Remove the Old Faucet — Prepare Work Area & Disconnect Supply Line
Part of project
How to Replace a Leaky Angle Stop (Shutoff Valve) Under Your Sink · Step 2 of 7
In this video
First, shut off the hot and cold water supply by turning the shut-off valves under the sink clockwise. Place a bucket underneath to catch drips. Use a basin wrench or adjustable wrench to disconnect the water supply lines from the old faucet. Unscrew the mounting nuts holding the old faucet in place. Once loose, lift the entire old faucet assembly out from the top of the sink and clean the area.
Goal: Remove old faucet
- Ensure the water is completely shut off before disconnecting any lines to prevent flooding.
Used in this video
- Basin Wrench — Loosening and tightening nuts in the tight space behind the sink
- Adjustable Wrench — Disconnecting water supply lines
- Bucket — Catching residual water
- Flashlight — Illuminating the work area under the sink
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FAQs
What's the absolute first thing I should do to ensure safety and prevent water damage before starting?
The most critical first step is to shut off the main water supply to your house. After that, open the nearest faucet (or the faucet above the angle stop you're replacing) to drain any residual water from the lines and relieve pressure, minimizing spills during the replacement.
Is this project genuinely suitable for a beginner, and is the 3-hour estimate realistic for someone new to plumbing?
Yes, this project is considered beginner-friendly as it doesn't require advanced plumbing skills like soldering. The 3-hour estimate is realistic, accounting for preparation, potential challenges like corroded parts, careful installation, and thorough leak checking, which is crucial for a successful outcome.
Do I really need all the specialized wrenches and pliers listed, or can I manage with basic tools?
While an adjustable wrench is essential, the Channellock pliers (like the 12 in. V-Jaw Tongue and Groove) are highly recommended. They provide superior grip, especially on older, potentially rounded or stuck nuts, preventing frustration and potential damage. A good flashlight is also invaluable for seeing into tight, dark spaces under a sink.
What's the most common mistake beginners make that leads to leaks after installing the new angle stop?
The most common mistake is improper installation of the compression fitting. Ensure the pipe stub-out is clean and smooth, and the compression nut is tightened correctly. Tighten it firmly by hand, then use a wrench for another 1/2 to 3/4 turn – overtightening can crush the ferrule, while undertightening will leak.
Remove the Old Faucet — Prepare Work Area & Disconnect Supply Line
Part of project
How to Replace a Leaky Angle Stop (Shutoff Valve) Under Your Sink · Step 2 of 7
In this video
First, shut off the hot and cold water supply by turning the shut-off valves under the sink clockwise. Place a bucket underneath to catch drips. Use a basin wrench or adjustable wrench to disconnect the water supply lines from the old faucet. Unscrew the mounting nuts holding the old faucet in place. Once loose, lift the entire old faucet assembly out from the top of the sink and clean the area.
Goal: Remove old faucet
- Ensure the water is completely shut off before disconnecting any lines to prevent flooding.
Used in this video
- Basin Wrench — Loosening and tightening nuts in the tight space behind the sink
- Adjustable Wrench — Disconnecting water supply lines
- Bucket — Catching residual water
- Flashlight — Illuminating the work area under the sink
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the absolute first thing I should do to ensure safety and prevent water damage before starting?
The most critical first step is to shut off the main water supply to your house. After that, open the nearest faucet (or the faucet above the angle stop you're replacing) to drain any residual water from the lines and relieve pressure, minimizing spills during the replacement.
Is this project genuinely suitable for a beginner, and is the 3-hour estimate realistic for someone new to plumbing?
Yes, this project is considered beginner-friendly as it doesn't require advanced plumbing skills like soldering. The 3-hour estimate is realistic, accounting for preparation, potential challenges like corroded parts, careful installation, and thorough leak checking, which is crucial for a successful outcome.
Do I really need all the specialized wrenches and pliers listed, or can I manage with basic tools?
While an adjustable wrench is essential, the Channellock pliers (like the 12 in. V-Jaw Tongue and Groove) are highly recommended. They provide superior grip, especially on older, potentially rounded or stuck nuts, preventing frustration and potential damage. A good flashlight is also invaluable for seeing into tight, dark spaces under a sink.
What's the most common mistake beginners make that leads to leaks after installing the new angle stop?
The most common mistake is improper installation of the compression fitting. Ensure the pipe stub-out is clean and smooth, and the compression nut is tightened correctly. Tighten it firmly by hand, then use a wrench for another 1/2 to 3/4 turn – overtightening can crush the ferrule, while undertightening will leak.