For a big impact with a small investment for your bathroom or kitchen, consider changing the faucet! It’s a super easy, relatively low-cost improvement, that in some cases, can totally change the look and feel of your space!
Faucets are available in a wide range of prices and styles from very inexpensive, mostly plastic models to high-quality brass units. You’re better off buying a brand-name faucet. Some of the better brand-name washerless faucets have lifetime warranties.
Note: These instructions can be used for either kitchen or bathroom sink faucet installation.
The most difficult part of replacing a faucet is removing the old one. Once the old stuff is out of the way, your new faucet should go in easily.
Removing the Old Faucet
1. I know this is basic, but remember to shut off the water. You can turn off the main water valve, or turn off the two valves immediately under the faucet you’re replacing. Then, open the faucet and allow it to drain and release any pressure.
2. Disconnect the water supply lines. If you choose not to replace the lines, disconnect them from the faucet only. If you choose to replace them, disconnect the lines from the shut-off valve. It’s a good idea to change them now since you’re going to the trouble of replacing the faucet. It could save you an extra trip under the sink later.
3. Remove the faucet from the sink. Faucets are mounted in two ways: Bottom-mount faucets are removed from above. For these, the handles and escutcheons must be removed to get to the nuts, which secure the faucet in place. Top-mount faucets are held in place by nuts located underneath the sink and must be removed from below. The nuts may be loosened using water pump pliers or a special basin wrench. The basin wrench is necessary when the area in which the nut is located is too tight to allow for the use of pliers.
Installing a Top-Mount Faucet:
1. Apply a bead of plumber’s putty or silicone caulk around the faucet base. Some faucets have rubber or plastic gaskets for the base and don’t require this step.
2. Ease the faucet gently into place, pressing against the putty to assure a good seal.
3. Under the sink, install the washers and mounting nuts on the tailpieces. Tighten the nuts by hand.
4. Align the faucet with the back of the sink, and tighten the mounting nuts with water pump pliers, an adjustable wrench, or a basin wrench. Wipe away excess putty or caulk from around the base.
That’s it! Now stand back and admire your new space! Make sure to check out Plumbtile.com and its wide selection of gorgeous faucets from brand-name designers.