Plumbing Phase|Step 20 of 33
Install New Faucet
Your faucet is the kitchen's most-touched fixture. A quality faucet with the right features makes cooking and cleaning more enjoyable.
Time Required
1-2 hours
Cost
$150-$600
Difficulty
Easy to Moderate
Faucet Types
Pull-Down Faucet
Most PopularSpray head pulls straight down. Best for deep sinks. Taller spout offers more clearance for pots.
Pull-Out Faucet
Good for Small SpacesSpray head pulls toward you. Lower profile. Good for kitchens with cabinets above sink.
Touchless/Motion Sensor
$300-$600Wave hand to turn on. Great when hands are dirty. Requires batteries or AC adapter.
Pot Filler
$150-$400 + plumbingWall-mounted above range. Fill pots without carrying water. Requires new plumbing line.
Features to Consider
- Spray modes: Stream, spray, and pause. More modes = more versatility.
- Magnetic docking: Spray head snaps back into place. Prevents drooping over time.
- Ceramic disc valves: Last longer than rubber washers. No drips.
- Spot-resistant finish: Hides water spots and fingerprints.
- Temperature indicator: LED shows water temperature. Nice safety feature.
Popular Finishes
- Stainless/Brushed nickel: Most versatile. Matches stainless appliances. Hides fingerprints.
- Matte black: Modern, bold statement. Shows water spots more.
- Chrome: Classic, affordable, easy to clean. Very shiny—shows everything.
- Brushed gold/Champagne bronze: Warm, on-trend. Pairs well with white cabinets.
- Oil-rubbed bronze: Traditional look. Darker, richer finish.
Installation Checklist
- Turn off water supply valves under sink
- Disconnect old faucet supply lines
- Remove old faucet mounting nuts
- Clean sink surface and mounting holes
- Install new faucet per manufacturer instructions
- Connect supply lines (finger-tight, then 1/4 turn with wrench)
- Turn on water, check for leaks
Pro Tips
- •Count your holes: Match faucet hole requirements to your sink/countertop. Deck plates cover extra holes.
- •Buy name brands: Delta, Moen, Kohler have lifetime warranties and replacement parts available.
- •Replace supply lines too: Old braided lines can fail. New ones are cheap insurance ($10-15).
- •Use a basin wrench: Makes reaching mounting nuts in tight spaces much easier.