The Standard Length of the Stem on Bath Taps

Stem Length

• Many manufacturers produce plumbing fixtures, and each has its own idea of how long a valve stem should be for a tap. According to Josh Hamstra of Leeps Plumbing Supply Company in Merrillville, Indiana, the stems vary from 5 to 7 inches long. There is no benefit or drawback to any one length. However, it does affect how close the tub can fit to the pipes behind it.

Leaks

• The stem is a separate piece from the valve, and is screwed into it. This connection is often a source of leaks and can be checked within a few minutes. Turn off all water to the bath before beginning. Unscrew and remove the faucet handles from the stems. The stems are often covered with a trim sleeve that attaches to the valve in a variety of ways, depending on the manufacturer.

Stem Removal

• Once the sleeve is removed, there are two nuts that may be visible. The smaller of the two should not be unscrewed. Before unscrewing the stem nut, slide the faucet handles back on and turn them as if you wanted the tap to flow about half power. The length of the stem requires a special, extra-long socket to fit over it to reach the nut. Once the nut is well loosened, the stem might begin turning with it.

Finishing

• Hold the stem in place and take the nut off. Pull the stem off and replace the washer underneath, even if it looks fine. The washers only cost a few cents, and you'll be assured you're not allowing an existing problem with the washer to continue. If the stems look corroded or the threads are scratched, then they can also be replaced at any hardware store. Putting everything back together is just a matter of reversing the steps. If you have the smaller screw you ignored earlier, snug it tight if the stem leaks at the valve connection with the water turned on.