How to Replace a Faucet

Updating the fixtures in your bathroom or kitchen is an easy way to make an old room feel new again. Fixtures are also an easy way to add personalization to your space, rather than feeling stuck with the fixtures that came with your house. Cut the guessing work by using the Columbus movers handy guide to fixture changing and you’ll have a new look to your sinks in no time.

You’ll need:

A basin wrench and a basic toolkit (adjustable wrench and groove joint pliers)

New fixtures to install

Supply Lines

Teflon Tape

About an hour of time

Silicone caulk

Flashlight

The first step, of course, is selecting your new faucet fixtures. Plastic ones are an option, but to get the most value and longevity from a faucet, you want to go with a name brand brass model. They are more expensive, but they pay off in the long run. Also, you’ll notice some are labeled top mount, and some as bottom mount. The top mount fixtures are easier for homeowners to install on their own.

Once you’ve selected a new faucet, you need to remove the old one. This part is the hardest—but be patient and follow our steps. First, shut off the water, either by the main water valve or the two valves immediately under the faucet you are working on. Then, open the faucet to allow pressure to escape and any water to drain.

Disconnect the water supply lines. If you want to leave the same water supply lines, disconnect them from the faucet only, and leave them attached to the shutoff valve. However, since these have to be replaced periodically anyhow, we recommend swapping the supply lines to get it over with.

Remove the faucet. Bottom mount faucets are held with nuts and escutcheons that are underneath the handles and must be removed from above. Top mount fixtures are secured by nuts underneath the sink and must be removed from the bottom. This is where you’ll need the basin wrench, to get in where pliers will not fit.

Clean off the area before installing a new faucet. A 50/50 mix of vinegar and water will break down any buildup and kill bacteria.

From here, the instructions on the faucet you have chosen will help with installation. Keep your plumber’s putty and caulk handy and you should have your new faucets up and running in no time.