How to Install a New Faucet Easily

There are a number of reasons why you may need to install a new faucet like replacing a leaking one or improve the appearance of your bathroom or kitchen for example. You may also consider the possibility of changing faucets because of higher efficiency. Regardless of the reason, it is good to know that this can be done in a quick and easy way. Check it out.

Removing the Old Faucet

The easiest way to remove the old faucet is to cut it out. Why? If your home is considerably old and no changes have been done to your plumbing system, chances are your pipes, nuts, and other components holding the faucet to the sink are all corroded. This means that you cannot even use a basin wrench to pry it loose; so your best bet is to cut it off.

You can also cut off the nuts instead of just the faucet. You should use a rotary or oscillating tool with metal-cutting disc or blade. The cut should be made on one side of the nut and pry the nut away using a screwdriver. This should separate the faucet from the body. Remove the other parts like the pop-up drain assembly before installing the replacement.

Installing the New Faucet

To easily install the new faucet, you will need a basin wrench. This allows you to do the installation in the most cramped areas like at the back of the sink for example. This wrench can also be used to connect the supply lines to your new faucet. Check if your new faucet includes a wrench or other tools that will allow its installation without using the basin wrench.

Newer faucets have some type of gasket that will help improve the seal between the sink and the faucet. This ensures that water will not get under the faucet to create corrosion or damage cabinets and countertops. Despite these gaskets, it will be wise to apply clear silicone caulk between the bottom of the gasket and that of the faucet. This ensures better adhesive and improved seal that will prevent leaks and loosening of the connection nuts. Make sure that you clear away excess silicone with paper towel.

Upgrading Supply Lines

Before, connecting supply lines to new faucets was extremely challenging. However, with the braided jackets that use built-in gaskets on each end, connecting to new faucets have become foolproof. These newer style supply lines may cost more than the old ones, but, the simplicity they bring makes the price worth it.

When upgrading the supply lines you can finger tighten the nut to get an effective seal. Just a half-turn with the wrench will complete the connection. The important thing to remember when upgrading your supply lines is to measure the length of line you need. It would be better if you buy newer faucets that include supply lines with the packaging.

To make sure you have the right length you have to measure starting from the underside of the sink where the faucet should connect to the shutoff valve. You must add a few inches to avoid stretching the line. If you have supply lines packaged with your new faucet that are not long enough, you can buy extensions from the home center. You just need to make sure that they have the same threads and connectors.

Checking the Aerator

Almost all newer faucets come with an aerator. Even if this is a new faucet, you have to make sure that the aerator is clean and free from debris that can result in clogging. Knowing how to remove and clean the aerator would be extremely useful when the faucet gets a bit older. Most of the time, decreased water pressure can be traced to clogged aerators. Unscrew the aerator using a counterclockwise motion. Some newer aerators require a special tool that comes with the faucet to remove it.

Always check for leaks after installing your new faucet. If there are leaks after determining that the connections are all good, call a plumbing contractor for a faucet repair immediately to ensure that the problem does not become worse.