How to Replace Plumbing in a Bathtub
Replacing an old, unsightly tub valve is a sure way to modernize any bathroom. What looks like a daunting project at first is reasonably straightforward for homeowners with a little plumbing experience. Tub valves vary widely, so use this tutorial as a general guide and follow the installation instructions provided with your new valve. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Safety glasses or goggles
- Reciprocating saw with general-purpose blade
- Tubing cutter
- Plumbing torch
- Emery cloth
- Solder
- Flux paste
Instructions
-
-
1
Turn off the main water supply to the house. The main shut-off is usually next to the water meter, often in the basement.
-
2
Access the plumbing by cutting a hole in the wall using the reciprocating saw. It is often best to access the plumbing from the back, particularly if you wish to save the tile around the bathtub.
-
-
3
Remove the existing valve using a small tubing cutter or by carefully cutting the pipes using a reciprocating saw with a fine-tooth blade. Clean the pipes with emery cloth and apply flux paste to the joints.
-
4
Put the new valve in place inside the wall. Valves differ; orient the valve according to the valve's installation instructions.
-
5
Solder the pipes in place on the new valve; the hot water supply should be on the left and the cold water on the right. The connection for the tub spout is on the bottom, and the shower head connection (if any) is on the top.
-
6
Turn on the water and test for leaks.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
If you can cut a 14-inch square hole to access the bathtub plumbing, you can buy a premade access panel to cover the hole when you're done. Such a panel not only eliminates the need for drywall repairs, it can be handy for future service of your tub valve.
Keep a fire extinguisher nearby when working with a torch while soldering.
References
- Photo Credit Bathroom image by Nikolay Okhitin from Fotolia.com
