A dripping bathtub faucet might not seem like a big deal at first, but over time, that steady drip can get frustrating. It doesn’t just create an irritating sound that fills up your bathroom — it can waste a lot of water, bump up your water bill, and even point to bigger plumbing problems.
If your bathtub won’t stop dripping, chances are there’s a worn-out part inside the faucet or a sealing issue. Fixing the drip quickly is the best way to avoid additional headaches and catch potential issues before they worsen.
Identifying The Source Of The Drip
The first step is finding out exactly where the dripping is coming from. Most of the time, it starts at the faucet, but multiple parts inside could be causing the issue.
Here are the most common parts to check:
- Washer: One of the biggest causes of a bathtub leak is a worn-down washer. This rubber part presses on the valve seat each time the faucet is turned off. With continued use, the washer starts to crack or flatten, which allows water to get through.
- O-ring: The O-ring is a small rubber disc that sits at the base of the faucet stem. If it’s loose or damaged, water can leak out, especially when the faucet is on.
- Valve seat: The valve seat connects the faucet and the spout. Hard water and minerals build up over time and cause the valve seat to corrode, keeping it from sealing properly.
- Cartridge or stem: In many modern faucets, especially mixer types, a stem or cartridge controls water flow. If it’s damaged or misaligned, you might see constant dripping even when the faucet is off.
To check these parts, turn off the water supply to your tub. Then start taking the faucet apart by removing the handle and the components underneath it. Look closely for any signs of wear like cracks, corrosion, or parts that don’t sit right.
Use a flashlight for better visibility inside the faucet. If your faucet is old or the inside shows heavy mineral deposits or rust, there might be more damage than what’s visible. In that case, you’ll want to replace more than one part to get a long-lasting fix.
Common Fixes For A Dripping Bathtub
After finding the part that’s to blame, it’s time to fix it. Many bathtub faucet parts are fairly affordable and can be replaced with basic tools.
Here’s how common fixes work:
- For a worn washer, remove the handle and unscrew the stem to reach the washer at the bottom. Use a screwdriver to pry out the old washer and swap it with one the exact same size. A mismatched washer won’t create a good seal.
- If it’s the O-ring, you’ll follow the same steps: remove the faucet handle and stem, slide off the old O-ring, and replace it with an identical one. Make sure to apply a light coat of plumber’s grease before putting it back in place.
- For valve seat issues, use a seat wrench or valve seat grinder to clean off corrosion. If the valve seat is too damaged, you may need to replace it completely.
- With cartridge-style faucets, remove the retaining clip or nut, slide the cartridge out, and replace it with the same model. These parts need to match your faucet brand and model, so bring the old one with you to the store if you’re not sure.
In tubs with older or rusted faucet bodies, parts might not fit correctly even after replacing them. In that case, it may make more sense to replace the entire faucet than try to fix it piece by piece.
When To Call A Professional For Bathtub Plumbing Repair
Sometimes swapping out washers and cartridges still doesn’t solve the problem. That’s usually a sign that something more serious is going on deeper inside the plumbing system. At that point, trying to handle it on your own could cause more trouble than it’s worth.
Here’s when it’s time to call for bathtub plumbing repair from a professional:
- You’ve replaced all the internal parts but the faucet continues to drip.
- The faucet is so old or corroded that parts are fused together or breaking apart during removal.
- You notice leaking behind the wall, damp spots on the drywall, or water collecting around the base of the tub.
- The pipes feeding the bathtub are made of old materials like steel or cast iron that may be rusted or deteriorating.
Problems that happen behind walls or underneath tubs can be hard to track down without the right tools. An experienced plumber will know how to find the true source of the issue and fix it without causing damage to floors, walls, or the rest of your plumbing system.
Simple Ways To Keep Your Bathtub Leak-Free
Once the leak is fixed, keeping your bathtub drip-free is all about regular care. A few small habits can help prevent future trouble and extend the life of your faucet parts.
Here are a few things to do:
- Don’t crank the faucet shut too hard. This puts a lot of pressure on seals and washers and wears them down faster.
- Wipe down the faucet regularly to keep minerals, soap scum, and grime from building up.
- Check for moisture or small puddles after using the tub, especially under the spout or handles.
- If your tub has an access panel behind it, give it a glance a couple of times a year. Look for water marks or any musty smells that could point to hidden leaks.
These simple checks can help you stay ahead of problems. We’ve seen Burleson homeowners deal with minor faucet drips that, left untreated, revealed rusted old pipes behind the scenes. By staying alert, you can catch those issues early and save money — and your walls and floors — from unnecessary damage.
Keep Your Bathtub in Top Shape with Professional Help
Fixing a leaky bathtub faucet doesn’t just save water and lower your utility bill. It protects your plumbing system, prevents mold and rot, and helps you avoid bigger repairs down the road.
If your tub just won’t stop dripping or there’s damage that goes beyond a worn washer, we’re here to help. A trusted plumber can figure out what’s really going on, even with older systems or hidden cracks. Whether it turns out to be a quick part swap or something more involved, getting expert help means the job’s done right the first time.
For reliable bathtub plumbing repair in Burleson, don’t wait until the drip turns into a flood. Let our team take care of it and keep everything running smoothly.
For a drip-free bathroom experience, it’s key to address leaks swiftly and effectively. If you’re in Burleson and dealing with a faucet that continues to leak no matter what you try, it may be time to reach out for expert help. Timely bathtub plumbing repair not only prevents water waste but also protects your home from long-term damage. Trust Plumbing Right Solutions to get the job done right and keep your system running like it should.