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Remove the Old Shut-off Valve — Remove Old Valve Stems

Beginner4 hours

Part of project

Tub Faucet & Shower Valve Replacement: A Complete DIY Guide · Step 3 of 6

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In this video

To remove the old valve, use two wrenches. One wrench, such as an angle stop wrench or pliers, should be used to hold the body of the valve steady. Use a second wrench, like an adjustable wrench, to grip the compression nut located behind the valve. Turn the nut counter-clockwise to loosen it. Once loose, completely unscrew the nut and pull the valve straight off the copper pipe.

Goal: Plumbing Fixture Removal

  • Using a backup wrench on the valve body prevents the copper pipe from twisting or breaking while you loosen the compression nut.

Used in this video

  • Adjustable Wrench (brand: Unspecified, Tool Type: Wrench) — Loosening the compression nut on the back of the valve.
  • Angle Stop Wrench (brand: Unspecified, Tool Type: Wrench) · optional — Holding the valve body steady during removal.
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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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What I do is I have a special tool here and this tool screws on to the end of the shut off valve. Now you've got a way to hold the valve in position. If you don't have one of these just put a pair of pliers on that valve. Then you put a wrench on the nut and back. Now this valve does not unscrew off the copper pipe, it uncompresses from the copper pipe. The difference is that there's no threads on the copper pipe, there's a furl ring and that furl ring is held in place by this furl nut. I'll show you in a second. Here's the valve and it's not really corroded because it's not that old but there's the valve. Here is the furl ring on the copper and the furl nut behind it.

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