Tools for Removing a Kitchen Faucet

Use a range of wrenches and pliers to successfully remove a kitchen faucet.

Whether you're removing a kitchen faucet for repair or to replace it with a new faucet, this straightforward plumbing job requires basic hardware store tools. Carrying out plumbing repairs with incorrect tools can damage pipes and fittings and result in faulty repairs and water leaks.

Pipe Wrench

A pipe wrench is specifically designed to tightly grip plumbing pipes to prevent them from moving around when attached fittings are being removed. Pipe wrenches perform a similar function to a vice. You will need a pipe wrench to clamp the cold and hot water supply pipes in place while removing the faucet fitting above.

Adjustable Wrench

An adjustable or open-ended wrench is an essential tool for removing a kitchen faucet. Kitchen faucets come in a range of styles and sizes. The advantage of an adjustable or open-ended wrench is that you can alter the size of the wrench so that you can use it on any faucet type. Use the adjustable wrench to unscrew the faucet from the hot and cold water supply pipes while you grip the pipes with the pipe wrench.

Sink or Basin Wrench

Smaller in size than either a pipe or adjustable wrench, the sink or basin wrench is still an important part of the toolkit for removing a kitchen faucet. Use a sink or basin wrench to loosen and unscrew the spout seat holding nuts and the faucet fitting retaining nuts underneath the sink.

Pilers

Either vise grip or needle-nose pliers can help when removing a kitchen faucet. Use pliers to remove holding and retaining nuts in hard-to-reach areas where there is not enough room to manouevre a wrench. Use vise grip pliers as an alternative to a pipe wrench in confined spaces.

References

• The Kitchen: How to Replace a Kitchen Faucet
• Plumbing Help: Basic Plumbing Hand Tools

Resources

• Home Tips: Kitchen Faucet Types