In the realm of home renovations, few tasks are as daunting as tackling a plumbing project. However, replacing a two-handle bathtub faucet is a surprisingly manageable endeavor that offers both aesthetic and functional upgrades. This step-by-step guide will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to transform your bathtub into a sanctuary of comfort and style.
Before embarking on this project, it’s essential to gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need a pair of pliers, an adjustable wrench, a screwdriver, a basin wrench, and replacement handles and cartridges. Once you have everything ready, it’s time to disconnect the water supply to the faucet. Locate the shutoff valves under the sink and turn them clockwise to the closed position. Next, remove the handles by unscrewing the screws located at the base of each handle.
With the handles removed, you can now access the cartridges. Use the pliers to loosen the packing nut located on the base of each cartridge and carefully remove the cartridges. Be sure to observe the orientation of the cartridges, as they will need to be reinstalled in the same position. Once the cartridges are removed, it’s time to remove the tub spout. Use the adjustable wrench to loosen the nut that holds the spout in place and gently pull it off. Now that you have removed all the old components, it’s time to install the new faucet.
Gathering the Necessary Tools and Materials
Embarking on a bathtub faucet replacement journey necessitates an arsenal of tools and materials. Ensure you possess the following essentials to guarantee a smooth and efficient process:
Tools
| Essential Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Adjustable wrench | Loosen and tighten nuts |
| Phillips screwdriver | Remove handle screws |
| Basin wrench | Reach and loosen faucet base |
| Pliers | Grip and remove faucet components |
| Utility knife | Cut caulking around faucet base |
| Tape measure | Measure distances for faucet alignment |
Materials
- New two-handle bathtub faucet
- Plumber’s tape
- Caulk
- Washers and O-rings (if not included with new faucet)
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
- Bucket
- Sponge or towel
- Optional: Wet/dry vacuum
- Locate the Drain Plug: The drain plug is typically located at the bottom of the tub near the back.
- Lift the Drain Plug: Use your fingers or pliers to lift the plug straight up. If the plug is stuck, try unscrewing it with a pair of pliers.
- Let the Water Drain: Allow the water to drain completely from the bathtub into the bucket. This may take several minutes. If you have a lot of water in the tub, you can use a wet/dry vacuum to speed up the process.
To use a wet/dry vacuum:
Step Instructions 1 Position the vacuum hose over the drain hole. 2 Turn on the vacuum and allow it to suck up the water. 3 Once the water is gone, turn off the vacuum. - Clean Up: Once the water is drained, use a sponge or towel to wipe up any remaining water from the tub and surrounding area.
- Locate the cartridge retaining clip or screw and remove it.
- Pull the cartridge straight out of the faucet body.
- Use a wrench to loosen the packing nut.
- Pull the stem out of the faucet body. Be careful not to damage the O-rings on the stem.
- Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
- Remove the handle by unscrewing the set screw located at the base.
- Pull the cartridge straight out of the faucet body.
- Apply plumber’s grease to the new cartridge’s O-rings.
- Insert the new cartridge into the faucet body and tighten it in place.
- Reinstall the handle and turn on the water supply to check for leaks.
- Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
- Remove the handle by unscrewing the set screw located at the base.
- Pull the stem assembly straight out of the faucet body.
- Disassemble the stem assembly by unscrewing the packing nut and removing the washer and O-rings.
- Apply plumber’s grease to the new stem assembly’s O-rings and washer.
- Reassemble the stem assembly and insert it into the faucet body. Tighten the packing nut securely.
- Reinstall the handle and turn on the water supply to check for leaks.
- Locate the water supply valves, which are usually located under the sink or behind the bathtub.
- Turn the valves clockwise to open them.
- Check for any leaks at the connections.
- If there are no leaks, turn on both hot and cold water faucets to flush out any debris.
- Let the water run for a few minutes until it is clear.
- Turn off the faucets.
- If you are unsure of the location of the water supply valves, consult your home’s plumbing diagram or contact a plumber.
- If you cannot open the water supply valves, they may be seized. You can try using a wrench to gently loosen them.
- If you notice any leaks at the connections, tighten them using a wrench.
- Adjustable wrench
- Basin wrench
- Phillips screwdriver
- Flathead screwdriver
- New bathtub faucet
Shutting Off the Water Supply
Locate the Water Shut-Off Valves
Typically, the shut-off valves for the bathtub faucet are located behind the bathtub access panel. If you don’t have an access panel, they may be located under the sink or in a nearby utility closet.
Identify the Cold and Hot Water Valves
Most shut-off valves are labeled with red and blue handles, indicating hot and cold water, respectively. If your valves are not labeled, you can determine which is which by following the pipes leading from them. The hot water pipe will typically be on the left, and the cold water pipe will be on the right.
Turn Off the Valves
To turn off the water supply, simply turn the valves clockwise until they are fully tightened. You may need to use a pair of pliers to get a good grip on the handles. Once the valves are closed, the water supply to the bathtub faucet will be cut off.
Caution:
Before you begin working on the faucet, make sure that the water supply is completely turned off. If any water remains in the pipes, it could leak out and damage your bathroom.
Draining the Bathtub
Before you begin replacing your bathtub faucet, it’s essential to drain the water from the tub.
Tools You’ll Need:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Detaching the Old Faucet Handles
With the new handles at your disposal, it’s time to remove the old ones. This process is typically straightforward, but it may vary slightly depending on the specific design of your faucet. Here’s a detailed guide to help you through each step:
1. Identify the Type of Handles
First, determine whether your faucet has screw-on or pull-out handles. Screw-on handles are the most common type, and they can be removed using a screwdriver or Allen wrench. Pull-out handles, on the other hand, require a different approach.
2. Remove the Handle Cover
For screw-on handles, look for a small cap or escutcheon covering the screw. Use a screwdriver or coin to pry off the cover, exposing the screws holding the handle in place.
For pull-out handles, locate the release button or lever that allows you to pull out the handle from its base. Once the handle is pulled out, you can proceed to remove it.
3. Unscrew the Handle
Using a screwdriver or Allen wrench, carefully unscrew the screws holding the handle in place. Be gentle when unscrewing to avoid damaging the faucet. Once the screws are removed, the handle should come off easily.
4. Remove the Handle Base
In some cases, you may need to remove the handle base to access the underlying cartridge or valve. To do this, identify the screws or clips securing the base to the faucet body. Use appropriate tools to remove them and carefully lift off the handle base.
| Handle Type | Removal Method |
|---|---|
| Screw-on | Pry off cover, unscrew screws |
| Pull-out | Pull out handle, locate release button |
Removing the Cartridge or Stems
Once the handles and trim are removed, you’ll need to remove the cartridge or stems. The method for doing this will vary depending on the type of faucet you have. Here’s how to do it for both types:
Cartridge Faucets
Stem Faucets
Here’s a table summarizing the differences between cartridge and stem faucets:
| Cartridge Faucets | Stem Faucets |
|---|---|
|
Single handle |
Two handles |
|
Cartridge can be replaced without removing the faucet |
Stems must be removed to replace |
|
Usually more expensive than stem faucets |
Usually less expensive than cartridge faucets |
Installing the New Cartridge or Stems
Replacing the cartridge or stems is necessary when the faucet is leaking from the handles. The steps involved in this process vary depending on the type of faucet you have. Here’s a general guide:
Cartridge Replacement
Stem Replacement
| Cartridge Replacement | Stem Replacement |
|---|---|
| Pull cartridge straight out | Pull stem assembly straight out |
| Apply grease to cartridge O-rings | Disassemble stem assembly |
| Insert cartridge and tighten | Reassemble stem assembly |
Reattaching the Faucet Handles
7.a: Aligning the Handles
Carefully align the handles with their corresponding stems by placing them over the handles. Ensure that the setscrews are facing the front of the faucet.
7.b: Tightening the Setscrews
Locate the setscrews on the handles. Using the supplied Allen wrench, gently tighten the setscrews to secure the handles in place. Avoid overtightening, as this can damage the handles or stems.
7.c: Rechecking Handle Operation
Once the handles are securely attached, operate them to ensure proper functioning. Check for leaks or any resistance in the handles. If the handles are not operating smoothly, remove them and readjust the setscrews accordingly until the handles operate effortlessly.
Turning on the Water Supply
Once you have removed the old faucet, it is important to turn on the water supply before installing the new faucet. This will help you flush out any debris that may have accumulated in the pipes while the old faucet was removed. To turn on the water supply, follow these steps:
Now that the water supply is on, you can proceed with installing the new faucet.
Additional tips for turning on the water supply:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Wrench | Tightening or loosening water supply valves |
| Flashlight | Illuminating dark areas under the sink or behind the bathtub |
Testing the New Faucet
Once the new two-handle bathtub faucet is installed, it’s essential to test it thoroughly to ensure it functions properly and there are no leaks.
Steps for Testing the New Faucet:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Turn on both hot and cold water handles fully and check for any leaks around the base of the faucet, handles, or spout. |
| 2 | Inspect the spray head and make sure it’s producing an even and consistent spray pattern. |
| 3 | Test the diverter, if applicable, to ensure it switches smoothly between the tub spout and shower head. |
| 4 | Adjust the hot and cold water handles to find the desired temperature. |
| 5 | Turn off both water handles and check again for any leaks or drips. |
If any leaks or issues are detected, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions or contact a licensed plumber for further assistance.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
If you encounter any issues while replacing your two-handle bathtub faucet, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
Leaking from the Faucet Base
Cause: Loose base connection
Solution: Tighten the mounting nuts under the base using a wrench.
Leaking from the Handle Joint
Cause: Worn-out O-rings or washers
Solution: Replace the O-rings or washers.
Water Hammering
Cause: Loose pipes or air in the pipes
Solution: Check if the pipes are securely fastened. If there is air in the pipes, open and close the faucet several times to flush it out.
Hot and Cold Water Reversed
Cause: Incorrect installation of supply lines
Solution: Swap the hot and cold supply lines.
Reduced Water Pressure
Cause: Clogged aerator or cartridge
Solution: Remove and clean the aerator or replace the cartridge.
Faucet Handle Stiff or Loose
Cause: Worn-out valve seat or damaged stem
Solution: Inspect the valve seat and stem for damage. Replace any defective parts.
Squealing or Whining Noises
Cause: Hard water deposits or debris
Solution: Remove the faucet handle and clean the internals with a descaler or vinegar.
Leaking from the Showerhead Hose
Cause: Damaged hose or loose connections
Solution: Replace the hose or tighten loose connections.
Dripping from the Pop-Up Drain
Cause: Worn-out rubber stopper or linkage
Solution: Replace the rubber stopper or adjust the linkage.
How To Replace A Two Handle Bathtub Faucet
Replacing a two handle bathtub faucet is a relatively simple plumbing repair that can be completed in a few hours. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can save yourself the cost of hiring a plumber.
Tools You Will Need:
Step 1: Turn off the water supply to the bathtub.
There should be two shut-off valves located under the sink. Turn the handles clockwise to turn off the water.
Step 2: Remove the old faucet handles.
Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the handles in place. Once the screws are removed, pull the handles straight up to remove them.
Step 3: Remove the old faucet cartridge.
Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the packing nut that holds the cartridge in place. Once the packing nut is loose, pull the cartridge straight out of the faucet.
Step 4: Install the new faucet cartridge.
Insert the new cartridge into the faucet body and tighten the packing nut by hand. Use an adjustable wrench to further tighten the packing nut, but do not overtighten.
Step 5: Reinstall the faucet handles.
Push the faucet handles onto the stems and tighten the screws that hold them in place.
Step 6: Turn on the water supply to the bathtub.
Check for leaks around the faucet handles and the base of the faucet. If there are any leaks, tighten the packing nut or screws until the leaks stop.
People Also Ask About How To Replace A Two Handle Bathtub Faucet
What is the difference between a two handle and a single handle bathtub faucet?
A two handle bathtub faucet has two separate handles for controlling the hot and cold water, while a single handle bathtub faucet has one handle that controls both the hot and cold water.
Can I replace a two handle bathtub faucet with a single handle faucet?
Yes, you can replace a two handle bathtub faucet with a single handle faucet. However, you may need to modify the plumbing under the sink to accommodate the new faucet.
How much does it cost to replace a two handle bathtub faucet?
The cost to replace a two handle bathtub faucet will vary depending on the type of faucet you choose and the complexity of the installation. However, you can expect to pay between $100 and $300 for the faucet and installation.
