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Overview:
This project will show you how to replace a leaky faucet. If the steady drip, drip, drip of a leaking faucet is driving you mad, you can stop the torture and conserve water by replacing the faucet in your kitchen or bath.
Materials:
new faucet, supply lines, plumber putty or silicon caulk, Teflon tape, vinegar and water solution, razor blade or scouring pad
Tools You'll Need:
6-in-1 interchangeable screwdriver, 8in. adjustable wrench, 8in. slip-joint pliers, flashlight
Before You Begin:
Choose your faucet from the wide range of styles available. Some of the better brands have lifetime warranties. You can choose either top mount or bottom mount styles.
Barbara's Tips:
When removing the old faucet, if you find that the nuts are rusted or corroded in place, try applying a penetrating oil and giving it time to work into the threads before you try to remove the nuts.
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Step 1: Remove the Old Faucet
This is the most difficult part of the task. First, shut off the water at either the main water valve or at the two valves immediately under the faucet you are replacing. Then, open the faucet and let any water left in the pipes drain out. Disconnect the water supply lines from the faucet. If you're replacing all the lines, disconnect the lines from the shutoff valves as well. Remove the old faucet. Top mount faucets are held in place by nuts underneath the sink and must be removed from below. Bottom mount faucets are held in place from above. Remove the escutcheons to get to the nuts that secure the faucet in place. A specially designed basin wrench can be used in tight spaces underneath the sink or around the handles.
Step 2: Clean the Sink
Use a 50-50 solution of vinegar and water to clean buildup from the sink top. You may need to gently scrape with a razor blade or scouring pad.
Step 3: Install the New Faucet - Top Mounted
Apply plumber's putty or silicon caulk around the faucet base. If the faucet has a rubber gasket, you can skip this step. Place the faucet in position, using gentle pressure to spread the putty and assure a good seal. Install the under-sink washers and nuts, and tighten by hand. Align the faucet with the back of the sink and tighten the nuts with a wrench or pliers. Wipe excess caulk away from the base of the new faucet.
Step 4: Install the New Faucet - Bottom Mounted
Reach under the sink to hold the faucet in place. Install the washers and nuts on top and tighten by hand. Align the faucet with the back of the sink and tighten the nuts with a wrench or pliers. Run a bead of plumber's putty along the back of the escutcheons and screw them in place.
Step 5: Final Drop
Install the faucet handles and wipe away any excess putty from the base of the escutcheons. If you are replacing your supply lines, do so after installing the faucets. Turn the water back on at the main or under sink source and check your work. You did it yourself!
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