How to Replace a Bathroom Faucet

After a few years, your bathroom faucet may start to look rusted and decayed, like it's developed cavities. You may want to replace it because the old one has a constant drip, or simply because you need a nice new, shiny-looking faucet that gleams in the bright light.

Replacing your old faucet is not actually rocket science and the course of action is quite simple. With the right tools, a small investment and the steps from this guide, you can change that old tap for a new one within three hours maximum.

Things you will need:
Adjustable wrench
Pliers
Plumber's putty
Plumber's tape (Thread seal tape)

Then by following these simple steps you will have your faucet replaced.

Type of faucet: First, to identify the type of faucet that you already have is important. There are three different kinds of faucets, single-hole, 4" triple hole & 8" triple hole. The anatomy is almost the same, consisting of a center spout and the two valves which control temperature. Sinks can have one, two or three holes to accommodate these parts, depending on the type, and the distance between these holes. This will help you identify the type of faucet you should buy. It is also recommended that you buy a good quality replacement to assure long-term use. Once you have the right replacement, assemble everything you need

Remove the faucet: Turn off the water supply from under the sink, and turn on the faucet to relieve any water pressure left in the lines. There are usually nuts and washers under the sink, which secure the faucet. First remove the faucet, unscrew the nuts from under the faucet and metal drain, pull out the supply lines, and finally, clean it with rubbing alcohol

Remove the drain: Unscrew the slip nut on the P-trap. Put a bucket underneath to seize water in the trap and disconnect the drain flange from the tailpiece. Put aside all the hardware like screws and clamp bolt from the drain rod extension. A bucket will be handy to collect extra drainage.

Install the new faucet: Following the manufacturer's directions, install the new faucet step by step. Mount the faucet in the sinkholes and tighten the mounting nuts. Not all faucets come pre-assembled, so you may have to manually attach the mixing valves yourself. Next you need to move to the drain body. Screw all the nuts on the drain body and push the gasket over it. Apply a bit of putty under the flange, position the drain body under the sink, and screw from the topside. Tighten all the nuts underneath the gasket. Reconnect the supply lines, and flush the faucet by letting hot and cold water run through the spout for a minute. Check all the connections for leaks and retighten the screws if necessary.


This is an easy process, but if you face any difficulty, contact a professional plumber. He will deliver good quality work.

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