Bathtub faucets come either as two-handled compression faucets, or as one-handled washerless faucets. Washerless faucets themselves come in three types: cartridge, disc, and ball faucets. Fixing a bathtub faucet is very similar to repairing a sink faucet. You should review this procedure before attempting to fix your bathtub faucet. Follow all steps in the repair carefully, and be sure to have the necessary plumbing tools on hand.
Tip:
If you have a compression faucet on your bathtub its "packing nut," located at the front of the stem assembly, may be located in the wall or tub itself. This can make it difficult to remove, so using a deep-socket wrench may help. This wrench can easily hold and unscrew the packing nut while you remove the rest of the faucet.
A washerless tub faucet is very similar to a washerless sink faucet, and the method for replacing its cartridge is also similar. With both, the retainer nut or clip must be loosened so that you can remove the cartridge. A ball faucet needs to have new seals and O-rings.
If you don't have that many plumbing supplies, don't worry - you will only need the basics. Any tool box should have what you need.
For more information on the various types of faucets please consult our faucet specific sites:
A washerless tub faucet is very similar to a washerless sink faucet, and the method for replacing its cartridge is also similar. With both, the retainer nut or clip must be loosened so that you can remove the cartridge. A ball faucet needs to have new seals and O-rings.