How to Change Bathtub Taps

The tap is the spigot out of which water flows.

Bathtub taps or spouts can become corroded over time, or develop heavy hard water build up. Homeowners may also want to replace the tap to simply update the look of the bathtub, or to more closely match the bathroom's decor. The tap in the bathtub is either a screw-on variety, or is secured to the piping with a screw. Either tap is easy to remove and replace with a new one.

Things You'll Need

• Allen wrench
• Measuring tape
• Screwdriver
• Teflon tape
• Water pump pliers

Instructions

Set Screw Tap

1. Feel the bottom of the tap with your hands to see if there is a screw holding it in place. If so, this is a set screw tap. Insert an Allen wrench into the screw and turn it to the left to remove it.

2. Pull the tap out from the wall and away from the piping. Measure the length of the protruding pipe with a measuring tape, then measure the length of your new tap to make sure it is long enough.

3. Slip the new tap over the piping. Insert the screw into the bottom of the tap and through the piping. Use an Allen wrench to tighten the screw and secure the tap.

Screw-on Tap

1. Hold the tap firmly with both hands and turn it counter-clockwise to loosen it from the wall. If it will not turn, insert a screwdriver into the opening of the tap and push on it until the tap begins to turn. Continue turning the tap until it is free of the piping.

2. Wrap the threads of the piping with two layers of Teflon tape. Wrap the jaws of the water pump pliers in two layers of tape as well.

3. Slip the new tap over the piping and screw it clockwise until it will not move any more.

References

• Youtube: How To Replace a Bathtub Spout - The Home Depot