How to Replace Bathroom Sink Fixtures

More than likely, there will come a time where you’ll need to replace bathroom sink fixtures; namely removing an old faucet. Fortunately, this is not complicated "call a plumber" sort of work. So, with a little information on your side, removing an old faucet is something you can likely accomplish yourself.

What you may need includes some—but possibly not all—of the following:

• Water pump or groove-joint pliers
• Basin wrench
• Faucet
• Adjustable wrench
• Silicon caulk (or Plumber’s putty)
• Flashlight
• Teflon tape  

Choosing a Faucet

If your task involves completely replacing a faucet, you’ll need to consider the make, model, and style of faucet you’d like to install. The range of choices can be astounding. For instance, inexpensive models are comprised mainly of plastic, whereas those that include a lot of brass are on the pricey side. If you’re smart, you’ll purchase a more expensive one; one that includes high quality parts. These parts will be easier to replace in the future and the better brands also come with warranties. Be sure and inquire about any available warranties when purchasing a faucet.

Faucet Types

There are two general kinds of faucets: top mounted and bottom mounted (these are the widespread faucet variety).

Removing a Faucet

Taking out the old faucet is one of the most difficult bathroom fixture changes, so this task will be covered here at length.

The most difficult part of replacing a faucet is removing the old one. However, once the old stuff is out of the way, your nice new faucet should go in easily. 

Step 1 – Turn Water Off

Always stop the water flow before commencing. You can do this at the main water valve, or you can shut off the pair of valves directly beneath the faucet to be replaced. After doing so, open the faucet and let it drain and relieve pressure.

Step 2 –Detach Water Supply Lines

Now it’s time to detach the water supply lines. However, if you don’t intend to replace these lines, detach them only from the faucet. Yet if it’s your plan to replace them, detach these lines only from the shutoff valve.

Step 3 – Detach Faucet From the Sink

You should be aware of the two ways faucets are mounted. If it’s a bottom-mounted faucet, it is removed from above. The handles and escutcheons need be detached to access the nuts securing the faucet. However, top-mounted faucets are attached with nuts that can be located beneath the sink, and therefore need to be removed from above. Use a set of water pump pliers, or even a specialized basin wrench, to remove these nuts.

Notes:

If this sink is old, the nuts might be corroded or rusted. Therefore, consider applying penetrating oil and letting it do its work on the threads before you attempt to detach the nuts.

Also, there may be some grime buildup visible on the sink after the faucet is taken out. If so, clean this off and prepare it for the new faucet. Water and vinegar, in a 50-50 solution, usually gets this buildup off. You might also need to scrub using a scouring pad or razor blade to get stubborn buildup off.

Of course, there are other bathroom fixtures that may need changing. But with the above information, you’ll know how to address one of the biggest bathroom fixture issues—removing an old faucet.