A basin wrench is essential because its long shaft and swiveling jaw allow you to reach and loosen nuts in cramped spaces under the sink, particularly those securing the faucet. While other wrenches might fit some nuts, a basin wrench is designed for the tight angles and often inaccessible positions encountered when working on faucets.

A common mistake is not tightening the connections enough, leading to slow drips, or over-tightening, which can strip threads or damage washers. Ensure the supply lines are hand-tightened, then use a wrench for a quarter to a half turn more. Always check for leaks immediately after turning the water back on and tighten slightly if needed.

In addition to shutting off the water, place the Unger 6 Gal. Heavy-Duty Plastic Bucket DB02 directly under your workspace to catch any residual water. Wear safety glasses to protect from drips or debris, and consider gloves for a better grip and to protect your hands from grime under the sink, especially in tight, dirty spaces.

This specific guide primarily addresses leaks originating from the water supply lines or their connections to the faucet tailpieces. If your faucet is dripping from the spout itself, the issue is likely with internal components like worn-out O-rings, cartridges, or washers, which would require disassembling the faucet's body, not just inspecting the supply lines.