How to Replace a Bathtub Faucet (A Step-by-Step Guide)

AvatarByLiana Farrell Faucet Queries

How to Replace a Bathtub Faucet

Your bathtub faucet is one of the most used fixtures in your home, so it’s important to keep it in good working order. If your faucet is leaking, dripping, or simply not working properly, it’s time to replace it. Replacing a bathtub faucet is a relatively simple DIY project that can be completed in a few hours. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of replacing a bathtub faucet, from start to finish. We’ll also provide tips on how to choose the right faucet for your bathroom and how to install it correctly.

So if you’re ready to take on this DIY project, read on for all the information you need to know.

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Step Tools Instructions
1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
  • Plumber’s wrench
  • Bucket
 Locate the shut-off valves for the hot and cold water supply lines to the faucet. Turn them off clockwise until they are tight. Place a bucket underneath the faucet to catch any water that may leak out.
2. Remove the old faucet.
  • Plumber’s wrench
  • Screwdriver
 Use a plumber’s wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the faucet in place. If the nuts are corroded, you may need to use a penetrating oil to loosen them. Once the nuts are loose, you can use a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the faucet to the sink.
3. Install the new faucet.
  • New faucet
  • Plumber’s putty
 Apply a bead of plumber’s putty around the base of the new faucet. Carefully align the faucet with the holes in the sink and install it by tightening the nuts that hold it in place. Turn on the water supply valves to test the faucet.

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Bathtub faucets are a common fixture in homes, and they can eventually wear out and need to be replaced. Replacing a bathtub faucet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. However, it is important to follow the steps carefully in order to avoid damaging the faucet or the plumbing.

In this guide, we will walk you through the process of replacing a bathtub faucet. We will provide detailed instructions on how to gather the tools and materials you will need, shut off the water supply, remove the old faucet, install the new faucet, and test the faucet to make sure it is working properly.

Gather the Tools and Materials You Will Need

The following tools and materials are required to replace a bathtub faucet:

  • Tape measure
  • Combination/socket wrench
  • Adjustable wrench
  • Pliers
  • Penetrating oil
  • Replacement faucet
  • New washers and O-rings
  • Plumbing putty
  • Caulk

Shut Off the Water Supply

The first step is to shut off the water supply to the bathtub faucet. This can be done by turning off the main water supply to your home. If you do not know where the main water supply is located, you can typically find it in the basement or utility room.

Once the main water supply is turned off, you will need to locate the shut-off valves for the bathtub faucet. These valves are typically located behind the faucet or under the sink. Turn the shut-off valves clockwise to stop the flow of water.

Remove the Old Faucet

Now that the water supply is turned off, you can begin to remove the old faucet. The first step is to remove the escutcheon plate. This is the decorative cover that surrounds the faucet. The escutcheon plate is typically held in place by screws or clips. Remove the screws or clips to remove the escutcheon plate.

Once the escutcheon plate is removed, you will see the mounting nuts that hold the faucet in place. These nuts are typically located on the back of the faucet. Use a combination/socket wrench to loosen the mounting nuts. Be careful not to over-tighten the nuts, as this could damage the faucet.

Once the mounting nuts are loosened, you can begin to remove the faucet. Gently pull the faucet away from the sink. Be careful not to damage the plumbing behind the faucet.

Install the New Faucet

Now that the old faucet is removed, you can begin to install the new faucet. The installation process is the reverse of the removal process. Start by placing the new faucet in the sink. Make sure that the faucet is aligned properly.

Once the faucet is aligned properly, you can begin to install the mounting nuts. Use a combination/socket wrench to tighten the mounting nuts. Be careful not to over-tighten the nuts, as this could damage the faucet.

Once the mounting nuts are tightened, you can install the escutcheon plate. The escutcheon plate is typically held in place by screws or clips. Install the screws or clips to secure the escutcheon plate.

Test the Faucet

Now that the new faucet is installed, you can test it to make sure it is working properly. Turn on the main water supply to your home. Turn on the hot and cold water valves to the faucet. The faucet should start to flow water.

Check the faucet for leaks. If you see any leaks, tighten the mounting nuts or escutcheon plate until the leaks stop.

Replacing a bathtub faucet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. By following the steps in this guide, you can easily replace your old faucet with a new one.

Here are some additional tips for replacing a bathtub faucet:

  • If you are not comfortable working with plumbing, you may want to hire a professional to replace the faucet for you.
  • Make sure to use the correct tools and materials for the job.
  • Take your time and follow the steps carefully to avoid damaging the faucet or the plumbing.
  • Test the faucet to make sure it is working properly before you use it.

3. Remove the Old Faucet

Remove the Old Faucet Handles

To remove the old faucet handles, you will need a Phillips head screwdriver.

1. Locate the screws that hold the faucet handles in place. They are typically located on the back of the handles, near the base of the faucet.
2. Use the Phillips head screwdriver to loosen the screws.
3. Once the screws are loosened, carefully pry the handles off of the faucet.

Remove the Old Faucet Body

To remove the old faucet body, you will need a wrench.

1. Locate the nuts that hold the faucet body in place. They are typically located on the bottom of the faucet, near the drain.
2. Use the wrench to loosen the nuts.
3. Once the nuts are loosened, carefully pull the faucet body off of the faucet.

Remove the Old Faucet Drain

To remove the old faucet drain, you will need a basin wrench.

1. Locate the nut that holds the faucet drain in place. It is typically located on the bottom of the drain, near the center.
2. Use the basin wrench to loosen the nut.
3. Once the nut is loosened, carefully unscrew the drain from the faucet.

4. Install the New Faucet

Install the New Faucet Body

To install the new faucet body, you will need a wrench.

1. Apply a thin layer of plumber’s putty to the bottom of the faucet body.
2. Align the faucet body with the holes in the sink.
3. Use the wrench to tighten the nuts that hold the faucet body in place.

Install the New Faucet Drain

To install the new faucet drain, you will need a basin wrench.

1. Apply a thin layer of plumber’s putty to the bottom of the drain.
2. Align the drain with the hole in the sink.
3. Use the basin wrench to tighten the nut that holds the drain in place.

Install the New Faucet Handles

To install the new faucet handles, you will need a Phillips head screwdriver.

1. Align the handles with the faucet body.
2. Use the Phillips head screwdriver to tighten the screws that hold the handles in place.

Turn on the Water Supply to Your Home

Once the new faucet is installed, turn on the water supply to your home.

Test the New Faucet

Turn on the faucet and check for leaks. If there are no leaks, the new faucet is installed correctly.

How to Replace a Bathtub Faucet?

Q: What tools do I need to replace a bathtub faucet?

A: You will need the following tools:

  • A screwdriver
  • A wrench
  • A basin wrench
  • Penetrating oil
  • A bucket
  • A rag

Q: How do I remove the old faucet?

A: 1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Remove the escutcheon plate from the faucet.
3. Loosen the nuts that hold the faucet to the sink.
4. Use a basin wrench to turn the faucet stem counterclockwise until it comes loose.
5. Remove the faucet from the sink.

Q: How do I install the new faucet?

A: 1. Apply a thin coat of plumber’s grease to the threads of the new faucet.
2. Insert the faucet into the sink and tighten the nuts until they are snug.
3. Replace the escutcheon plate.
4. Turn on the water supply to the faucet and check for leaks.

Q: What if the faucet is stuck?

A: If the faucet is stuck, you can try using penetrating oil to loosen the threads. Allow the oil to soak in for a few minutes, then try to turn the faucet again. If the faucet is still stuck, you may need to use a wrench to break it loose.

Q: What if the new faucet doesn’t fit?

A: If the new faucet doesn’t fit, you may need to purchase a different faucet that is compatible with your sink. You can check the dimensions of your sink and the faucet to make sure they are compatible.

Q: How do I prevent leaks?

A: To prevent leaks, make sure that all of the connections are tight. You can also use a sealant around the threads of the faucet to help prevent leaks.

Q: How often should I replace my bathtub faucet?

A: You should replace your bathtub faucet every 10 to 15 years. However, if the faucet is leaking or not working properly, you may need to replace it sooner.

Replacing a bathtub faucet is a relatively simple DIY project that can save you money and time. By following the steps in this guide, you can easily remove your old faucet and install a new one in its place.

Before you begin, be sure to turn off the water supply to the faucet. You can do this by finding the shut-off valve under the sink or behind the toilet. Once the water is off, you can begin removing the old faucet.

To remove the faucet handles, you will need to use a screwdriver to loosen the set screws. Once the set screws are removed, you can pull the handles off of the faucet. Next, you will need to remove the faucet body. To do this, you will need to use a wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the faucet body in place. Once the nuts are loosened, you can pull the faucet body off of the sink.

Now that the old faucet is removed, you can install the new faucet. To do this, you will need to reverse the steps you took to remove the old faucet. First, you will need to attach the faucet body to the sink. Then, you will need to attach the handles to the faucet body. Finally, you will need to turn on the water supply to the faucet and test it to make sure it is working properly.

Replacing a bathtub faucet is a relatively simple project that can be completed in a few hours. By following the steps in this guide, you can easily remove your old faucet and install a new one in its place.

Author Profile

Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell is the owner of toiletty.com. She is a mom of two and is very passionate about home improvement.

Liana has ten years of home improvement experience, and in her own words, she said: “I love improving the home, and I’m very passionate about keeping the home in the best possible condition. I love it!”

Liana Farrell balances beauty and functionality when she goes about her home improvement jobs.