Basin wrenches are one of the primary tools that plumbers use to work on kitchen and bathroom faucets. This tool is needed to install and remove the faucet from the sink. However, it is quite uncommon for you to have the basin wrench, that is why we have created this step-by-step guide on how to remove kitchen faucet without basin wrench.
There are many kinds of tools that need to be in the toolbox; however, a specific basin wrench is what you need to remove the faucet. The standard faucet water line size is 1 ⅜ inch. To remove the faucet, make sure the basin wrench matches the size of the waterline.
On the other hand, there are many modern faucets, ranging from simple to smart, which do not require the basin wrench to install or to remove. Apart from a basin wrench, you can use some other tools as alternatives to a basin wrench. This article will provide you a step-by-step guide on how a faucet can be removed without the basin wrench. Happy cooking!
If your looking to give your kitchen a new look, try checking out our article on standard faucet hole sizes for kitchens and bathrooms and how to organize small appliances in a small kitchen
What is a Basin wrench and why you should have one
A basin wrench, also known as a sink wrench, is used to remove stubborn faucet nuts quickly and easily. However, if you don’t know how to use a wrench properly, plumbing at home by yourself will become frustrating. Repeated attempts to install or remove the faucet will lead you to lose your temper, can harm the waterline, can damage the faucet, damage the threads on the screws, and kill your precious time.
It is important to keep a proper size basin wrench if you want to do the plumbing at your home by yourself. However, if you don’t have a basin wrench and/or you don’t want to purchase a basin wrench, don’t worry, that’s why we are here. Please note that nowadays, there are many kitchen and bathroom sink faucets that are not only very easy to install by yourself, you can also remove the faucet without a basin wrench. The next section will present you with a step-by-step guide on how to remove a faucet without a basin wrench.
How to remove kitchen faucet without basin wrench
Essential things you will need before you remove a faucet from the kitchen sink of the bathroom basin:
- Grease
- Channel-lock pliers
- A socket wrenches
- A gauge of tape
- Towel or clean cloth
- A screwdriver
- A Water-pump Pliers
 |  |  |
| Socket wrenches | Channel-lock pliers | Water-pump Pliers |
 |  |  |
| A gauge of tape | Screwdriver | Towel or clean cloth |
Now, let’s start the process to remove the faucet.
Step: 1 Turn off the valve
You will find the valves under the sink of your kitchen or under the basin of your bathroom (if you’re removing the bathroom basin faucet). First, you have to turn off the valve. If you have hot and cold water valves, turn them off. This will help you to avoid flooding your kitchen.
Be careful to place a bucket under the sink so that the remaining water will fall in the bucket and the water does not cause any mess.
Now, removing the faucet
It is a bit tricky. But, do not worry. We will guide you step-by-step so that you can be a master of faucet removal.
Step: 2 Open The Spigot
While there is no water flowing in the valve, it may still hold some air pressure inside. This leftover air pressure can be a problem for you.
Open the spigot and let the pressure bubble release for a few minutes. This task assures the tap will be lighter and more convenient to remove after the pressure releases.
Step: 3 Disconnect the water supply line
How long the whole disconnecting process will take will depend upon how old the faucet is. The water lines connect directly to the kitchen faucet. Use the water pump pliers to detach the kitchen faucet from the water supply line.
Although other improvised tools might work, using the pump pliers is recommended to avoid any damage to the water lines.
Gently fasten the water pump pliers to the water line and pull off each of the lines carefully. Besides using the right tools, you have to perform this step with caution. Otherwise, some parts might get damaged, including the faucet and the water line itself.
Step: 5 Unscrew and remove the mounting nuts
This is where you will need to hold patience.
The water contains minerals and those are responsible for rusting your nuts, depending on the age of the faucet.
First, identify the mounting nut which attaches the faucet to the sink. If you find the nuts are very tightly placed or there are rusts, apply some grease or penetrating oil and wait for, at least, 15 minutes. Then use the channel-lock plier and gently move the nut counter-clockwise. Do not put too much pressure while removing the nuts, that can however cause damage to the faucet or the joining mechanisms permanently.
Step: 6 Unscrew the nuts and remove the mounting nuts
Modern faucets
Now unscrew the screws using a screwdriver, make sure to turn the nuts counter-clockwise to remove them. Now you can very easily remove the mounting nuts
Older faucets
For the older version of the kitchen faucet, you might need a basin wrench. Because it will help you to remove the mounting nuts faster. However, you can use any wrench or plier that fits the nuts and unscrew it.
Last Step Remove the Faucet
You have turned off the valves, disconnected the water lines, and removed the mounting nuts, now finally, its the time to remove the kitchen faucet.
Now, carefully lift the kitchen faucet from the sink and place it in a safe place. You can remove all the parts of the faucet and clean it nicely. After cleaning, you can again install the faucet to the sink and screw the mounting nuts, water lines, and valves.
How to detach the faucet if it stuck
Use a putty knife and gently loosen the faucet if it gets stuck in the sink or basin while lifting. Using a plastic putty knife or any flat plastic scraper helps to lose without scratching the sink. Then clean the surface with a cloth.
Note
You can use the old faucet after cleaning it. If you find the old faucet is damaged or beyond repair, definitely replace it with a new one.
Frequently asked questions on how to remove kitchen faucet without basin wrench
What does a basin wrench look like?
The basin wrench has a gripping head that pivots. It is at the end of a long handle. It is used to reach difficult accessible spaces. It is mainly used by plumbers when they need to reach places behind or under sinks.
What can I use if I do not have a basin wrench?
You can use any multipurpose wrench for your job to be done. The main thing is that the wrench should fit the nuts.
How do I loosen sink-mounted nuts?
Use grease or spray penetrating oil over the nuts and wait for, at least, 15 minutes. If there is so much rust or the nuts are too tight, you might have to leave the greased nuts overnight. Afterward, gently use the wrench to move the nuts counter-clockwise to avoid damage to the nuts.
Are there any alternatives to grease?
You can use soda or vinegar, then gently tap the nut with a hammer a few times. Although this option works if the nut is slightly stiff, it will not work with nuts full of rust or tightly stiff.
Final thoughts on how to remove kitchen faucet without basin wrench
Even if you don’t have a basin wrench, some quick thinking and improvisation can go a long way. We hope this step-by-step guide on how to remove the kitchen faucet without a basin wrench was helpful and you were able to remove that pesky faucet without damage, hassle, or injury. We tried to make this as simple as possible for you to follow along. Good luck with removing the kitchen faucet, and Happy cooking!
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Written By James Wayne
James is a plumber and handyman hailing from the southwest with over 20+ years of experience in his field. He has incredible knowledge on all the brands in the market and how to perform installation, maintenance and repairs of anything you need in the kitchen.
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