How to Change a Faucet: A Step-by-Step Guide

Is that drip, drip, drip driving you mad? A leaky faucet isn’t just an annoyance; it’s a silent money drain. Those persistent drips add up, wasting gallons of water and inflating your water bill. Beyond the financial impact, a malfunctioning faucet can indicate larger plumbing issues, leading to potential water damage and costly repairs down the road. Replacing a faucet might seem daunting, but with the right tools and a little know-how, it’s a DIY project that can save you money and give you a sense of accomplishment.

Whether you’re dealing with a persistent leak, upgrading your kitchen or bathroom, or simply replacing an old and worn-out fixture, changing a faucet is a common home repair task. Avoiding calling a plumber for a simple job can free up your budget for other home improvement endeavors. Plus, tackling this project yourself allows you to choose the perfect faucet to match your style and needs, adding a personal touch to your space.

What tools do I need and how do I get started?

What’s the first step in changing a faucet?

The absolute first step in changing a faucet is to shut off the water supply to the faucet. This is crucial to prevent a flood when you disconnect the old faucet’s water lines.

Failing to turn off the water supply can result in a significant amount of water spraying everywhere, potentially damaging your cabinets, flooring, and other surrounding areas. It’s a simple step that saves a lot of headache and cleanup. Locate the shut-off valves under the sink for both the hot and cold water lines. Sometimes, the shut-off valves are corroded or don’t function properly. If you can’t get them to close completely, you may need to shut off the main water supply to your house. This is usually located in the basement, garage, or near the water meter. Before turning off the main supply, consider alerting other household members as it will temporarily disrupt water service throughout the house. After shutting off either the local or main water supply, turn on the old faucet to relieve any remaining pressure in the lines before you begin disconnecting anything.

How do I remove a corroded faucet?

Removing a corroded faucet requires patience and persistence, as corrosion can seize connections and make disassembly difficult. Begin by applying penetrating oil to all threaded connections and letting it soak for several hours, or even overnight. Then, use the appropriate tools, like a basin wrench or adjustable wrench, to gently loosen the connections. If parts are severely stuck, consider using heat from a heat gun (carefully, to avoid damaging surrounding areas) to help break the corrosion bond. Be prepared to cut away corroded parts as a last resort if necessary.

Removing a corroded faucet often involves dealing with mineral buildup and rust that have fused the faucet to the sink or pipes. The longer the corrosion has been present, the more challenging the removal process will be. Before resorting to more aggressive methods, try tapping the corroded areas lightly with a hammer (protecting the faucet with a block of wood) to help loosen the bonds. Repeated applications of penetrating oil are also key; don’t be afraid to reapply it multiple times over several hours or even days. If you’re dealing with particularly stubborn corrosion, you might need to sacrifice some of the faucet’s components to get it removed. Cutting through the faucet body or supply lines with a reciprocating saw or a specialized pipe cutter can provide the necessary leverage to disconnect the corroded parts. However, exercise extreme caution when using power tools around plumbing to avoid damaging the sink, pipes, or surrounding surfaces. If you are not comfortable with these techniques, consider consulting a qualified plumber to avoid causing further damage.

What tools are essential for faucet replacement?

Replacing a faucet requires a collection of common plumbing tools to disconnect the old faucet, prepare the area, and install the new one. Essential tools include adjustable wrenches (various sizes), a basin wrench (also known as a faucet wrench), plumber’s tape, a putty knife or scraper, a bucket or towels, and possibly a penetrating oil or lubricant.

A basin wrench is specifically designed for reaching and loosening the nuts that hold the faucet in place from underneath the sink. Its long handle and swiveling jaw make it invaluable for working in tight spaces. Adjustable wrenches are needed to disconnect water supply lines and tighten new connections. Plumber’s tape (Teflon tape) is crucial for sealing threaded connections to prevent leaks, and a putty knife helps remove old plumber’s putty or caulk. Don’t underestimate the importance of having a bucket and towels handy to catch any residual water in the pipes. Depending on the age and condition of the existing faucet, penetrating oil can be applied to corroded nuts and bolts to help loosen them before attempting removal. While not always necessary, having a flashlight or headlamp is incredibly useful for providing ample lighting while working in the often-dim under-sink area.

How do I prevent leaks after installing a new faucet?

The key to preventing leaks after installing a new faucet is meticulous preparation and careful execution. This involves thoroughly cleaning connection points, using appropriate sealant or plumber’s tape, properly tightening connections to the recommended torque (if specified), and rigorously testing for leaks after installation.

Prevention starts before you even tighten the first connection. Old fittings often have residue or corrosion that can prevent a tight seal. Use a wire brush or emery cloth to clean threads on pipes and supply lines before connecting anything. When using plumber’s tape (Teflon tape), wrap it clockwise around the threads, overlapping each layer, usually 2-3 times. Ensure the tape is smooth and even. For fittings requiring pipe dope (pipe joint compound), apply it sparingly but completely to all male threads. Avoid getting sealant inside the pipe. Proper tightening is crucial. Overtightening can damage threads and washers, leading to leaks. Consult the faucet’s installation instructions for recommended torque specifications. If no specific torque is provided, tighten connections until snug, then turn an additional quarter or half turn. Avoid using excessive force. After installation, slowly turn on the water supply and carefully inspect all connections for leaks. Check around the base of the faucet, the supply line connections, and any other joints. If you find any leaks, immediately turn off the water and tighten the connection slightly more. Repeat this process until the leak stops. Be patient and avoid overtightening, which can create bigger problems. Finally, after the initial leak test, monitor the faucet and connections for several hours, and ideally over the next few days, to ensure no slow leaks develop. Place a dry cloth or paper towel beneath connections overnight to easily detect any drips. Ignoring a small leak can lead to water damage over time, so address any issues promptly.

How do I choose the right replacement faucet?

Choosing the right replacement faucet involves considering your sink configuration, desired style, finish, and budget. Start by identifying the number of holes in your sink or countertop, as this will dictate the type of faucet you need. Next, determine your preferred style (e.g., modern, traditional) and finish (e.g., chrome, brushed nickel). Finally, establish a budget and research faucets that meet your needs while staying within your price range.

To elaborate, understanding your sink’s configuration is paramount. Faucets are typically categorized by the number of mounting holes required: single-hole, centerset (4-inch spread), widespread (8-inch spread or greater), and wall-mounted. Choosing a faucet with the correct number of holes will ensure a proper fit and avoid the need for additional modifications or cover plates. If you are uncertain, carefully examine your existing faucet and the surrounding area to determine the hole configuration. Beyond functionality, aesthetics play a significant role. Consider the overall style of your kitchen or bathroom and select a faucet that complements the existing décor. Finishes should be durable and easy to clean, with options ranging from classic chrome to more modern matte black. Think about the faucet’s height and reach, ensuring it is comfortable to use and provides adequate clearance for filling pots or washing hands. Reading online reviews from other users can provide valuable insights into a faucet’s durability, ease of installation, and overall satisfaction.

Is it necessary to shut off the main water supply?

Yes, it is absolutely necessary to shut off the water supply before changing a faucet. Failing to do so will result in a significant and potentially damaging water leak once you disconnect the old faucet’s supply lines.

Shutting off the water prevents a messy and costly situation. When you disconnect the water lines from the old faucet, water will rush out under pressure. Without shutting off the supply, you won’t be able to effectively control the flow, potentially flooding the area around the sink and causing damage to cabinets, flooring, and anything else nearby. Furthermore, the uncontrolled water pressure will make it extremely difficult, if not impossible, to properly connect the new faucet. There are usually shut-off valves located directly under the sink for both the hot and cold water lines. If these valves are present and functioning correctly, you only need to shut off these local valves. However, it’s crucial to test them *before* disconnecting anything. Turn off both valves and then turn on the existing faucet. If water continues to flow, the local shut-off valves are not working, and you *must* shut off the main water supply to your house. This is typically located near your water meter or where the water line enters your home. Make sure everyone in the house knows the water will be off to avoid surprises, and be sure to turn it back on carefully and slowly after the faucet is installed to avoid water hammer.

What do I do if I strip a screw while removing the old faucet?

If you strip a screw while removing an old faucet, the goal is to create a better grip for your screwdriver to turn it. Several methods can work, including using a rubber band or steel wool between the screwdriver and the screw head, applying valve grinding compound, or using a screw extractor. Start with the least invasive methods first before resorting to more aggressive options.

A simple first attempt involves placing a wide rubber band (like one from broccoli) or a small piece of steel wool over the stripped screw head. Then, insert your screwdriver through the material and apply firm, even pressure while attempting to turn the screw. The added material can fill the gap created by the stripping and provide enough extra grip to allow you to unscrew it. Another option is to apply a small amount of valve grinding compound to the screw head before inserting the screwdriver. This gritty paste can significantly improve traction.

If the above methods fail, you may need a screw extractor. These are specialized tools designed to bite into the stripped screw head and allow you to turn it out. Screw extractors typically require drilling a small pilot hole into the center of the stripped screw. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when using a screw extractor, as improper use can damage the faucet or the surrounding area. If you’re not comfortable with a screw extractor, consider consulting a plumber.

And that’s all there is to it! Hopefully, you’re now enjoying a drip-free sink and feeling pretty darn accomplished. Thanks for trusting me to guide you through this little plumbing adventure. Come back any time you’ve got another DIY project on your mind, I’m always happy to help!