# Replacing a Faucet

Part of the Plumbing Merit Badge Digital Resource Guide: [Introduction & Overview](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/plumbing/guide/index.md)

*6. Hands-On Plumbing Practice*

> **6e.** Replace a kitchen or lavatory faucet.

Faucet replacement is a great real-world plumbing project because it combines planning, tight-space tool use, shutoff control, and leak checking. It also reminds you that many plumbing jobs are more about patience than strength.

Video: [Women's DIY Bathroom Remodel (video)](https://youtu.be/hyTeVMYgRM0?si=Vjs95F0m6dK-Ae11)

## Before you start

Make sure the replacement faucet matches the sink layout. Count the holes in the sink or countertop, and check that the new faucet kit fits.

## A simple replacement sequence

1. Shut off the hot and cold supply valves.
2. Open the old faucet to relieve pressure.
3. Put a towel or pan under the work area.
4. Disconnect the supply lines.
5. Remove mounting nuts and lift out the old faucet.
6. Clean the sink surface before installing the new faucet.
7. Set the new faucet, tighten the mounting hardware, and reconnect the supplies.
8. Turn the water back on slowly and check carefully for leaks.

**Where Faucet Jobs Often Go Wrong** — Slow down at these points

- [ ] **Wrong faucet style** for the sink opening pattern
- [ ] **Supply valves that do not shut off fully**
- [ ] **Tight, awkward access under the sink**
- [ ] **Overtightening mounting hardware or supply connections**
- [ ] **Skipping the final leak check**

> **Tip**
>
> Keep the old faucet and parts together until the new one is installed and working. If you have to compare washers, nuts, hose sizes, or mounting plates, the old parts become your reference.

> **Safety First!**
>
> Under-sink spaces are cramped and easy to rush through. Protect your eyes, move slowly, and watch for sharp cabinet edges, old corrosion, and leftover water in supply lines. If the shutoff valves fail, stop and let the supervising adult decide the next step.

![Under-sink view of faucet replacement showing supply shutoffs, basin wrench, supply lines, and mounting hardware](https://ik.imagekit.io/doulacoop/tr:w-800/mbu-assets/merit-badges/plumbing/guide/faucet-replacement-under-sink?v=e2d8ff9f)

After supply-side service work, the next task moves to the drainage side by taking apart and reinstalling a trap.

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- Previous: [Soldering Copper](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/plumbing/guide/req6d/index.md)
- Next: [Cleaning a Drain Trap](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/plumbing/guide/req6f/index.md)