

With the water supply off, you’re ready to start working on the faucet itself.

3. Disassemble the Faucet Handle

Different faucets have different types of handles, but the basic process of disassembly is similar across the board.

• Remove the Handle Cap: Use a flathead screwdriver to carefully pry off the decorative cap on the faucet handle. This will expose the screw underneath.
• Unscrew the Handle: Using a Phillips screwdriver, unscrew the handle from the faucet body. Keep the screws in a safe place as you’ll need them later.
• Remove the Handle: Once the screw is out, gently pull the handle off. If it’s stuck, use a pair of pliers to wiggle it free, but be careful not to damage the handle.

For a detailed explanation of how to remove a faucet, you can refer to our How to remove a bathtub faucet: Complete guide.

4. Remove the Old Washer

The washer is located at the base of the valve stem, which is now exposed.

• Locate the Washer: The washer sits at the bottom of the valve stem, usually secured by a screw.
• Unscrew and Remove the Washer: Use your adjustable wrench to unscrew the valve stem from the faucet body. Once it’s free, use a screwdriver to remove the screw holding the old washer in place.
• Inspect the Washer: Before discarding the old washer, inspect it for signs of wear, such as cracks or flattening. This inspection helps you understand the cause of the leak and ensures that the new washer will solve the problem.

If your faucet has two handles, you might also want to check out our How to fix a leaky bathtub faucet with two handles guide.

5. Install the New Washer

Choosing the correct washer size is critical to ensuring a proper fit.

• Select the Right Washer: Take the old washer to the hardware store to find an exact match. Using the wrong size can lead to further leaks or damage to the faucet.
• Install the New Washer: Place the new washer where the old one was and secure it with the screw. Ensure it’s tightly fastened, but be careful not to over-tighten, as this can damage the washer.
• Apply Plumber’s Grease: For smoother operation, apply a small amount of plumber’s grease to the threads of the valve stem before reassembling.

Now that the new washer is in place, you can reassemble the faucet.

6. Reassemble the Faucet Handle

Putting the faucet back together is just as important as taking it apart.

• Reattach the Valve Stem: Screw the valve stem back into the faucet body using your wrench.
• Reattach the Handle: Place the handle back on the valve stem and secure it with the screw you set aside earlier.
• Replace the Handle Cap: Finally, snap the decorative cap back onto the handle to complete the reassembly.

Your faucet should now be back together and ready to use.

7. Turn the Water Supply Back On

With the faucet reassembled, it’s time to restore the water supply.

• Turn the Water Supply On: Slowly turn the water supply valve counterclockwise to restore water flow. Doing this slowly helps prevent any sudden pressure surges that could cause leaks.
• Check for Leaks: Before celebrating, carefully inspect the faucet and surrounding area for any signs of leaks. If everything looks dry, you’re good to go.

If you encounter any further issues, refer to our Troubleshooting Common Kitchen Faucet Problems: A How-to Guide for more troubleshooting tips.

8. Test the Faucet

Testing ensures that your hard work has paid off and that the leak is fixed.

• Turn On the Faucet: Turn on the faucet and let the water run for a few minutes. Listen and watch for any signs of leaks.
• Check for Drips: Pay close attention to the faucet spout and handle area. If there are no drips, your bathtub faucet washer replacement was a success.
• Troubleshooting Tips: If you notice any leaks, try tightening the connections slightly. If the leak persists, the washer might not be the right size, or there could be another issue requiring further inspection.

Conclusion

Changing a bathtub faucet washer is a simple yet effective way to stop a dripping faucet and save on water bills. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ve not only fixed the leak but also gained a valuable DIY skill. Remember, regular maintenance of your faucet and its components can prevent future issues and extend the life of your bathroom fixtures. Don’t hesitate to tackle this repair yourself—with the right tools and a bit of patience, you can do it!

FAQs