How to Replace a Bathroom Faucet
In our homes and apartments, there are many simple devices and appliances that can be replaced independently without needing external specialists. One such device is a bathroom or kitchen faucet.
Often, faucets fail due to poor water quality or an overdue replacement of the main filter cartridge.
The most common faucet damages are:
- sand or small particles scratch the faucet cartridges, causing water to leak from the spout even when the tap is closed;
- one of the threaded connections on the faucet comes loose;
- the brass alloy used in most faucets corrodes and deteriorates.
The last two issues are most typical for low-quality, inexpensive Chinese faucets made from poor-grade brass alloys. In contrast, high-quality European faucets are made entirely or partially from stainless steel.
Required Tools for Faucet Replacement
To avoid running back and forth for tools during the replacement process, it's best to prepare all necessary equipment in advance and keep it close to the work area.
You will need:
- adjustable wrench (two are better),
- slip-joint pliers,
- sealant,
- PTFE tape or hemp packing,
- plumber’s hemp,
- graphite gasket maker (tube),
- rubber or paronite washers for ½ and ¾ inch,
- a small container for collecting water.
All these tools and materials are readily available in any DIY store, and many are likely already in a typical household.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing a Faucet
First, shut off the cold and hot water supply to the old faucet. After closing the valves on the pipes, drain any remaining water from the old faucet and release excess pressure. To do this, open both taps on the faucet.
Once all water and air have drained from the tap, loosen the large nuts that secure the faucet to the eccentric fittings connecting it to the plastic pipes of the plumbing system. The old faucet is now removed. Next, inspect the condition of the eccentric fittings—consider replacing them, especially since new faucets always include new eccentric fittings as standard.
Typically, the standard distance between pipe connection points in faucets is 150 mm. If the actual distance between pipe outlets differs, eccentric fittings can help compensate for this discrepancy to some extent. To adjust, slightly tighten or loosen the eccentric, allowing the offset pipe section to shift toward the center or edge, thereby increasing the center-to-center distance.
After setting the correct distance between the eccentric fittings’ outlets, proceed to install the new faucet. First, secure the eccentric fittings tightly using plumber’s hemp and gasket maker. Wrap a small amount of hemp around the external threads of the eccentric, then apply a layer of graphite gasket maker or regular sealant. If any of these materials are unavailable, PTFE tape (‘FUM’) can be used instead.
Then, screw both eccentric fittings into the pipes with perfect symmetry. It’s crucial to do this simultaneously—otherwise, the fittings may end up at uneven heights, causing the new faucet to tilt sideways after installation. Once the fittings are properly aligned and the center-to-center distance matches the new faucet, proceed to final installation.
Essentially, only two mounting nuts remain to be tightened—but there’s a small trick here. To avoid damaging the faucet’s nut coating, wrap them with electrical tape before tightening with an adjustable wrench or pliers. Once fully secured, remove the tape.
That’s it—when approached correctly and with proper preparation, replacing a faucet is a manageable task.
