Time To Replace Your Kitchen Faucet?

It may seem like swapping out that old faucet for a new one is an easy task. Sometimes it can be. Other times, not so much.

If you’ve got an old faucet in your kitchen and it’s time to replace it, here are few tips to help you through the process.

Match the faucet to your sink configuration

If your current faucet mounts on the sink (as opposed to the wall), it’s important to know how many holes you have and how far apart they are so you can properly match the footprint of the old one.

You’ll either have one, two, or three holes in your sink. And it will be center-set or widespread.  Sometimes, in our excitement to pick out that new faucet, this gets overlooked and you end up taking another trip back to the store to get the right type.

If you’re replacing the sink you just need to be sure the new faucet matches the hole configuration.

Remove the old faucet

This can be tougher than it looks simply because of limited access underneath the sink. 

If the garbage disposal is blocking access underneath the sink, you’ll need to turn off power at the circuit breaker to the unit and unplug it before disconnecting. 

Once you get underneath the sink, be prepared to encounter old corroded connections or nuts that are difficult to reach nuts that can make removing the old faucet a bit more difficult. 

Some older sinks may not have shut-off valves so you’ll want to add these in when you replace the sink. Water supply lines should also be replaced as they can wear out over time. 

Have the right tools ready

You will need a basin wrench – a key item in any plumber’s toolbox – but not always something you have in your tool kit.

Tools to have handy

• Screwdrivers
• Adjustable wrench
• Hammer
• Handsaw
• Pipe wrench
• Slip joint pliers
• Tube cutter
• Wrench set

Other items you’ll need:

• Braided stainless steel supply tubes
• New faucet
• P-trap
• Sandpaper
• Shut-off valves

Do the work when hardware stores are open

There’s nothing worse than being in the middle of a job and realizing you need another item from the hardware store. It’s always a good idea to tackle these projects when that last-minute trip to the hardware store can help you finish the job.

Take pictures for reference

In the excitement to get started on a job, it’s easy to begin disconnecting things underneath the sink and then forgetting their original positions. It’s helpful to take pictures before you begin disconnecting things so you always have a reference point when you start reconnecting the new faucet. 

Have someone who can help

When you’re ready to install the new faucet, you’ll need someone above the sink holding the faucet in place. This will ensure that it is aligned properly when you tighten it down from underneath the sink.

Need help installing a new kitchen faucet? Call the experts at Agentis. We’re ready to help.