How to Fix a Leaky Bathtub Faucet in 9 Steps

Add faucet repair to your DIY accomplishments

A bathtub getting filled with water
Photo: Alena Ozerova / Adobe Stock
A bathtub getting filled with water
Photo: Alena Ozerova / Adobe Stock
SKILL LEVEL
Simple
COMPLETION TIME
2 hours
COST
$25–$50
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What you'll need:
TOOLS
  • Utility knife blade
  • Screwdrivers
  • Handle puller
  • Shower valve socket wrench
  • Adjustable wrenches
SUPPLIES
  • Faucet stem repair kit
  • Faucet seats
  • Plumber’s grease
  • Faucet cartridge
  • Plumber’s tape
View all

The first thing to know about how to fix a leaky bathtub faucet is that you won’t need all these steps. After learning what’s inside your faucet, you’ll know which ones you’ll need to fix the annoying drip. Follow these simple steps to save untold gallons of water, prevent expensive leak repair costs, and stretch your DIY skills into the mysterious world of faucet repair. 

Preparing to Fix a Dripping Bathtub Faucet

Often, fixing a leaky bathtub faucet involves investigating and replacing minor parts rather than replacing the entire tub faucet. If you’re dealing with water damage inside your bathroom wall, there may be a more severe problem than a simple drip, and calling a local plumber may be necessary. 

To get ready to fix your drip, you’ll need to gather a few tools depending on your faucet type. For single-handle tub faucets, you’ll only need a small Allen wrench. For two- or three-handle faucets, grab a utility knife or pick tool, a pair of screwdrivers, a handle puller tool, and a tub socket wrench. 

Before starting your project, the last thing to do is cover the tub drain with tape to prevent small parts from falling down the drain.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro to Fix a Leaky Bathtub Faucet

Fixing a dripping bathtub faucet saves vast amounts of water, and doing it yourself not only feels good but also saves you money. DIY faucet repair can cost up to $40 or $50, depending on the parts you need.

However, we understand that plumbing isn’t everyone’s favorite way to spend a Saturday afternoon. In that case, the average cost of repairing a bathroom leak ranges from $125 to $350.If you prefer to let a pro handle the job, hire a faucet repair pro in your area to get your faucet working again. 

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