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In numerous cases, it becomes essential to replace your kitchen faucet. Sometimes a leaking faucet becomes a problem, or you want to upgrade your kitchen. A new faucet makes it affordable and easy to update a kitchen. Fortunately, you can Replace Kitchen Faucet with some critical tools. You will need these tools and materials:
- Adjustable wrenches
- Basin wrench
- Putty knife
- Small bucket
- Supply lines
- Kitchen faucet
- Tape of plumber
- Silicone caulk
The challenging part of replacing your kitchen faucet is removing an old faucet. You have to prepare yourself for unexpected problems such as corroded pipes, tough nuts and lack of access to fittings. It is not complicated to install a new faucet. Here are some simple instructions for your assistance.
Preparations Before Buying a Faucet
If you want to replace the faucet in the current sink, look under the sink to see the number of holes. You may find 1 to 4 holes. It will determine the faucet type that may work with a sink. A faucet with one hole may be easy to install in a sink with 3 to 4 holes by installing one deck plate.
Purchase necessary hardware from a hardware store to save time. If your sink does not have shutoff valves to feed the faucet, you have to buy shutoff valves. In case you already have these valves, make sure they are correctly working to supply cold and hot water.
Sometimes, the dripping problem is solved by changing or adding the shutoff valves. If your faucet is still leaking, you will need a new faucet. With a copper supply pipe, you can add solderless valves for compression fitting to a shopping list.
Moreover, if you need supply tubes, measure the current tubes and purchase new steel-sleeved stainless steel supply tubes. They are designed for rupture-free services and may be routed around different obstacles.
You will also need a basin wrench; therefore, include it in your shopping list. It is necessary to remove the old faucet and complicated fasteners. Remember, spring-loaded jaws of the wrench will help you to tighten or loosen nuts under challenging spaces.
Tips to Replace Kitchen Faucet
If you want to replace a kitchen faucet, remove the old one. Unplug a garbage disposer and shut off the breaker for a circuit in the service panel if it is wired directly. Disconnect the discharge line of the dishwasher and put a 1-gal. Release a disposer by tapping the remaining ring with one hammer in counterclockwise directions.
Once you pull out the cleansers, old vases and buckets, go down and see if you can easily access the faucet. If you find it challenging to access faucet, dismantle everything that is coming in your way. Some significant obstacles can be P-traps and pipes responsible for draining the sinks. You can pull them out and buy a new one to replace them.
Before removing the old faucet, it is crucial to disconnect the main supply lines of water. Make sure to turn off the valves and use a basin wrench to remove the old faucet. If you find it challenging to loosen nuts of old faucet, do not worry and try to use penetrating oil to soak the threads. Try to remove nuts again and if you are unsuccessful, pull out the sink and stops to get the nuts. Sometimes, you can use a utility knife to make nuts lose.
Install a New Faucet
- After removing an old faucet, you are ready to install a new one. Put the plastic or rubber gasket or trim ring on the holes of faucet in a sink and set your deck plate. Make sure to see the instructions of the manufacturer before using putty of plumber or caulk for gasket installation.
- Feed faucet lines in a hole and install nuts and washers beneath your sink. To use putty of plumber or caulk for a trim ring or gasket installation, wipe away extra beneath the sink. For a pull-down faucet, you can attach a quick-connect hose to supply pipes. Carefully pull down a hose and attach its weight.
- Connect supply lines of water and use a tape of a plumber if needed. You should not over tighten the connections of the supply line. Turn on the water slowly and evaluate your faucet for leaks. If necessary, you can make connections tight.
- Remove an aerator from your faucet. Slowly turn on the water and let it flow without aerator for some minutes. It will help you to make all the lines clear. Once done, recheck each point for leaks for necessary readjustments. Turn off the faucet and replace its aerator.
Selection of the Best Faucet
If you are purchasing a faucet, you can consider your budget. Remember, cheap faucets, such as less than $100, may have chrome-plated construction with valves and seals. They may be sufficient for light-duty uses remember, these will not stand up frequent and prolonged uses in the kitchen sink.
Expensive faucets feature brass solid bodies with washerless controls and durable plating. You will get leak-free services for several years. Some faucets are available with a lifelong warranty. Remember, quality of faucet will increase consistently with the increase in price. If you are ready to spend more than $200, you will get a durable and stylish faucet for your kitchen.
How to Remove Kitchen Faucet Without Basin Wrench?
Final Verdict
No doubt, you can Replace Kitchen Faucet without any professional assistance. Make sure to arrange essential tools and materials to remove all components of a faucet without hurting your hands. If your back is aching, you can use a plywood scrap to avoid discomfort.
A small plywood sheet in the cabinet will save you from pain and discomfort. Carefully follow the connections before removing the old faucet. After removing an old faucet, you can easily install a new one. You have to pay attention while purchasing a new faucet. It is essential to note the total holes in your sink, the distance between holes and the style of your sink.
After purchasing the right faucet, it will be easy for you to install a new kitchen faucet. If you find it challenging to manage this project at any point, call professionals for your assistance.
