When we think about the fixtures in our home that see constant use, few come to mind more frequently than our faucets. From filling a coffee pot in the morning to washing up before bed, they play a key role in daily life. So, when your faucets start showing signs of age—leaks, corrosion, or outdated style—it might be time for a replacement.
In this post, Brian will demonstrate the process of upgrading your faucets, sharing practical tips and potential hurdles along the way.
Understanding Your Faucet System
Before we jump into installation, it helps to understand the basic components of your faucet system. Most modern faucets, especially those from reputable brands like Kohler, come with:
- Handles: Separate hot and cold controls or a single lever for temperature adjustment.
- Spout: The main water outlet.
- Water Supply Lines: Connecting the faucet to your home's plumbing system.
- Adapter/Mixer: The mechanism that blends hot and cold water for a consistent flow.
Whether you're dealing with a bathroom or kitchen faucet, most models share similar internal structures. Once you have confirmed you have all of the necessary parts, it’s time to for out with the old, and in with the new.
Step 1: Prepping for Removal
Clear the Space
Under-the-sink spaces can become cluttered with cleaning supplies, towels, and household essentials. Before diving in, clear everything out to give yourself room to work. Trust me, you'll appreciate the extra space once you're twisting wrenches and navigating tight corners!
Shut Off the Water Supply
Water shutoff valves should be located underneath the sink. You'll usually find one for hot and one for cold water. Turn both off completely. To ensure the supply is disconnected, open the faucet up top to release any remaining pressure and drain excess water.
Gather Your Tools
For smooth removal and installation, keep the following on hand:
- Crescent wrench or pliers
- Basin wrench (for hard-to-reach nuts)
- Bucket (to catch water drips)
- Rubber gloves (to protect your hands)
- Plumber’s putty (to prevent leaks)
Step 2: Removing the Old Faucet
Disconnect the Water Lines
Using pliers or a wrench, carefully detach the water lines leading from the wall to your faucet. Be prepared for some leftover water in the lines, so place a bucket underneath to catch any spills.
Loosening Corroded Fixtures
Older faucets can be stubborn due to corrosion. If you encounter resistance, applying WD-40 can loosen metal connections. Allow a few minutes for it to work before trying again.
Removing Mounting Nuts
Using a basin wrench, locate and loosen the nuts securing the faucet underneath the sink. Once loose, you can unscrew them by hand. The cramped space may make this a bit of a challenge—but stay patient.
Lift the Faucet Out
With all connections loosened, pull the faucet straight up from the sink. If it’s stuck due to old plumber's putty, use a plastic scraper to clear residue before lifting.
Step 3: Installing the New Faucet
Preparing the Sink Surface
With the old faucet removed, clean off any leftover plumber's putty or debris. A smooth surface ensures a better seal for the new fixture.
Plumber’s Putty: A Leak-Proof Barrier
Before installing the new faucet, apply a thin, even layer of plumber’s putty around the base of each handle and the spout. This prevents leaks and ensures a secure fit.
What’s Plumbers Putty?
If you’re curious what plumber’s putty is - well, it is a flexible, moldable sealing compound used in plumbing installations to create a watertight seal. It’s commonly applied around faucet bases, drains, and other fixtures to prevent leaks. Unlike silicone sealant, plumber’s putty remains soft and pliable over time, making it easy to remove or reposition if necessary.
Key Features of Plumber’s Putty
- Water-resistant: Helps seal fixtures against leaks.
- Non-hardening: Stays flexible, allowing adjustments.
- Easy to apply and remove: Unlike caulk, it doesn’t dry out or require cutting for removal.
- Not adhesive: It won’t permanently bond surfaces together.
When to Use Plumber’s Putty
- Sealing sink drains and faucets.
- Installing shower drains or bath fixtures.
- Creating a waterproof barrier around plumbing joints.
When NOT to Use Plumber’s Putty
- On porous materials like marble or granite (it can cause staining).
- In high-pressure applications (silicone or other sealants may be better).
- For bonding or filling large gaps.
Securing the New Faucet
Different brands have varied installation methods, but the general process includes:
- Positioning handles and spout: Align them correctly before securing.
- Attaching washers and fasteners: Kohler faucets, like this one, use washers and threaded fittings tightened with screws.
- Tightening the setup: Using a wrench, ensure connections are snug but not overly tight.
Step 4: Connecting Water Supply
Reinstalling Water Lines
Attach the hot and cold water supply lines, tightening them by hand first, then securing with pliers.
Turning Water Back On
Turn the shutoff valves slowly, allowing the system to refill without stress.
Checking for Leaks
Run the faucet for a few minutes while inspecting the connections. If no leaks appear, congratulations—you’ve successfully installed a brand-new faucet!
Troubleshooting & Tips
- If leaks occur, double-check connections and tighten fittings slightly.
- Every plumbing project is unique—don’t hesitate to call a professional if you hit unexpected challenges.
- Enjoy your upgraded space—a fresh faucet can make a noticeable difference in your kitchen or bathroom’s appearance!
For more bathroom improvements, read about Ron’s 5 affordable and Easy Bathroom Upgrades!
