Do I Need a Plumber to Replace a Faucet?

Most faucets are a simple replace. They require minimal tools, and depending on the faucet brand or type, cost can be under $100 dollars. A plumber isn’t always needed to replace a faucet if you happen to have the proper tools to assemble and disassemble, however, a plumber will have no trouble removing/installing more complex faucets within an hour. For the removal and installation of a faucet minimal tools are required. An adjustable nut wrench and channel lock pliers can cover multiple tasks.

Step One: Removing your old faucet

• Before disassembling your faucet make sure the main water line to your home is shut off. (shut-off valves should be closed off too)
• Generally, most faucets are held into place by using nuts and washers; to gain access to these parts you will have to go under your sink.
• Once under the sink unscrew the valves, if your sink has any, and begin to unscrew the nuts and washer holding down the faucet. Over the years water can build up between your faucet and countertop, so do not worry if you happen to witness some water falling on the countertop.
• If properly removed you should be able to lift the faucet from the countertop without any complications. Once removed you’ll notice your countertop now has holes that used to hold the faucet in place. The number of holes will help you determine which faucet will fit best in on your countertop.
• The best and easiest solution to buying a replacement faucet is taking the old faucet to the hardware store, and buying one with similar features

Step Two: Installation of your new faucet

• Before installing the new faucet, make sure a rubber washer is placed between the faucet and countertop. This will prevent the flow of water from entering the countertop holes and act as a sealant. Newly purchased faucets should have this piece in the packaging.
• When the faucet is placed over the countertop, go under the sink to screw the nuts and washer that will hold the faucet in place
• If your faucet had shut-off valves, reattach those as well, then turn on the main water line and turn on the faucet. If water flows out of the faucet while in the on position, and shuts-off with no leak in the off position the faucet is properly installed.

The instructions above can help with most generic faucets, however some faucets have a small extendable hose which can complicate removal and installation. On other occasions, the faucet looks correctly installed, but it is leaking while in the off position. Lastly, an issue can occur that damages the shut-off valves which will require additional repair. A plumbing professional is highly recommended when managing more complex faucets.

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