How To Change Basin Faucet
Replacing a Basin Faucet is one of the most practical home upgrades you can do to improve both style and water efficiency. Whether your old faucet is leaking, outdated, or simply due for a refresh, you can change it yourself with a few basic tools and careful steps.
1. Tools and Materials You’ll Need
| Tool / Material | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Adjustable wrench | Loosen or tighten water supply connections |
| Basin wrench (optional) | Access hard-to-reach mounting nuts |
| Phillips & flathead screwdrivers | Remove handles or escutcheons |
| Plumber’s putty or silicone sealant | Create watertight seals |
| Towels or bucket | Catch water drips |
| New basin faucet | Replacement unit |
| Teflon tape | Seal threaded joints |
Many modern faucets, such as those from KPTOPSHINE, are designed with quick-install mounting systems, reducing the need for complex tools.
2. Preparation Before Installation
Step 1: Shut Off Water Supply
Locate the hot and cold water shut-off valves under the sink.
Turn them clockwise to stop the water flow.
Open the old faucet to release any remaining pressure.
Step 2: Clear the Working Area
Remove everything stored under the basin for easier access.
Place a towel or small pan underneath to catch any leaking water.
Step 3: Disconnect the Water Supply Lines
Using an adjustable wrench, loosen the nuts connecting the water lines to the faucet.
Label the hot and cold lines for reconnection later.
3. Removing the Old Faucet
Step 1: Loosen the Mounting Nuts
Under the basin, locate the mounting nuts securing the faucet.
Use a basin wrench or channel-lock pliers to turn them counterclockwise.
If the nuts are corroded, apply a small amount of penetrating oil and wait a few minutes.
Step 2: Detach the Faucet
Once the nuts are removed, lift the faucet straight up from the basin.
Remove any old putty or sealant residue from the sink surface using a scraper or soft cloth.
Step 3: Clean the Mounting Area
Wipe the surface around the mounting holes.
Ensure it’s dry, smooth, and free from debris to ensure proper sealing for the new faucet.
A clean surface prevents leaks and helps the new faucet sit evenly.
4. Installing the New Faucet
Step 1: Apply Plumber’s Putty or Sealant
Roll a small amount of plumber’s putty into a thin rope.
Apply it around the faucet base or under the gasket (depending on manufacturer instructions).
This prevents water from seeping under the faucet.
Step 2: Position the Faucet
Insert the new faucet’s threaded tailpieces into the sink holes.
Ensure the faucet is centered and properly aligned.
Step 3: Secure from Below
From under the basin, slide the rubber gasket and mounting nut onto each tailpiece.
Hand-tighten first, then use an adjustable wrench to secure them snugly.
Avoid over-tightening — it can crack the sink or deform plastic nuts.
KPTOPSHINE faucets use anti-loosening lock nuts that ensure a firm fit without excessive force.
5. Connecting the Water Supply Lines
Wrap Teflon tape around the threaded ends of the faucet tailpieces.
Connect the hot and cold supply hoses to their respective valves (left = hot, right = cold).
Tighten each connection gently with an adjustable wrench.
Do not overtighten — just enough to prevent leaks.
6. Testing the Faucet
Step 1: Turn On the Water Supply
Slowly open both shut-off valves.
Check for any leaks around the connections or base.
Step 2: Run the Faucet
Let both hot and cold water run for a few seconds to flush out any debris or air bubbles.
Inspect under the sink once more for drips.
If leaks occur, gently tighten fittings or reapply Teflon tape where necessary.
7. Final Adjustments and Maintenance
Wipe away excess plumber’s putty or sealant from around the base.
Reinstall any decorative caps or handles if removed.
Polish the faucet with a soft cloth for a clean finish.
Ongoing Maintenance Tips
Clean the faucet regularly with mild soap and water.
Avoid abrasive cleaners that can damage the finish.
Inspect and replace aerators every 6–12 months to maintain steady water flow.
Premium models from KPTOPSHINE feature multi-layer electroplated finishes — such as chrome, matte black, or brushed nickel — ensuring corrosion resistance and easy cleaning.
✅ Summary
| Step | Task | Key Tool |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Turn off water supply | Adjustable wrench |
| 2 | Remove old faucet | Basin wrench / pliers |
| 3 | Clean basin surface | Cloth & scraper |
| 4 | Install new faucet | Plumber’s putty & wrench |
| 5 | Reconnect water lines | Teflon tape & wrench |
| 6 | Test and adjust | Water valves |
Changing a basin faucet is a simple home improvement task that takes less than an hour and can dramatically enhance your bathroom’s appearance and functionality.
KPTOPSHINE’s modern faucet designs feature durable brass bodies, ceramic cartridges, and tool-free installation systems — making faucet replacement faster, easier, and leak-free for years to come.