How do you remove a tight space faucet?

The most efficient method for removing a tight space faucet is to use a basin wrench. If you do not have a basin wrench, you can use one of the methods we outlined above.

How do you loosen the nut under the sink faucet?

To loosen the nut underneath the faucet, you need a device that will produce enough torque. We recommend a basin wrench, duct, tape, a zip tie, or another method.

How do you remove a stuck kitchen faucet?

You can apply some WD40 to the stuck mounting nuts to loosen them before removal. You might be able to use some plumbing oil or grease as well.

How do you remove a screwless faucet handle?

You can use distilled white vinegar to loosen any of the hard water grime from around the faucet body. Then, you can use pliers or a standard wrench to loosen the faucet body from its housing.

How To Remove A Kitchen Faucet Without A Basin Wrench

Instance 1

Is it about time to fix that leaky faucet? Or maybe you want to change your kitchen or bathroom faucet to an upgraded model. Well, these tasks might require certain tools like a basin wrench.

What if you don’t have one? In this guide, we will show you how to remove the faucet without a basin wrench.

Page Contents (Click Icon To Open/Close)

Core Components of a Faucet and What Do They Do

Faucet Body
This is where the handles and water spout will be on the top of the sink. It delivers water from the plumbing system.
Aerator
This part is a small mesh screen that fits over the nozzle of the faucet. An aerator is used to reduce the amount of water coming out of the faucet.
Compression Nuts
These connectors are what connect the water lines to the plumbing underneath the sink. You may need a basin wrench to remove these.
Cold and Hot Water Supply
These pipes are what deliver the hot and cold water from your plumbing into the faucet body.
Mounting Nut
This is the nut that secures the faucet body to the sink. The best way to remove these nuts is with a basin wrench.

How To Remove A Faucet With A Basin Wrench

Basin Wrench: What Is It and Do You Need It?

This tool is something that every plumber has in their tool belt. A basin wrench is used to unscrew nuts in the hard-to-reach places underneath a sink. It has a relatively long shaft to create adequate torque.

At the end of the shaft, there is a serrated half circle and a flat edge that come together to grip the mounting nut and make it easier to remove.

A basin wrench is a good tool to add to your collection if you are often fixing the plumbing. If you don’t have one, you can use a few other tools to remove a faucet.

Basin Wrench Alternatives: What Can I Use Instead?

Socket Wrench

You might be able to use a standard socket wrench if you can gain access to the tight space underneath. The main reason a basin wrench is helpful is that it allows you to squeeze between the pipes. You might also be able to extend your socket wrench to make it longer and easier to use.

Duct Tape

There are many uses for duct tape, and it can help in this situation too. You can rip a piece of duct tape in half, so you have two long, thin strips. Attach them together and wrap one end of the strip around the nut and pull on the other end.

Two Coins

You can place both coins around the nut and squeeze as hard as you can. Once you have a firm grip, twist in an anti-clockwise direction to loosen the nut. The metal on metal helps grip the nut so that you can remove it.

Cable Fastener or Zip Tie

All you need is one zip tie. If you can reach the faucet nut, wrap the zip tie around it and pull it as tight as possible. Pull the other end of the cable fastener using your hands or a grip.

How to Remove a Faucet Without a Basin Wrench: Step by Step

1
Turn off the flow of water to the faucet. You can find the valves underneath the sink. Make sure you turn off both the hot and cold water lines. If you cannot turn off the water supply lines underneath the sink, you should turn off the water main near the water meter.
2
Once you turn off the water valves, make sure there is no water flow by turning on both the hot and cold water tap.
3
Place a bucket underneath the sink to catch any residual water that may be in the pipes.
4
Disconnect both the hot and cold water pipes. We recommend using water pump pliers to remove the water lines.
5
Remove the faucet mounting nuts. Since you do not have a basin wrench, you should use one of the alternative methods we listed above. You can use duct tape, a zip tie, a standard socket wrench, or two coins.
6
Clean and assess the faucet body and mounting nuts.
7
Remove the faucet body and set it aside. If you plan to install a new faucet, you should have all the parts ready for installation.

Conclusion

At Plumbing Lab, our goal is to provide you with the most accurate information to help you complete any plumbing job by yourself. Many homeowners may not have a basin wrench in their toolbox. In this guide, we helped you find alternatives to a basin wrench so that you can remove a faucet body easily.

Ian Haynes

Ian Haynes is an expert writer who has successfully deployed over 500 plumbing pages and other related content. He has an excellent understanding of home plumbing issues and translates his experiences via Plumbing Lab so readers can have a better understanding of common household problems. Outside of his work, Ian likes exploring Brooklyn with his Labrador.