How to repair a leaking bathtub tap

 

Before you start

Regardless of whether the bathtub faucet is a double or single lever faucet, certain parts can be replaced instead of installing a new assembly. Remove the old parts and take them to the hardware store to find a suitable replacement, as there are many possible shapes and sizes.

Two-handle bath tap

There is a rubber seal on the back of the tap that touches the metal seat of the tap when closed.

If a leak occurs, the rubber seal is most likely torn, corroded or severely compressed. In any of these cases, the sealing ring can no longer hold back the water. Replacing the rubber seal fixes most leaks.

Single lever bath mixer tap

Behind the single-lever bath mixer tap is a valve cartridge: a single unit made of plastic, metal and rubber that controls the flow of water.

If a bath mixer is leaking, the entire valve cartridge or its rubber O-rings may be worn or corroded. Valve cartridges generally cannot be repaired. Instead, they are replaced with a new valve cartridge that is specifically designed for the make and model of the tap.

Repairing a leaking two-handle bath tap

Identify the leaking tap

Feel the leaking water with your hand. If the water is hot or warm, the leak is isolated with the hot tap. If the water is cold, the leak is on the right-hand side.

Switch off the water

Locate the main water shut-off valve in the home and turn it off completely. Open the bath taps in the bathroom to relieve the water pressure and allow the water to drain.

Place a towel over the drain to prevent small objects from falling down the drain.

Remove the handle

Use the Phillips screwdriver to remove the screw inside the tap handle. When the screw is completely loosened, pull the handle straight out to remove it. The screw may still be inside the handle, but it will come out when you remove the handle.

Remove the escutcheon

Remove the escutcheon plate. You may be able to do this by hand by simply pulling the escutcheon straight out or unscrewing it. Or you may need to remove a small set screw on the side of the escutcheon using a Phillips screwdriver.

Remove the spindle assembly

Use the adjustable spanner to unscrew the brass nut that holds the stem in place. Once the nut is removed, pull out the stem assembly.

Remove the rubber disc

Look at the back of the stem unit. Use the Phillips screwdriver to loosen the set screw holding the rubber disc. Throw away the washer.

Replace the rubber disc

Clean the back of the stem unit with a cloth. Insert the new rubber washer into the assembly. Use a new screw if one is included in the scope of delivery. If not, clean the old screw and reinsert it.

Check the fit of the tap

Use a torch to inspect the brass tap seat for damage. This cone-shaped part should not be nicked, corroded or worn. If this is the case, it must be replaced.

Replace the seat of the tap

Unscrew the seat using the seat spanner and remove it. Place the new seat on the seat spanner and screw it tight. Make sure that the old or new seat does not fall into the wall behind the bath.

Refitting the bath mixer tap

Reassemble the bath mixer tap. Reattach the stem and secure it with the brass nut. Replace the rosette. Slide the tap handle back onto the stem. Screw the fitting into place. Finally, fit the cover cap in place.

Turn off the tap. Turn on the water pipe. Check whether the tap is leaking by turning it on for a few seconds and then turning it off again.

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