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

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How to Replace a Two-Handle Bathtub Faucet

A bathtub faucet is a critical part of your bathroom, and it’s important to keep it in good working order. If your two-handle bathtub faucet is leaking, dripping, or not working properly, it’s time to replace it. Replacing a two-handle bathtub faucet is a relatively simple DIY project that can be completed in about an hour. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of replacing a two-handle bathtub faucet, so you can have a working faucet again in no time.

What You’ll Need

To replace a two-handle bathtub faucet, you’ll need the following materials:

  • New bathtub faucet
  • Tape measure
  • Combination or socket wrench
  • Pliers
  • Penetrating oil
  • Pipe wrench
  • Adjustable wrench
  • Hacksaw
  • Safety glasses
  • Gloves
  • Plumber’s putty
  • New washers and O-rings
  • Caulk

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Turn off the water supply to the bathtub. This is usually done by turning the shut-off valves located under the sink or behind the toilet.
2. Drain the water from the bathtub. You can do this by opening the drain plug or by using a wet/dry vacuum.
3. Remove the old faucet. To do this, you’ll need to remove the screws that hold the faucet to the sink. You may also need to remove the escutcheon plate, which is the decorative cover around the faucet.
4. Install the new faucet. This is done by reversing the steps you took to remove the old faucet. Make sure to tighten the screws securely so that the faucet is firmly in place.
5. Reattach the water supply lines. Connect the water supply lines to the new faucet. Make sure to tighten the connections securely so that there are no leaks.
6. Turn on the water supply to the bathtub. Check for leaks around the faucet. If you see any leaks, tighten the connections until the leaks stop.
7. Reinstall the escutcheon plate. This is the decorative cover around the faucet.
8. Caulk around the faucet. This will help to seal the faucet and prevent leaks.

Tips

  • Before you start, make sure you have all of the necessary tools and materials.
  • It’s important to turn off the water supply to the bathtub before you start.
  • Drain the water from the bathtub before you remove the old faucet.
  • Take your time and follow the instructions carefully.
  • If you have any questions, consult a professional plumber.

Replacing a two-handle bathtub faucet is a relatively simple DIY project that can be completed in about an hour. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can have a working faucet again in no time.

How To Replace A Two-Handle Bathtub Faucet?

| Step | Task | Tools |
|—|—|—|
| 1 | Turn off the water supply to the faucet. | Adjustable wrench |
| 2 | Remove the old faucet handles. | Screwdriver |
| 3 | Remove the old faucet body. | Pliers |
| 4 | Install the new faucet body. | Pliers |
| 5 | Install the new faucet handles. | Screwdriver |
| 6 | Turn on the water supply to the faucet. | |

A bathtub faucet is a plumbing fixture that allows you to control the flow of hot and cold water to the bathtub. It is typically located on the side of the bathtub, and it may have two handles or one handle. Two-handle bathtub faucets are the most common type, and they allow you to control the temperature of the water independently.

Replacing a two-handle bathtub faucet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in about an hour. However, it is important to follow the steps carefully to ensure that the job is done correctly.

This guide will walk you through the process of replacing a two-handle bathtub faucet. We will provide detailed instructions and photos to help you along the way.

Gather Your Tools and Materials

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

  • Adjustable wrench
  • Pipe wrench
  • Penetrating oil
  • Pliers
  • New faucet
  • New washers and gaskets
  • Plumbing tape
  • Silicone sealant

Shut Off the Water Supply

The first step is to shut off the water supply to the bathtub. This is usually done by turning the shut-off valves located behind the faucet. If you cannot find the shut-off valves, you may need to consult your home’s plumbing diagram.

Once the water supply is turned off, you will need to allow the water to drain from the faucet. This can be done by opening the faucet and letting the water run until it stops.

Remove the Old Faucet

The next step is to remove the old faucet. To do this, you will need to remove the mounting screws that hold the faucet in place. These screws are typically located behind the faucet handles.

Once the screws are removed, you can carefully pry the faucet away from the wall. Be careful not to damage the surrounding plumbing.

Install the New Faucet

Now it is time to 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 new faucet to the wall using the mounting screws. Make sure that the faucet is properly aligned before tightening the screws.

Next, you will need to connect the water supply lines to the new faucet. These lines are typically copper or plastic, and they are connected to the faucet with compression fittings.

Once the water supply lines are connected, you can turn on the water supply and test the faucet. Make sure that the water is flowing smoothly and that the temperature is correct.

Reattach the Faucet Handles

The final step is to reattach the faucet handles. To do this, you will need to insert the handles into the faucet body and tighten the set screws.

Once the handles are reattached, you can enjoy your new bathtub faucet!

Replacing a two-handle bathtub faucet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in about an hour. By following the steps in this guide, you can save yourself time and money by doing the job yourself.

Here are some additional tips for replacing a two-handle bathtub faucet:

  • Make sure that you have the right tools and materials before you start.
  • Be careful not to damage the surrounding plumbing.
  • If you are not comfortable doing this type of work, you may want to hire a professional plumber.

3. Remove the Old Faucet

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

  • Adjustable wrench
  • Pipe wrench
  • Penetrating oil
  • Rags

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Apply penetrating oil to the threads of the nuts that connect the faucet to the water lines and the sink.
3. Let the penetrating oil sit for a few minutes.
4. Use the adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts that connect the faucet to the water lines.
5. Use the pipe wrench to loosen the nuts that connect the faucet to the sink.
6. Carefully remove the faucet from the sink.

4. Install the New Faucet

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

  • Adjustable wrench
  • Pipe wrench
  • Plumber’s tape
  • New faucet
  • New washers
  • New O-rings

1. Apply a small amount of plumber’s tape to the threads of the new faucet.
2. Connect the new faucet to the water lines and the sink.
3. Tighten the nuts securely.
4. Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.

Replacing a two-handle bathtub faucet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in about an hour. By following these steps, you can save yourself time and money by doing it yourself.

Here are some additional tips for replacing a two-handle bathtub faucet:

  • If the faucet is old and corroded, you may need to use a torch to heat the nuts and loosen them.
  • Be careful not to damage the sink or the faucet when removing the old faucet.
  • Make sure to tighten the nuts securely when installing the new faucet.
  • Test the faucet to make sure that it is working properly before you turn on the water supply.

    How do I remove the old faucet?

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Remove the screws that hold the faucet handles in place.
3. Use a wrench to loosen the nuts that connect the faucet to the water supply lines.
4. Pull the faucet straight out of the sink.

How do I install the new faucet?

1. Apply a thin coat of plumber’s putty to the threads of the new faucet.
2. Insert the faucet into the sink and tighten the nuts that connect it to the water supply lines.
3. Replace the screws that hold the faucet handles in place.
4. Turn on the water supply to the faucet and check for leaks.

What if the faucet is stuck?

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

What if the faucet leaks?

If the faucet is leaking, you can try tightening the nuts that connect it to the water supply lines. If that does not work, you may need to replace the O-rings or gaskets in the faucet.

What is the best type of faucet for a bathtub?

The best type of faucet for a bathtub depends on your needs and preferences. Some factors to consider include the style of your bathroom, the amount of water pressure you have, and your budget.

How much does it cost to replace a bathtub faucet?

The cost of replacing a bathtub faucet varies depending on the type of faucet you choose and the cost of labor. In general, you can expect to pay between \$100 and \$300 for a new faucet.

Can I replace a bathtub faucet myself?

Replacing a bathtub faucet is a relatively simple task that can be completed by most DIYers. However, if you are not comfortable working with plumbing, you may want to hire a professional to do the job for you.

Replacing a two-handle bathtub faucet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in about an hour. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can save yourself a significant amount of money by avoiding the cost of hiring a plumber.

Here are the key takeaways from this guide:

  • Before you begin, make sure you have all of the necessary tools and materials.
  • Turn off the water supply to the faucet and drain the water from the pipes.
  • 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 faucet to make sure it is working properly.

By following these steps, you can easily replace your old bathtub faucet with a new one that will look great and function properly for years to come.

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.