Refresh Your Kitchen Sink Area with a New Faucet
Is your kitchen faucet looking a little lackluster these days? Does it leak or sputter when you turn it on? Over time, an old faucet can become an eyesore in an otherwise updated kitchen. Replacing it with a new model is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to give your sink area and entire kitchen a fresh new look and improved functionality.
With some basic DIY skills and tools, you can switch out an old tap for a stylish new one in under an hour, saving the cost of hiring a plumber. We'll guide you in choosing the right faucet, taking apart your existing hardware, installing shiny new fixtures and making sure everything is leak-proof. Read on to learn how to complete this manageable weekend plumbing project.
Selecting a New Kitchen Faucet
Kitchen faucets come in a range of styles, finishes and features. Before purchasing one, take stock of your existing sink setup to ensure you get the right fit.
Determine the Number of Mounting Holes
The first consideration is the number and placement of pre-drilled holes in your sink deck or countertop. Count the holes and measure the distance between them. Then shop for a faucet built for that particular hole configuration or opt for one that allows adjustments.
- One hole: Single-control faucet and handle
- Three holes: Separate hot and cold handles with a third hole in the middle for a sprayer
- Four holes: Allows for a side sprayer or soap dispenser
If your selected faucet requires holes that aren't already there, you'll need a special drill bit to cut new sink holes.
Decide on Faucet Height and Reach
Consider who will be using the sink most when deciding how high or long you need the faucet spout to extend:
- Standard faucet heights range from 8 to 12 inches
- Reach distances span 5 to 10 inches
- Accommodate users of different heights, like children
Pay attention to spout clearance over the back and sides of the sink. You wantenough room to work without banging water handles while washing dishes.
Pick the Type of Faucet
Kitchen faucets typically have handles that control hot and cold, a single lever that mixes to a comfortable temperature, or touch technology.
Optional features may include:
- Pull-down sprayer head on a flexible hose
- Soap/lotion dispenser
- Filtered water outlet
Consider the look you want - ultra sleek steel, vintage bronze, bright polished chrome. Match existing appliances and hardware for a cohesive look.
Set Your Budget
Basic kitchen faucets cost $100-300. Higher-end designer taps with cutting-edge features can run $500 to well over $1000. Set a budget that fits both your needs and style priorities.
Removing the Old Faucet
With your sink cleared and new faucet purchased, it's time to remove the outdated one currently installed. Turn off the hot and cold shut-off valves before getting started.
Turn Off Water Supply
Locate the hot and cold valves controlling water supply to the kitchen sink. They are typically under the sink or accessed through a removable panel inside the base cabinet. Turn both clockwise until tight.
Detach Supply Line Connections
Look above and below the point where the faucet body comes through the sink holes. Use pliers or an adjustable wrench to loosen and unthread any nuts around the faucet inlets. Carefully disconnect the flexible supply lines from the hot and cold faucet connections.
Take Out Mounting Hardware
Remove mounting nuts, brackets, tension rods or screws located above and below the sink deck by hand or with your wrench or screwdriver. Now carefully lift the faucet assembly straight up through the sink holes and set aside.
Prepare Sink for New Faucet
Use a dry or damp towel to wipe away any putty, grime or debris around the now empty sink holes. Make sure the surface is clean for a tight seal. Use a file to smooth out rough edges on the holes and counter bore for tight connections.
Installing the New Kitchen Faucet
With all the prep work done, it's finally time for the fun part - installing your fabulous new faucet!
Secure Faucet Body to Sink
Insert the faucet base through the holes in your sink deck from above. Hand tighten any included washers, gaskets, brackets and mounting nuts from below to hold it in place temporarily.
Connect Water Supply Lines
Attach the flexible supply tubes or hoses to the inlet ports at the base of the new faucet. Make sure rubber gaskets are properly seated for watertight connections. Carefully turn the shut-off valves back on and check below for any drips or leaks before tightening further.
Test New Faucet Function
The fun part! Turn the water on fully and move the handle(s) back and forth from hot to cold and all settings in between. Make sure your new faucet flows smoothly and the water temperature adjusts easily.
If your model has a high arc, swiveling spout or pull-out sprayer head, check the full range of motion. Make sure there are no limits stopping swing or impeding roll-back to the spout rest.
Finish Installation Under Sink
With the functional test complete, finish securing the connections below the sink. Tighten any loose nuts with pliers or wrench. Loop any excess supply line behind pipes with zip ties or mounting tape. Make sure insulation around valves is replaced.
Run water for a few more minutes to confirm all seals are drip-free. You don't want any drips or dampness damaging undersink finish and hardware down the road.
While it takes careful attention to detail, installing a kitchen faucet is very achievable for an ambitious DIYer. Following the manufacturer's instructions and our tips above will have you sipping the first refreshing glass of water from a stylish, new faucet in under an hour. Then stand back and admire how a small update makes the heart of your kitchen look brand new.