Why Your Bathtub Faucet Won't Turn Off Completely and How To Finally Fix It

Is your bathtub faucet being uncooperative and refusing to fully turn off the water flow? This frustrating issue can lead to needless water waste and potential damage if left unaddressed.

A dripping, leaky bathtub faucet can be a real nuisance that keeps you up at night with its incessant noise. Even worse, it's costing you money as precious water continuously goes down the drain. Don't despair - in most cases, this issue can be repaired if you pinpoint the cause and take appropriate action. With some basic DIY troubleshooting and fixes, you'll have your bathtub faucet working properly again in no time.

Main Causes of Bathtub Faucets Not Turning Off

Before attempting to fix a bathtub faucet that won't fully shut off, it's important to understand the most common underlying causes of this problem:

• Worn out faucet handle/stem - The faucet's handle and internal stem are subject to frequent use and will naturally wear out over time. A damaged or corroded stem can prevent the faucet from fully closing.
• Broken or damaged faucet handle - If the faucet handle itself is cracked, loose, or improperly aligned, it may not be able to properly control the water flow.
• Faulty or leaky valve seals - Faulty rubber washers or O-rings around the faucet valves allow water to leak through even when shut.
• Loose faucet handle - The handle simply needs tightening to realign it and stop the drips.

Knowing the origin of the problem makes it easier to pinpoint the appropriate fix. Now let's look at how to diagnose a defective bathtub faucet.

Signs Your Bathtub Faucet Is Broken

How can you confirm it's definitely an issue with the faucet and not another plumbing problem? Here are the telltale signs of a broken bathtub faucet:

• The handle is very loose, wiggly, or doesn't align properly when closed.
• Water continues dripping or flowing out even when the handle is rotated to the off position.
• The faucet handle spins freely when turned but doesn't actually stop the water flow.

If you're experiencing any of these signs, it clearly indicates there is a problem with the faucet's internal components that needs addressing. Don't ignore the issue or it will likely get worse over time.

First Steps to Try Yourself

Before calling a plumber, there are a few basic troubleshooting steps you can take to try fixing the problem yourself:

• Inspect the faucet handle - Look for any cracks, loose screws or misalignment that could be causing water to flow uncontrolled.
• Tighten the handle - Use a screwdriver to firmly tighten the handle and secure any loose parts.
• Replace valve seals - The rubber washers around the valves are inexpensive and easy to replace by unscrewing the faucet.
• Replace worn out rubber washers - Likewise, worn washers allow water to leak through the valves.

Taking these simple, DIY measures could potentially fix your problem faucet without professional help. Always shut off the water supply lines before making any repairs.

When To Call a Professional Plumber

While minor bathtub faucet repairs are easy enough for the average homeowner, there are times when it's best to contact a professional plumber:

• If your attempts at troubleshooting and fixing the faucet yourself have failed.
• For modern, complex faucet designs that require specialized tools and skills.
• If you lack the technical knowledge, supplies or confidence to safely attempt repairs yourself.

A licensed plumber has the expertise to fully diagnose the problem and offer guaranteed solutions. They can identify underlying issues that may be causing your faucet to malfunction. Professionals also have access to a wider range of replacement parts and tools. Don't wait until a small leak has caused major water damage - call for plumbing help at the first signs of trouble.

What a Plumber Can Do

Here are some of the ways a professional can get your bathtub faucet working properly again:

• Diagnose if the valves, stems, washers or O-rings need replacement.
• Replace the faucet cartridge or handle if defective.
• Install a brand new faucet if the current one is too damaged or outdated.
• Ensure all connections are tight and leak-proof.

The extent of repairs depends on the faucet style and specifics of the problem. After diagnosis, the plumber will recommend the most cost-effective solution. Often a simple valve or stem replacement is all that's required. They can even install a higher-quality faucet to prevent recurrence of the issue.

Cost to Repair a Leaky Bathtub Faucet

How much you can expect to pay for repairs depends on factors like:

• DIY minor repairs - Tightening connections or replacing washers typically costs $20 to $60 for parts.
• Valve replacement - Replacing worn valves or internal parts averages $40 to $350 in total.
• Full faucet replacement - Installing a completely new bathtub faucet averages $200 to $500 including labor.

Simple fixes are the cheapest route, while full replacements cost more. Keep in mind your unique faucet and plumbing setup may impact prices as well. Get an upfront quote from plumbers before authorizing repairs.

Preventing Future Leaks

To avoid having to continually repair a leaky, defective bathtub faucet, consider these proactive measures:

• Periodically inspect the faucet for loose parts and tighten connections as needed.
• Replace internal washers and valves before they become excessively worn out.
• Invest in a higher-quality faucet less prone to breakdowns.
• Immediately fix minor leaks instead of letting them worsen.
• Use a water softener system if your supply has mineral buildup issues.

A little preventive maintenance goes a long way. Addressing problems quickly also minimizes any secondary damage from leaks. Installing a trusted brand of faucet improves longevity. With proper care, you shouldn't have to deal with a faucet that refuses to turn off.

Dealing with a bathtub faucet that doesn't completely shut off can be highly annoying, but is usually fixable with common repairs. Start by inspecting for things like loose handles, worn washers and bad valves. Tightening connections or replacing worn parts may do the trick. For complex or deteriorated faucets, hire a plumber to undertake repairs or full replacement. The key is not ignoring the issue, and taking action to properly diagnose the problem and stop the water waste.

This guide will help you understand why your bathtub faucet may not fully turn off. Know when to attempt DIY repairs versus calling in a professional. But don't let an unreliable faucet continue leaking indefinitely. rolled properly diagnose the cause and get your bathtub faucet working good as new again.