How to Change Bathtub Fittings
Bathtub fittings, such as the spout, are used to supply the water for the tub and shower. Most types of bathtubs spouts have a diverter that is used to send water to the shower head. When the spout begins to leak water, the diverter may have gone bad, which will require changing the spout for the bathtub. This can be done by first obtaining a new or replacement spout from a plumbing supply store. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Screwdriver
- Adjustable wrench
- Pipe nipple
- Thread tape
- Silicone caulk
- Replacement spout
Instructions
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1
Locate the setscrew that is used to secure the spout to a ½-inch copper pipe. Remove the setscrew from the spout with a screwdriver. If there is no setscrew, the spout may be threaded onto the copper pipe.
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2
Turn the spout counterclockwise to remove it from the copper pipe.
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3
Place the adjustable wrench over the nipple that is on the end of the copper pipe. (Pipe nipples are short sections of threaded copper pipe.) Turn the adjustable wrench counterclockwise to unscrew the nipple from the copper pipe.
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4
Wrap thread tape around the new nipple and screw it into the copper pipe. Run a small bead of caulk around the thread tape to seal it to the copper pipe.
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5
Screw the replacement spout onto the threads on the copper pipe. Insert the setscrew into the bottom of the spout and tighten it with the screwdriver.
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Tips & Warnings
Using the bathtub spout for a foot rest when taking a bath can damage the diverter in the spout over time.
References
- Photo Credit water image by Joshua Peterson from Fotolia.com