Tips on how to Replace a Faucet - Local Plumbing Company Placerville

Perhaps youíve been curious about how to change a faucet at one point. It isnít as challenging as you may have thought. A few hours and some basic instruments are all it takes. When properly replaced, a new faucet eliminates leaks or drips that you may have had with the old faucet. It also enhances the look of your sinks. The guide below demonstrates how.



Step 1 - Turn off Water Supply



Shut off the water supply to the sink. Shutoff valves tend to be found beneath the sink. Older homes are unlikely to have shutoff valves. If this should be the case, youíll need to shut down the main shutoff valve at the point of entry into the house. The valve might be located outside. Trace the cold water pipe until you reach a socket marked with ìWî. Use a socket wrench to turn off the water.



Step 2 - Clear Underneath the Sink



Youíre likely to have items in storage in the area below the sink. It's a good idea to put these items elsewhere temporarily. This allows you to work efficiently.



Step 3 - Light Up



Position a portable lamp or drop light in the area under the sink. You'll need plenty of light to help you work efficiently.



Step 4 - Detach the Faucet



You will find 2 big tubular screws behind the sink that secure the faucet against the sink. Water supply pipes run through these nuts. Use a basin wrench to loosen up the nuts on the faucet. If the faucet has a spray head and hose, remove the screw that secures the hose. While you disengage the water supply tubes from the faucet, water will drain back from the faucet. Soak up the water using an old towel. Stand at the sink and lift up the detached faucet out of the sink. Put it aside.



Step 5 - Clean



Debris is likely to have accumulated where the faucet was mounted to the sink. Remove the dirt using a putty knife. Wipe the area clean with a moist cloth. For stubborn particles, use some white vinegar to get rid of stains.



Step 6 - Install New Faucet



Use some plumberís putty around the faucet base if it wasnít supplied with gaskets. If the new faucet features a squirt head, run the hose through the allowance on the faucet, then through the sink. Attach to the supply stub. Mount the faucet onto the sink. Attach nuts and tighten partially by hand. Examine the faucet to make sure whether it is properly aligned. If gaskets are used, ensure theyíre also correctly aligned. You can then proceed to tighten the nuts completely with the basin wrench.



Step 7 - Inspect



Turn on the water supply. If you notice leaks, youíll have to tighten the fittings more securely. Otherwise, everything should be okay.



Tip:



It is best to replace your water supply lines whenever you replace the faucet. Take one along with you to the store so that you get 2 tubes in the length. Dispose of old tubes and put in the new ones securely. However, if the tubes are in good condition, replacement wonít be needed.

Local Plumbing Service & Repair Company Placerville