Shut Off Water Supply — Turn Off the Water Supply
Part of project
Bathroom Tub Faucet Replacement: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide · Step 1 of 4
In this video
Before beginning, locate the two water shutoff valves, known as angle stops, under the sink. Turn the handles clockwise until they stop to shut off the water supply. To confirm the water is off and to relieve any pressure, turn on the faucet handles. No water should come out.
Goal: Stop water flow to the faucet.
- Never assume the shutoff valves are working correctly. Always test by turning on the faucet after closing the valves.
1.1M subscribers
FAQs
What should I do if I can't locate the shut-off valves for my bathtub, or if they don't work?
If individual tub shut-off valves are missing or malfunctioning, you'll need to turn off the main water supply to your entire house. The main valve is usually located where the water line enters your home, often in a basement, utility closet, or near the water heater. After turning off the main supply, open a lower-level faucet to drain water from the pipes before proceeding with the tub faucet replacement.
Beyond the adjustable wrench and screwdriver, are there any other tools that might make this tub faucet replacement project easier?
While the basic tools will suffice, a deep socket set (specifically for valve stems) or a basin wrench can be incredibly helpful for accessing and loosening nuts in tight spaces. You might also want a utility knife or scraper for removing old caulk or plumber's putty, and a flashlight for better visibility under the tub.
As a beginner, how much time should I allocate for replacing my tub faucet, and what's the typical cost for a new one?
For a beginner, this project typically takes between 1 to 3 hours, depending on how easily the old components come apart. The cost of a new tub faucet can vary widely, from around $50 for a basic model to several hundred dollars for high-end designer fixtures, so choose one that fits your budget and style.
What are the most common mistakes people make when replacing a tub faucet, and how can I avoid leaks after installation?
Common mistakes include not completely turning off the water, overtightening connections, or failing to use enough plumber's putty or thread sealant where required. To prevent leaks, ensure all connections are snug but not overtightened, apply plumber's putty consistently under the new faucet base, and always test for leaks thoroughly before closing up any access panels.
TranscriptHide
Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.
Shut Off Water Supply — Turn Off the Water Supply
Part of project
Bathroom Tub Faucet Replacement: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide · Step 1 of 4
In this video
Before beginning, locate the two water shutoff valves, known as angle stops, under the sink. Turn the handles clockwise until they stop to shut off the water supply. To confirm the water is off and to relieve any pressure, turn on the faucet handles. No water should come out.
Goal: Stop water flow to the faucet.
- Never assume the shutoff valves are working correctly. Always test by turning on the faucet after closing the valves.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I can't locate the shut-off valves for my bathtub, or if they don't work?
If individual tub shut-off valves are missing or malfunctioning, you'll need to turn off the main water supply to your entire house. The main valve is usually located where the water line enters your home, often in a basement, utility closet, or near the water heater. After turning off the main supply, open a lower-level faucet to drain water from the pipes before proceeding with the tub faucet replacement.
Beyond the adjustable wrench and screwdriver, are there any other tools that might make this tub faucet replacement project easier?
While the basic tools will suffice, a deep socket set (specifically for valve stems) or a basin wrench can be incredibly helpful for accessing and loosening nuts in tight spaces. You might also want a utility knife or scraper for removing old caulk or plumber's putty, and a flashlight for better visibility under the tub.
As a beginner, how much time should I allocate for replacing my tub faucet, and what's the typical cost for a new one?
For a beginner, this project typically takes between 1 to 3 hours, depending on how easily the old components come apart. The cost of a new tub faucet can vary widely, from around $50 for a basic model to several hundred dollars for high-end designer fixtures, so choose one that fits your budget and style.
What are the most common mistakes people make when replacing a tub faucet, and how can I avoid leaks after installation?
Common mistakes include not completely turning off the water, overtightening connections, or failing to use enough plumber's putty or thread sealant where required. To prevent leaks, ensure all connections are snug but not overtightened, apply plumber's putty consistently under the new faucet base, and always test for leaks thoroughly before closing up any access panels.
Video Transcript
(296 characters)Hide
Video Transcript
(296 characters)Transcript may be auto-generated and contain errors.