Should You Replace Your Kitchen Faucet?

Start Here: Do You Actually Need a New Faucet?

Be honest with yourself. A faucet that works perfectly fine doesn't need replacing just because you're refreshing your kitchen. But there are valid reasons to upgrade:

Definitely Replace If:

• It drips constantly and repairs haven't fixed it
• The finish is corroding or wearing through to base metal
• Water flow has significantly decreased (and it's not just the aerator)
• Handles are stiff or loose despite cartridge replacement
• It's leaking at the base or under the sink
• It's over 15 years old and showing any wear signs

Consider Replacing If:

• The style is dated and clashes with your refresh
• You want new features like pull-down spray or touchless
• The finish doesn't match your new hardware
• You're having minor issues and it's 10+ years old

Keep Your Current Faucet If:

• It works perfectly with no leaks or flow issues
• You like the style and it coordinates with your refresh
• It's less than 10 years old from a quality brand
• Budget is tight and the faucet is functional

How to Assess Your Current Faucet

Run through this quick evaluation to determine your faucet's condition:

1. Check for Leaks

Look in three places:

• Spout: Does water drip from the spout when turned off? This usually means worn internal seals.
• Base: Water pooling around the base indicates failed O-rings or a worn swivel seal.
• Under sink: Check connections for moisture. Even slow leaks leave mineral deposits or water stains.

2. Test Water Flow

Turn on the faucet fully. Compare to other faucets in your home.

• If flow is reduced: First try cleaning or replacing the aerator (the screened cap on the spout). This $5 fix solves many flow problems.
• If flow is still weak: Internal mineral buildup or valve problems may require replacement.

3. Evaluate Handle Operation

How do the handles feel?

• Smooth and responsive: Internal components are healthy
• Stiff or hard to turn: Mineral buildup or worn cartridge
• Loose or wobbly: Worn cartridge or loose mounting
• Dripping with handle off: Cartridge needs replacement

4. Inspect the Finish

Look closely at the entire faucet surface:

• Tarnishing or discoloration: Common in brass and bronze finishes as they age
• Pitting or corrosion: Metal is deteriorating, replacement recommended
• Finish wearing off: Exposing base metal, can't be fixed
• Mineral deposits: Can often be cleaned with vinegar

5. Consider the Style

Step back and look at your faucet objectively:

• Does it look dated compared to your other updates?
• Is the finish (chrome, brass, etc.) coordinating with your new hardware?
• Would a different style significantly improve your kitchen's look?

Common Faucet Problems: Repair vs. Replace

Age and Quality Matter

How long your faucet should last depends heavily on the brand and original quality:

Quality Brands (15-20+ year lifespan)

• Delta: Excellent reliability, easy to find parts
• Moen: Lifetime warranty on many models
• Kohler: Premium quality, wide style selection
• Grohe: European quality, excellent engineering
• Hansgrohe: Premium German engineering

For these brands, repairs are usually worthwhile if the faucet is under 15 years old.

Mid-Range Brands (10-15 year lifespan)

• Pfister: Good value, decent durability
• American Standard: Reliable basics
• Glacier Bay: Home Depot house brand, acceptable quality

Repairs make sense if under 10 years old. Beyond that, replacement is often better.

Budget Brands (5-10 year lifespan)

• Generic or unknown brands
• Very low-priced options (under $50)
• Builder-grade faucets

Usually not worth repairing. Parts may be hard to find, and quality issues will recur.

The Style Factor

Even if your faucet works perfectly, style can be a valid reason to upgrade. The faucet is a focal point in most kitchens—you interact with it dozens of times daily.

Dated Faucet Styles

• Shiny brass: 1990s gold-tone brass screams dated
• Two-handle with acrylic knobs: Very 1970s-80s
• Basic chrome gooseneck: Builder-grade, forgettable
• Side sprayer: Pull-down is now standard

Modern Faucet Trends

• Pull-down sprayers: The new standard for functionality
• Matte black: Currently very popular
• Brushed gold/champagne bronze: Warm modern elegance
• Touchless operation: Convenient, especially when hands are dirty
• Industrial/commercial style: Restaurant-inspired high-arc designs

Quick Decision Guide

What's Next?

If you've decided to replace your faucet, the next steps are:

1. 1.Count your sink holes – This determines which faucets will work
2. 2.Choose your new faucet – Consider style, features, and finish
3. 3.Turn off water supply – Essential before any work
4. 4.Swap faucets – A 1-2 hour DIY project

If you're keeping your current faucet, you can skip this entire phase and move on to lighting or other updates.

FAQ

How long should a kitchen faucet last?

A quality kitchen faucet should last 15-20 years with normal use. Budget faucets may only last 5-10 years. If your faucet is over 15 years old and showing any signs of wear, replacement is usually more cost-effective than repair.

Should I repair or replace my dripping faucet?

It depends on age and quality. For faucets under 10 years old from quality brands (Delta, Moen, Kohler), replacing the cartridge ($15-30) is usually worth it. For older or budget faucets, or if the finish is deteriorating, full replacement makes more sense.

Can I replace my kitchen faucet myself?

Yes, faucet replacement is manageable for most homeowners. It requires basic tools (adjustable wrench, basin wrench) and takes 1-2 hours. The hardest part is working in the cramped space under the sink. Hiring a plumber costs $150-300 if you prefer professional installation.

Do I need to replace the faucet if it's just outdated looking?

That's a personal choice. If your faucet works perfectly but looks dated, you can keep it. However, the faucet is often a kitchen focal point, and an outdated style can undermine your refresh. A new faucet is one of the most impactful upgrades at $150-300.