Do you want to replace your bathtub’s single-handle faucet? Are you tempted to try and complete the job yourself? If so, you may want to give into your DIY urges. I have replaced single-handle bathtub faucets before. Based on my experience, it isn’t that complicated. The entire job is likely to take you 30 minutes or less and few tools are needed. Here’s how to do it:
Supplies Needed
In order to replace your bathtub’s single-handle faucet you will need a screwdriver, a roll of Teflon Plumbers’ Tape and a new single-handle bathtub faucet. I should also mention that when purchasing your replacement single-handle faucet, it is best to invest in one that has the same connections as your old one. Otherwise you’ll experience unnecessary problems during the installation of the replacement faucet.
Ready the Work Area
Before you attempt to remove your bathtub’s outdated, single-handle faucet, you will want to shut off the bathroom’s water supply. I’d also recommend that you cover the bathtub’s drain with a rubber stopper or an old bath towel. Otherwise, the single-handle faucet’s screws could end up rolling down into the bathtub’s drain.
Remove the Old Single-Handle Faucet
If your bathtub’s single-handle faucet is anything like mine, it has a plastic cap in the center. You will need to pry that center cap up with a screwdriver. I’d suggest that you try using an eyeglass screwdriver. Sometimes it works better than a flat-head screwdriver for such tasks. Once the plastic cap has been removed, remove the screw. The screw is what connects the handle to the pipe escutcheon.
After the handle is out of the way, you should be able to access the screws that hold the pipe escutcheon in to place. Remove those screws along with the escutcheon. At this point, you should be looking at a sleeve, a connector and a pipe nipple. Proceed by removing the connector and the sleeve. Only the pipe nipple should remain.
Install the New Single-Handle Faucet
Before attempting to install your bathtub’s new single-handle faucet, coat any screw and pipe threads with Teflon Plumbers’ Tape. Doing so will help to provide a better seal between all the parts. Next, install the new connector followed by the new sleeve. Once that’s done, continue the job by attaching the new escutcheon, the handle and the cap. Afterward, restore water flow to your home’s bathroom and give your new single-handle bathtub faucet a try.
Source: Personal Experience
Killeen Gonzalez has a history of completing DIY home improvement projects with her family.
More from this contributor:
How to Make Homemade Bath Salts
How to Re-caulk an Old Bathtub Seam
Top 5 Campfire Safety Tips for Summer Campers
How to Plant a Washingtonia Robusta Palm Tree: Personal Experience
