What You’ll Need
- Adjustable wrench
- Plumber’s tape
- Bucket or towel
- New kitchen faucet
- Optional: basin wrench, flashlight
Step 1: Shut Off the Water Supply
Before you start, turn off the hot and cold water valves under the sink. If there are no dedicated valves, you may need to shut off the main water supply to your house.
Step 2: Disconnect the Old Faucet
Using an adjustable wrench, disconnect the supply lines from the old faucet. Have a bucket or towel handy to catch any water remaining in the lines. Next, remove the nuts securing the old faucet to the sink using the same wrench. If the nuts are difficult to reach, a basin wrench and flashlight can come in handy.
Step 3: Prepare the Sink
Clean the area around the faucet holes on the sink to ensure a proper seal. If the old faucet had a gasket or putty, remove it completely. Apply plumber’s tape to the threads of the water supply lines to prevent leaks.
Step 4: Install the New Faucet
Position your new faucet over the mounting holes on the sink. Insert the supply lines through the holes, ensuring they are not twisted or kinked. From underneath the sink, secure the faucet with nuts and washers provided by the manufacturer. Tighten them using an adjustable wrench.
Step 5: Connect the Supply Lines
Attach the hot and cold water supply lines to the corresponding valves under the sink. Use your adjustable wrench to tighten the connections, ensuring they are snug but not over-tightened to avoid damaging the fittings.
Step 6: Check for Leaks
Once everything is connected, slowly turn on the water supply valves. Inspect the connections for any leaks. If you notice any drips, tighten the fittings slightly until the leak stops.
Step 7: Test the Faucet
After ensuring there are no leaks, turn on the faucet and test both hot and cold water. Check if the water flow is smooth and there are no unusual noises. If everything is functioning properly, congratulations, you’ve successfully installed your new kitchen faucet!
Remember, if you face any difficulties during the installation process or encounter complex plumbing issues, it’s always a good idea to seek professional help. Otherwise, enjoy your refreshed kitchen with its stylish and functional faucet!