Installing a new bathroom faucet might seem intimidating, but it’s actually one of the more straightforward plumbing projects you can tackle yourself. With the right tools and a bit of patience, you can upgrade your bathroom in just a few hours and save the $150-300 that plumbers typically charge for this job.

Before You Start

Know Your Faucet Type

Check your sink’s hole configuration before shopping. Single-hole faucets fit sinks with one hole, centerset faucets require three holes 4 inches apart, and widespread faucets need three holes 6-16 inches apart. Count your holes and measure the distance between the outer ones to ensure you buy the right style.

Gather Your Tools

You’ll need an adjustable wrench, basin wrench (essential for tight spaces under the sink), pliers, screwdriver, flashlight, and safety glasses. Don’t skip the basin wrench – it’s specifically designed for the cramped space behind sinks and makes tightening mounting nuts much easier.

Also grab plumber’s putty or silicone sealant, pipe thread compound or Teflon tape, a bucket for catching water, and towels for cleanup.

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply

Locate the shut-off valves under your sink – there should be separate valves for hot and cold water. Turn them clockwise to close. If you can’t find shut-off valves or they won’t budge, you’ll need to turn off the main water supply to your house.

After shutting off the water, turn on the faucet to drain any remaining water from the lines. This prevents spills when you disconnect the supply lines.

Step 2: Remove the Old Faucet

Place a bucket under the sink to catch spills. Use an adjustable wrench to disconnect the water supply lines from the shut-off valves. These connections might be tight if they haven’t been removed in years.

Next, locate the mounting nuts that secure the faucet to the sink. These are typically directly behind the sink basin in a cramped space – this is where your basin wrench becomes invaluable. Loosen and remove these nuts, then lift the old faucet out from above.

Clean the sink surface thoroughly, removing any old putty, caulk, or debris around the holes.

Step 3: Install the New Faucet

Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully – each faucet is slightly different. Some come pre-assembled, while others require you to attach components before installation.

Single-Hole and Centerset Faucets

Apply a thin ring of plumber’s putty around the base of the faucet or use the rubber gasket provided. Insert the faucet through the mounting hole from above.

From underneath the sink, slide the mounting hardware (washers and nuts) onto the threaded shanks and hand-tighten. Use your basin wrench to tighten them firmly, but avoid over-tightening – you can crack the sink.

Widespread Faucets

Install the spout first by applying plumber’s putty around its base and inserting it through the center hole. Secure with the mounting nut from underneath.

Install the valve assemblies in the outer holes the same way, making sure they’re properly aligned. Connect the supply lines between the valves and spout according to the manufacturer’s diagram.

Step 4: Connect the Water Supply

Attach the faucet’s supply lines to the shut-off valves under the sink. Most new faucets come with flexible supply lines already attached.

Wrap the threads with pipe thread compound or Teflon tape before connecting. Hand-tighten the connections first, then use your wrench to tighten them – typically just a quarter turn past hand-tight is sufficient. Over-tightening can damage the fittings.

Step 5: Test Your Work

Turn the shut-off valves back on slowly. Turn on your new faucet and let both hot and cold water run for a few minutes to flush out any debris. Check all connections under the sink for leaks.

Test the drain stopper mechanism if your faucet includes one. Adjust the lift rod linkage if needed to ensure proper operation.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Low Water Pressure

Remove the aerator from the faucet tip and clean out any debris. New faucets sometimes have manufacturing residue that clogs the screen.

Leaky Connections

Try tightening the connection slightly. If it still leaks, remove it, add more pipe compound or Teflon tape, and reconnect.

Wobbly Faucet

The mounting nuts probably aren’t tight enough. Use your basin wrench to tighten them more, being careful not to over-tighten.

When to Call a Professional

Consider calling a plumber if you discover corroded or damaged shut-off valves, the supply lines are hard-piped (not flexible), or you need to modify the sink holes. Also seek help if you encounter leaks you can’t fix after properly tightening connections.

Money-Saving Tips

Installing the faucet yourself typically saves $150-300 in labor costs. Choose a quality faucet with a good warranty – brands like Moen, Delta, and Kohler offer solid options at various price points.

Consider upgrading to a WaterSense certified faucet to reduce water usage and save on utility bills. These faucets use at least 20% less water than standard models without sacrificing performance.

Key Takeaways

• Measure your sink’s hole configuration before buying a new faucet
• A basin wrench is essential for reaching tight spaces under the sink
• Take your time with connections – hand-tight plus a quarter turn is usually sufficient
• Test thoroughly before considering the job complete
• Call a professional if you encounter unexpected complications like damaged valves