How to Replace a Bathtub Valve Stem
If your bathtub faucet is leaking, it is an indication that the valve stem in it has probably worn out and needs to be replaced. The bathtub stem or valve stem is a a round rubber washer present at the end of the faucet that controls the water supply to the tap. This washer raises or lowers as you turn the faucet handle anticlockwise or clockwise, hence controlling the flow of water in the faucet spigot. Since these stems are constantly in motion and are also exposed to water, they are prone to wear and tear can eventually malfunction. Changing a worn bathtub valve stem is not as hard as it sounds and does not even need any special skills or tools.
Things Required:
– New bathtub valve stem
– Flat bladed screwdriver
– Philips head screwdriver
– A pair of pliers
Instructions
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1
Shut off the water supply to the faucet that is leaking. To cut the water supply to the bathtub, look for an access panel that should be located in the bathroom near the tub. Rotate the shut-off valve counter clockwise to stop the water supply to the bathtub faucet. If your bathtub does not have a shut-off valve, you will have to turn off water for the entire house.
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2
Remove the screw cap/ handle from the faucet that needs maintenance. Insert the edge of a screwdriver under the faucet handle and press it against the faucet cap to remove it.
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3
The next step is to remove the faucet screw. Remove it with the help of a Philips screwdriver and pull off the faucet handle.
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4
You will see a decorative cover underneath the handle, remove it as well. Usually it is held in place with a small screw, remove the screw and rotate the cover anticlockwise to remove.
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5
Remove the packing nuts with the help of pliers to reveal the valve stem.
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6
Rotate the hexagonal part of the system, located just behind the wall, with pliers and pull out the stem.
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7
Place the new stem into the faucet valve, fix it in place with pliers and lubricate it with a few drops of a lubricant such as silicone grease.
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8
Put the packing nut in place and tighten it with the wrench. Also replace the outer valve cover and tighten the screw.
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9
In the end, put the screw cap in place and press it down to fix it on the faucet stem.
