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

AvatarByLiana Farrell Faucet Queries

How to Change a Bathtub Faucet Stem

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. But what happens when the faucet stem starts to leak? Or worse, it completely breaks?

Changing a bathtub faucet stem is a relatively simple task that can be completed in just a few minutes. But before you get started, there are a few things you need to know.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of changing a bathtub faucet stem, step-by-step. We’ll also provide some tips and tricks to help you make the job easier.

So if your bathtub faucet is giving you trouble, read on to learn how to fix it!

Step Tools Instructions
1 Pliers Turn off the water supply to the bathtub faucet.
2 Adjustable wrench Loosen the locknut on the bottom of the faucet stem with the adjustable wrench.
3 Screwdriver Remove the screw that holds the faucet stem in place with the screwdriver.
4 Faucet stem Pull the faucet stem out of the faucet body.
5 New faucet stem Insert the new faucet stem into the faucet body.
6 Screwdriver Replace the screw that holds the faucet stem in place with the screwdriver.
7 Adjustable wrench Tighten the locknut on the bottom of the faucet stem with the adjustable wrench.
8 Turn on the water supply to the bathtub faucet. Test the faucet to make sure it is working properly.

How to Change a Bathtub Faucet Stem?

A bathtub faucet stem is the part of the faucet that controls the flow of water. It is typically located at the base of the faucet and is turned clockwise to turn the water on and counterclockwise to turn it off. Over time, the faucet stem can become worn out and need to be replaced. This is a relatively simple task that can be completed in about 30 minutes.

Gather the necessary tools and materials

To replace a bathtub faucet stem, you will need the following tools and materials:

  • Adjustable wrench
  • Pliers
  • Penetrating oil
  • New faucet stem
  • Tape measure
  • Combination/socket wrench
  • Pipe wrench

Turn off the water supply to the faucet

The first step is to turn off the water supply to the faucet. This is usually done by turning a shut-off valve located under the sink. If you cannot find the shut-off valve, you can turn off the water at the main water supply to your home.

Remove the old faucet stem

Once the water supply is turned off, you can begin to remove the old faucet stem. To do this, you will need to use a combination/socket wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the stem in place. Be careful not to damage the threads on the stem.

Once the nuts are loosened, you can use a pipe wrench to turn the stem counterclockwise until it comes loose. Be careful not to drop the stem into the sink.

Install the new faucet stem

To install the new faucet stem, you will need to reverse the steps you took to remove the old stem. First, apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the threads of the new stem. This will help to make it easier to install.

Next, insert the new stem into the faucet body and tighten the nuts with a combination/socket wrench. Be careful not to overtighten the nuts, as this could damage the stem.

Turn on the water supply and test the faucet

Once the new faucet stem is installed, you can turn on the water supply and test the faucet. Make sure that the water is flowing freely and that the faucet is working properly.

Replacing a bathtub faucet stem is a relatively simple task that can be completed in about 30 minutes. By following these steps, you can easily and affordably fix a leaky faucet.

Here are some additional tips for replacing a bathtub faucet stem:

  • If the old stem is corroded or damaged, you may need to use a penetrating oil to loosen it.
  • Be careful not to drop the old stem into the sink. If you do, you can usually retrieve it with a magnet.
  • Make sure that the new stem is the correct size for your faucet.
  • Tighten the nuts on the new stem until they are snug, but not too tight.
  • Test the faucet to make sure that it is working properly.

3. Remove the old faucet stem.

To remove the old faucet stem, you will need:

  • A screwdriver
  • A pair of pliers

1. Locate the setscrews that hold the faucet stem in place. These screws are usually located on the bottom of the faucet, near the faucet handle.
2. Use the screwdriver to loosen the setscrews.
3. Use the pliers to grip the faucet stem and turn it counterclockwise to remove it.

Once the old faucet stem is removed, you can proceed to install the new faucet stem.

4. Install the new faucet stem.

To install the new faucet stem, you will need:

  • A new faucet stem
  • A small amount of penetrating oil

1. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the threads of the new faucet stem.
2. Insert the new faucet stem into the faucet body.
3. Tighten the setscrews to secure the faucet stem in place.

Once the new faucet stem is installed, you can test the faucet to make sure that it is working properly.

Changing a bathtub faucet stem is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. By following these steps, you can easily replace a broken or worn-out faucet stem and restore your bathtub faucet to working order.

Here are some additional tips for changing a bathtub faucet stem:

  • Make sure to turn off the water supply to the faucet before you begin.
  • Use a rag to protect the sink or bathtub from any drips or spills.
  • If you are unable to remove the old faucet stem, you may need to replace the entire faucet.
  • Be sure to tighten the setscrews securely after you have installed the new faucet stem.

By following these tips, you can safely and easily change a bathtub faucet stem.

How do I remove the old bathtub faucet stem?

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Remove the escutcheon (the decorative cover around the faucet) by unscrewing it counterclockwise.
3. Locate the set screw on the faucet stem. It is usually a small, Phillips head screw.
4. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to turn the set screw counterclockwise until it is loose.
5. Pull the faucet stem out of the faucet body.

How do I install the new bathtub faucet stem?

1. Apply a thin coat of plumber’s grease to the threads of the new faucet stem.
2. Insert the faucet stem into the faucet body.
3. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to tighten the set screw until it is snug.
4. Replace the escutcheon.
5. Turn on the water supply to the faucet.

What if the faucet stem is stuck?

If the faucet stem is stuck, you can try using a penetrating oil to loosen it. Spray the oil onto the threads of the faucet stem and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, try to turn the faucet stem counterclockwise again. If it is still stuck, you may need to use a wrench to turn it.

What size faucet stem do I need?

The size of the faucet stem you need will depend on the type of faucet you have. Most faucet stems are either 1/2-inch or 3/8-inch in diameter. You can measure the old faucet stem to determine what size you need.

Where can I buy a bathtub faucet stem?

You can buy a bathtub faucet stem at most home improvement stores. You can also order them online from a variety of retailers.

In this blog post, we have discussed how to change a bathtub faucet stem. We have covered the tools and materials you will need, the steps involved in the process, and some tips for troubleshooting. We hope this information has been helpful and that you are now able to change your bathtub faucet stem with confidence.

Here are some key takeaways from this blog post:

  • Before you begin, make sure you have the right tools and materials.
  • Turn off the water supply to the faucet before you start work.
  • Follow the steps in the order they are given.
  • Be careful not to damage the faucet or the surrounding plumbing.
  • If you are having trouble, consult a professional plumber.

We hope this blog post has been helpful. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment below.

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.