Leaking bath faucet is more than just an annoyance. It can lead the high water, bills and water damage can be an unsightly bathroom fixture. Fixing this issue seems like a daunting project, but with the right tools and guidance you can tackle it like a pro. We have a guide that will walk you through the process step-by-step.
The materials
Before you start gathering the following tools and materials
- adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver (Phillips or flathead doesn’t matter)
- Plumbers tape
- Replaceable faucet parts
- Vinegar or a commercial descaling solution
- A cleaning cloth
- Plumber Grease
Locate the shut off valve
Safety is first locate the main water valve and turn it off. If your bathtub has a local shut off valve you can use that instead. Open the faucet and let any remaining water drain out and relieve pressure in the pipes.
The handle is usually attached with a screw, which may be hidden under a decorative cap. Use a flathead screwdriver to pry this off, then use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screw. Once the screw is out gently pull off the handle if it’s stuck, try to wiggle it back-and-forth using a handle pull tool to avoid damaging the fixture.
Remove the plate
Remove the escutcheon plate, which is usually secured by screws. Remove the screws and gently pull the plate away from the wall be cautious as it might be caulked or sealant around the edges if so, cut away with a utility knife.
With the hand and plate, you’ll have access to the faucet system. This component controls the flow of water and is often the culprit leaks. Use an adjustable wrench to remove or loosen the stem, then turn, counterclockwise and unscrew it. If it is corroded and difficult to remove, apply some penetrating oil and let it sit for a few minutes and then have add it again.
Remove the faucet
Removed faucet and the initial parts with the sign of corrosion wear on it soak the corroded parts vinegar or a descaling solution to remove mineral deposits. Use a wire brush to scrub away. Any buildup. Rinse the parts thoroughly with clean water and dry them with a cloth.
Replace the damaged parts once the parts are cleaned or replaced. It is time to resemble the faucet by applying and thin layer of silicone grease or plumber grease to the thread of the faucet this helps prevent Future corrosion it makes it easier to remove the parts if needed. Screw the stem back on turn it clockwise until it. Be careful not to overtighten it as it can cause damage.
Reattached plate and handle and secure it with screws you can remove any caulk or sealant if needed. Apply a fresh beef around the edges to prevent water from sleeping behind the plate, reattached the handle by securing it with screws and snapping the decorative cap back in place.
With everything reassembled, it is time to turn the water back on slowly open the main valve or the local shut off valve. Turn on the faucet to check for any leaks if you notice any dripping, tighten the connection slightly until the leak stops.
Inspect the work
Inspect the faucet and the surrounding area to ensure everything is functioning correctly, run the water a few times to make sure that there are no leaks, and the water flows smoothly, wipe down the faucet and the surrounding area with a cough to remove any residue grease or water spots.
To prevent future corrosion and leaks, here’s a step-by-step guide.
- Regular maintenance periodically clean the faucet to prevent mineral back up and corrosion.
- You can use soft water if you are in an area that has hard water consider installing a water softener to reduce mineral deposits.
- You silicone on the faucet thread during maintenance to prevent sticking and corrosion.
- The small components can wear out overtime so replace them on a regular basis to maintain a watertight seal we are talking about the O-rings and washers.
Fixing a corroded and leaking bathroom faucet seems like a task that may take all day, but be patient and have the right tools, it is a manageable DIY project. If you follow the step-by-step guide, you can restore your proper condition save you money on the water bills, and and make sure that the faucet stays in good shape for years to come. You can also, fix any other faucets in your bathroom.