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Remove the Old Shut-off Valve — Remove the Old Faucet Valve

Beginner3 hours

Part of project

How to Replace a Bathtub Faucet Valve: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide · Step 3 of 5

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In this video

To remove the old valve, use two wrenches. One wrench, such as an angle stop wrench or pliers, should be used to hold the body of the valve steady. Use a second wrench, like an adjustable wrench, to grip the compression nut located behind the valve. Turn the nut counter-clockwise to loosen it. Once loose, completely unscrew the nut and pull the valve straight off the copper pipe.

Goal: Plumbing Fixture Removal

  • Using a backup wrench on the valve body prevents the copper pipe from twisting or breaking while you loosen the compression nut.

Used in this video

  • Adjustable Wrench (brand: Unspecified, Tool Type: Wrench) — Loosening the compression nut on the back of the valve.
  • Angle Stop Wrench (brand: Unspecified, Tool Type: Wrench) · optional — Holding the valve body steady during removal.
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FAQs

What specific type of replacement valve should I buy for my bathtub faucet, and are the listed tools all I'll need?

You must purchase a replacement valve that is compatible with your specific bathtub faucet brand and model. Take a photo of your existing valve or faucet to a plumbing supply store for an exact match. The listed tools (adjustable wrenches, screwdriver) are essential, but also have penetrating oil and a utility knife on hand for stubborn parts.

What's the most critical safety step, and how can I avoid common beginner mistakes like leaks after installation?

The most critical safety step is ensuring both hot and cold water supplies are completely shut off before starting, then double-checking by trying to turn the faucet on. To avoid leaks, ensure the new valve is properly seated and the retaining nut is snug, but do not overtighten. Test for leaks slowly as you turn the water back on, inspecting carefully.

The project is rated 'beginner' but estimated at 3 hours. What makes it take that long, and what if screws or nuts are corroded?

While the steps are straightforward for a beginner, unexpected issues like corroded screws or a seized retaining nut can significantly extend the time. Using penetrating oil and letting it sit for 15-30 minutes can help loosen stubborn parts. Patience and having the right-sized adjustable wrench are key to success.

I'm struggling to remove the old valve even with a wrench and penetrating oil. Are there any alternative methods or tools I should try?

If the retaining nut or valve is extremely stubborn, you might need a specialized valve puller tool, which can often be rented or purchased at a hardware store. Ensure you're turning the nut counter-clockwise. If the new valve doesn't fit, double-check its compatibility with your faucet model, as slight variations can prevent proper seating.

Transcript
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What I do is I have a special tool here and this tool screws on to the end of the shut off valve. Now you've got a way to hold the valve in position. If you don't have one of these just put a pair of pliers on that valve. Then you put a wrench on the nut and back. Now this valve does not unscrew off the copper pipe, it uncompresses from the copper pipe. The difference is that there's no threads on the copper pipe, there's a furl ring and that furl ring is held in place by this furl nut. I'll show you in a second. Here's the valve and it's not really corroded because it's not that old but there's the valve. Here is the furl ring on the copper and the furl nut behind it.

Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.