Faucet Installation

Prep for Installation

Installing a faucet is a straightforward task provided that you abide by the steps mentioned here. Before installation, you require a faucet and before buying a new faucet you need to take a look underneath the sink to identify the type of faucet that you need to install. Essentially, the number of holes under the sink will decide which faucet can be installed. For instance, if there are 3 or 4 holes, a one-hole faucet can be installed by using a deck-plate. However, the vice-versa of this process is not possible meaning you can not install a 3 or 4 hole faucet in one-hole. The tools you will need are a wrench, plumber’s putty, plumber’s thread, and Teflon tape.

Shut the water off at the supply valves

If there is an old faucet, you will need a basin wrench to remove it. But before anything, don’t forget to shut the water off at the supply valves. The supply valves are generally located underneath the sink or basin. They control the supply of water from the mainline to the sink. Also, if there is any power to the disposal, turn it off. If you are not familiar with basic plumbing don’t perform the step as you may end up doing more harm than good. It is ideal to call a professional plumber.

Choose the right replacement faucet

When it comes to choosing the right faucet, the first thing to remember is that looks do not matter. The factors you should be looking for are convenience and long-term durability. The next thing you need to consider is the number of holes in the sink. Depending on the hole, you can determine which type of faucet you have to install. Next, determine the height and number of handles. These features define your comfort when using this faucet regularly. Also, if you want a faucet that is dip-free for a long tenure, look for one with ceramic valves. Finally, when you have selected the faucet, choose a color that matches nearby cabinets and furniture.

Select Faucet Features and Options

Selecting a faucet has become a difficult task due to the numerous options in the market. The variations in style, materials, colors, technology, and prices, make it even more imperative to choose the right one. The first thing to remember is do not compromise on the cost but remember not to overspend. A low-cost faucet is of low quality and high-cost faucet is just expensive. Do check for the material as it defines the life of the faucet. Choosing a faucet with ceramic valves is advised as it is void of dripping for a long time. Finally, look for a faucet that is easy to clean.

Installing a single hand faucet

A single hand faucet also known as a single lever faucet is most commonly used for the kitchen. As the name suggests, this faucet has only one handle which controls the water temperature. They offer a modern look to your kitchen and are easy to use. Installation of a single hand faucet is also easy. You just need a basin wrench to attach the faucet in the sinkhole. Before that, attach the water feed tubes to the pipe. Hot water is on the right and cold water on the left side. Depending on the type of faucet, you may have to attach a decorative plate. Following the instruction manual should be preferred.

Hot and cold valves

Hot and cold valves are used to control the temperature of the water exiting from the tap. Depending on your needs, you can either turn only a cold valve or only hot valve or both of them together to get the perfect temperature of the water. Generally, the cold water valve opens in the anti-clockwise direction and the hot water valve opens in the clockwise direction. However, in case the handles are horizontal, the cold water valve will open in the anti-clockwise direction and hot valve in the clockwise. These valves are usually included in a two-handle or three-handle faucet. Other than the direction of rotation, these valves are identical, providing opposite functionality.

Installing Two-Handle Faucet

Installing a modern two-handle faucet is not as difficult as you think. All you need is some plumber’s putty, pliers, and a wrench to get started. Before anything, shut off the valves to stop the water supply. Most of the installation is straight-forward and should be given in the manufacturer’s manual. Make sure the connections are tight and the right water supply is attached to the handles. In the last step, modern faucets come with a rubber gasket to attach the faucet perfectly with the sink. But, if there is no rubber gasket, you will need to apply plumber’s putty around the base of the faucet.

Anchor Two-Handle Faucet

Anchoring the two handle faucet needs to be done accurately. Usually, a two-handle faucet comes with anchoring nuts that have to be installed underneath the sink but if there is some other provision for anchoring. There may be different mounting hardware or hardware for thinner deck, check the manufacturer’s manual and follow the steps precisely. The key thing to remember while anchoring is before tightening the nuts or hardware, make sure that the faucet is lined properly. Also, don’t apply too much force while tightening as it may crack the surface. If it is possible, tighten the nuts with hands rather than a wrench.

Connect water supply lines

Identify the valves of the faucet and connect the water supply lines to the appropriate valves. Wrap the valves with thread and Teflon tape to make sure the connection is tight. Wrap it in the clockwise direction to follow the structure of the valve. Next, use your hands to twist the nuts on the valves and then use a wrench to tighten them. Repeat these steps for both the valves. As a precaution, make sure to safeguard the pipes when you are tightening the connections or you may harm the water supply.

Turn the water on

Once you have completely installed the faucet and are about to fix it with plumber’s putty or a rubber gasket, you should test the installation. Slowly turn on the water so that if there is a leak you can turn the water off and fix it before things become wet. When the water is supplied completely, look for any dripping near the connections. Tighten the valves with a wrench wherever there is water dripping. Remember that you can not apply much force as it will break the surface so if the water is still dripping, open the valve, apply Teflon tape and thread, and join it again.

Flush the lines

During the installation, a lot of dust and debris gets accumulated inside the pipes of the faucet. Therefore, it is suggested to flush the lines. For this, turn on the water supply if you haven’t already and rotate the handles of the faucet to let the water flow. You should unscrew the aerator present inside the faucet’s shaft. Depending on your faucet, you may do it with hand or with a tool in the package. Let the water flow out of the faucet for some minutes and then turn it off. Reattach the aerator. You can follow these steps regularly to clean your faucets and extend their life.

Installing the sprayer

If you want to install a sprayer, you can either buy a faucet with a side sprayer option or buy it separately. Place the rubber gasket and attach the sprayer on the fourth hole. You may require to apply a sealant such as plumber’s putty to attach it perfectly. You probably need an extra set of hands to hold it from the above while you screw the nuts below the sink. Next, connect the hose of the sprayer to the diverter of the faucet which is a valve under the spout assembly. You need to follow the instructions in the manufacturer’s manual to make this connection.

Faucet Replacement

How to replace the kitchen faucet

To replace a kitchen faucet, first, you need to identify which type of faucet you need. Look underneath the sink to determine the holes and choose the faucet accordingly. Next, turn the water supply off and remove the faucet with a wrench. You will need an adjustable wrench to disconnect the waterline. If any part seems old, replace it to prevent damage to your new faucet. Clean the surface properly before installing a new faucet. Follow the instructions in the manufacturer’s manual and attach the supply lines to the faucet. If your faucet comes with a rubber gasket then attach the gasket to the plate and attach the faucet to the sink. If there is no rubber gasket, apply plumber’s putty around the base perimeter of the faucet. Test all the connections by turning the water supply on. If the water is dripping from any valve, open the valve, use thread and Teflon tape, and reattach the valve.

How to replace bathroom faucet

Identifying the type of faucet that can be installed in your bathroom is the first step. Turn off the water supply and remove the old faucet to count the holes. Depending on the holes in the sink, you will need a single hole faucet for one hole, center spread faucet for three holes, and a split-set for six holes. If the drainpipe is old, replace it too. Now, for installing the bathroom faucet, follow the steps in the instruction manual. When you are replacing the old flange from the tailpipe, put silicone gel under it. It is imperative that you don’t exert too much pressure while tightening the valves or anchor nuts as it may break the surface. Allow the water to run through the faucet and clean the debris that may have accumulated during the installation. Check all the valves for any signs of dripping water and tighten them with a wrench.

Faucet repair

Expert plumbers

The plumbers at CJ Plumbing & Heating are hired after a rigorous process. They undergo thorough training before they are sent to your homes. Most of our plumbers possess rich experience of serving the residents of the greater Chicago area.

Transparent pricing

Our plumbers keep you notified every step of the way. They ask for your consent before any repair, replacement, or installation of the faucet. You don’t have to worry about any hidden charges as we provide transparent pricing. We suggest new parts only if they are completely necessary.

Quality parts

At CJ Plumbing & Heating, we strive for the quality of our parts. We provide modern solutions with maximum warranty. The parts we use come with advanced material, which is free from the traditional wear and tear problems, along with their high durability and endurance.

Customer Satisfaction Guarantee

Whether it is installation, repair, or replacement of a faucet in your kitchen or your bathroom, we offer unblemished services at reasonable prices. All of our services are followed by thorough testing for a lifelong product ensuring complete customer satisfaction.

CJ Plumbing & Heating provides comprehensive service for kitchen and bathroom faucets in your home. Just give us a call to get your faucets repaired or replaced in no time. We provide the fastest and cheapest service in the greater Chicago area. Our experienced and certified plumbers promise a high-quality service to our customers.