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Disconnect Supply Lines from Faucet — Remove Old Bathtub Faucet and Fixtures

Beginner4 hours

Part of project

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

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In this video

Disconnect the supply lines from the faucet. For the supply lines with metal nuts, use a basin wrench to loosen them from the faucet. If there are plastic nuts on the faucet connections, you may need to use a special tool or, with a small cut, a piece of PVC pipe will often work. Turn the nuts counter-clockwise to loosen and remove them.

Goal: Detach Existing Supply Lines

Used in this video

  • Basin Wrench (Basin Wrench Type: Standard) · optional — Loosening the supply line nuts from the faucet.
  • PVC pipe piece (Size/Capacity: Small) · optional — To assist with loosening plastic nuts.
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FAQs

What are the absolute essential tools for this project, beyond a basic screwdriver and pliers?

You'll definitely need specialized wrenches like a Husky Double Ended Tub Drain Wrench and a Crescent Pipe Wrench to loosen old, tight fittings and ensure new ones are secure. These prevent damage and provide the necessary leverage that standard tools can't. Don't forget Teflon tape for a leak-free seal.

What are the most critical safety precautions I should take before starting to replace my bathtub faucet?

Always turn off the main water supply to your house or at least to the bathroom before starting any plumbing work to prevent flooding. Ensure you have a bucket and towels handy for residual water. Wearing gloves can also protect your hands from grime and sharp edges.

The project is rated 'beginner' and estimated at 4 hours. What common issues might make it take longer or be more difficult for a first-timer?

Old, corroded fixtures can be extremely stubborn to remove, often requiring more force or specialized tools not listed, extending your time. Also, tight working spaces behind the tub wall can complicate access and make the installation tricky. Be prepared for potential unexpected trips to the hardware store for forgotten parts or adapters.

After installing the new faucet, how can I thoroughly test for leaks and ensure everything is functioning correctly?

Slowly turn the water supply back on, checking all connections for drips immediately. Run both hot and cold water through the faucet and showerhead for several minutes, looking for any visible leaks around the base, handles, or supply lines. A dry paper towel can help spot even tiny leaks that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Transcript
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if yours is a rigid pipe turn the compression nut at the bottom of the pipe counterclockwise to remove the feral and the nut and your rigid pipe next disconnect the other end of the hose from the threads on the bottom of the faucet you may not be able to access these nuts with a regular wrench and you may need something called a basin wrench use the basin wrench to turn the nuts on the water supply line counterclockwise if there's plastic nuts on the connections at the faucet the basin wrench may not do a very good job at holding on to them you can buy a special tool to remove these plastic nuts if you have a piece of PVC pipe L around you can easily make your own wrench I have a video that shows how to make one of these wrenches and how to use a basin wrench I'll put a link in the box below this video to

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