Help with putting in a new kitchen faucet

[DisneyDotty]

Help please! The handle on our kitchen faucet just broke, and looks like it's up to me to replace it. Our house is 7 years old. Besides the obvious one of turning off the water first, any other tips for getting the job done right? I'm trying to avoid a call to the plumber, but will do so if y'all think it's not a do-it-yourself kinda job.
Thanks!

 

[ADisneygirl]

I've seen it done and while I guess it doesn't look that hard, I probably would mess it up! I do know that you have to buy a faucet that has the exact same type of layout -- if it has 2 handles ~ one for hot and one for cold, then you must get one like that. If you want to switch to a one handle or make any changes to the layout of the piece, you'll definitely need a plumber because it won't fit in the existing opening correctly.

You'll need a wrench, plumbers putty, plumbers tape, and ?? a man maybe? Good luck and let us know if you do it yourself how it turned out.

 

[jahexom]

You'll need all of the above mentioned items, except the man. (although they are nice to have around ) I've done a couple of faucets and they are not too hard. Let us know how it goes or ask again if you have specific questions. Good Luck.

Jen

 

[golfgal]

Most of the faucets you buy today are pre-assembled. The nice thing with the kitchen faucet is you don't need to mess with the pop-up thing like you would in a bathroom.

My only real advice is to make sure you use enough of the teflon tape to get a good seal around the faucet and the water supply line. It isn't hard to change them, just kind of a pain because you are working upside down. If you go to Lowe's or Home Depot or similar they will help you pick out everything you need and give you tips. I just changed DD's bathroom faucet. It took about 1/2 hour from start to finish.

 

[DisneyDotty]

Wow--you all are very encouraging. This will be my fun Friday night project. Wish me luck.

 

[BunsenH]

Clear our everything under the sink and put something on the floor that is even with the cabinet shelf. Your back will thank you. It's literally a pain to get at the connections, so take it easy.

The instructions with the new faucet will be very detailed (and in 3-4 languages!). Read....play with the new parts to see how they fit together......plan your attack.

I estimate 1-2 hours allowing for a couple mis-steps.

Good Luck and celebrate when you're done!