Have you ever turned off your bathtub faucet, but the water keeps running? This frustrating problem isn’t just a nuisance—it can waste a significant amount of water, cause damage to your bathroom, and hike up your water bills if left unchecked.

In this article, you’ll discover:

• Why your bathtub faucet won’t stop running even when turned off

• Easy, step-by-step ways to troubleshoot and fix the issue

• Signs it’s time to call a professional plumber

• Tips to prevent future leaks and keep your faucet working smoothly

Let’s get started.

Why Is My Bathtub Faucet Still Running After I Turn It Off?

If your bathtub faucet turned off but water is still running, the problem usually lies inside the faucet itself. Faucets contain parts designed to control water flow—when these components wear out or get damaged, water can leak through even when the handle is off.

Some common causes include:

• A worn-out washer or valve seat

• A damaged cartridge or ceramic disc

• Mineral buildup from hard water deposits

• Excessive water pressure in your plumbing system

Any of these can stop the faucet from creating a proper seal, causing water to drip or run continuously.

Common Causes and How to Check Them Yourself

1. Worn-Out Washer or Valve Seat

Older faucets with compression valves often use washers that press against the valve seat to stop water flow. Over time, washers and valve seats wear down and can cause leaks.

How to fix it:

• Shut off your water supply

• Remove the faucet handle and stem

• Replace the washer and inspect the valve seat for damage

• Put everything back together and test the faucet

2. Damaged Cartridge or Ceramic Disc

If you have a cartridge or ceramic disc faucet, the cartridge or seals inside can crack or wear out, allowing water to pass through.

How to fix it:

• Remove the faucet handle

• Take out the cartridge and check for cracks or buildup

• Replace with an identical part from your local hardware store

3. Mineral Buildup

Hard water can cause calcium and lime deposits that prevent the faucet from sealing properly.

How to fix it:

• Soak faucet parts in vinegar to dissolve mineral deposits

• Clean gently with a soft brush

• Reassemble and check for leaks

4. High Water Pressure

High water pressure can prevent valves from closing completely, leading to a dripping bathtub tap.

How to fix it:

• Use a pressure gauge on an outdoor faucet to check pressure

• If pressure exceeds 80 PSI, consider installing a pressure reducing valve (PRV)

Step-by-Step DIY Repair Guide

1. Turn off your water supply: Look for shut-off valves near the tub or main line and turn them off.

2. Open the faucet: Let any remaining water drain out.

3. Remove the faucet handle: Use a screwdriver to remove screws, collars, or clips depending on your faucet style.

4. Inspect internal parts: Look for cracked cartridges, worn washers, or mineral buildup.

5. Clean or replace parts: Clean mineral deposits or swap out worn washers or cartridges. Take the old parts to the store to ensure the correct replacements.

6. Reassemble and test: Turn water back on slowly and test for leaks by running both hot and cold water.

When Should You Call a Plumber?

If you’re not comfortable disassembling your faucet or if the leak continues after replacing parts, it’s best to call a professional. Other signs to get expert help include:

• No accessible shut-off valves

• Leaks inside walls or ceilings

• Multiple fixtures leaking

• Signs of water damage or mold

Plumbers have specialized tools and experience to fix problems quickly and prevent further damage.

Real-Life Example: How a Simple Fix Saved Hundreds

The Johnson Family in Tampa was dealing with a tub faucet leaking constantly despite turning the handle off. Their water bill jumped from $90 to $160 per month. A plumber identified a worn-out cartridge inside their single-handle bathtub faucet. After replacing the part for $130, their water usage dropped by 30%, preventing costly waste. This example shows how a small issue like a dripping bathtub tap can cause big expenses if ignored.

Tips to Prevent Future Bathtub Faucet Leaks

Preventative maintenance is key to avoiding costly repairs:

• Replace washers, cartridges, and O-rings every few years

• Use a water softener if you live in a hard water area

• Regularly check your home’s water pressure (ideal: 40–60 PSI)

• Schedule annual plumbing inspections

• Consider upgrading to ceramic disc faucets for better durability and leak resistance

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why does water keep running after I turn off my bathtub faucet?
A: Usually due to worn washers, damaged cartridges, or mineral buildup preventing a proper seal.

Q: Can I fix a leaking bathtub faucet myself?
A: Yes, many common problems can be fixed with basic tools and replacement parts.

Q: How much water can a leaking faucet waste?
A: Even a slow drip can waste over 3,000 gallons of water annually.

Q: Do I need to turn off my home’s main water supply to fix the faucet?
A: Only if you don’t have individual shut-off valves near the tub.

Q: Should I repair or replace my old faucet?
A: If parts are unavailable or the faucet is very old, replacement may be more cost-effective.

Final Thoughts

If your bathtub faucet turned off but water is still running, don’t delay fixing it. Ignoring the problem can lead to water waste, higher bills, and damage. Whether the cause is a washer, cartridge, or water pressure, addressing it early saves you time and money.

For expert help and thorough home inspections, trust Guardian Angel Inspection Services. We specialize in identifying plumbing issues before they become costly repairs, keeping your home safe and efficient.

Need Assistance?
👉 Contact Guardian Angel Inspection Services today to schedule a professional plumbing inspection.
📩 Feel free to share this guide with friends or family who may be facing the same bathtub faucet problems.

Let’s stop the drip for good.