How to Replace Your Kitchen Faucet

Before You Start

Make sure you've completed the prep steps:

• Counted sink holes and confirmed your new faucet is compatible
• Chosen your new faucet and have it ready to install
• Turned off water supply at the shutoff valves
• Read your faucet's instructions—installation varies by model

Tools and Supplies

Essential Tools

• Basin wrench ($15-25): The most important tool—designed to reach faucet nuts in tight spaces. Don't skip this.
• Adjustable wrench: For supply line connections
• Channel-lock pliers: For stubborn connections
• Flashlight or headlamp: It's dark under there—a headlamp keeps hands free
• Bucket: To catch water when disconnecting lines
• Towels: For padding and cleanup

Supplies

• Plumber's tape (PTFE): For threaded connections without rubber seals
• Penetrating oil (WD-40): If connections are stuck
• Silicone caulk: Optional, for sealing faucet base to sink
• New supply lines: Consider replacing if old ones are corroded or kinked

Step 1: Disconnect Supply Lines

With water already off:

1. 1.Place bucket under connections to catch residual water
2. 2.Turn on faucet to release pressure and drain remaining water
3. 3.Loosen supply line nuts where they connect to faucet (use adjustable wrench)
4. 4.Let water drain into bucket—there's usually more than expected
5. 5.Disconnect sprayer hose if applicable (often clips in at the faucet body)

Step 2: Remove Old Faucet

The faucet is held from below by mounting nuts:

1. 1.Get under the sink—this is the uncomfortable part. A towel or small pillow helps.
2. 2.Locate mounting nuts on the underside of the faucet base (usually large plastic or metal nuts)
3. 3.Use basin wrench to reach and loosen them—turn counterclockwise
4. 4.Remove mounting hardware completely
5. 5.Lift faucet out from above the sink

Basin Wrench Tips

The basin wrench is designed for this awkward job:

• Adjust the jaw to grip the mounting nut
• The long handle gives leverage from below
• Work in quarter-turn increments—there's not much room to swing
• Once loose, you can often finish by hand

Step 3: Clean the Sink Surface

Don't skip this—your new faucet deserves a clean start:

1. 1.Scrape off old caulk with a plastic scraper (don't scratch the sink)
2. 2.Clean mineral deposits with vinegar or CLR
3. 3.Remove any debris from the mounting holes
4. 4.Dry completely before installing new faucet

Step 4: Prepare New Faucet

Before installation:

1. 1.Read the instructions for your specific model
2. 2.Identify all parts and their order of assembly
3. 3.Pre-attach supply lines if they're part of the faucet (common with pull-down styles)
4. 4.Install deck plate if using one (usually before the faucet)

Step 5: Install New Faucet

With Gasket (Most Modern Faucets)

1. 1.Place rubber gasket on faucet base (usually included)
2. 2.Insert faucet through sink holes from above
3. 3.Center the faucet and align with sink edge
4. 4.Hand-tighten mounting nuts from below
5. 5.Finish tightening with basin wrench—snug but not overtightened

Without Gasket (Older or Budget Faucets)

1. 1.Apply plumber's putty around the faucet base (roll into rope, press into groove)
2. 2.Insert faucet through sink holes
3. 3.Tighten mounting hardware from below
4. 4.Clean excess putty that squeezes out

Step 6: Connect Supply Lines

This is where leaks happen if you're not careful:

1. 1.Check connection type—does it have a rubber washer or need tape?
2. 2.Apply plumber's tape if needed (wrap clockwise around threads, 3-5 wraps)
3. 3.Hand-tighten first—thread carefully to avoid cross-threading
4. 4.Finish with wrench—quarter turn past hand-tight is usually enough
5. 5.Connect both hot and cold

Step 7: Connect Sprayer (If Applicable)

For pull-down and pull-out faucets:

1. 1.Feed sprayer hose down through faucet body
2. 2.Connect to water supply under sink (usually quick-connect fitting)
3. 3.Attach weight to hose if included (helps retraction)
4. 4.Test pull-down action before final steps

Step 8: Test for Leaks

The moment of truth:

1. 1.Remove aerator from faucet spout (catches debris during first use)
2. 2.Turn on water slowly—open shutoff valves gradually
3. 3.Check all connections for drips while water is running
4. 4.Look under sink with flashlight—check everywhere
5. 5.Run water for 2-3 minutes to flush lines
6. 6.Replace aerator

If You Find a Leak

• At supply line connection: Turn off water, tighten slightly, test again
• At faucet base: Tighten mounting nuts or reseat with more putty/caulk
• From faucet body: May be defective—check warranty and contact manufacturer

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Low Water Pressure

• Check aerator: Debris from installation may be clogging it
• Check supply line kinks: Make sure hoses aren't bent
• Verify valves fully open: Shutoff valves should be completely open

Sprayer Won't Retract

• Check weight position: Should be attached to hose below counter
• Verify hose path: Should have clear route, no kinks or tangles
• Check magnetic dock: Some require alignment

Faucet Wobbles

• Tighten mounting nuts: Usually the fix
• Add stabilizer plate: Some sinks need extra support

Clean Up

Finish the job right:

1. 1.Clean sink surface around new faucet
2. 2.Wipe down faucet to remove fingerprints and marks
3. 3.Organize under sink—put everything back neatly
4. 4.Dispose of old faucet properly (some metal recyclers take them)
5. 5.Take a photo—you earned it!

When to Call a Plumber

Consider professional help if:

• Shutoff valves are stuck and need replacement
• Pipes under sink are corroded or damaged
• You need to drill new holes in your sink or countertop
• You're not comfortable with the process after attempting it
• You find other plumbing issues during the job

A plumber typically charges $150-300 for faucet installation, including the service call.

FAQ

Can I replace a kitchen faucet myself?

Yes, it's a manageable DIY project for most homeowners. It requires basic tools, takes 1-2 hours, and doesn't need specialized skills. The hardest part is working in the cramped space under the sink.

What tools do I need to replace a kitchen faucet?

Essential: basin wrench ($15-25), adjustable wrench, flashlight or headlamp, towels, and bucket. Nice to have: channel-lock pliers and penetrating oil for stuck connections.

Should I use plumber's tape on faucet connections?

Use tape on threaded connections without rubber washers. Modern supply lines with compression fittings or rubber seals typically don't need tape. Check your faucet's instructions.

How long does it take to replace a kitchen faucet?

Plan for 1-2 hours for straightforward replacement. Add time for stuck connections or if replacing supply lines. First-timers should budget 2 hours.