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Shut Off Water Supply — Turn Off the Water Supply

Beginner4 hours

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Tub Faucet & Shower Valve Replacement: A Complete DIY Guide · Step 1 of 6

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Locate the main water shut-off valve for your house, which is often in the basement or a utility closet, and turn it clockwise to shut off the water supply completely. After the water is off, go back to the shower and turn the handle to the 'on' position to drain any remaining water from the pipes and showerhead.

Goal: Prevent Water Damage

  • Failure to completely shut off the water will result in water leakage during the repair process.
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FAQs

What should I do if I can't find or turn off the main water supply to my house or apartment?

Locating and shutting off the main water supply is the most critical first step. If you can't find it, check your water heater for a shut-off valve, or contact your building manager or a professional plumber. Do not proceed with the project until the water supply is completely off to avoid significant water damage.

Besides the screwdriver and adjustable wrench, are there any other essential supplies or tools I might need for this tub faucet replacement?

Yes, it's highly recommended to have plumber's tape (Teflon tape) for sealing threads, penetrating oil for loosening stuck or corroded old parts, and a small wire brush for cleaning debris. You might also find a basin wrench helpful for reaching nuts in tight spaces behind the tub wall.

I've replaced everything and turned the water back on, but the faucet is still leaking. What should I check first?

First, re-check that the new valve stems are fully seated and securely tightened, but not overtightened. Ensure all O-rings are correctly positioned and intact, as a misplaced or damaged O-ring is a common cause of leaks. Also, verify that the connections to the water supply lines are tight and sealed with plumber's tape.

Is 4 hours a realistic estimate for a complete beginner, or should I budget more time, especially if I encounter stuck parts?

While 4 hours is a good estimate for someone with some DIY experience and no major issues, a complete beginner should budget more, perhaps 6-8 hours. Encountering corroded or stuck parts, or making unexpected trips to the hardware store for forgotten items, can significantly extend the project time.

Transcript
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Now before you do anything with a plumbing fixture like this, you have to shut the water off. And although sinks and toilets have their own little shut off valve next to the fixture, my shower does not. And I think a lot of showers are like that. So I actually had to go down to my basement and shut the water off to the entire house. And then let the water drain out before I can even get started. And you really got to turn that thing as tight as you can clockwise. Otherwise, you're going to have a low steady stream of water the whole time while you're trying to work.

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