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Disconnect Securing Nuts — Remove the Old Faucet Body

Beginner3 hours

Part of project

How to Replace a Bathtub Faucet: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide · Step 4 of 6

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In this video

Reach through the access hole and locate the nut securing the shower arm pipe. Use channel-lock pliers or your hand to loosen and unscrew the nut completely. Next, locate the larger nuts holding the main faucet valve body against the tub surround wall. Use pliers to loosen and remove these as well. Once all nuts are removed from the back, the entire faucet assembly is free.

Goal: Faucet Removal

  • Ensure the water is shut off and lines are drained before fully disconnecting the faucet to avoid water spills.

Used in this video

  • Channel-lock pliers (Tool Type: Plumbing Tools, Power Source: Manual) — Gripping and turning the nuts that secure the faucet and shower arm from behind the wall.
  • Flashlight (Tool Type: Hand Tools, Power Source: Battery) · optional — Illuminating the dark space inside the wall to see the plumbing connections.
30.7K views21610-15 minutes
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FAQs

Is replacing a bathtub faucet truly a beginner-friendly DIY project, and what's a realistic time frame for completion?

Yes, it's generally considered beginner-friendly, especially with clear instructions. While estimated at 3 hours, allow for extra time if you encounter rusted parts or need to locate the main water shut-off. Patience is key for a successful first-time installation.

Beyond basic screwdrivers, what are the most crucial tools for this bathtub faucet replacement that I might not already own?

An adjustable wrench is essential for loosening and tightening nuts, while plumber's putty is critical for creating a waterproof seal. You might also find a basin wrench helpful if working in very tight spaces, though not always strictly required for all faucet types.

What should I do if I can't find individual shut-off valves for my bathtub faucet, or if they don't work?

If local shut-off valves are absent or faulty, you must turn off the main water supply to your entire house. After turning off the main supply, open a faucet on the lowest level of your home to drain any remaining water from the pipes before proceeding with the replacement.

What is the most common mistake that leads to leaks after installing a new bathtub faucet, and how can I prevent it?

The most common mistake is not fully tightening all connections or improperly applying plumber's putty. Ensure all nuts are snug (but don't overtighten) and that plumber's putty forms a complete, even seal around the faucet base. Always test slowly after turning water back on and inspect thoroughly for drips.

Transcript
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If you look in here, let me turn the light on. There's a nut right here, so you'll need to tighten that up if you ever see how they put a piece of wood in there to support it so the drywall wouldn't pull out. We're going to pull that nut, loose, and so we can pull that shower head out, which is not ducting anything. Do you want to be a pain in the butt? Do you want to go over there and hold it? No, I'll say a little bit, we'll see. We have to get two parts of the channel out. All right, in here, now we're not there to take loose, all this is going to be taking this, it's all been disconnected, and I got to get it out of there so that it won't hold me from pulling that panel, so you can zoom in there, take a look at it. I guess we can just show you how later the results, because it's just boring, watching me stick my hand in here.

Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.