Replacing a kitchen faucet can seem daunting, but it’s actually a straightforward job that most homeowners can tackle with a bit of patience and the right tools. In this guide, you’ll learn how to safely remove your old faucet, prepare the new one for installation, and ensure a leak-free setup.
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Tools and Materials
- New kitchen faucet (ensure compatibility with the sink’s hole configuration)
- Adjustable wrench or basin wrench
- Screwdriver (optional)
- Plumber’s tape (Teflon tape)
- Towels or small bucket
- Safety glasses (recommended)
Step 1: Shut Off the Water
- Find the valves: Usually located under the sink for both hot and cold water.
- Close the valves: Turn each valve clockwise until it stops.
- Check for leaks: Turn the faucet on to confirm water flow stops. If water still runs or the valves are faulty, shut off water at the meter or main valve.
Step 2: Disconnect the Old Faucet
- Sprayer line: If your old faucet has a side sprayer, reach under the sink and unscrew or release the quick-connect fitting. Remove the weight from the sprayer hose so it slides out.
- Supply lines: Use an adjustable wrench or basin wrench to loosen hot and cold supply lines from the faucet’s shanks or the angle stops. Keep a towel or bucket handy to catch any residual water.
- Mounting hardware: Under the sink, find the retaining nut(s) holding the faucet body. Loosen with a basin wrench. If corroded, apply penetrating oil and wait a few minutes.
- Remove the faucet: Gently lift the old faucet out from the top of the sink. Clean any old silicone or putty residue from the sink deck.
Step 3: Prepare the New Faucet
- Check the configuration: If you’re switching from a 3- or 4-hole faucet to a 1-hole design, ensure the new faucet includes a base plate (escutcheon) to cover unused holes.
- Assemble per instructions: Many faucets have the spray hose, weight, and quick-connect fittings included. Pre-assemble these if the manufacturer’s guidelines recommend it.
- Place seal or gasket: Some faucets have a rubber seal or plastic gasket that sits between faucet and sink. Ensure it’s seated correctly.
Step 4: Install the New Faucet
- Feed lines through: Carefully guide the faucet’s supply lines (and sprayer hose, if included) through the sink hole(s).
- Align the faucet: From the top, position the faucet handle(s) where you want them—some handles mount to the side, front, or back.
- Secure under the sink: Slide on any washers and mounting brackets provided. Tighten the mounting nut(s) by hand, then use a basin wrench for final snugness. Check alignment from above before fully tightening.
Step 5: Connect Water Supply and Sprayer
- Supply lines: Attach your new faucet’s hot and cold lines to the corresponding angle stops (hot is typically on the left). Use plumber’s tape on threads if recommended. Tighten carefully—do not overtighten.
- Sprayer hose: For pull-down or side sprayers, connect the quick-connect fitting to the faucet body or designated sprayer port. Attach the hose weight so the sprayer retracts easily.
Step 6: Final Checks and Testing
- Remove aerator: Unscrew the faucet’s aerator to let any debris flush out.
- Turn on the valves: Slowly open the hot and cold valves. Watch under the sink for leaks.
- Flush the lines: Turn the faucet on, allowing water to flow for about a minute. Check for leaks at every connection.
- Reinstall aerator: Once the lines are clear, screw the aerator back on.
Conclusion
Installing or upgrading a kitchen faucet can be done in about an hour with minimal tools. Whether you’re simply improving your current setup or changing the hole configuration, the key steps remain the same: shut off the water, remove the old faucet carefully, ensure proper alignment, and test thoroughly for leaks. If you encounter heavily corroded parts, stubborn valves, or any complications, consider calling a licensed plumber.
