Replacing a leaky or outdated bathroom faucet may first seem like a difficult task, but it is not. It is a very simple task that will take you less than an hour to complete. All that you need is the right plumbing tools and a simple step by step guide. If you are a DIY enthusiast and want to replace your bathroom faucet on your own, then today, you are in the right place. Below is a simple step by step guide on how to replace a bathroom faucet like a pro.
Important tools you need
- Adjustable wrench
- Allen wrench
- Basin wrench
- Pipe cutter
- Tongue and groove pliers
- Tubing bender tool
Step one: Purchase the right bathroom faucet
The first step to replacing your old faucet is purchasing the right bathroom faucet that perfectly fits your sink. There are three main types of bathroom faucets available on the market. They include a single hole, a four-inch triple hole, and an eight-inch triple hole. Besides considering space, also ensure that the connections fit perfectly. A bathroom faucet that fits properly will make the installation process seamless.
Step two: Remove the old faucet
Cut cuff water supply before you start removing the old faucet. Gently disconnect all connections from the faucet, including the P trap and the drain flange. Place a bucket underneath to trap water from the P- trap. If your new faucet comes with a drain, then you also need to remove the existing one. Clean around the faucet holes and old drain to remove the old silicone sealant.
Step three: Install a new faucet
Most bathroom faucets follow similar installation guidelines. However, it is important first to read the manufacturer’s installation guidelines before you start the installation process.
-The installation process starts by installing the gasket at the bottom of the bathroom faucet. You may need to use a sealant to make the gasket airtight. Put the faucet over the mounting holes then tighten the nuts to secure it.
-Attach the handles. Not all bathroom faucets come with preassembled handles. If your bathroom faucet handle is not preassembled, then you need to do it yourself. Hold the handles into position then secure them with the setscrews.
-Gently screw the nuts on the drain body then push the gasket over it. If your gasket is threaded, then it will easily fall in place.
-Apply a small quantity of silicone under the flange. Some manufacturers recommend the use of plumber’s putty. Remove the drain nut from the flange then apply a small amount of plumbers putty or silicone under the flange. Position the drain body on the bottom of your sink then gently screw the flange from the top side.
-Tighten the gasket and nut underneath the sink. Clean up any excess silicone using a suitable mineral spirit. Use a wrench to tighten gaskets to make it airtight.
-The drain pipe also has another hole on the side, known as the pinot nut that connects the drain rod. To install the drain rod, you first need to unscrew the pivot nut on the drain body. Attach the horizontal rod on the hole in the stopper then replace the nuts. Gently push the horizontal rod down then tighten the lift rod to the strap using a nut.
-Reconnect all the supply lines to the new bathroom faucet. If your new faucet comes with a new water supply line, you need to replace the old ones. Detach the old supply line at the shutoff points then connect the new supply line. Tighten to secure the new supply line.
-Use nuts to secure the p-trap. For added protection, use p-trap extenders.
Step four. Test your new bathroom faucet
Once you are done, the final step is testing your new bathroom faucet. Turn on cold and hot water for about a minute the check all connections to see if there are any leaks. Retighten the connection if necessary.