Guide to Installing a Widespread Faucet for Your Bathroom
Installing a widespread faucet in your bathroom is a straightforward process that can transform the look and functionality of your space. Widespread faucets feature separate hot and cold handles that are independent from the spout. This guide will walk you through the steps to install a widespread faucet with relative ease.
Understanding Widespread Faucets
A widespread faucet is a type of bathroom faucet with separate hot and cold handles, unlike center-set or single-handle designs. These faucets can be mounted on the countertop or on the sink. They are available in various styles and finishes, and many are WaterSense-certified for water efficiency and cost savings.
Preparing for Installation
Remove Items Under the Sink: Clear out any items from under the sink so you have easy access to all components.
Protect the Work Area: Place a bucket or pan under the sink to catch any debris or water that may fall. Use heavy towels to support your body when reaching into tight spaces.
Turn Off Water Supply: Turn off the hot and cold water supply lines at the shut-off valves beneath the sink. If no shut-off valves are present, turn off the main water supply. It's a good idea to install stop valves for future convenience.
Release Pressure: Turn the faucet on to release pressure in the water lines.
Removing the Old Faucet
Protect Your Eyes: Wear safety glasses when working under the sink.
Remove Supply Lines and Mounting Nuts: Remove the old supply lines and mounting nuts to detach the faucet. Use a penetrating lubricant if the lines or nuts are corroded or in a hard-to-reach positions. Apply gentle force to avoid damage.
Remove Old Sealant: Lift the faucet fixture from the sink and use a putty knife to remove all old sealant from the top of the sink.
Clean the Sink Area: Clean the sink area with a suitable cleaner to prepare for the new faucet installation.
Installing the New Spout
Prepare the Spout Base: Form plumber's putty into a rope and place it on the base of the spout. Press the putty against the base, then set the spout into place.
Hand-Tighten the Basin Nut: Hand-tighten the basin nut just enough to hold it in place.
Thread the Tee onto the Spout: Center the tee so the outlets are parallel to the back wall and line up with the faucets on either side.
Center the Spout and Tighten: Once the spout is centered, tighten it from beneath the sink using a basin wrench.
Install the Faucet Valves: Slide the washer over the threads from beneath the sink, then tighten the valve nut until snug.
Connect the Faucet Valve Lines: Apply pipe compound or thread seal tape to the threads of the valve lines, connect to the valves, and hand-tighten. Repeat with the other end of the valve line connected to the spout tee.
Completing the Installation
Tighten Water Supply Connections: Apply pipe compound or thread seal tape to the threads of the water supply tailpieces, connect the hot and cold water supplies to their respective valves, and tighten all connections with an adjustable wrench.
Attach the Faucet Handles: Apply a bead of plumber's putty to the faucet handle base, attach the handle, center it, and tighten the faucet nut below the sink with a basin wrench.
Now you have a beautifully installed widespread faucet! Enjoy your new fully functioning and stylish bathroom fixture, contributing to both your home aesthetics and water conservation efforts.