How to Change a Bathtub Faucet in 9 Steps

Shut off the main water valve to your home before starting. Run your bathtub (if possible) for about 30 seconds or however long it takes to drain out.

Find a rag or cloth to place over the drain once you've emptied your pipes of water to prevent any screws or small objects from falling down it.

Some handles will have a cap located on the top of the handles. Remove the cap and then unscrew the handle to remove it. Other handles will have a setscrew in the side. Unscrew the setscrew, being careful not to lose it, and remove the handle. If the handles are too tight, you can purchase a handle puller that will help remove it without damaging the plumbing.

After removing the handles, you’ll need to remove the sleeve that protects the stem, or cartridge, by pulling it out or unscrewing it. Then you’ll remove the stem — the part of the faucet that controls the water temperature. The tool needed to do this may vary by manufacturer, so you may need to make a trip to the hardware store to purchase one.

Next up, it’s time to remove the bathtub spout. As described above, there are two kinds of wall-mounted bathtub spouts: slip on and screw on. To determine which kind you have, look for a small setscrew on the bottom side of the spout. If there is one, then you’re working with a slip-on spout and you can loosen the setscrew with an allen wrench and gently pull the spout off.

If there isn’t a setscrew, you have a screw-on spout, and you’ll need to unscrew it to remove it using a pipe wrench or other tool that can grip it.

Bring your old unit to the store. A specialist there can help you find a newer model that'll fit the space.

It's also a good idea to measure the spigot extending from your wall. Most extend 6 inches from the wall, or they’re built into the wall. Your new bathtub faucet will need to match this setup. You may also need to purchase plumber’s tape for the spout if you don’t already have some.

Now's a good time to shop around for other bathtub renovation projects. For example, you might consider refinishing your bathtub or adding a liner if it's older.

To install the new stem, simply place it in the hole and screw it into place and tighten it with a socket wrench or appropriate tool. If there are two handles, repeat the process being sure not to overtighten the stem. Replace the sleeve by screwing it back into place and tightening it with a pipe wrench.

Install new handles by sliding them over the new stem and securing them in place with the screw. Replace the screw cover. You should also use a caulk gun to add caulk around the base of each handle. This will protect the wall from any water that may run from the handle.

To ensure a tight seal, you’ll need to wrap plumber’s tape around the threading on the pipe. This helps to seal the spout and prevent leaks. If you’re installing a slip-on spout, slip it over the cartridge and the sleeve and secure it with the setscrew on the bottom of the spout. If you have a screw-on spout, screw it on until it touches the wall and then gently tighten it.

If your old bathtub faucet had caulk around the edges, you may want to add a fresh layer to help seal it in. Alternatively, you might consider buying a bathtub faucet cover and installing it over the new spigot. This step may be optional depending on your plumbing setup and the new device you choose to install.

Once everything's in place, turn the water main valve back on and test the new faucet. If there are leaks, check the screw or make sure you turned the faucet enough times to lock it into place. Adding caulk around the edges and allowing it to dry may also solve the problem.