Learn the simple steps necessary to replace a bathtub faucet.

The key is learning how to remove the handles andfaucetproperly.

when you land accomplished this part of the task, reinstalling the new handles and faucet is relatively easy.

Middle faucet handle being turned in bathtub

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Just repeat the steps to remove the second handle without an issue.

Alternatively, you’re able to simply ask a store associate to help you find the correct parts.

Tip

If your bathtub faucet requires replacement, consider replacing the shower-body all together.

Materials and tools to replace a bathtub faucet

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Locate the main building shut-off valve, which is typically found in the basement or the mechanical room.

This should leave the fastener exposed so that the entire handle can be taken off.

The handle should now slide off of the stem without much effort.

Water turned off by turning lever on main shutoff valve

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

If you have a second handle, repeat the process to remove the screw and handle.

This is known as the stem, and it’s responsible for controlling the faucet.

With the socket wrench in place, turn the nut counterclockwise to loosen the stem.

White towel laid on bottom of bathtub

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Once the stem is loosened, simply grab it with your hand and pull it out of the wall.

By pulling on the spout, it should slide right off the pipe without a problem.

You will need to get a replacement spout that is longer than the pipe.

Index pried off handle stem with flathead screwdriver

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Start by feeding the threaded end of the stem into the hole where the old stems were previously installed.

Just verify that you don’t over-tighten the stem, because this can cause damage to the pipes.

If your bathtub has multiple handles, repeat the process with each handle to set up the new stems.

Phillips screwdriver loosening screw inside index to remove handle

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

drop in the New Handles

The handle is easy enough to reinstall.

Simply slide it over the new stem until the handle touches the wall.

If you have more than one handle in the bathtub, repeat the process with each handle.

Pass-through socket wrench loosening stem from faucet handle

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Slide the new spout over the pipe and secure the spout to the pipe with the mounting screw.

Just ensure that the spout is snug against the wall and that it is facing down.

If all went as planned, you should have a new bathtub faucet and no leaks.

Bathtub spout twisted and removed from water pipe

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Bathtub faucet pipe measured with measure tape

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

New faucet stem installed to water pipe

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

New faucet handles screwed on to stem

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

New bathtub faucet screwed on to water pipe

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Main shutoff valve lever turned to switch on water

The Spruce / Kevin Norris