How to Change Bathtub Knobs: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Want to spruce up your bathtub or fix a loose knob? Changing bathtub knobs can be a simple DIY project, especially when you know the steps. Whether you're replacing a single knob or the entire valve unit, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the process.

Replacing Only the Knobs

If you only need to change the knobs themselves, the process is straightforward. Here's what you need to do:

Loosen the set screw that holds the knob in place. Remove the old knob. Install the new knob. Tighten the set screw on the new knob.

However, if you notice your bathtub faucet is leaking, it might be time to replace the entire valve unit.

Replacing the Valve Unit

If your bathtub faucet is leaking, replacing the entire valve unit is necessary. Here’s how you can do it:

Turn off the water supply to your house. Use a special shower valve socket wrench to unscrew the valve unit. These wrenches are specifically designed to reach into the wall to loosen the valve. Take the old valve unit to a hardware store and try to match it with a new one. If no exact match is available, use the rubber o-rings, washers, and other parts they have to rebuild the valve unit. Install the new valve unit and turn the water supply back on.

Dealing with Knobs or Faucets

If you meant to change taps or faucets, here’s how to replace them:

Turn off the water supply to the shower. Shutoff valves are often found behind a panel on the other side of the wall. Remove the screw that secures the knob. It might be hidden under a central cap, which you can pry off with a small screwdriver. Pull the handle straight out. If it doesn’t come off easily, you may need to use a specific tool or adjust the angle. Install the new handle, secure it with the screw, and turn the water supply back on. Test the knob to ensure everything is working correctly.

Common Issues and Tips

These steps should cover most common scenarios. However, if you encounter any issues, here are some additional tips:

Allen Key Screw: If the handle is a lever-like control, there might be an Allen key hex set screw behind it. Use a set of both British and metric Allen keys, as you never know when they might come in handy. Allen Key Screw Removal: To remove the handle by turning the Allen key screw, you may need to wiggle the handle to break the seal. This can help ensure the screw comes out easily. Water Supply: Turning off the water supply is crucial to avoid any accidents like drenching yourself or breaking something while working on the handle.

Conclusion

Replacing bathtub knobs or valves can be a simple and rewarding DIY project. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a fully functional and updated bathtub faucet in no time. Always remember to take the necessary safety precautions and use the right tools for the job.