How to Replace a Kitchen Faucet: Your Stress-Free DIY Guide
Struggling with a leaky or outdated kitchen faucet? Learn how to replace it yourself with our step-by-step guide. Save money and gain confidence in just a few hours!
Your kitchen faucet is the hardest-working fixture in your home. Leaks waste water and drive up bills, lime buildup reduces pressure, and broken handles make everyday tasks frustrating. Maybe it's just embarrassingly outdated. You want it fixed yesterday, but plumber quotes make you wince. Sound familiar? You're not alone - and you've got this.
That constant drip... the wobbly handle... or maybe it's just ugly. A bad kitchen faucet drives everyone nuts. Take a deep breath – you can fix this yourself! I'll walk you through replacing it safely and successfully, turning frustration into pride. Let's get your kitchen back in action.
Tools Needed
- Adjustable wrench: For supply line connections
- Basin wrench: Reaches tight nuts under the sink (game-changer!)
- Channel-lock pliers: Backup for tough nuts
- Screwdrivers (Phillips & flathead): For mounting hardware
- Flashlight/headlamp: See dark spaces under sink
- Bucket & towels: Catch water spills - trust me, you'll need these
Materials Needed
- New kitchen faucet: Match hole configuration (1, 3, or 4-hole)
- Plumber's putty OR silicone sealant: Creates watertight seal at base
- Braided stainless supply lines (20"): 3/8" compression to 1/2" FIP (upgrade from cheap plastic)
- Thread seal tape (Teflon tape): Prevents leaks at threaded joints
Solution (Beginner - 1.5 - 3 hours (depending on stubbornness of old parts))
Step 1: Cut Water Supply & Clear the Battlefield
Turn off both hot and cold shut-off valves under your sink (turn clockwise). No valves? Shut off main house supply. Open faucet to drain remaining water. Remove everything from under the sink - you'll need elbow room! Lay towels and position your bucket under connections.
⚠️ Warning: If shut-off valves don't move or leak, STOP. This requires a pro to avoid flooding.
Step 2: Disconnect Old Faucet Like a Pro
Use your basin wrench to disconnect supply lines from shut-off valves. Loosen mounting nuts holding faucet to sink deck (this is where basin wrench shines). Spray stuck nuts with penetrating oil if needed. Disconnect sprayer hose if present. Lift old faucet out from above. Tip: Take phone photos before disconnecting - your future self will thank you!
⚠️ Warning: Don't force corroded nuts - apply oil and wait 15 minutes. Forcing can break pipes.
Step 3: Prep the Sink Surface
Scrape off old putty or caulk from sink surface with a putty knife. Clean the area with vinegar or rubbing alcohol. A smooth, debris-free surface ensures your new faucet won't leak. Check manufacturer instructions - some faucets use rubber gaskets instead of putty.
⚠️ Warning: Avoid abrasive cleaners that could scratch delicate sink finishes.
Step 4: Install New Faucet & Secure
Insert faucet tailpieces through sink holes. Apply plumber's putty (roll into pencil-thin rope) or silicone around base if required. From below, hand-tighten mounting nuts, then give 1/4 turn with wrench. Connect sprayer hose if applicable. Pro tip: Feed supply lines through mounting plate BEFORE securing faucet - saves knuckle bruises!
⚠️ Warning: Overtightening cracks porcelain sinks or damages threads. Snug is enough!
Step 5: Connect Supply Lines & Test
Attach new braided supply lines to faucet tailpieces first, then to shut-off valves. Wrap Teflon tape clockwise around valve threads. Hand-tighten, then 1/4 turn with wrench. Slowly turn water back on. Check EVERY connection for leaks with paper towel - drips hide easily! Run water, test all functions and sprayer modes.
⚠️ Warning: Cross-threading causes leaks. Start nuts by hand to ensure straight alignment.
Pro Tips
- Buy extra supply lines - old ones often crumble during removal
- Choose a faucet with matching hole count to avoid deck plate issues
- Place a towel in the sink drain to catch dropped screws or nuts
- Apply Teflon tape 3-4 wraps clockwise (facing the threads)
- Turn on water SLOWLY after install to prevent pressure surges
When to Call a Professional
Call a plumber if: 1) Shut-off valves won't close or leak, 2) You discover corroded/broken pipes, 3) Mounting holes are damaged/stripped, 4) Persistent leaks after two repair attempts. Water damage costs far more than a service call!
Understanding the Problem in Detail
Faucets fail due to worn cartridges (causing drips), corroded valves (reducing pressure), or fatigued sprayer hoses. Hard water accelerates wear. Newer models offer better efficiency and features like pull-down sprayers - upgrading saves water and frustration.
Tools and Materials Guide
Basin wrenches ($10-$25) are non-negotiable for tight spaces - rent one if needed. Avoid plastic supply lines; braided stainless lasts longer. Plumber's putty ($3) works for most sinks; use silicone sealant ($6) for stone or composite. Faucets range from $80 (basic) to $500+ (professional-grade).
Safety Considerations
- CONFIRM water is off before disconnecting. 2) Wear safety glasses - debris falls downward. 3) Never place tools on drain pipes (they crack easily). 4) Support heavy cast iron sinks from below when tightening. 5) Turn off garbage disposal power at breaker.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Leaking base? Tighten mounting nuts evenly. Low pressure? Clean aerator (unscrew tip of spout). Sprayer not retracting? Check hose kinks under sink. Rattling pipes? Secure loose supply lines with pipe straps. Dripping handle? Replace cartridge (separate guide needed).
Maintenance and Prevention
- Clean aerator monthly. 2) Avoid hanging heavy items on sprayer. 3) Operate handles gently - no slamming! 4) Wipe mineral deposits weekly with vinegar. 5) Check under-sink connections quarterly for moisture.
Cost Analysis: DIY vs Professional
DIY Cost: Faucet ($80-$300) + supplies ($20) = $100-$320. Pro Installation: $225-$500+. Save $125-$250 doing it yourself. Invest savings in quality faucet - look for ceramic disc valves and solid brass construction.
Related Plumbing Problems
- Replacing sink sprayer 2) Fixing leaky shut-off valves 3) Unclogging faucet aerator 4) Removing mineral buildup 5) Upgrading dishwasher water line
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which faucet fits my sink?
Count the holes in your sink deck (usually 1, 3, or 4). Measure center-to-center distance for multi-hole setups. Most new faucets include a deck plate to cover unused holes - just match the hole count!
What if my supply lines won't disconnect?
Spray penetrating oil on threads, wait 15 minutes. Use basin wrench with steady pressure - no jerking! If they snap, shut off main water immediately. This is when you call a pro.
Why does my new faucet leak at the base?
Two likely culprits: 1) Mounting nuts need even tightening (don't overtighten!), or 2) Missing sealant. Turn off water, loosen nuts, add putty/silicone, and reseat.