How To Remove Bathroom Faucet Lock Nut

How to Remove a Bathroom Faucet Lock Nut

Whenever you’ve dealt with plumbing projects around the house, you’ve probably come across a faucet or two that needs some TLC. One common issue is a loose or leaky bathroom faucet. Replacing the washer or cartridge inside is usually the solution, but you’ll need to remove the lock nut to do that. Here's a step by step on how to remove a bathroom faucet lock nut.

Tools You'll Need

Adjustable wrench
Basin wrench
Cloth or rag
Flashlight (optional)

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply

Before you start working on the faucet, turn off the water supply to the sink. There should be two shut-off valves under the sink, one for hot water and one for cold water. Turn both valves clockwise to close them.

Step 2: Position the Basin Wrench

Place the basin wrench over the lock nut, which is located just below the faucet where it meets the sink. The lock nut is usually made of plastic or metal and has notches or teeth around the edge.

Step 3: Loosen the Lock Nut

Turn the basin wrench counterclockwise to loosen the lock nut. Be careful not to overtighten the wrench, as this could damage the lock nut or the faucet.

Step 4: Remove the Lock Nut

Once the lock nut is loose, use your hand to unscrew it the rest of the way. If you're having trouble getting a good grip on the lock nut, you can use a cloth or rag to help you.

Step 5: Inspect the Lock Nut

Once the lock nut is removed, inspect it for any damage. If the lock nut is cracked or damaged, you will need to replace it before you can reinstall the faucet.

Step 6: Reinstall the Lock Nut

To reinstall the lock nut, simply screw it back onto the faucet by hand. Once the lock nut is hand-tight, use the basin wrench to tighten it further. Be careful not to overtighten the lock nut, as this could damage the lock nut or the faucet.

Step 7: Turn On the Water Supply

Once the lock nut is tightened, turn on the water supply to the sink. Check for any leaks around the faucet. If there are no leaks, you have successfully removed and reinstalled the bathroom faucet lock nut.