How to Install or Replace a Bathroom Faucet

is your bathroom tacky or outdated or you are just interested in something different or new?  The process of updating your bathroom faucet is pretty easy. You can manage to install or replace a bathroom faucet, new and shiny faucet in a few hours. It is also possible for you to install some few techs in your bathroom like touch less faucet or lights which will help you avoid the nasty flu germs.  The process of installing a sink fixture is painless provided you know what you are doing.

We also have a article about bathroom faucets  and cheap kitchen faucets case if you want to check that out.

It is advisable that you go through this guide on how to install or replace a bathroom faucet before you get out the plumbers belt.

In case you are considering replacing your bathroom faucet, below are the procedures you have to follow.

 

Identify The Faucet Type you have

There are three main types of faucets currently available in the market today; Single hole, 4” triple hole and the 8” triple hole.

Single hole- The center control not only serves as a spout but it also serves as a mixing valve. The center device is the spout in the triple holes faucets with the 4” and 8” mixing valves from the center of each side. It is possible for the faucet to be installed to the sink or countertop depending on your present situation. Hence, in case you are replacing one or the other, you should have the option of changing the type of faucet. In case you are not in a position to do that, you should consider buying a new faucet that will match the type you already have.  

One main exception can be the single hole faucet which can be used in the 4” countertop or triple hole sink if they have a blank base plate to help in covering the extra holes.  

One main benefit of the separate mixing valves is that majority of the manufacturers are known to use a single valve with several different trims. This will make it possible for one to change the style in the coming days with less work and waste. For example, we can have a case where the 4” hole faucet is installed to the integral sink marble top.

Assembling The Parts

After choosing your new faucet, you now have to assemble all the parts that you will need and double check so that you can complete all at one time and without making several trips to the hardware store. Ensure you personally check the fittings on the faucet end versus the present water line extensions.  Select a set that has an auto leak shut off when the right time to replace flexible lines. A small valve at the bottom of the line will detect excess water flow and closes off preventing further damage and flooding. In case you will also be replacing the sink drain, ensure you personally check the P-trap setup in case there are any extensions or o-rings needed.

Removing the Old Faucet

Always start off the shutting the wall valves and turning on the faucet in order to drain down the residual pressure. Use an adjustable wrench with a bucket handy in order to loosen and remove flexible extensions from the faucet. Remove all the remaining water into the bucket and thereafter also remove the flexible line from the shut off valve.

Removing The Hardware

There are nuts and washers that secure the faucets under the sink. Remove any hardware together with the clamp bolt in this area from the drain rod extension and lift the faucet from the top.

Installing and Replace a Bathroom Faucet New

It is important that you always consult your installation manual since faucets vary greatly among manufacturers. All the steps listed here will be applicable but might also need some modification in case of a specific set up. There are people who find it helpful to first mock assemble the part first in order to get a better visual of what you will be feeling and not seeing when you are installing a dark cabinet.  

From the top down, there will be the countertop or sink, spout, plumbers putty or gasket, saddle or large washer and a mounting nut.  In this situation, plumbers putty will be referred instead of the gasket. In case you have never worked with plumbers putty before, you will have to think of the gray modeling clay.

To effectively use it, take a small piece into your palm and roll it forth and back until when you will form a ¼” diameter rope. The putty will be applied around the new spout base to help in preventing water splash from getting into the cabinet.  Install the center spout and make sure you tighten the mounting nut from below using an adjustable wrench.

Assembling Mixing Valves

In case you are using the single hole faucet, it is not a must that you follow the next steps. Assemble both the cold and hot mixing valves. In this situation, a larger nut and washer will tighten the valve from the bottom while C- clip and large washer hold the valve at the top. Thereafter, apply the plumbers putty to the sculpted bottom side. Install C-clip and ensure you properly tighten the nut from below. Do not forget that the positions of the hot and cold valves.

Thread The Trim

In case of this faucet, the top trims will be installed by threading on the mixing valve. Ensure the handle is oriented parallel to the wall and is in the off mode before you start threading the trim. Hook up the water lines from below.  This faucet is known to feature easy snap end fittings. In case you are using the threaded NPT fittings, ensure you use the plumber’s tape on any connections that are not using either the gasket seal or rubber.

Reinstall The Rod

You can thereafter reinstall the drain rod into the extension and tighten the clamp bolt. Check all your fittings before you turn on the shut valves one after another. Check all the leaks and if all is well, test and flush the new faucet.

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Conclusion

Since faucets are capable of lasting a long time, they never age faster in the design department.  The idea of having your bathroom faucet replaced can be fast and rewarding.