Bathtub Faucet Removal - Home Bathtub

Bathtub Faucet Removal: A Step-by-Step Guide

### Introduction: A dripping or faulty bathtub faucet can be a major inconvenience, not to mention a waste of water. If you're experiencing these issues, it may be time to replace your old faucet with a new one. While this may seem like a daunting task, it's actually quite simple with the right tools and a little know-how. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps of bathtub faucet removal, so you can get your bathroom back in working order in no time. ### Tools and Materials: Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials: - Adjustable wrench - Basin wrench - Channel-lock pliers - Safety glasses - Gloves - Bucket - Towels - New bathtub faucet - Plumber's putty ### Step 1: Preparation - Turn off the water supply: Locate the shut-off valves for your bathtub. These are usually located under the sink or behind the bathtub. Turn the valves clockwise until the water supply is completely turned off. - Place a bucket under the bathtub spout: This will catch any water that spills during the removal process. - Cover the drain: Use a drain cover or a rag to prevent small parts from falling into the drain. ### Step 2: Remove the Aerator - Unscrew the aerator: The aerator is the small, mesh screen located at the tip of the faucet. Use your fingers or a wrench to unscrew it and remove it from the faucet. ### Step 3: Disconnect the Supply Lines - Loosen the supply lines: Use the adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts that connect the supply lines to the faucet. Be careful not to drop the nuts into the drain. - Remove the supply lines: Once the nuts are loosened, you can remove the supply lines from the faucet. ### Step 4: Remove the Faucet Handle - Remove the handle set screw: Locate the handle set screw, which is usually located on the top or side of the faucet handle. Use a screwdriver to remove the set screw. - Remove the handle: Once the set screw is removed, you can pull the faucet handle straight up to remove it. ### Step 5: Remove the Faucet Body - Loosen the mounting nuts: Use the basin wrench to loosen the mounting nuts that hold the faucet body in place. The mounting nuts are usually located underneath the faucet. - Remove the faucet body: Once the mounting nuts are loosened, you can remove the faucet body from the bathtub. ### Step 6: Clean the Bathtub Surface - Clean the surface: Use a damp cloth to clean the bathtub surface where the faucet was installed. Make sure to remove any old putty or sealant. ### Step 7: Install the New Faucet - Apply plumber's putty: Roll out a rope of plumber's putty and apply it to the base of the new faucet. This will help to create a watertight seal. - Install the faucet body: Insert the new faucet body into the bathtub hole. Tighten the mounting nuts until the faucet is secure. - Connect the supply lines: Attach the supply lines to the faucet body. Make sure to tighten the nuts securely. - Install the faucet handle: Slide the faucet handle onto the stem and tighten the handle set screw. - Reinstall the aerator: Screw the aerator back onto the faucet. ### Step 8: Test the Faucet - Turn on the water supply: Open the shut-off valves to turn on the water supply. - Check for leaks: Inspect the faucet and supply lines for any leaks. Tighten any connections that are leaking. ### Conclusion: With a little patience and the right tools, you can easily remove and replace a bathtub faucet. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can save yourself the cost of hiring a plumber and get your bathroom back in working order in no time.