1.Before You Replace a Bathroom Faucet
Before starting, identify the type of faucet designed for your bathroom sink. Bathroom sink faucets come in three types: single hole, center set, and split set (also known as widespread).
- A single hole faucet operates through one hole in the sink and is typically a single handle design.
- A center set faucet is meant for sinks with three holes that are four inches or more apart, featuring a cover plate that connects the components above the sink.
- A split set or widespread faucet is designed for sinks with holes spaced six inches or more apart, giving the appearance of three separate pieces from above.
- Before removing any parts, be sure to turn off the water supply to the faucet. This should be easy to locate under the sink. If needed, clear out any items stored beneath the sink for easier access to the faucet components.
- Turn on the faucet to relieve pressure in the water lines, then close it again.
- Place a bucket or basin under the pipes to catch any water that may spill while you replace the drain.
TIP: If you are replacing the entire bathroom sink or countertop, you may have the option to select a faucet with a different hole configuration.
2.How to Remove a Bathroom Faucet
- Disconnect the hot and cold water supply lines from the faucet.
- Remove the mounting nuts located under the sink that hold the faucet in place. You might require an adjustable wrench or basin wrench, particularly if the nuts are hard to access.
- Detach the lift rod of the faucet from the drain.
- Carefully pull the old faucet assembly up from the top until it is fully out of the sink. The base may stick to the sink, so use both hands for better control.
- Clean the area around the faucet holes on the top of the sink using rubbing alcohol or an all-purpose cleaner, and wipe it down with a cleaning cloth.
3.How to Replace a Bathroom Sink Drain
Many bathroom faucet replacement kits come with new drains, so this is a good opportunity to replace the drain pipe as well.
- After detaching the faucet lift rod, use an adjustable wrench to loosen the slip nut on the bent P-trap pipe located under the sink. Be sure to have your bucket or basin ready to catch any water that spills.
- Remove the sink drain flange from the tailpiece beneath the sink.
- Get the new drain tailpiece ready by attaching the nut and gasket according to the instructions provided.
- Apply silicone sealant to the underside of the sink flange.
- Position the flange over the drain hole in the sink and secure the tailpiece to the flange from underneath.
- Tighten the nut and gasket on the tailpiece. It’s best to start tightening by hand and finish with an adjustable wrench.
- Connect the tailpiece to the P-trap and tighten it with the wrench. (To enhance leak resistance, wrap one or two layers of plumber’s tape around the tailpiece.)
TIP: If your drain includes plastic components, avoid using plumber’s putty on them.
4.How to Install a Bathroom Faucet
- Take the new faucet out of its packaging.
- Position the rubber or plastic gasket(s) between the faucet and the sink holes.
- Place the new faucet in position, aligning the appropriate valves with their corresponding holes.
- Seal the edges with a thin layer of bathroom caulk.
- Place a washer over the mounting nuts, then hand-tighten them before securing them firmly with a wrench or pliers.
- Attach the lift rod to the drain tailpiece.
- Connect the hot and cold water supply lines.
5.Test the New Faucet
- Turn the water supply back on.
- Open the faucet, activating both the cold and hot water taps.
- Check all the new connections for leaks, both above and below the sink.
Once you understand how to replace an old fixture or fix a leak, you can efficiently handle one of the most common household repairs. Replacing a bathroom faucet involves a step-by-step process. Proper preparation is essential, so be sure to turn off the water before you begin. Determine if you have a single hole or widespread faucet. Ready to take on this simple DIY project? Gather the fixtures and tools you need. Home Depot offers delivery for online orders when and where you require them.