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

Maybe youíve been curious on how to change a faucet at some time. It isnít as difficult you might have imagined. A couple of hours and some basic instruments are all it takes. When properly changed, a new faucet eliminates leaks or drips that you may have had with the worn out faucet. It also enhances the appearance of your sinks. The guide below demonstrates how.

Step 1 - Turn off Water Supply

Shut off the water supply to the sink. Shutoff valves are often found under the sink. Older homes are less likely to have shutoff valves. Should this be the case, youíll need to shut down the main shutoff valve at the point of entry to 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 beneath sink. It is a good idea to put these items elsewhere temporarily. This will allow you to work efficiently.

Step 3 - Light Up

Position a portable lamp or drop light in the area beneath the sink. You need plenty of light to enable you to work efficiently.

Step 4 - Disconnect the Faucet

You should find 2 big tubular screws right 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 screws on the faucet. If the faucet has a spray head and hose, disconnect the nut that secures the hose. When you disengage the water supply tubes from the faucet, water will drain back from the faucet. Absorb the water with an old towel. Stand at the sink and lift up the detached faucet out of the sink. Keep it aside.

Step 5 - Clean

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

Step 6 - Install New Faucet

Place some plumberís putty around the faucet base if it wasnít supplied with gaskets. If the new faucet has a spray 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 see whether it's well aligned. If gaskets are used, ensure theyíre also properly aligned. You can then begin tighten the nuts completely using the basin wrench.

Step 7 - Inspect

Turn on the water supply. If you notice leaks, youíll need 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 can get 2 tubes of the same length. Dispose of old tubes and put in the new ones securely. However, if the tubes are in good shape, replacement wonít be needed.
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