How to Replace a Bathtub Faucet Valve FB Featured
Posted by
Julian Gill
|
Updated on
September 28, 2023
Disclosure: Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can provide compensation to me at no cost to you. You can read our affiliate disclosure in our privacy policy.

How to Replace a Bathtub Faucet Valve

If your bathtub faucet is leaking and the handle won’t turn the water off, it’s probably because of a broken valve. Replacing a bathtub faucet valve can be surprisingly easy with a few supplies and some handy DIY instructions.

Case Number 1 : Single Handle Faucet

How to Replace a Bathtub Faucet Valve For Single Handle Faucet
The single handle faucets usually use valve cartridges. These cylindrical valves control your water flow by using O-rings.
What You’ll Need
  • Screwdrivers: 1 Phillips and 1 small flathead
  • 1 Pair of pliers
  • 1 Plastic ziploc bag
Find the set screw

Once the water is turned off, it’s time to find the set screw. This is usually under the cap or under the handle. You can pry the cap off using your small, flathead screwdriver. Next, locate the retainer clip. You’ll find this at the top of the valve cartridge. Remove it with your screwdriver, and place it in the plastic bag. It’s a good idea to always place parts in a Ziploc bag so they do not become lost while you work.

remove the valve cartridge

Take your pliers and remove the valve cartridge. Gently pull the cartridge off. If you cannot do this, know that there are cartridge removal tools which you can purchase at your local hardware store.

insert the new cartridge

Your replacement valve cartridge can only be one which is made for your specific bathtub faucet. Once you have your replacement valve, insert the new cartridge. Finally, reach into the Ziploc bag and grab the retaining clip. Proceed to assemble your faucet, and turn on the water.

Case Number 2 : Two-Handled Bathtub Faucet

How to Replace a Bathtub Faucet Valve For Two-Handle Faucet
What You’ll Need
  • Pliers
  • What You’ll Need
  • Screwdrivers: Phillips and flathead
  • Pipe Wrench
Remove the cap

Turn off your water at the water main. Next, take your flathead screwdriver and remove the cap. The cap is located on the front of your handle.

Replace the old washer

Take your pliers, and rotate the stem counterclockwise. Take a look at the stem, do you see the screw? Good. Remove this screw, grab a new washer and replace the old washer. This new washer must be the same type of washer like the one you are replacing and given a coat of petroleum jelly.

Replace the old O-ring with a new one

Locate the O-ring. Remove the old O-ring and replace it with a new one. This new O-ring is given a coat of petroleum jelly as well.

Put everything back in place

Install the new stem if applicable, and your handle pieces and reassemble, putting the bonnet nut and handles back in place.

FAQ

How do you remove a faucet handle without screws?

It’s can be done by a flat head screwdriver.

Why does my bathtub faucet keep running?

When the rubber washer gets old and worn out then the tub faucet may keep running continuously.

See Also:

Julian Gill
Julian Gill is a mechanical engineer and working in the plumbing sector for the last seven years. To be a professional, Gill had completed the CPD (Certified in Plumbing Design) program successfully. Besides this, he also works in home improvement and remodeling.
Julian Gill
Hi! I’m Julian Gill.
My mission is to help people in purchasing decisions about home, kitchen and garden accessories.
Oh! And I’m also a plumber. I usually repair what husbands fixed.
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Disclosure: Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can provide compensation to me at no cost to you. You can read our affiliate disclosure in our privacy policy.

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