Fixing a Leaky Bathtub Faucet with a Single Handle!

One of the common issues that homeowners face with bathroom fixtures is leakage. And it often occurs in bathtub faucets with one handle.

Most of the time, this occurs due to the bad cartridge, O-rings, or seats and springs. To fix a leaky bathtub faucet single handle, you’ll need to remove the faulty one and then install a new cartridge, O-rings, or seats and springs.

Don’t worry if it is new to you, as this guide will explain the right way of solving the leaky bathtub faucet with one handle. Stay Tuned!

Fixing Leaky Bathtub Faucet Single Handle!

Under this segment, I’ll break down the causes and then show you exactly how to fix bathtub faucet leakage with one handle. Here I go:

Cause 1: Rusted Cartridge

A lot of times, the culprit that causes the water leak in the bathtub faucet is none other than the steam cartridge. When this part gets corrosive, it can’t be able to control the flow of the water and cause leakage. Just change the cartridge to solve the leakage bug.

How to Troubleshoot?

Preparation

You’ll need to start by turning off the water supply of the house. Then, go to the bathroom and locate the tiny screw hole on the single-handle valve. Once you’ve found the location, insert an Allen or hex wrench and unscrew the little screw.

Disassembly

Then, remove the handle and carefully store the screw (if you are going to use it). Next, twist the metal outer casing to detach it and unscrew the metal ring using your hand.

Make sure to use an adjustable wrench if the metal ring is stuck or hard to remove. After that, insert the flat screwdriver on the tiny gap and take out the steam cartridge. If your cartridge contains a retaining clip, ensure to remove that.

Maintenance and Re-Installation

Now, drain the water and use a degreaser inside the pipe area. Then, insert the new cartridge into the place and use slight force to place it properly into the spot. Lastly, reinstall all the parts.

Be sure to adjust the general temperature to hotter (H) or colder (C) by pulling the middle cylinder out in the cartridge and twisting it to the left or right.

Cause 2: Bad O-rings

The water dripping from the spout when the handle is fully closed is a big sign that indicates broken O-rings in the cartridge.

As the O-rings aren’t sealed, the cartridge can’t control the flow of the water. And so, the water leaks from the tub spout. To fix the leaky tub spout, you’ll need to replace the steam cartridge’s O-ring.

How To Troubleshoot?

Disassembly

Firstly, remove the handle by unscrewing the tiny bolt inside the hole of the handle with the Allen or hex wrench. Then, detach the outer casing, metal ring, and cartridge.

Maintenance and Re-Installation

Now, inspect the cartridge deeply to find the 3 O-rings attached to the body. Next, twist the cartridge’s upper body and simply take out the large O-ring (in the middle). Then, insert a new O-ring matching the size.

In the same way, remove the bottom 2 small O-rings and install new ones back to the place. After that, reinsert all the removed parts back to the right spot.

Cause 3: Broken Seats and Springs

Sometimes the chewed-up seats and rusted springs can cause the bathtub faucet to leak water. Due to these components not being able to seal the path properly, some water can seep inside and come out of the tub faucet. By changing them, you can resolve the leakage issue.

How To Troubleshoot?

Preparation

Begin the process by removing the screw on the handle using the Allen or hex wrench. Then, take out the handle, metal outer casing, metal ring, and cartridge (mentioned in detail at the top).

Maintenance and Re-Installation

After that, use a torchlight or flashlight to see inside the pipe, and you’ll be able to see 2 seats and springs. Next, remove them using the flat screwdriver and inspect their condition. If the parts seem bad, then insert a new pair on both sides.

Then, use some degreaser around the pipe and put on the cartridge using slight force to lock it into place. Afterward, reassemble other parts into the right spot by doing the opposite steps.

Frequently Asked Questions?

Is fixing a leaky bathtub faucet a DIY-friendly task for beginners?

Yes, fixing a leaky bathtub faucet is DIY-friendly for beginners. Most common leaks can be addressed with basic DIY skills. Simply identify the issue and follow step-by-step instructions. If plumbing tasks make you uncomfortable or if you lack experience, then consult a professional.

How much time does it take to fix a leaky bathtub faucet?

The time required depends on the specific issue. Simple fixes like replacing O-rings may take around 20 minutes. But complex problems like changing a rusted cartridge, may take more time.

Ending Note

Isn’t it easy to fix a leaky bathtub faucet single handle? All the mentioned procedures take no more than 20 minutes to do if you have the gears, direction, and a little patience.

Be sure to flush the bathtub faucet that is leaking for up to 10 – 15 seconds after solving the issue. And be sure to take the help of an expert plumber if the process seems tough for you. Good luck with this project!