Installing a new faucet is not rocket science. With some patience and the right tools, you can complete this project yourself.
Shut off the water supply valves under your sink, typically by turning them clockwise. You’ll need to crawl under the sink to access these, so a basin wrench may make this job much easier.
Start With a Clean Sink
One of the most common sources of frustration in replacing a sink faucet is trying to connect new supply lines without leaking. Newer-style connectors have gaskets built into each end to prevent this problem. They may cost a bit more than the old-style ones, but they are worth the extra money.
When you install a new faucet, it is also a good idea to replace the existing supply lines. This will help prevent future leaks. When you do this, be sure to use a quality braided stainless steel connector that has a smooth inner surface to ensure a leak-free connection.
Before you start installing your new faucet, you should make sure the water valves under the sink are completely turned off. This will prevent you from accidentally turning on the faucet and flooding your home while you are working.
Next, clean your sink and surrounding area to remove any grime that has accumulated over the years. You can use a non-toxic, biodegradable cleaner like baking soda or white vinegar to clean your sink. Vinegar is effective because it contains acetic acid, which is a natural disinfectant.
Once your sink is clean, loosen the nut or nuts that are holding your current faucet in place. You may need a basin wrench to do this. Then, pull the old faucet out of the sink.
After removing the old faucet, clean the holes where the new faucet will go. This will remove any caulking or sealant that may be around the holes. This will make it easier for the new faucet to fit securely in place.
If your sink is stainless steel, clean it often to avoid stains and streaks. Using a mild abrasive, such as scouring powder, can be effective in cleaning stainless steel. You can also wipe the sink with a damp cloth soaked in white vinegar to remove stubborn stains. Vinegar is a natural, biodegradable cleaning agent that is safe for most sink materials.
If you have a double-handled faucet, unscrew the two metal pieces and black circle from the bottom of the “torso”-looking piece. Screw the shorter tubes into the corresponding holes on the faucet and screw the other metal pieces back in place. Remember to screw the metal circles on tightly.
Remove the Old Faucet
Depending on the type of faucet you want to install, there are a wide variety of configurations for sink holes. You can choose from a single handle to two or more, and you can also modify the number of existing holes by drilling new ones if necessary. Before you head to the store, double-check the number of holes in your sink and the distance between them (measured “on center”) so that your new faucet will fit.
Most faucets have one or more water supply tubes that connect to the shutoff valves under the sink. If your new faucet doesn’t have these connections, you will need to remove the old ones or buy and install the needed tubing. Before you disconnect the old faucet, make sure that all of the water is turned off at the main water valve in your house. This will protect you from a sudden, uncontrolled flow of water if there is an accidental loose connection or leak in the system.
Once all of the water is off, you can begin working under the sink. First, disconnect the mounting nuts that hold the faucet to the sink and countertop. These are usually tight and may require a wrench to unscrew them. Some of these nuts are covered by escutcheon rings that you can lift to expose the screw underneath. It’s also a good idea to have a bucket or pan under the supply tube connections to catch any water that may leak out as you work.
Next, remove the handles and spout of the faucet by unscrewing them with a wrench. Look for a hidden set screw that holds the spout in place and lift it to expose this screw as well. If the faucet has a built-in aerator, you will need to remove this as well. There are often instructions in the faucet packaging for removing this part, and it’s easy enough to do with your fingers or a pair of pliers.
If your old supply lines are leaking, you will need to replace them. A good choice is a braided stainless steel line that’s designed to give you years of rupture-free service and can easily be routed around obstacles under the sink. If you don’t have any shut-off valves under the sink or if they are badly worn, it’s a good time to install these as well – echoed by the great advice of the Greensboro plumbers.
Attach the New Faucet
If your new faucet doesn’t come with pre-attached tubing, you’ll need to attach the supply lines. Before you do, be sure to take a look at the mounting holes and ensure the components will fit through. You’ll usually put an escutcheon plate over the holes under the sink to cover any unsightly connections and protect your porcelain from smudges and scratches. Depending on the model, you may need to install the hot-water handle gear through one hole, the main faucet through another, and the cold-water handle through the third. Some models also require an aerator, and if you do, you should remove it before hooking up the water line. Applying a little caulk under the escutcheon plate and adding a little Teflon tape to the supply-line connectors will help prevent leaks later.
Before reinstalling your faucet, it’s important to turn off the water at the shutoff valve underneath the sink. If you’re replacing a single-handle faucet, this is typically as simple as twisting the large knob. However, if your kitchen has multiple faucets, you’ll need to turn off the water to all of them.
Next, be sure to have all the tools you need lined up before you start working. Some of these projects require specialized tools, such as a pipe wrench for drain lines or a basin wrench for hard-to-reach nuts. You’ll also need to buy replacement supply tubes, a new valve stem cap (Photo 3), and any other parts required for your particular model of faucet.
Once you’ve got all the parts, it’s time to start installing your new faucet. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and if you’re not comfortable with this task, ask a professional to help.
Some people think this is a difficult job for a DIY, but the reality is that it’s a fairly straightforward project that can be completed in just an hour or two. The most difficult part is paying attention, since you’ll be twisting and turning small parts in tight spaces. To avoid a mishap, make sure you read the instructions and watch some online instructional videos before you get started.
Connect the Supply Lines
A new faucet can be a major upgrade in any kitchen, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. With the right tools and some Teflon tape, you can disconnect the old one and set up a new one without needing to call in a plumber.
Begin by shutting off the water supply either at the main valve or the sink’s shut-off valve. Then place a bucket underneath the sink to catch any water that might spill during the removal and installation process.
Remove the existing faucet and install new shut-off valves beneath the sink. These will be the new connections to which you’ll attach the water lines for your new faucet. The type of water line connections depends on the faucet you buy; most use flexible lines with 3/8” compression fittings, while others connect to 1/2″ IPS (industrial pipe service).
Turn off the faucet’s water supply by loosening the packing nut and turning it counterclockwise. This will relieve pressure and allow you to remove the spout assembly, which is usually held by a small retaining nut. The nut can be tightened with your fingers or a basin wrench.
If the aerator on your new faucet has a screen or perforated plastic covering the end, remove it by unscrewing it counterclockwise. Sometimes, a tool is supplied with the faucet to make this easier. Messing around with plumbing often dislodges minerals and other debris from the insides of pipes and valves, so it’s a good idea to flush the lines before turning the water back on.
Use a wrench to loosen the top connection to the water valve and then a pair of pliers to pull it off. Clean off the old Teflon tape and wrap 2-4 wraps of new tape around the new connection to prevent leaks.
Screw the new water valves onto the piping beneath your sink. If your faucet is a 2-handle model, make sure the hot water line goes to the right-hand side of the sink and the cold water line to the left-hand side. Once the valves are in place, connect the water supply hoses to the faucet’s threaded tailpieces. You may need to remove the aerator on the faucet tip or the spray nozzle hose to do so.
