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3 Reasons Your Bathtub Faucet Won’t Turn Off
This is one flow you don’t want to go with
Photo: Tetra Images / DigitalVision / Getty Images
Photo: Tetra Images / DigitalVision / Getty Images
Highlights
If your bathtub faucet doesn’t turn off, it could be a damaged faucet handle, faulty O-ring or washer, or malfunctioning valve.
Replacing a faucet handle is a simple DIY job for a handy homeowner.
If you're not comfortable working on plumbing fixtures, call a plumber to replace the valve.
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When you turn the water on, you expect to be able to turn it off. Not being able to stop running water in your bathroom isn’t conducive to relaxing bubble baths. We found three reasons why your bathtub faucet won’t turn off along with ways you can fix it. But when in doubt, call a pro to take care of your plumbing mishaps.
1. Damaged Faucet Handle
When a bathtub faucet won’t turn off, the best place to start troubleshooting is at the handle. It’s possible that the setscrew that holds the handle in place is loose, which won’t allow the faucet to turn the valve off. A cracked, rusted, or corroded faucet handle also won’t be able to shut the water flow valve off, leading to a bathtub faucet that runs continuously.
How to Fix It
Before buying a new faucet handle, check to make sure the setscrew is tight. If it is, and you’re still having an issue, you can install a new bathtub faucet handle. If you know which handle you need, you can head to the hardware store and pick one up.
If you’re unsure of which type of handle you need, start by removing the existing handle and take it with you. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the new faucet.
Safety Warning
Always turn off the water before starting a plumbing project. Doing so helps protect your home in case of flooding and water damage. You can shut off the water at the faucet or fixture you're working on or turn it off at your home's main shut-off valve.
2. Old Washer or O-Ring
Photo: Catherine Falls Commercial / Moment / Getty Images
In some cases, the issue isn’t with the faucet handle but rather the washer or O-ring in the faucet spout. When they’re in good condition, these parts aid in turning the water off and prevent leaks. If they’re torn, corroded, or dried out, they won’t be able to do their job. You can check the condition of the washer and O-ring by removing the faucet spout—make sure to turn the water supply off first—and inspecting them for damage.
How to Fix It
If you suspect that the washer or O-ring are the reason the bathtub faucet won’t turn off, you can replace them and reassemble the faucet. A local plumber can also do this job if you’re uncomfortable disassembling your faucet.
3. Damaged Valve Cartridge or Valve Seat
The faucet handle controls the valve that allows water to flow from the pipes and through the spout. A damaged valve won’t be able to stop water from flowing, and if it breaks while the faucet is running, you’ll be stuck with a continuously flowing bathtub faucet.
How to Fix It
Replacing a damaged valve is more difficult than replacing the faucet handle, so consider calling a pro to handle this one. If you choose to DIY it, take time to learn how to replace the shower valve before diving in. Basically, you’ll remove the faucet handle and then read the shower valve manufacturer’s instructions to install it. Remember to move with a gentle touch, so you don’t damage the plumbing when you’re removing the components.
When to Call a Pro
If you’re comfortable and experienced with simple plumbing DIY projects, you can learn to fix a bathtub faucet that won’t turn off. However, if you’re plumbing issue is more complex and you don’t feel comfortable working on it, don’t hesitate to call a plumber to inspect and repair your bathtub faucet. These pros have the training and experience to get the job done right without costly leaks or issues down the road.
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