Replacing a Dripping Tub Faucet
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Replacing a Dripping Tub Faucet

A dripping tub faucet is not that difficult to replace and there are different things that you can do about it. The good news is that you will probably not need the help of a professional plumber unless you really do not know what you are doing. In such a case it is better to hire one so that the price you end up paying on too much damage done is not higher. On the other hand, we are confident that you can do it yourself!

The first and most important thing is to shut the water off. You wouldn’t want a fountain appearing when you try to replace the dripping tub faucet. Next you have to remove the faucet stems by utilizing a suitable socket set. Simply take this stem to a local plumbing supply house and purchase a replacement. Another thing you can do is utilize special glue like solutions that you can buy at the same location, although they will surely start dripping again sooner or later. A replacement is usually the key solution to this tub faucet problem.

In most cases only one faucet is dripping. It is either cold or hot and rarely will we notice both having the same problem at once. If this is your case take a closer look as it might not be the faucet but another part that is defective. Still, if it is the faucet, remove the handles. In most cases this is achievable with using an Allen wrench. Then unscrew the base and remove it, remove the stem and put in a new piece of rubber if you see that the one there was deteriorated. Most leaks appear due to various pieces getting worn out. After replacing it just press down hard on it until it seats. You should also replace the base and the handle to make sure that the leak will stop from reappearing anytime soon.

We might also be dealing with a spring problem. You might notice a 2 inch pipe around the faucet and you will need to unscrew it in order to get inside the faucet. Pull out the part that comes with springs and rubber caps. Remove them and spread the springs open a little more, around an eight of an inch. Now put everything back and it should work fine. The problem is that the dripping will re-appear and this is only a short term solution until you purchase new elements needed for a proper repair.