Faucet and Sink Installation Guide
Learn how to install kitchen and bathroom faucets. Covers single-handle, centerset, and widespread faucet types with detailed instructions.
Estimated Time
1-2 hours
Tools Required
7 items
Materials Needed
5 items
Installing a new faucet refreshes your kitchen or bathroom and is one of the more accessible plumbing projects for DIY homeowners. Whether replacing a leaky old faucet or upgrading to a modern touchless model, the installation process follows similar steps across most faucet types.
Faucet installation typically takes 1-2 hours and requires only basic tools. The trickiest part is working in the tight space under the sink, which is why a basin wrench becomes essential. Modern faucets with flexible supply lines have made installation much simpler than older models that required soldering copper pipes.
This guide covers bathroom and kitchen faucets including single-handle, centerset (4-inch spread), and widespread (8-inch spread) configurations.
Safety Precautions
- Turn off water supply valves before starting
- Place a bucket under work area to catch water
- Wear safety glasses when working under the sink
- Use a flashlight to see connections clearly
- Be careful of sharp edges on sink mounting hardware
Tools Required
- Basin wrench
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
- Pliers
- Flashlight
- Bucket
- Towels
Materials Needed
- New faucet
- Supply lines (if not included)
- Plumber's putty or silicone
- Teflon tape
- Mounting hardware (usually included)
Preparation
Count the Holes
Count how many holes your sink has and measure the distance between them. This determines which faucet you can install. Standard configurations are single-hole, centerset (4-inch), and widespread (8-inch).
Check Supply Lines
Look under your sink to identify what type of supply line connections you have. Most modern installations use flexible braided steel lines that connect with compression fittings.
Installation Steps
Remove Old Faucet
Turn off hot and cold water supply valves under the sink. Open the faucet to release pressure and drain remaining water. Place a bucket beneath the supply line connections.
Disconnect the supply lines from the faucet using an adjustable wrench or basin wrench. Use the basin wrench to reach the mounting nuts that hold the faucet to the sink. Once loose, lift the old faucet away.
Pro Tips:
- Take a photo of connections before disassembly
- Apply penetrating oil to stubborn nuts 15 minutes before removal
Clean the Sink Surface
Scrape away old putty, caulk, and mineral deposits from the sink surface where the faucet mounts. The surface must be clean for proper sealing. Use a putty knife and cleaner appropriate for your sink material.
Pro Tips:
- A plastic scraper prevents scratching the sink surface
Install New Faucet
Thread the supply lines through the mounting holes from above. If your faucet requires a gasket or plumber's putty, install it now according to manufacturer instructions. Most modern faucets come with a rubber gasket that sits between the faucet base and sink.
From underneath, thread the mounting hardware onto the supply lines or mounting studs. Hand-tighten, then use a basin wrench to snug the nuts. Don't overtighten - just firm enough that the faucet doesn't move.
Warning:
- Overtightening can crack porcelain or damage gaskets
Connect Supply Lines
Attach the supply lines to the shut-off valves. If using new flexible supply lines (recommended), hand-tighten the connections then add a quarter turn with a wrench.
Ensure you connect hot to hot (usually left side) and cold to cold (usually right side).
Pro Tips:
- Buy new supply lines - old ones often leak after being disturbed
Test for Leaks
Turn on the water supply valves slowly. Check all connections for leaks. Run both hot and cold water through the faucet for several minutes while checking underneath.
If you spot leaks, turn off the water and tighten connections slightly. If leaking persists, you may need to add plumber's tape to threaded connections.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not turning off water supply completely before starting
- Overtightening connections and damaging threads or gaskets
- Forgetting to install the faucet gasket or deck plate
- Crossing hot and cold supply lines
- Using old supply lines that may fail soon
- Not testing thoroughly for leaks before finishing
Tips and Tricks
- A basin wrench is essential for reaching tight spaces under sinks
- Take photos of your old setup as a reference
- Keep towels handy to mop up water
- Work slowly when tightening - you can always tighten more but can't undo damage
- Consider upgrading to a pull-down or touchless faucet while you're at it
When to Call a Professional
Consider professional help if:
- You need to drill new holes in your sink or countertop
- Supply valves are missing or need replacement
- You discover corroded or damaged plumbing
- The installation requires soldering copper pipes
- You're uncomfortable with the physical demands of working under the sink
Code Considerations
Faucet installation rarely requires permits but must meet plumbing codes:
- All faucets must have functional hot/cold mixing capability (where applicable)
- Faucets must meet WaterSense efficiency standards in some jurisdictions
- Supply lines must have shut-off valves
- Anti-scald protection may be required for shower/tub faucets
Maintenance Tips
Maintenance
- Clean aerator screens every 3-6 months to maintain flow
- Check for leaks at connections monthly
- Replace worn washers or cartridges at first sign of dripping
- Lubricate moving parts annually with plumber's grease
Cost Estimate
DIY Costs
- Basic bathroom faucet: $40-150
- Mid-range kitchen faucet: $100-300
- High-end touchless faucet: $200-600
- Supply lines: $10-25
- Total DIY: $50-625
Professional Installation
- Faucet installation labor: $150-300
Savings: DIY saves $150-300 in labor.
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