Is your bathtub faucet old and leaking? Is it causing water to slowly divert up to the showerhead? That means its high-time you replace the bathtub faucet or valve stem! Changing the valve stem with a new one is simple and can be done at home if you follow this guide.

 

  1. Turn off your bathtub water supply.

 

  1. Check which type of valve stems your tub has. The valve stems are the main parts that control the flow of water. There are various types and styles of valves, but the two main types are washer-less valves and washer-type valves.

 

  1. Open the valve to drain out as much water as possible.

 

  1. Unscrew the screws around the main valve with a screwdriver.

 

  1. Pull of the handle from the valve from the wall now. You will be able to see the mechanism behind the handle completely.

 

  1. Unscrew the stem now of the bathroom pipes.

 

  1. Check the condition of your valve stem. The leak may be caused by worn out washers in the stem. The washer in the stem will need replacement only if this is the case.

 

  1. Take the valve to the hardware store and compare it with other valves. The new valve should match the same measurements as the old valve so that it adjusts with the water system easily.

 

  1. Once you have returned home with the new valve, screw the new valve to the pipe. Tighten the connection with the help of your hand.

 

  1. Attach the handle back on to the stem.

 

  1. Turn on the water to test the new valve stem. In case there is a leak, tighten the valve again.

 

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