Got a new kitchen faucet? Need help installing it? Here’s our complete guide on how to remove the old and install a new faucet.
As most manufacturers provide a precise guide and kit to aid in the installation of a new faucet, many consumers choose to install their new kitchen faucets themselves, instead of calling a plumber.
However, any careless slip here and there during the process could lead to long-term trouble. The following step by step guide will help you install a faucet properly.
Our Favorite Faucets:
It would be great if you could clear up space to lie down under the sink during removal/installation. Take a picture of the configuration of your old faucet to use it as a reference.
How to Remove Your Old Kitchen Faucet
Removing the old faucet properly, without damaging the set up from a new one is equally important.
- Turn off the hot and cold water shut-off valves to cut the water supply. Turn on the faucet to relieve pressure from the pipes and prevent drips.
In case your earlier faucet was connected directly to the supply lines, turn off the main water supply valve to your house.
- Disconnect the supply lines using an adjustable wrench and a pair of channel locking pliers.
- Using a basin wrench, loosen and remove the nuts holding the faucet in place. If your old faucet nuts refuse to loosen up, try soaking the threads with penetrating oil.
- Clean the sink surface after removing the faucet.
For more details see the step by step video guide below
Other Helpful Guides on Kitchen Faucets:
How to Install a Kitchen Faucet
First of all, carefully go through the instruction manual provided by the manufacturer.
- Seal the new faucet in place. If you are using a rubber or plastic gasket, place it over the faucet holes in the sink. Alternatively, you can also apply plumber’s putty around the base of the faucet and set it in place.
- From below the sink, tighten the wing nuts to secure the faucet to the sink. If you have used plumber’s putty, wipe away the excess from underneath the sink.
- For a pull-down faucet, retract the pullout spray wand and attach weight to it. This will prevent it from getting tangled and will help it retract easily.
- Secure the mounting nuts and washer over the free ends of the supply tubes and the pullout wand.
- Attach the supply lines and shut off valves to the faucet from below. Do not over-tighten and be careful to connect the hot and cold water lines correctly.
- Attach the spray head to the free end of the pullout wand.
- Remove the aerator and turn on the water. Check for leaks and let the water run for a few minutes to clear the lines.
- Put the aerator back in place and your faucet is ready for use.
Still confused? Check out the step by step video guide