SUPPLIES
- Flashlight
- Penetrating oil spray
- Small adjustable wrench
- Medium pipe wrench
- Teflon plumber's tape
- Eye protection
- Two new water supply lines, measured to fit
Overview
You've decided to replace the old kitchen faucet, but now you're scratching your head trying to figure out how to do it. Replacing a kitchen faucet is a pretty straightforward project; all you'll need is a few common tools and a bit of elbow grease. Before you know it, your gleaming new faucet will be installed and you'll be pointing at it proudly proclaiming, "I did it myself!"
Faucet Removal
Step 1
Remove everything from the cabinet under the sink. This is your work area, and you'll need every inch of it.
Step 2
Turn off the water supply by turning the shutoff valves that are located near the floor of the cabinet. Turn on the faucet to release any water pressure remaining in the lines.
Step 3
Lie on your back in the cupboard and point a flashlight up where the faucet is located. You should see three water lines coming down with connections about 6 inches from the base of the sink. The two outside lines are the hot and cold water, and the center line is for your sink top sprayer.
Step 4
Disconnect each of the three lines using an adjustable wrench and being careful not to bang your knuckles. Wear safety glasses so the falling particles don't get in your eyes. If a connection is stubborn, spray it with penetrating oil to remove it easily.
Installation
Step 1
Slide the old faucet straight up from the sink and remove it from your work area. Pull out the old sink top sprayer and discard.
Step 2
Wrap each water line of the new faucet with a six inch piece of Teflon plumber's tape and then attach each new water line to the faucet. Tighten the connections with a wrench until they are snug. Gently squeeze the lines together until the new assembly slides easily into the hole on the sink where the faucet will be located. Thread the line of the new sprayer into its base so the sprayer rests in the holder and the line dangles below the sink.
Step 3
Unscrew the old water lines from the shutoff valves and discard them. Attach the new water lines to the shutoff valves, remembering to use the Teflon tape to ensure a waterproof seal.
Step 4
Attach the new sprayer to the connection under the sink, tightening as before.
Step 5
Turn on both water valves and check all connections for leaks. If there is a drip on a connection, tighten it one half turn until the leak has stopped.
TIPS AND WARNINGS
- TIP : If there is a discolored area where your old faucet was installed, you can restore the shine with a non-abrasive scrubber and some white vinegar.
Always replace the water lines when replacing a faucet, as they do not show obvious wear but tend to deteriorate from the inside out.
