How To Replace Dripping Bathroom Faucet

How to Replace a Dripping Bathroom Faucet

A dripping faucet is more than just an annoyance—it can also waste a significant amount of water. If you're looking to save money and water, replacing a dripping faucet is a simple and inexpensive project that you can do yourself.

Tools and Materials You'll Need

Basin wrench
Adjustable wrench
Phillips head screwdriver
Flat head screwdriver
New faucet
Teflon tape
Plumber's putty

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Turn off the water supply. There will be two valves under the sink that control the hot and cold water. Turn both valves clockwise to shut off the water.

2. Remove the old faucet. Using a basin wrench, loosen the nuts that hold the faucet in place. Be careful not to overtighten the nuts, as you could damage the faucet or the sink.

3. Disconnect the water lines. Using an adjustable wrench, disconnect the hot and cold water lines from the faucet.

4. Remove the old cartridge. Most faucets have a cartridge that controls the flow of water. To remove the cartridge, first remove the handle by prying it off with a flat head screwdriver. Then, unscrew the cartridge with a Phillips head screwdriver.

5. Install the new cartridge. Apply a small amount of Teflon tape to the threads of the new cartridge. Then, screw the cartridge into the faucet by hand until it is snug. Tighten the cartridge with a Phillips head screwdriver.

6. Reconnect the water lines. Connect the hot and cold water lines to the faucet. Tighten the nuts with an adjustable wrench.

7. Install the new faucet. Place the new faucet into the sink and secure it with the nuts. Tighten the nuts with a basin wrench.

8. Turn on the water supply. Slowly turn on the valves under the sink to turn on the water supply. Check for any leaks.

9. Finish the installation. Apply a bead of plumber's putty around the base of the faucet to seal any gaps. Then, put the handle back on the faucet.