How to Replace a Bathroom Faucet

Replacing a leaky or outdated faucet is easy enough with a basin wrench and a few other standard tools. But to replace a bathroom faucet, you need to know how to remove a faucet, and Cardinal has you covered.

Select your faucet

Before installing a bath faucet, verify how many holes are in your sink and make sure you select the same type for your upgrade.

Remove items and turn off water valves

When beginning a bathroom sink faucet installation, remove all items from under the sink. Turn off the hot- and cold-water shutoff valves and turn on the faucet to drain any water. Place a bucket under the sink. Use an adjustable wrench to disconnect the water lines from the faucet.

Remove the old faucet

Under the sink, there are typically nuts and washers securing your faucet. Remove any existing hardware using a basin wrench, unhook the lift rod for the drain stopper, and gently remove the faucet. Use a putty knife, if needed, to assist in removing the faucet from old sealants. Clean the surface to prepare for installation.

Prep the area

Assemble the faucet following the manufacturer’s instructions. Faucets can be different, so be sure to consult your installation instructions. Apply a small amount of plumber’s putty or silicone on the faucet holes on top of the sink or around the bottom of the faucet and let it set.

Insert the new faucet

Insert the faucet assembly into the mounting holes so that the base is parallel to the back of the sink, and press the faucet down firmly into the sealant. Thread a washer and basin nut onto the valve tailpieces from underneath the sink. Tighten the nuts evenly over the gasket but do not tighten all the way. Measure from both sides of the faucet and adjust it to center on the top of your sink. Under the sink, tighten the mounting nuts. Wipe away any excess putty or silicone from around the faucet base.

Reconnect the supply lines

Reattach the supply lines. Tighten using an adjustable wrench and turn the water valves back on. Double-check all your fittings and test for two minutes to make sure there are no leaks.

If you have questions or want further guidance, ask one of our Cardinal professionals!

Things you’ll need:

Basin wrench

Adjustable wrench

Plumber’s putty

Silicone caulk

Bucket

Bathroom faucet and package contents

Rags/towels

Knife or putty knife.