How to Replace an Old Faucet in Your Home

If you just don't like your old faucets, replace them with some new ones. It is really not much harder than fixing the ones you have, in fact, sometimes it is a lot easier. To replace your old faucets, you must find a new unit you like that will fit the holes in your sink. Measure the space between the center of the holes. Draw a diagram of what you hope to accomplish and take it to the store with you.

If your old sink's holes don't match any single-lever assembly you can find, buy some modern individual faucets as replacements. Do not try to adapt your old sink to a unit that doesn't fit. It is not even worth trying. Chrome-plated caps are available to cover any unneeded holes in your sink.

To remove your old faucets, start by turning off the water at the supply stops beneath the sink. Use a basin wrench to loosen the upper and lower coupling nuts on the supply tubes and then remove the tubes. Remove the lock nuts and washers that hold the faucets to the sink and lift them off.

Next take the faucet assembly from its box and check the parts list to be sure all the parts are there before you throw the box away. Use the enclosed instruction sheet to install the assembly onto the sink properly. It usually involves placing a gasket on the sink, setting the faucet assembly on the gasket, and securing it with washers and nuts from underneath.

Next, hold the supply tube in position and figure out what bends, if any, it needs to enter the valve and faucet perfectly straight on. If you have installed the valves so they point straight up, the supply tubes usually need two bends so the ends are parallel but offset slightly. When you get the bends right, mark the length you'll need and cut the tubes off with a tubing cutter.

Slide the coupling nuts and compression rings onto the tubes, set them into the couplings of the faucets and valves, and tighten them as described before. You will probably need a basin wrench to reach the nut that holds the tubes to the faucets. Turn the supply stops on with the faucets off to check for leaks. Then, with the aerator removed, turn the faucets on to flush any debris from the pipes. With that you have a beautiful new faucet to look at and use every single day.