How To Replace Faucet In Bathtub

How to Replace a Faucet in a Bathtub: A Step-by-Step Guide

Give your bathroom a fresh new look and upgrade its functionality by replacing the faucet in your bathtub. With the right tools and a bit of know-how, you can easily complete this task yourself, saving time and money on professional plumbing services. Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure a successful faucet replacement.

Materials and Tools Needed:

- New bathtub faucet - Adjustable wrench - Basin wrench - Allen wrench - Plumber's putty - Teflon tape - Screwdriver - Safety goggles - Flashlight - Rags or towels - Bucket ###

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply

Locate the water shutoff valves for your bathtub, typically found under the sink or in a nearby utility closet. Turn both the hot and cold water valves clockwise until they are completely closed. This will prevent water from flowing out when you remove the old faucet. ###

Step 2: Disconnect the Old Faucet

Use the flashlight to inspect the underside of the faucet. Locate the nuts that secure the faucet to the tub deck. Use the appropriate wrench (adjustable or basin wrench) to loosen and remove these nuts. Be careful not to drop any parts into the drain. ###

Step 3: Remove the Old Faucet

Once the nuts are removed, gently lift the old faucet straight up and off the tub deck. Place it aside in a safe location. If the faucet is stubborn or stuck, use the screwdriver to pry it loose. ###

Step 4: Clean the Faucet Area

Use rags or towels to clean the faucet area thoroughly, removing any remaining plumber's putty, debris, or old sealant. A clean surface will ensure a proper seal for the new faucet. ###

Step 5: Apply Plumber's Putty

Apply a rope of plumber's putty around the base of the new faucet, ensuring that it is evenly distributed and creates a watertight seal. This will prevent leaks once the faucet is installed. ###

Step 6: Install the New Faucet

Carefully position the new faucet over the tub deck, aligning the holes in the faucet with the holes in the tub deck. Hand-tighten the mounting nuts until they are snug. Use the wrench to tighten the nuts further, but do not overtighten to avoid damaging the faucet or tub deck. ###

Step 7: Attach the Water Supply Lines

Connect the water supply lines to the appropriate valves, matching hot to hot and cold to cold. Use Teflon tape to wrap around the threads of the water supply lines, creating a watertight seal. Hand-tighten the connections and then use the wrench to tighten them further, again being careful not to overtighten. ###

Step 8: Test the Faucet

Turn on the water supply valves slowly and check for leaks. If you notice any leaks, tighten the connections further until the leaks stop. ###

Step 9: Finalize the Installation

Use the Allen wrench to tighten any decorative caps or handles on the faucet. Wipe away any excess water or plumber's putty from the faucet and tub deck. Congratulations! You have successfully replaced the faucet in your bathtub. Enjoy your newly updated bathroom and the satisfaction of a job well done.