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Disconnect Supply Lines — Disconnect the Faucet Supply Lines

Beginner3 hours

Part of project

Faucet Repair: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide · Step 2 of 4

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In this video

Disconnect the supply lines from the shut-off valves using an adjustable wrench or channel lock pliers. If replacing supply lines, disconnect them from the faucet as well. Use a basin wrench to reach those high nuts.

Goal: Detach old faucet from water supply

Used in this video

  • Adjustable WrenchDisconnecting supply lines
  • Basin Wrench · optionalAccessing hard-to-reach nuts
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FAQs

Is a basin wrench always necessary, or can I complete this repair with only an adjustable wrench and screwdriver?

While an adjustable wrench might work for some accessible nuts, a basin wrench is highly recommended for faucet supply lines. Its long handle and swivel head are designed to reach tight spaces under the sink, making disconnection much easier and preventing scraped knuckles. It's worth the small investment if you plan on doing more plumbing DIYs.

I'm worried about flooding my kitchen. What's the most important safety precaution for this project?

The most critical step is to completely turn off both the hot and cold water supply valves under the sink *before* starting any disassembly. After turning them off, open the faucet briefly to drain any remaining water from the lines. This prevents unexpected leaks and potential water damage when you disconnect the supply lines.

How much does a typical leaky faucet repair cost, and is a 'beginner' difficulty truly accurate for someone new to plumbing?

The cost is usually minimal, often just a few dollars for replacement O-rings, washers, or a cartridge (typically $10-$30). While classified as 'beginner,' the difficulty can vary depending on faucet accessibility and component type. Expect potential frustrations with tight spaces, but with patience and the right tools, it's very manageable.

I've replaced the internal components, but the faucet is still leaking. What should I troubleshoot next?

First, ensure all connections are tight but not overtightened. Recheck that the correct replacement parts were used for your specific faucet model, as slight variations can cause leaks. Sometimes, the faucet body itself might be corroded, or the valve seat needs attention, potentially requiring a full faucet replacement if repairs aren't effective.

Transcript
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above at the sink unscrew each supply line from the shut-off valves if you plan to replace them using an adjustable wrench or channel lock pliers loosen the lift rod disconnecting the pop-up assembly from the faucet way up under the sink it's a bit tricky to reach here we're showing a clear shot of this from behind the sink and without the wall in the way so you can see exactly what you need to do unscrew the other end of the supply lines from the faucet up under the sink a basin wrench is helpful to reach way up to loosen and unscrew hard-to-reach parts

Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.