How To Replace A One Handle Bathroom Faucet

Replacing your bathroom faucet isn't just a job for the pros. It's a simple and straightforward task that you can easily do yourself with the right tools and guidance. Here are the essential steps to help you replace your one handle bathroom faucet in a jiffy.

Gather Your Tools

Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools for the job. You'll need:

Adjustable wrench or basin wrench
Phillips head screwdriver
Allen wrench (if required by your faucet)
Plumber's putty
Towels or rags
Flashlight (optional)

Turn Off the Water Supply

Safety first! Turn off the water supply valves located beneath your sink. Usually, there's one valve for hot water and another for cold water. Turn them clockwise until they're completely closed, ensuring no water will flow when you remove the faucet.

Disconnect Supply Lines

Use your adjustable wrench to disconnect the supply lines from the faucet. Hold the faucet steady with one hand while you loosen the nuts connecting the lines to the faucet body. You may need a flashlight to see better if the space is tight.

Loosen the Mounting Nut

Locate the mounting nut that secures the faucet to the sink or countertop. Using your adjustable wrench, loosen the nut by turning it counterclockwise. Be gentle and don't overtighten it.

Remove the Handle

Depending on your faucet model, you may need to remove the handle before you can take out the faucet. Check for a small set screw or Allen screw holding the handle in place. Remove it using the appropriate screwdriver or Allen wrench.

Lift Out the Faucet

Once the mounting nut and handle are removed, you can lift the faucet straight up and out of the sink or countertop. Some faucets may have additional screws or clips holding them in place, so check for those and remove them as well.

Clean the Sink Surface

Before installing the new faucet, clean the surface of the sink or countertop where the faucet will sit. Remove any old plumber's putty or debris to ensure a proper seal.

Apply Plumber's Putty

Apply a bead of plumber's putty around the base of the new faucet. This will create a watertight seal between the faucet and the sink or countertop.

Insert the New Faucet

Insert the new faucet into the opening in the sink or countertop. Align it properly and press down firmly to create a good seal. Tighten the mounting nut underneath the sink or countertop, but do not overtighten.

Reattach the Handle

If you removed the handle earlier, reattach it now. Insert the handle onto the faucet stem and secure it with the screw or Allen screw.

Reconnect Supply Lines

Reconnect the supply lines to the new faucet. Hand-tighten the nuts first, then use your adjustable wrench to tighten them further, ensuring they're secure but not overtightened.

Turn On the Water Supply

Slowly turn on the water supply valves located beneath the sink. Check for any leaks around the faucet base or supply lines. If you notice any leaks, tighten the connections further. Run the water to remove any air from the lines.