Tools and Materials
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Remove the Old Faucet
After reading our guide on how to replace a bathroom sink faucet, you should be familiar with the important steps. You’ll begin by removing your existing faucet, being careful not to damage the supply lines or sink. When changing a bathroom faucet, place a bucket under the sink to catch any residual water.
When replacing a bathroom sink or tub faucet, there are some specialized faucet tools — in addition to a faucet wrench — that can make the job easier. Consider a faucet change-out tool, which can help attach and loosen supply lines, as well as a cartridge puller for removing frozen cartridges.
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
Start by turning off the water supply. Usually, you’ll find the valves underneath the sink. Once they’re off, open the faucet to drain any remaining water in the pipes.
Step 2: Disconnect the Supply Lines
Next, disconnect the supply lines from the old faucet. Then disconnect the lift rod. Remove the nuts from underneath and take out the faucet.
Snap a photo of the plumbing to help with reconnecting later.
Remove the Drain
If your faucet came with a matching drain, you'll need to remove the existing one.
Step 1: Remove the P-Trap, Disconnect the Drain and Clean Around the Old Drain
Be sure to have a bucket nearby to catch the water and then remove the P-trap. Disconnect the drain from the sink. Clean around the old drain and faucet holes. Mineral spirits can help remove old silicone sealant.
Install the New Faucet
If you’re installing a new vanity and sink, it’s much easier to mount the faucet before you put the sink in place. Speaking of sinks, you’ll either have one, two or three holes. It’ll either be centerset or widespread. Make sure that you purchase a faucet that matches the holes in your sink. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for how to install a bathroom faucet.
Step 1: Insert the Faucet Through Mounting Holes
Our faucet is centerset. Put the gasket on first. Then insert the faucet through the mounting holes and tighten the nuts.
Step 2: Install the Drain Body and Rubber Washer
Next, install the drain body and rubber washer through the top of the sink. Apply a bit of silicone between the rubber gasket and the bottom of the sink.
Secure it with the lock nut. Clean up excess silicone with mineral spirits.
Step 3: Insert the Ball Rod
Insert the ball rod into the drain assembly and tighten the sleeve. Next, insert the lift rod into the faucet. Connect the lift rod to the lift rod strap by pushing the button. Then, make sure the ball rod is in the down position and attach the lift rod strap to the ball rod.
Step 4: Connect the Supply Lines and Install the Sink
Before setting the sink into place, connect the supply lines to the faucet shanks. Then install the sink and connect the supply lines to the water valves.
Step 5: Flush the Faucet and Check for Leaks
It’s a good idea to flush the new faucet and check for leaks before you’re done.
Just remove the aerator. Then run hot and cold water for one minute.
Check all the connections and retighten if needed. Replace the aerator, and you’re done installing the bathroom sink faucet.
Replacing a Bathroom Faucet
Replacing a bathroom faucet is a manageable do-it-yourself (DIY) project that can update the look and functionality of your sink. By following the step-by-step instructions on how to change a bathroom faucet, with the right tools and a little patience, you'll find that replacing a bathroom faucet is a practical upgrade well within reach.
If you don’t have the time or skill needed to complete this project yourself, Lowe's has you covered with our sink and faucet installation service.