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Stesso
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Disconnect supply lines — Disconnect the Water Supply Lines

Beginner2 hours

Part of project

Fix a Leaky Faucet: Repairing Water Intake Leaks · Step 3 of 5

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In this video

Disconnect the supply lines from the faucet handles using an adjustable wrench. Use a backup wrench to prevent twisting the supply lines.

Goal: Detach the water supply from the faucet

  • Be careful not to damage the supply lines.

Used in this video

  • Adjustable Wrench (brand: DeWalt, Tool Type: Adjustable Wrench) · optional — Disconnecting the supply lines
  • Backup Wrench (Tool Type: Adjustable Wrench) · optional — Holding the faucet steady
21.3K views2172 minutes
This Old House

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FAQs

How difficult is this water intake leak repair for a DIY beginner, and can it realistically be done in 2 hours?

This project is indeed suitable for beginners, focusing on straightforward disconnection and reconnection of supply lines. The 2-hour estimate is realistic, assuming you have the necessary tools readily available and don't encounter heavily seized or corroded connections. Taking your time to ensure proper sealing is key.

What should I do if the shut-off valves under my sink don't work or are stuck, preventing me from turning off the water?

If the local shut-off valves are faulty or seized, you'll need to turn off the main water supply to your entire home. Locate your home's main water shut-off valve, usually in the basement, garage, or utility closet, and turn it clockwise until the water flow stops completely. Remember to notify anyone in your household before doing this.

Is Teflon tape absolutely necessary when reconnecting the water supply lines to the faucet tailpieces, and how should it be applied?

Yes, Teflon tape (also known as PTFE tape or plumber's tape) is highly recommended for these threaded connections. It acts as a lubricant to help threads seal better and prevents leaks. Wrap the tape clockwise around the threads of the faucet tailpiece 2-3 times, ensuring it's snug and doesn't cover the opening.

I reconnected the supply lines, but the faucet is still leaking where they attach. What's the most common reason for this, and how can I fix it?

The most common reasons for a persistent leak are improperly applied Teflon tape or loose connections. First, ensure the Teflon tape was wrapped clockwise and isn't bunched up. Then, gently tighten the supply line nuts a bit more with your adjustable wrench, being careful not to overtighten and strip the threads.

Transcript
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keeps a brand new cabinet looking fresh all right so we've got both shut off right we probably didn't have to shut both of these off but we did we're going to have to take a couple different things off here so to take the supply line off you're going to have to use a backup wrench then this piece right here this plastic nut it's got a couple these little grips on it it actually is just hand tight should be able to pull that off get it t it that way and then it's just going to pop out it's got an o-ring in there slides up into plastic threads that actually looks like it's CPVC this piece right here with the hose on it is actually just going to slide off and probably get you wet a little bit we've got all that

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