Change out a bathroom faucet is an easy DIY project that can be accomplished in several steps. First, clear away any clutter around the sink area. Place a bucket underneath to collect any dripped or spilled water during this process.
After this is completed, use a basin wrench to disconnect the old faucet’s water lines from beneath the sink and install your new one.
Gather Your Tools
When installing a bathroom faucet replacement, it’s essential that all necessary tools and equipment be collected prior to starting work. This should include your new faucet, water supply lines, bucket or towel to catch any drips from old or new fixture as well as plumber’s tape (also called Teflon tape) to seal threaded connections and ensure smooth threaded connections.
After you have located and closed all water shut-off valves beneath or behind your sink, mark their locations so you can find them again when turning back on your water service. In addition to adding silicone caulk around the bottom of your sink to prevent leaks – which you can purchase at most hardware and home improvement stores – adding silicone caulk can also help.
Disconnect the Water Lines
Before beginning this project, it’s essential to disconnect your water source. Locate the shut-off valves under your sink and turn them clockwise in order to prevent flooding or water damage.
If your old faucet features a P-trap, place a bucket under it to collect any leakage when unplugging it and use two sets of pliers (locking and regular) to unscrew its slip nut from its mounting.
After carefully disconnecting the supply tubes from their compression mounting nuts using a basin wrench or other suitable tool, loosen any tight nut with WD-40 until all supply lines have been disconnected and you are able to pull the old faucet completely out of the sink.
Remove the Faucet
By using a wrench, unscrew both water supply nuts that attach your faucet. Depending on its model, you may also need to unscrew handles and escutcheon. If your old faucet is very heavy, place a towel underneath it so it doesn’t collapse on itself and damage either your sink or cabinet.
As soon as you’ve removed the old faucet and drain, clear out your sink area to make sure all remaining caulk or debris has been eliminated before installing your new fixture. A tidy work area will help ensure a successful outcome!
Assemble the new faucet according to its manufacturer’s instructions. Some models require plumber’s putty or sealant, which should come included with your package. Reconnect hot and cold water lines onto their respective inlet shanks before hand-tightening for optimal performance.
Install the New Faucet
Installing a new faucet can easily upgrade your bathroom, yet its initial steps may seem intimidating. But with some expert tips in hand, this project should go smoothly and swiftly.
Start by switching off all incoming water lines. Look under your sink for small handles that, when turned clockwise, can shut off both hot and cold water at once.
Once the water has been shut off, use a tissue to crawl beneath your sink and wipe each connection for any sign of moisture.
Once the new supply lines have been connected to the faucet, use braided stainless steel connectors with gaskets built into each end to ensure reliable connections. Tighten them by hand before making one half-turn turn with a wrench for extra security.
Test the Water
Dripping faucets can be both annoying and wasteful of water resources, leading to high utility bills. Plus, their constant drip can corrode handles and create mineral buildup – so for the best solution switch out with something fresh that adds style to your bathroom!
Once your new faucet has been installed, it is crucial that the water supply lines are thoroughly tested to make sure everything is connected correctly. Turn on all water supply valves and check for leaky connectors under the sink – any signs of leaking should be tightened using a basin wrench before tightening again with your basin wrench if any are detected. Once tightened properly, take time to enjoy your newly updated bathroom! Switching out an older fixture provides your room with an eye-catching update while also helping avoid trouble and damage due to age!