Kitchen Faucets, How to Install a Kitchen Faucet

Here’s How to Install a New Kitchen Faucet

Materials:

• new faucet
• adjustable wrench
• basin wrench
• bucket
• rags

Steps:

1. Clear the area under the sink and turn off the water supply.
Begin by removing all items from under the sink, and shutting off the water supplies.

2. Disconnect the water supply lines.
Using an adjustable wrench, disconnect the water supply lines just above the shut off valves. The water in the lines will leak, so have a bucket or rag handy.

3. Loosen and remove the faucet nut.
Under the counter and below the faucet is the faucet nut. Loosen and remove this nut. A basin wrench is perfect for this job and is highly recommended for this hard to reach spot.

4. Remove the old faucet.
Lift and remove the old faucet from above, and any hoses connected. Also remove the old cover plate, if any.

5. Install the new cover plate (optional) and faucet.
If your old faucet or countertop has 3 holes, you will want to use the cover plate included with the new faucet to cover these holes. If your counter only has 1 hole, you can skip installing the cover plate. Feed the new faucet hoses through the hole (and cover plate if using) and place onto the countertop.

6. Install the new faucet nut and tighten.
From underneath, you will need to slip the faucet nut over the hoses and thread it onto the underside of the faucet. Again, a basin wrench is great for this step. Alternatively, some new faucets include a tool for this job.

7. Connect the pull-out hose (optional).
Depending on the model of the new faucet, install and connect the pull-out hose (if any). This may include a counter-weight as well. Follow the manufacturer’s directions.

8. Reconnect and tighten the water supply lines.
Reconnect the water supply lines and tighten with a wrench.

9. Turn on the water supply.
Make sure the faucet is off. Turn on the water supply, but do not run any water through the faucet yet.

10. Remove the aerator and clear the lines.
Unscrew and remove the aerator on the faucet. It may be easier to unscrew the entire head of the pull-out. Slowly turn on the water and run both hot and cold through the faucet for a few moments. This clears any debris from the lines.

11. Reattach the aerator and test for leaks.
Reattach the aerator. Run water and look for leaks around faucet, as well as undersink, and around the shut-off valves.