How to Replace a Leaky Bathroom Faucet

Faucets are the workhorses of the bathroom, but eventually, internal washers degrade and corrosion takes hold, turning a reliable fixture into a source of constant frustration. Replacing a leaky faucet is a high-impact project that immediately updates your vanity and stops the steady drip that wastes gallons of water every week. Done well, this project is a clean, dry operation that leaves no room for hidden leaks. The key to a professional-grade install lies in properly seating the new gaskets and ensuring your supply line connections are snug but not overtightened. You will finish with a faucet that operates smoothly and functions perfectly for years to come.

1. Stop the water first. Locate the shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise until they stop. Open the faucet handles to drain any residual water trapped in the lines.
2. Disconnect the supply lines. Place a bucket under the connections to catch drips. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts connecting the supply lines to the faucet tails and the shut-off valves.
3. Free the old faucet. Reach behind the sink basin to locate the nuts holding the faucet assembly in place. Unscrew these mounting nuts, sliding them off the threaded shanks.
4. Clear the installation surface. Lift the old faucet off the countertop. Scrape away all old putty or silicone residue from the vanity surface using a plastic scraper so the new fixture sits flat.
5. Set the new faucet. Place the new faucet gasket or bead of plumber's putty onto the base of the new faucet. Feed the supply lines through the sink holes and press the fixture down firmly.
6. Secure and reconnect lines. Tighten the mounting nuts until the faucet is immovable. Reattach the supply lines to the shut-off valves, ensuring the rubber washers are seated correctly.
7. Verify every connection. Slowly turn the water valves back on and check every connection for moisture. Turn on the faucet to flush out any debris that may have entered the lines.