How to Replace a Tub/Shower Faucet in 6 Easy Steps

AvatarByLiana Farrell Faucet Queries

How to Replace a Tub/Shower Faucet

Your tub/shower faucet is one of the most important fixtures in your bathroom. It’s used for everything from getting clean to taking a relaxing bath. But what happens when your faucet starts to leak or malfunction? Do you have to call a plumber? Not necessarily. In most cases, you can replace a tub/shower faucet yourself with just a few simple tools and some basic instructions.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of replacing a tub/shower faucet step-by-step. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right replacement faucet to removing the old one and installing the new one. By the end of this article, you’ll be able to replace your tub/shower faucet like a pro.

So if your faucet is giving you trouble, don’t despair. Just follow these steps and you’ll be back to enjoying your bath in no time.

Step Tools Instructions
1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
  • Locate the shut-off valves for the hot and cold water lines to the faucet.
  • Turn the valves clockwise to turn off the water supply.
  • Make sure that the water is turned off to both the hot and cold water lines.
  • Do not attempt to work on the faucet while the water is still on.
2. Remove the old faucet.
  • Remove the screws that hold the faucet to the sink.
  • Disconnect the water supply lines from the faucet.
  • Remove the faucet from the sink.
  • Use a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the faucet to the sink.
  • Use a wrench to disconnect the water supply lines from the faucet.
  • Carefully remove the faucet from the sink.
3. Install the new faucet.
  • Apply a thin coat of plumber’s putty to the threads of the new faucet.
  • Attach the new faucet to the sink.
  • Connect the water supply lines to the faucet.
  • Turn on the water supply to the faucet.
  • Apply a thin coat of plumber’s putty to the threads of the new faucet.
  • Carefully attach the new faucet to the sink.
  • Securely connect the water supply lines to the faucet.
  • Turn on the water supply to the faucet and check for leaks.

How to Replace a Tub/Shower Faucet

Gather the necessary tools and materials

Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials:

  • Replacement tub/shower faucet
  • Tape measure
  • Combination or socket wrench
  • Pliers
  • Penetrating oil
  • Screwdriver
  • Bucket
  • New washers and O-rings
  • Plumber’s putty

Shut off the water supply

The first step is to shut off the water supply to the faucet. This is usually done by turning a shutoff valve located behind the faucet. If you’re not sure where the shutoff valve is located, consult your home’s plumbing diagram.

Once the water supply is turned off, you can begin removing the old faucet.

Remove the old faucet

To remove the old faucet, you’ll need to first remove the escutcheon plate. This is the decorative plate that covers the mounting bolts. The escutcheon plate is usually held in place by screws or clips. Once the escutcheon plate is removed, you’ll be able to see the mounting bolts.

Use a combination or socket wrench to loosen the mounting bolts. Be careful not to drop the bolts into the drain. Once the mounting bolts are loose, you can carefully pry the old faucet off of the sink.

Install the new faucet

To install the new faucet, you’ll need to first apply a thin coat of plumber’s putty to the threads of the faucet. This will help to create a watertight seal.

Next, position the new faucet over the sink and insert the mounting bolts through the holes in the faucet. Use a combination or socket wrench to tighten the mounting bolts until the faucet is secure.

Once the mounting bolts are tight, you can install the escutcheon plate. The escutcheon plate will help to protect the threads of the faucet and hide the mounting bolts.

Reconnect the water supply

Once the new faucet is installed, you can reconnect the water supply. Turn on the water supply and check for leaks. If you see any leaks, tighten the mounting bolts until the leaks stop.

Test the new faucet

Once the new faucet is installed and the water supply is reconnected, you can test the faucet to make sure it’s working properly. Turn on the faucet and check for leaks. Make sure the hot and cold water are flowing properly.

If the faucet is working properly, you’re done! Enjoy your new faucet.

3. Remove the old faucet

3. Remove the old faucet

To remove the old faucet, you will need:

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

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet. There will be a shut-off valve located behind the faucet or under the sink. Turn the valve clockwise until it is completely closed.
2. Disconnect the water lines from the faucet. There will be two water lines connected to the faucet: one hot and one cold. Use a wrench to loosen the nuts that connect the water lines to the faucet. Be careful not to damage the threads on the pipes.
3. Remove the old faucet handle. There will be a screw or nut that holds the handle in place. Use a screwdriver to remove the screw or nut.
4. Remove the old faucet body. There will be a setscrew that holds the faucet body in place. Use a screwdriver to loosen the setscrew.
5. Remove the old faucet base. The faucet base is held in place by two screws. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws.
6. Clean the area around the faucet. Use a rag to wipe up any water or debris.

4. Install the new faucet

4. Install the new faucet

To install the new faucet, you will need:

  • The new faucet
  • A basin wrench
  • A screwdriver
  • Penetrating oil
  • A bucket
  • A rag

1. Inspect the new faucet. Make sure that the new faucet is the same size and type as the old faucet.
2. Apply penetrating oil to the threads of the water lines. This will help to make it easier to connect the water lines to the faucet.
3. Connect the water lines to the faucet. Use a wrench to tighten the nuts that connect the water lines to the faucet. Be careful not to damage the threads on the pipes.
4. Install the new faucet handle. There will be a screw or nut that holds the handle in place. Use a screwdriver to install the screw or nut.
5. Install the new faucet body. There will be a setscrew that holds the faucet body in place. Use a screwdriver to install the setscrew.
6. Install the new faucet base. The faucet base is held in place by two screws. Use a screwdriver to install the screws.
7. Turn on the water supply to the faucet. Check for leaks around the faucet. If there are any leaks, tighten the connections until the leaks stop.
8. Enjoy your new faucet!

Replacing a tub shower faucet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. By following these steps, you can easily replace your old faucet with a new one that will look great and function properly.

How To Replace Tub Shower Faucet?

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

A: You will need the following tools:

  • A screwdriver
  • A wrench
  • A pair of pliers
  • A bucket
  • A towel

Q: How do I remove the old faucet?

A: 1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Disconnect the water supply lines from the faucet.
3. Remove the screws that hold the faucet in place.
4. Pull the faucet out of the wall.

Q: How do I install the new faucet?

A: 1. Apply a bead of plumber’s putty around the base of the new faucet.
2. Insert the faucet into the wall.
3. Secure the faucet in place with the screws.
4. Connect the water supply lines to the faucet.
5. Turn on the water supply to the faucet.

Q: What if the faucet is leaking?

A: If the faucet is leaking, there are a few possible causes:

  • The faucet is not tightened properly.
  • The faucet gasket is worn out.
  • The faucet cartridge is damaged.

To fix the leak, you will need to identify the cause of the leak and take the appropriate steps to fix it.

Q: How can I prevent future leaks?

There are a few things you can do to prevent future leaks:

  • Tighten the faucet regularly.
  • Replace the faucet gasket every few years.
  • Replace the faucet cartridge every 10 years.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your tub shower faucet in good working order and prevent leaks.

Replacing a tub shower faucet is a relatively simple DIY project that can save you money and time. In this comprehensive guide, we have outlined the steps involved in the process, from start to finish. By following these steps, you can be confident that you will be able to successfully replace your tub shower faucet with ease.

Here are the key takeaways from this guide:

  • Before you begin, make sure you have 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 tub shower faucet and enjoy a new, functioning faucet in no time.

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.