Single-handled shower faucets have a tee connection to both hot and cold water supplies and control water temperature and water flow with just 1 handle. Double-handled shower faucets have 1 control for hot water and 1 control for cold water. 3-handled shower faucets work the same as the double handled faucets but have an additional handle for the bathtub. In this application, the third handle controls the strength of the water flow and determines whether the water goes to the tub or the shower.
Adjustable pliers A large adjustable wrench or pipe wrench Teflon tape (often called plumber’s tape) Screwdrivers (Phillips and flat head) A pan or container to catch any water remaining in pipes Towels or rags for wiping up small puddles and drips A box or container for discarded components Safety goggles and gloves
If you are on a city water system, the shut-off valve should be located at the water meter. If your home is on a private well, you will need to find your pressure tank. Newer tanks are usually blue in color while older tanks may be any color. Typically, the shut-off valve itself is located on the main outlet pipe near the tank. To close this valve at either source, turn it clockwise until closed. This will immediately stop water flow to the house. Once you have shut off the water supply, open the shower faucet valves to release remaining water from the pipes and ensure that the water is indeed off.
Remove the retaining screws then remove the handles by pulling them off the valve stems. If the screws are rusted, it may take a little extra effort to loosen the screws. If necessary, use penetrating oil to help break through the rust.
On some faucets, the diverter handle will have an arrow on it. Use a flat head screwdriver or a butter knife or something similar to pry the cap from the handle to reveal the retaining screw. Before removing the retaining screw, you’ll need to open the valve completely by turning the handle counterclockwise. This keeps the valve from turning while removing the screw.
Single-handled faucets have a large round plate that is attached either with caulking or with screws. After removing the handle, remove the plate by removing the screws or by cutting the caulking with a utility knife. Then pull the plate from the wall.
After making your measurements, drill holes using tile drill-bits of the appropriate size, depending on the size of your shower components, and remove enough of the wall to access the pipe for proper installation. After making cuts, clean the shower walls with bleach water or white vinegar water. Do not mix bleach and vinegar, as it can release a noxious gas. Do not allow water to drip behind the wall. If it does, dry thoroughly before installing the new fixtures.
The process of installing a new faucet will be essential the reverse process of your disassembly. If you purchased an identical or similar kit to the version you removed, it should be quite easy.
Repeat this process for all the new valve components. Taping the valves allows a tighter seal to be creating, ensuring a solid faucet that won’t leak.
If the valve does not seat in the threaded pipe within the first turn or two, start again. Do not force an improperly seated valve. It will strip the threads and cause a serious leak. Repeat this step for all valves. Completely tighten the valves with adjustable pliers or an adjustable wrench. Do not over-tighten or you risk damaging the valve or the water pipes
