A leaky bathtub faucet with two handles isn't just an annoyance it’s a silent drain on your water bill and a potential source of water damage. Whether your faucet is dripping hot or cold water, the fix is often straightforward with the right tools and guidance. In this detailed tutorial, we walk through how to identify the cause, disassemble the faucet, replace faulty components, and reassemble your two-handle faucet system for a permanent repair.
Tools and Materials You Will Need
Before beginning the repair process, gather all necessary tools and materials to ensure a smooth workflow:
Adjustable wrench
Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers
Allen wrench set
Replacement faucet washers, seats, or stems (depending on damage)
Plumber's grease
Faucet handle puller (optional)
Towel or rag
White vinegar (for cleaning mineral deposits)
Bucket (to catch water drips)
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
Always begin by shutting off the water supply to your bathtub. Locate the shutoff valves behind the access panel near the tub or shut off the main water supply if individual valves are not present.
Open both handles of the faucet to drain any remaining water and relieve pressure in the lines.
Step 2: Plug the Drain and Prepare the Work Area
Prevent losing small screws and washers down the drain by placing a rubber stopper or a rag in the bathtub drain. Lay a towel over the tub’s surface to protect it from scratches and hold any dripping water or removed parts.
Step 3: Remove Faucet Handles
Faucet handles in a two-handle system can vary depending on the design, but most are secured by screws:
1. Use a flathead screwdriver to pop off decorative caps from each handle.
2. With a Phillips screwdriver or Allen wrench, remove the screws holding the handles in place.
3. Carefully pull off the handles. If they’re stuck due to corrosion, use a handle puller.
Step 4: Unscrew and Inspect the Valve Stems
Behind each handle is a valve stem or cartridge, which controls water flow. This is often the source of the leak.
1. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen and unscrew the stem assembly from each side.
2. Take note of the orientation and placement of washers and O-rings.
Inspect the following parts:
Rubber washer at the base: Worn or cracked washers cause dripping.
O-ring along the stem: A worn O-ring may lead to leaks around the handle.
Seat (inside the valve body): If corroded or pitted, it should be replaced or resurfaced.
Step 5: Replace Worn-Out Components
If the washer is hardened, cracked, or missing, replace it with an identical one. Take the old parts to a hardware store to find exact matches for:
Washer
O-ring
Valve stem (if corroded or damaged)
Seat (use a seat wrench if needed)
Apply plumber’s grease to the new washers and O-rings for better sealing and easier installation.
Step 6: Clean Mineral Deposits
Hard water can cause mineral buildup on threads and inside the valve housing. Soak corroded parts in white vinegar for 10–15 minutes or use a wire brush to scrub away deposits.
This step ensures the new parts seal properly and extends the life of your faucet.
Step 7: Reassemble the Faucet
1. Reinsert the valve stems and tighten them snugly using the wrench.
2. Slide the faucet handles back onto the stems and secure them with screws.
3. Replace decorative caps.
Ensure everything fits tightly, but avoid over-tightening, which can damage components.
Step 8: Restore Water Supply and Test for Leaks
Turn the water supply back on slowly and observe:
Check for leaks at the spout
Watch for dripping around the handles
Listen for running water sounds inside the walls
Turn both handles on and off multiple times to test the smoothness of operation and confirm the leak is fixed.
Step 9: When to Replace the Faucet Entirely
If:
The faucet is more than 15 years old
Replacement parts are no longer available
Corrosion is extensive inside the valve body
It may be more efficient to replace the entire faucet assembly. Choose a quality brand and consider upgrading to a ceramic disc or single-handle mixer valve for durability.
Prevent Future Leaks
Avoid overtightening handles, which wears out washers.
Install a water softener if you have hard water to minimize mineral buildup.
Perform annual inspections and clean components if necessary.
Use high-quality replacement parts rather than generic ones to ensure a proper seal.
Common Questions About Fixing a Leaky Bathtub Faucet
What causes a leaky bathtub faucet with two handles?
The most common causes are:
Worn-out rubber washers
Damaged or corroded valve seats
Cracked O-rings
Loose or deteriorated stems
How do I know which side is leaking — hot or cold?
Shut off the cold-water supply first. If the dripping stops, the leak is in the cold side. If not, turn off the hot-water valve and check again.
Can I fix a leaky faucet without turning off the water?
No. Always turn off the water supply before starting repairs to avoid flooding and injury.
How long does it take to fix a leaky two-handle bathtub faucet?
For most DIYers, it takes about 30–60 minutes, depending on experience and the condition of the faucet.
Conclusion
A leaky two-handle bathtub faucet can be quickly diagnosed and repaired with basic tools, a little patience, and quality replacement parts. With this comprehensive guide, you’re equipped to handle the repair confidently and avoid unnecessary water waste or future plumbing expenses.