This is one flow you don’t want to go with
A cracked, rusted, or corroded bathtub faucet handle can’t turn your valve fully off, so water keeps running.
Torn or dried-out washers and O-rings in your bathtub faucet can’t seal correctly, so your water won’t shut off completely.
Check the setscrew first by tightening it, then inspect washers and O-rings for damage before replacing your bathtub faucet handle or valve cartridge.
Hiring a local plumbing professional helps you replace a valve cartridge or spout seals safely, so repairs stay on track and avoid water damage.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Positive experience. As previously stated, the replacement/repair could not be completed (no fault of the plumbing tech) b/c misinformation was rec?d by property management maintenance. Thanks to the plumbing tech for your efforts. Appreciate you!
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ANB Renovations LLCMatt is a consummate professional. The work turned out to be far more difficult than expected and rather than turn the job down, Matt rose to the occasion and completed a near impossible task. I can not recommend Greene's Plumbing Service more highly. On a scale of 1-5 I would give Matt a...
Greene's Plumbing ServiceInvolved an extensive bathroom remodel, including removing tub & installing walk in shower, new drywall, custome tile work to ceiling, plumbing, etc. Overall, job was done on time and on budget. Nick & his team were very professional and had high attention to detail. Quality was great. Highly...
Stamos Flooring and Remodeling LLCAwesome company. Had a jacuzzi tub taken out and replaced with huge walk in shower with partial glass enclosure. Onyx to the ceiling with a decorative border, moved plumbing and installed hand held shower, new ceiling, flooring, and paint. Replaced window with glass block. Everything was done...
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