Remove Old Faucet — Remove the Old Kitchen Faucet
Part of project
How to Install a New Kitchen Faucet: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide · Step 3 of 5
In this video
Using a basin wrench, attempt to loosen and remove the plastic mounting nuts that secure the old faucet to the underside of the countertop. If the nuts are stripped and cannot be removed, carefully use an oscillating multi-tool with a metal-cutting blade to cut through the plastic nut. Once cut, use pliers or a screwdriver to pry the pieces off. After the nuts are removed, lift the old faucet assembly off the sink.
Goal: Faucet Removal (Standard)
- Be extremely careful when using a cutting tool under the sink to avoid damaging the countertop, the sink itself, or the water supply lines.
- Standard basin wrenches may not fit all nuts. A larger, more robust model, like the Rigid one shown, may be necessary for better grip and leverage.
Used in this video
- Basin Wrench (brand: Rigid) — Loosening and tightening faucet mounting nuts in tight spaces.
- Oscillating Multi-Tool (brand: Milwaukee) · optional — Cutting off the stripped and seized plastic mounting nut.
- Pliers — Prying off the cut pieces of the plastic nut.
- Screwdriver · optional — Assisting in prying off the cut nut pieces.
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FAQs
What specialized tools should I definitely have for removing the old faucet and installing the new one, especially if I'm a beginner?
A basin wrench, like the TEKTON WRN92004, is crucial for reaching and loosening nuts in tight spaces under the sink. An adjustable wrench is also essential for connecting supply lines. Additionally, having a bucket like the Unger DB02 will help catch any residual water.
What's the very first thing I need to do to ensure safety and prevent water damage before starting the faucet replacement?
Always start by shutting off the hot and cold water supply valves directly under the sink. If those don't work or don't exist, you'll need to turn off the main water supply to your house. Once the water is off, open the old faucet to relieve any remaining pressure in the lines.
How can I prevent leaks after installing the new faucet, which seems to be a common issue for DIYers?
Ensure all connections, especially the supply lines, are hand-tightened first, then given a quarter to half turn with an adjustable wrench for a snug fit. Use plumber's putty or silicone sealant around the base of the new faucet as directed by the manufacturer to create a watertight seal with the sink deck.
This project is rated "beginner" with an estimated time of 3 hours. Is that realistic, or should I budget more time if it's my first time?
While rated beginner, 3 hours is an estimate for someone with basic DIY experience and no major issues. If it's your first time or if you encounter seized or hard-to-reach nuts on the old faucet, plan for 4-6 hours. Take your time, read all instructions carefully, and don't rush the process.
Remove Old Faucet — Remove the Old Kitchen Faucet
Part of project
How to Install a New Kitchen Faucet: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide · Step 3 of 5
In this video
Using a basin wrench, attempt to loosen and remove the plastic mounting nuts that secure the old faucet to the underside of the countertop. If the nuts are stripped and cannot be removed, carefully use an oscillating multi-tool with a metal-cutting blade to cut through the plastic nut. Once cut, use pliers or a screwdriver to pry the pieces off. After the nuts are removed, lift the old faucet assembly off the sink.
Goal: Faucet Removal (Standard)
- Be extremely careful when using a cutting tool under the sink to avoid damaging the countertop, the sink itself, or the water supply lines.
- Standard basin wrenches may not fit all nuts. A larger, more robust model, like the Rigid one shown, may be necessary for better grip and leverage.
Used in this video
- Basin Wrench (brand: Rigid) — Loosening and tightening faucet mounting nuts in tight spaces.
- Oscillating Multi-Tool (brand: Milwaukee) · optional — Cutting off the stripped and seized plastic mounting nut.
- Pliers — Prying off the cut pieces of the plastic nut.
- Screwdriver · optional — Assisting in prying off the cut nut pieces.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specialized tools should I definitely have for removing the old faucet and installing the new one, especially if I'm a beginner?
A basin wrench, like the TEKTON WRN92004, is crucial for reaching and loosening nuts in tight spaces under the sink. An adjustable wrench is also essential for connecting supply lines. Additionally, having a bucket like the Unger DB02 will help catch any residual water.
What's the very first thing I need to do to ensure safety and prevent water damage before starting the faucet replacement?
Always start by shutting off the hot and cold water supply valves directly under the sink. If those don't work or don't exist, you'll need to turn off the main water supply to your house. Once the water is off, open the old faucet to relieve any remaining pressure in the lines.
How can I prevent leaks after installing the new faucet, which seems to be a common issue for DIYers?
Ensure all connections, especially the supply lines, are hand-tightened first, then given a quarter to half turn with an adjustable wrench for a snug fit. Use plumber's putty or silicone sealant around the base of the new faucet as directed by the manufacturer to create a watertight seal with the sink deck.
This project is rated "beginner" with an estimated time of 3 hours. Is that realistic, or should I budget more time if it's my first time?
While rated beginner, 3 hours is an estimate for someone with basic DIY experience and no major issues. If it's your first time or if you encounter seized or hard-to-reach nuts on the old faucet, plan for 4-6 hours. Take your time, read all instructions carefully, and don't rush the process.