With the onset of winter, many homeowners will discover that their once-functional bathtub faucets are now stuck in place. This is usually due to mineral deposits and rusting, making it difficult to turn on or off your faucet. Luckily, there are several easy ways you can remove a stuck tub spout without calling a plumber or paying an expensive service call fee.
If your tub spout is stuck in one position and does not move, there is likely a small buildup of mineral deposits or rust which has gotten jammed inside the internal workings of the valve. So, this article is for you. You will learn how to remove stuck bathtub faucets with just one simple trick!
Step to Follow on How to Remove Stuck Bathtub Faucet
Step One: Turn Off Water Supply
Before attempting to remove a stuck bathtub faucet, make sure the water supply is turned off. If there is any running water in the lines, it can cause damage and lead to further problems. While turning off the water will not be an issue if you live in an apartment or condo, those who own their home should check the water meter to ensure no water is being used.
If this is not possible, shut the water valves leading to your house, or turn off the main water breaker. You can also shut all other faucets in your home so that there is no chance of water being wasted during the repair work. You do not want to be charged for wasting water if you are doing the repair work yourself.
There is also another option other than shutting off the main water supply or valves leading into your home, and that is to drain the water from each faucet and any appliances with a hose long enough to reach a sink or laundry tub. This is a more time-consuming option, but it may be the only one that works depending on where you live.
Step Two: Removing The Faucet Handle
Once the water has been turned off and verified as such, you will need to remove the faucet handle. There are usually two screws holding up the handle, and these should be removed with a screwdriver. The screws can sometimes be hidden under decorative caps, which you should remove as well.
If the faucet handle does not come off easily or looks stripped, it may be best to try a replacement faucet handle rather than repair the existing one. If you attempt to fix it, use a plumber’s wrench to get a better grip on the handle before removing it.
If this does not work, you should take the faucet into a repair shop for evaluation and repair or replacement of parts if needed. Once the faucet handle is removed, you will need to remove the cap that covers the end of your spout. You can use a pair of pliers or an adjustable wrench for this purpose.
Step Three: Remove Metal Screen
Once you have removed the faucet handle and cap, you will need to remove the metal screen. This is held in place by a clip or clips that must be squeezed together using needle-nosed pliers to get them loose. You may also be able to use your fingers if you have small hands.
If neither of these methods works, it is possible that the screen has been permanently affixed to the faucet. This may be because of a previous repair job or someone who did not properly remove the screen from their bathtub.
In this case, you should have a professional come out and replace the entire unit, as there will be no way to remove it without damaging the faucet. The reason for this is that the screen is designed to keep any debris from going down your drain and causing a clog.
Step Four: Removing Faucet Stem Assembly
After the metal screen has been removed, you can remove the faucet stem assembly. This should be done by either turning it counterclockwise or by using needle-nosed pliers to unscrew it. If the stem does not come off easily, you may need an adjustable wrench or plumber’s wrench for assistance.
If the stem comes out without too much effort, this is a good sign that replacing the cartridge should solve your problem. Be careful, though, as some of the parts that make up your faucet could easily fall apart if you are not careful. When taking it apart, do so over a newspaper or something similar to catch all of the small pieces and keep them from getting lost.
If there are any holes or openings in your stem, you should use a paper towel to wipe them out. If you have mineral deposits, it would be wise to rub some vinegar over the area to dissolve these deposits. These steps should help you in learning how to remove stuck bathtub faucets.
Step Five: Replace Spout Assembly
Once you have removed all of the parts that come out of the spout assembly, you can replace them. This is done by screwing the new one in until it is snug and then using pliers to tighten the metal ring around the base just a little bit more. This will help keep everything together while trying to turn on the water or use your faucet.
If the new faucet does not fit as it should, you may need to go back and check your measurements before moving on. If it still does not fit, try a different brand of spout assembly or take yours into a repair shop for evaluation. You can also use a spray lubricant to help with this process if you have not already removed all of the dirt, grime, and debris.
You Can Check It Out to: Unclog a Bathtub Drain With Bleach
Conclusion
If you’re trying to remove a stuck bathtub faucet, there are a few things that may be going on. First, check the water supply valve and make sure it’s turned off or try turning it on if you can’t get any water flowing from your tap. The next step is to inspect the washers for signs of wear and tear, which will cause them not to seal properly when they come in contact with each other.
Finally, check the stem nut holding up against pressure from both sides by using channel locks or vice grips around its outer edge while rotating counterclockwise- this should release the grip on the spindle threads inside your fixture. This blog post has given helpful advice on how to remove stuck bathtub faucets.
You may also check it: How to Unlock a Shower Curtain Rod
