How to Replace a Bathroom Sink Faucet

Faucets endure more daily mechanical stress than almost any other fixture in the home. Over time, the internal cartridges degrade, mineral deposits choke the aerator, and the finish begins to pit. Replacing an aging faucet is a high-impact upgrade that transforms the look of a bathroom vanity while eliminating those persistent drips that waste water and leave ugly stains in the basin. Successfully swapping a faucet requires working in a tight, awkward space underneath the sink. The key to a smooth installation is patience when dealing with rusted mounting hardware and ensuring that your supply connections are tight but not over-torqued. When done well, the new unit will sit perfectly level, operate smoothly without leaks, and refresh the entire aesthetic of your countertop.

  1. Kill the Water Supply. Remove all items from under the vanity to gain clear access. Turn the hot and cold supply valves clockwise until tight, then open the faucet handles to bleed off remaining water pressure.
  2. Detach the Old Lines. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts connecting the supply lines to the shut-off valves. If the lines are stiff, use a second wrench to hold the valve steady so you don't twist the copper pipe behind the wall.
  3. Free the Old Faucet. Locate the nuts holding the faucet body to the underside of the sink deck. Use a basin wrench to reach up behind the sink bowl and unscrew these fasteners.
  4. Cleanse the Deck. Lift the old faucet out from above the sink. Scrape away all old putty or silicone residue from the countertop surface with a plastic scraper to ensure a flat, clean surface for the new gasket.
  5. Secure the New Faucet. Position the new faucet assembly through the sink holes according to the manufacturer's diagram. Slide the rubber gasket or decorative base plate onto the shanks from beneath, then hand-tighten the mounting nuts.
  6. Test Your Work. Connect the supply lines to the shut-off valves and the faucet shanks. Turn the water supply valves back on slowly and check every joint for leaks while the faucet is running.