How to Change a Bathtub Faucet: A Step-by-Step Guide

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How to Change a Bathtub Faucet

Your bathtub faucet is one of the most important fixtures in your bathroom. It’s used for everything from taking a bath to washing your hands, so it’s important to make sure it’s working properly. If your faucet is leaking or dripping, it’s time to replace it. Changing a bathtub faucet is a relatively simple DIY project that you can complete in just a few hours. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of how to change a bathtub faucet, from start to finish.

We’ll provide you with detailed instructions, along with pictures and videos to help you along the way. By the end of this article, you’ll be able to change your bathtub faucet like a pro.

So what are you waiting for? Let’s get started!

Step Tools Instructions
1 Plumber’s wrench, adjustable wrench, screwdriver, bucket Turn off the water supply to the bathtub faucet.
2 Remove the old faucet handles. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the handles in place.
3 Remove the old faucet body. Use a plumber’s wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the faucet body in place.
4 Install the new faucet body. Apply a thin coat of plumber’s putty to the threads of the new faucet body.
5 Install the new faucet handles. Screw the new faucet handles in place.
6 Turn on the water supply to the bathtub faucet. Test the faucet to make sure it is working properly.

Gather your tools and materials

Before you can start changing your bathtub faucet, you need to gather the necessary tools and materials. This will include:

  • A wrench or pliers
  • A screwdriver
  • A new bathtub faucet
  • A plumber’s putty
  • A new drain gasket
  • A new washer
  • Penetrating oil

Once you have gathered all of your tools and materials, you can begin the process of changing your bathtub faucet.

Turn off the water supply

The first step in changing your bathtub faucet is to turn off the water supply. This will prevent any water from coming out of the faucet while you are working on it. To do this, you will need to find the shut-off valve for your bathtub. This is usually located near the bottom of the faucet, on the cold water line. Once you have found the shut-off valve, turn it clockwise until it is completely closed.

Disconnect the old faucet

Now that the water supply is turned off, you can begin to disconnect the old faucet. To do this, you will need to remove the screws that hold the faucet to the sink. These screws are usually located on the back of the faucet. Once you have removed the screws, you can carefully pry the faucet away from the sink. Be careful not to damage the sink.

Install the new faucet

Now that the old faucet is removed, you can install the new faucet. To do this, you will need to align the new faucet with the holes in the sink. Once the faucet is aligned, you can begin to screw it into place. Be sure to tighten the screws securely.

Connect the water supply

Now that the new faucet is installed, you can reconnect the water supply. To do this, you will need to open the shut-off valve. Once the valve is open, you can turn on the water to the faucet. Be sure to check for leaks.

Test the faucet

Once you have turned on the water to the faucet, you can test it to make sure it is working properly. Turn the faucet on and off a few times to make sure that the water is flowing smoothly. You should also check to make sure that the faucet is not leaking.

If the faucet is working properly, you have successfully changed your bathtub faucet. Congratulations!

Remove the old faucet

To remove the old faucet, you will need the following tools:

  • Adjustable wrench
  • Penetrating oil
  • Pliers
  • Screwdriver

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet. This is usually located at the back of the faucet, under the sink.
2. Remove the screws that hold the faucet handles in place.
3. Use the pliers to loosen the nuts that hold the faucet to the sink.
4. Apply penetrating oil to the threads of the faucet and let it sit for a few minutes. This will help loosen the nuts.
5. Use the adjustable wrench to turn the nuts counterclockwise until they are loose.
6. Remove the nuts and the faucet.

Install the new faucet

To install the new faucet, you will need the following tools:

  • New faucet
  • Tape measure
  • Pencil
  • Level
  • Combination wrench
  • Pliers
  • Penetrating oil
  • Pipe wrench

1. Measure the distance between the center of the two holes in the sink. This will be the distance between the centers of the two faucet holes on the new faucet.
2. Mark the location of the faucet holes on the sink with a pencil.
3. Center the new faucet over the marks and attach it to the sink with the screws provided.
4. Use the level to make sure that the faucet is level.
5. Apply penetrating oil to the threads of the nuts and let it sit for a few minutes. This will help tighten the nuts.
6. Use the combination wrench to turn the nuts clockwise until they are snug.
7. Turn on the water supply to the faucet and check for leaks.

Replacing a bathtub faucet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in about an hour. By following these steps, you can easily remove the old faucet and install a new one.

How To Change A Bathtub Faucet?

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

A: You will need the following tools:

  • Adjustable wrench
  • Pliers
  • Penetrating oil
  • Tape measure
  • Combination/socket wrench
  • Tub spout wrench
  • New bathtub faucet
  • Plumbing putty
  • Pipe sealant

Q: How do I remove the old faucet?

A: 1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Disconnect the hot and cold water supply lines to the faucet.
3. Remove the screws that hold the faucet to the sink.
4. Use a putty knife to gently pry off the old faucet.
5. Clean the area around the faucet where the new faucet will be installed.

Q: How do I install the new faucet?

A: 1. Apply a bead of plumber’s putty to the bottom of the new faucet.
2. Place the new faucet on the sink and tighten the screws.
3. Connect the hot and cold water supply lines to the faucet.
4. Turn on the water supply to the faucet and check for leaks.

Q: What are some common problems with bathtub faucets?

A: Some common problems with bathtub faucets include:

  • Leaking faucets
  • Faucets that are difficult to turn on or off
  • Faucets that drip
  • Faucets that are not aligned properly

Q: How can I fix a leaky bathtub faucet?

There are a few different ways to fix a leaky bathtub faucet. The best way to fix a leaky faucet will depend on the specific cause of the leak.

  • If the leak is coming from the faucet stem, you can try tightening the packing nut.
  • If the leak is coming from the faucet body, you may need to replace the O-ring.
  • If the leak is coming from the faucet spout, you may need to replace the spout gasket.

Q: How can I prevent bathtub faucet problems?

There are a few things you can do to prevent bathtub faucet problems:

  • Keep the faucet clean and free of debris.
  • Lubricate the faucet stem regularly.
  • Replace worn or damaged parts as soon as possible.
  • Turn off the water supply to the faucet when not in use.

Q: What is the average cost to replace a bathtub faucet?

The average cost to replace a bathtub faucet ranges from $100 to $300. The exact cost will depend on the type of faucet you choose and the complexity of the installation.

Q: Can I replace a bathtub faucet myself?

Yes, you can replace a bathtub faucet yourself. However, it is important to make sure that you have the proper tools and skills for the job. If you are not comfortable doing the work yourself, you can hire a professional plumber to do the job for you.

Changing 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 to avoid damaging the faucet or the plumbing. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily replace your bathtub faucet with a new one that will provide you with years of reliable service.

Here are the key takeaways from this guide:

  • Before you begin, make sure you have the right tools and materials.
  • Turn off the water supply to the faucet and drain the water from the bathtub.
  • Remove the old faucet by unscrewing the mounting nuts and washers.
  • Install the new faucet by following the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Turn on the water supply and test the new faucet to make sure it is working properly.

By following these steps, you can easily change your bathtub faucet and enjoy a new one that will provide you with years of reliable service.

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.