DIY Basic Faucet Replacement

Everyone should know how to replace faucets as it is a household repair that doesn’t require any professional help. Here are some basics worth knowing about faucet replacement.

Before you try to replace your faucet, you have to buy and have ready the unit you intend to use for replacing the old one. There are many brands and models available at your local hardware store for you to choose from. The job will be much easier and faster if you have your replacement faucet ready at hand before removing the old one.

There are various modern designs in the market to choose from. You can use faucets with single or double handles for your sinks and bathtubs. Depending on its use, they generally have fixed sized hook-ups. You have 8 inch hookups in kitchen units, while the bathroom sink ones have 4 inch hookups, and bathtubs have 8 inch hookups.

Measurements

Take some measurements with a tape measure to find out which type of faucet you need to buy. In case of double handled faucets, take measurements from the handle centers. In case of single handled units, you have to take measurements from the water hook-up lines at the base of the faucet.

You can easily replace the old tap once you know the size and style you need.

Required tools

You don’t need many tools to replace a faucet; you just need wrenches to hold down the pipe’s shut off valve to remove the supply line. You will also need a basin wrench or channel lock pliers to remove the huge nuts that fix the tap to your sink. A basin wrench is a better choice as its special design helps you work comfortably while removing your sink faucet.

How to replace your faucet

You have to first turn the water supply off and then remove all the lines leading to the faucet sides. Next, you have to loosen the large nut that fixes the tap to your sink. Once this is done, you have to take out the old unit from the sink and preferably, clean the spot which housed the old unit.

After cleaning the spot, you have to place the new tap into the holes. If required, have someone help you with this to make it easier to center while installing retainer nuts. It is after you have fixed the faucet in place, and all the retaining nuts are tightly screwed in that you can reconnect your water supply lines once againt. It’s better to turn on the water supply, and test for any leaks and other possible defects.

If you find some leaks, just try to reinstall once again, and make sure you tightly replace all parts where they should be. You can also place some putty or thread tape around the tap to reduce leaks and any dripping on joints, especially those leaks found near the base and the supply line.

Christianne Child is a top sales representative and award winning Guelph Realtor. For more tips on how to sell your house for top dollar, or for help buying a house, check out herGuelph Real Estate website.