Are you tired of dealing with your old, inefficient sink faucet? Perhaps you are ready for an updated model? Or maybe you just want something that feels more comfortable to use? Either way, it may have crossed your mind to install a new one. But whether you are working on a bathroom, kitchen, or outdoor sink faucet, it is important to understand what the job entails in terms of labor, supplies, cost, and time. It might turn out that you can perform your own sink faucet installation! Or you may just realize that the job is a bit too big for you, and a plumber is the better option.
So, to get started, let’s review the basic steps of installing a new faucet, including what you will need and who to call if you don’t feel comfortable with DIY plumbing work.
What You Need
When it comes to home improvement, sink faucet installation is something that is entirely doable in as little as one hour’s time, so long as you are properly equipped with the right knowledge, tools, and supplies. Here is what you will need to implement a proper faucet installation project:
→ Your New Faucet
→ Basin Wrench
→ Plumber’s Tape (Teflon™)
→ Plumber’s Putty (Not just any caulk; it must be plumbing putty, like Sta Put®.)
→ Plastic or Rubber Gasket (You may or may not need a new one.)
→ Flexible PEX Lines (Most faucets come with these connections already.)
→ Spackling Knife (If you need to scrape away old putty.)
Basic Sink Anatomy
First, learn how a sink’s plumbing is fundamentally set up. The basic parts of a sink are the hot and cold water lines, which are located underneath the sink and distinguishable by their knobs or levers, as well as, a drain pipe, the sink basin, and the faucet.
When shopping around for a new faucet, be sure to count how many holes are in your existing sink basin ahead of arriving at the home improvement store. Unless you are also purchasing and installing a new sink basin, the hole count is a vital part of choosing a proper replacement faucet.
A Guide to Faucet Installation
Your very first step is to turn off the water supply to the home via the main water shutoff valve.
Before installing your new faucet, you will need to remove the old one. If it is very old or rusted, be prepared for this step to take longer. You may even require additional tools, like a sledgehammer. If this is the case, professional plumbing service is likely your best option. Most faucets attach to a sinks via a plastic or metal nut, which can be accessed underneath the sink in the cabinet. Other faucets are bolted down on top of the sink. You will also need to remove the water connections in this step.
Now you are ready to install the new faucet. Begin by adding the gasket, which serves as a seal between the faucet and the sink. If you do not have a replacement gasket, you can use your plumber’s putty to form the seal.
Next, position the new faucet on top of the sink, lining up all the proper holes. Then, go underneath the sink and secure the plastic nuts. Here is where you would use your spackling knife to clear away any old plumber’s putty.
You should be ready to connect the water lines now. Most faucet brands come with flexible PEX hoses (i.e. Deltaâ), but if your new model did not, you will need to use your own. If your faucet came with hoses, simply connect them to the water lines underneath the sink. If you are using your own lines, first connect the piping to your lines, and then to the faucet. As you are implementing this step, be sure to use your plumber’s tape around the connections on the water lines and hoses to create a water-tight seal.
You are basically ready to check your work now, so turn your water back on and check your lines and faucet for any leaks. If there are leaks, you will need to remove all seals, tighten all hose and water line connections, and reapply your plumber’s tape.
If it STILL Doesn’t Work…Hire a Plumber!
Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for help with your plumbing repairs in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our state-licensed master plumbers have been in the plumbing business for over 100 years because we have earned the trust of thousands of Hoosiers all across the city as a result of our professional service and outstanding results. Request a free estimate or advice, today.
