How to Replace a Washer in a Bathtub Faucet (Step-by-Step Guide)

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How to Replace a Washer in a Bathtub Faucet

Your bathtub faucet is one of the most important fixtures in your home, and it’s important to keep it in good working order. If your faucet is dripping or leaking, it could be a sign that the washer needs to be replaced. Replacing a washer is a relatively simple DIY project that can be completed in just a few minutes. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of how to replace a washer in a bathtub faucet.

We’ll start by discussing the different types of washers and how to identify which one you need. Then, we’ll show you how to remove the old washer and install a new one. By the end of this article, you’ll be able to replace a washer in your bathtub faucet like a pro.

Step Tools Instructions
1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet. – Adjustable wrench – Penetrating oil
2. Remove the faucet handle. – Screwdriver – Pliers
3. Remove the old washer. – Needle-nose pliers – Flathead screwdriver
4. Install the new washer. – New washer – Thread sealant
5. Reassemble the faucet. – Screwdriver – Penetrating oil
6. Turn on the water supply to the faucet. – None – None

A bathtub faucet is a plumbing fixture that allows you to control the flow of hot and cold water to your bathtub. The faucet is typically located at the end of the bathtub spout and consists of two handles, one for hot water and one for cold water. When you turn the handles, a washer inside the faucet seat compresses and allows water to flow through the faucet. Over time, these washers can wear out and need to be replaced. Replacing a washer in a bathtub faucet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes.

Gather Your Materials

To replace a washer in a bathtub faucet, you will need the following materials:

  • Replacement washer
  • Adjustable wrench
  • Screwdriver
  • Penetrating oil

Turn Off the Water Supply

The first step is to turn off the water supply to the bathtub faucet. This will prevent any water from leaking out of the faucet while you are working on it. To do this, locate the shut-off valve for the bathtub faucet. This valve is typically located near the base of the faucet, on the hot water supply line. Turn the valve to the off position.

Remove the Handle Caps

The next step is to remove the handle caps from the bathtub faucet. These caps are typically held in place by a small screw. Use a screwdriver to remove the screw and then carefully pry the cap off of the faucet.

Remove the Washers

Once the handle caps are removed, you will be able to access the washers inside the faucet. There will be one washer for each handle, one for hot water and one for cold water. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the washers in place. Be careful not to overtighten the nuts, as this could damage the washers.

Install the New Washers

Once the old washers are removed, you can install the new ones. Make sure that the new washers are the correct size for your faucet. Place the new washers on the faucet seats and then tighten the nuts to secure them in place.

Replace the Handle Caps

Once the new washers are installed, you can replace the handle caps. Carefully place the caps back on the faucet and then use a screwdriver to tighten the screws.

Turn on the Water Supply

The final step is to turn on the water supply to the bathtub faucet. This will test the new washers and make sure that they are working properly. If there are any leaks, you may need to adjust the washers or tighten the nuts.

Replacing a washer in a bathtub faucet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. By following these steps, you can easily fix a leaky faucet and restore it to working order.

3. Remove the Handle

To remove the handle from a bathtub faucet, you will need a screwdriver and a pry bar.

1. First, turn off the water supply to the faucet. This can usually be done by turning a valve located under the sink.
2. Next, use the screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the handle in place. These screws are typically located on the back of the handle.
3. Once the screws are removed, you can use the pry bar to pry the handle off of the faucet. Be careful not to damage the faucet.

Once the handle is removed, you will be able to access the washer underneath.

4. Remove the Washer

To remove the washer from a bathtub faucet, you will need an adjustable wrench.

1. First, use the adjustable wrench to loosen the nut that holds the washer in place. This nut is typically located on the bottom of the faucet.
2. Once the nut is loosened, you can remove the washer and discard it.

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5. Install the New Washer

To install the new washer in a bathtub faucet, you will need a new washer, an adjustable wrench, and plumber’s grease.

1. First, apply a small amount of plumber’s grease to the new washer. This will help to prevent the washer from sticking to the faucet.
2. Next, insert the new washer into the faucet. Make sure that the washer is properly seated in the faucet.
3. Once the washer is installed, you can tighten the nut that holds it in place. Be careful not to overtighten the nut, as this could damage the faucet.

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6. Reinstall the Handle

To reinstall the handle on a bathtub faucet, you will need a screwdriver and a pry bar.

1. First, align the handle with the faucet. Make sure that the holes in the handle line up with the screws in the faucet.
2. Next, use the screwdriver to insert the screws into the handle. Be careful not to overtighten the screws, as this could damage the handle.
3. Once the screws are in place, you can use the pry bar to pry the handle into place. Be careful not to damage the faucet.

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Replacing a washer in a bathtub faucet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. By following these steps, you can easily fix a leaky faucet and prevent further damage.

How do I know if I need to replace a washer in my bathtub faucet?

There are a few signs that you may need to replace a washer in your bathtub faucet. These include:

  • The faucet is leaking from the base or spout.
  • The faucet is dripping even when it is turned off.
  • The faucet is difficult to turn on or off.
  • The water pressure from the faucet is reduced.

If you notice any of these signs, it is a good idea to have a plumber inspect the faucet and replace the washer as needed.

What size washer do I need for my bathtub faucet?

The size of the washer you need for your bathtub faucet will depend on the type of faucet you have. Most bathtub faucets use a 1/4-inch or 5/16-inch washer. To determine the size of the washer you need, measure the diameter of the hole in the faucet stem.

How do I remove the old washer from my bathtub faucet?

To remove the old washer from your bathtub faucet, you will need a flathead screwdriver.

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Remove the faucet handle by unscrewing the setscrew on the back of the handle.
3. Use the screwdriver to pry the old washer out of the faucet stem.

How do I install the new washer in my bathtub faucet?

To install the new washer in your bathtub faucet, you will need a new washer, a flathead screwdriver, and a pair of pliers.

1. Apply a thin coat of plumber’s grease to the new washer.
2. Insert the new washer into the faucet stem.
3. Use the screwdriver to seat the washer in the faucet stem.
4. Replace the faucet handle.
5. Turn on the water supply to the faucet.

What are some common mistakes people make when replacing a bathtub faucet washer?

Some common mistakes people make when replacing a bathtub faucet washer include:

  • Using the wrong size washer.
  • Not applying enough plumber’s grease to the washer.
  • Not seating the washer properly in the faucet stem.
  • Turning on the water supply to the faucet before the washer is properly installed.

To avoid these mistakes, it is important to carefully follow the instructions in this guide. If you are not comfortable replacing the washer yourself, you can always call a professional plumber.

How much does it cost to replace a bathtub faucet washer?

The cost of replacing a bathtub faucet washer will vary depending on the type of faucet you have and the cost of the replacement washer. The average cost of a bathtub faucet washer is around $5. The cost of labor to replace the washer will vary depending on the complexity of the faucet and the location of the faucet. The average cost of labor to replace a bathtub faucet washer is around $100.

Can I replace a bathtub faucet washer myself?

Replacing a bathtub faucet washer is a relatively simple task that can be completed by most DIYers. However, if you are not comfortable working with plumbing fixtures, you may want to call a professional plumber.

In this tutorial, we have shown you how to replace a washer in a bathtub faucet. We hope that this information has been helpful and that you are now able to complete this task on your own.

Here are the key takeaways from this tutorial:

  • Before you begin, make sure that you have the necessary tools and materials.
  • Turn off the water supply to the faucet before you start work.
  • Remove the old washer and install the new one.
  • Reassemble the faucet and turn on the water supply.

We recommend that you practice replacing a washer on a spare faucet before you attempt to do it on your own. This will help you to become familiar with the process and avoid making any mistakes.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us. We would be happy to help you out.

Author Profile

Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell is the owner of toiletty.com. She is a mom of two and is very passionate about home improvement.

Liana has ten years of home improvement experience, and in her own words, she said: “I love improving the home, and I’m very passionate about keeping the home in the best possible condition. I love it!”

Liana Farrell balances beauty and functionality when she goes about her home improvement jobs.