Always prioritize safety by turning off the hot and cold water supply valves located directly under your sink. Then, open the old faucet to drain any remaining water from the lines and relieve pressure, which helps prevent unexpected spills and makes disconnecting easier.

A basin wrench is highly recommended as it's specifically designed to reach and loosen the mounting nuts in tight spaces behind the sink, which a standard adjustable wrench often can't access. While an adjustable wrench handles most other connections, the basin wrench can be a lifesaver for tricky spots, especially for beginners working in confined areas.

Leaks usually stem from improperly tightened connections or insufficient sealing. Ensure all supply line connections are snug but don't overtighten, and always use plumber's tape on threaded connections and plumber's putty or the manufacturer's gasket under the faucet base to create a watertight seal.

For a beginner, plan for 1-3 hours, but it could take longer if you encounter rusty nuts or tight spaces. A great tip is to take photos of the existing plumbing connections before disconnecting anything; this visual reference can be invaluable when connecting the new faucet's lines in the correct order.