How To Change Out A Sink Faucet

How to Change Out a Sink Faucet

Replacing a sink faucet is a common DIY project that can enhance the appearance of your kitchen or bathroom, improve water flow, or address leaks. With the right tools and a little patience, you can successfully complete this task yourself. This guide will walk you through the process, outlining the necessary steps and providing helpful tips along the way.

1. Gather Your Supplies and Tools

Before you begin, ensure you have the following materials and tools on hand:

New sink faucet
Adjustable wrench
Channel-lock pliers
Plumbers tape
Small basin or bucket
Towels
Screwdriver (Phillips and flathead)
Optional: Basin wrench

It is also recommended to have a pair of safety glasses and gloves for protection.

2. Turn Off the Water Supply

The first and most crucial step is to shut off the water supply to the sink. This is typically done by turning the valves located beneath the sink or on the wall. Locate the valves and turn them counterclockwise until they are completely closed. Once the water is off, run the faucet to drain any remaining water in the lines.

3. Disconnect the Old Faucet

With the water off, you can proceed to disconnect the old faucet. This involves the following steps:

Loosen the nuts: Use an adjustable wrench or channel-lock pliers to loosen the nuts that secure the faucet to the sink. These nuts are typically located beneath the sink. You may need to use a basin wrench to access some nuts that are difficult to reach by hand.
Disconnect the water lines: Once the nuts are loosened, gently pull the faucet upwards, disconnecting it from the sink. Then disconnect the water lines from the old faucet. These lines are typically connected with compression fittings. Use adjustable wrenches to loosen and remove the compression nuts.
Remove the old faucet: With the water lines disconnected, carefully remove the old faucet from the sink. Make sure to note the orientation of the hot and cold water lines for proper reassembly.

4. Install the New Faucet

Now that the old faucet is removed, you can begin installing the new one. This process involves the following steps:

Attach the faucet to the sink: Position the new faucet over the sink hole and line up the mounting holes. Use the provided mounting hardware to secure the faucet to the sink. Typically, this involves tightening nuts or bolts beneath the sink.
Connect the water lines: Connect the water lines to the new faucet. Make sure to connect the hot water line to the hot water inlet and the cold water line to the cold water inlet. Wrap the threads of the water lines with plumbers tape to prevent leaks. Then, hand-tighten the compression nuts before using wrenches to securely tighten them.
Turn on the water: Once the water lines are connected, slowly turn the water supply valves on. Check for any leaks at the connections. If you find leaks, tighten the fittings further. If the leak persists, you may need to re-wrap the threads with plumbers tape or apply a sealant.
Test the faucet: Run the water through the faucet to ensure that the hot and cold water are functioning properly. Check for any leaks or drips.

5. Clean Up and Dispose of Old Faucet

Once you have completed the installation, clean up any debris or spills. Properly dispose of the old faucet according to local regulations. You can typically recycle or dispose of old metal faucets at designated recycling centers.

With these steps, you can successfully replace your sink faucet and enjoy the benefits of a new, functional, and stylish fixture. Remember to always follow safety precautions and consult a professional if you encounter any difficulties or uncertainties.