DIY Guide on Installing a Faucet
Do You Frequently Experience Faulty Faucets?
Faucets get faulty and need replacements. Sometimes, you just want to be handy and ignore professional help. By knowing how to either fix a faulty faucet or install a new one, you can save some money. At 4D Heating and Plumbing, their best plumbers can properly install a new faucet for you.
However, for the curious minds, this guide explains how to install a faucet.
STEPS TO INSTALL A FAUCET
Get the right tools:
Every good plumber has the right tool for the job. The good thing about faucets is that they do not require special plumbing tools. The materials required to fix a faulty faucet are fundamental materials.
- A bucket; to prevent water from spilling
- A standard wrench or pliers can do the work of the basin wrench.
- Plumber’s tape
- A plastic drop sheet; in the case of leakage.
- Plumber’s putty
- A faucet chosen from the hardware store.
Turn off the water:
Just below the sink, you will find an oval-shaped knob. By turning it clockwise, you should shut off the water supply. This knob is the shut-off valve. Note that the knob should not be extremely tight, and may need replacement if it is.
- Check to confirm that the supply lines are free from leaks. If the lines are leaking, they may need to be replaced as well.
- At the hardware store, check to confirm that the faucet is fully assembled. Most faucets come coupled, and some have inlet hoses attached to them.
Disconnect the supply lines:
With the standard wrench, disconnect the two lines — the hot water line and cold water line.
Remove the nuts:
There are between 1-3 nuts holding the old faucets, usually under the sink at the junction of the faucet and the counter. Using a wrench, remove the nuts.
Clean the area:
The putty knife is then used to remove any putty that will be found around the holes. After thoroughly cleaning the holes, wipe them dry.
Prepare for the new faucet:
Apply sealants around the holes. Wrap the plumber’s tape around the faucet’s threads at the point where it connects to the lines.
Insert the new faucet:
Now, insert the new faucets in the cleaned holes. Ensure that the faucet is properly aligned. After the faucet has been inserted, clean off any excess sealant by the sides of the hole.
Tighten the faucet:
Use your hands or pliers to ensure that the nuts are properly, but not overtightened. It is advisable to follow the instructions from the faucet manufacturer concerning the amount of nuts that need to be used.
Re-attach the supply lines:
Using the wrench, re-attach the supply lines to the faucet. Do ensure that there is no mix up of the two lines (hot and cold), so that you can connect the correct line to the correct temperature.
Test the connection:
To be sure that the connection is functioning correctly, slowly turn on the water and check for leaks. If you notice leaks, tighten the connection slightly and check again. Repeat until the desired result is achieved.
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You can reach out to an emergency plumber if you need a professional to carry out this task for you.
FAQs
A water supply line is sold in the store. When given a choice between stainless steel and colored plastic, choose the stainless steel type.
Shut off the main water supply to the building, then install a shut-off valve when installing the faucet.
Usually, faucets come with sealing gaskets. However, you can use a little amount of silicone if a leak is noticed after the installation.
Note that there are some cases where the old shut off valves are soldered. You may need to contact a Plumber in London for professional help, as you may not possess the right tools and skills for this installation. In case of difficulties or for the help of an expert, do ensure you reach out to us.