How to replace your kitchen faucet without a professional plumber
In short: Upgrading your kitchen sink doesn't require a contractor, just the right sequence of steps. By following expert guidance from Richard Trethewey, you can swap out an old fixture and manage the plumbing yourself using common household tools and a few specialized items from a local home center.
Replacing a kitchen faucet is a manageable DIY project if you follow a systematic approach. The process begins beneath the sink, where you must first shut off the water supply. Once the water is off, you disconnect the existing water hoses from the shutoff valves and use a basin wrench to loosen the nuts securing the old fixture. If your old setup includes a sprayer, you may need scissors to cut the hose connecting it to the faucet before wiggling the old unit off the sink.
Preparation is key to a leak-free installation. Most new faucets require assembly according to the manufacturer's packaging, typically starting with a gasket placed directly under the faucet, followed by a cover plate. To ensure a watertight seal, apply a thick glob of plumber’s putty to the underside of the cover plate before positioning the faucet. It is essential to ensure all hoses pass through the center hole of the sink during placement.
Securing the new fixture involves a multi-step process under the sink. You will slide a gasket, a washer, and a mounting bracket onto the faucet, then use a screwdriver to tighten the bracket to the sink. If your new setup leaves a fourth hole exposed, you can use a cover plate or a soap dispenser to block it, securing it with plumber's putty. Lastly, attach the hot and cold water lines to the shutoff valves before restoring the water supply. For spray hoses that need to retract, adding a weight to the hose ensures it returns to its position after use.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: How to Install a New Kitchen Faucet | Ask This Old House
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