Installing a new faucet can be an excellent way to refresh the look of your kitchen or bathroom and improve its functionality. Whether upgrading to a more modern design or replacing a faulty fixture, installing a new faucet can seem intimidating for many homeowners. Some basic preparation can help you navigate the process of making this upgrade.
Tip: Choose The Right Faucet
When selecting the perfect faucet for your home, it is essential first to understand the different types available on the market. From single-handle faucets with pull-out sprayers to elegant bridge-style fixtures, each offers unique features that cater to specific needs and preferences.
Before purchasing, consider how the new faucet will complement your home's style and serve its intended purpose. Consider factors such as room size, sink type, water pressure requirements, and whether hands-free operation may be beneficial.
Modern faucets have various features, such as water-saving technology, touchless operation systems, or built-in filters. When choosing a new faucet, prioritize features that align with your preferences and contribute positively towards functionality in daily use.
Tip: Shut Off The Water Supply
Before starting any plumbing work at home, including installing a new faucet, it is crucial to shut off your property's main water supply valve first. This valve is located near the main water line to your house.
Once you have turned off the main water supply valve, open up all taps in your home until no more water comes out. This step ensures that the pipes are completely drained and will prevent any unexpected water release during installation.
Double-check that no water is flowing through your pipes by reopening the taps before removing the old faucet. Double-check that the main valve has been fully closed if you notice any residual water flow.
Tip: Properly Remove The Old Faucet
Begin by disconnecting all supply lines connected to your old faucet using a wrench or pliers. Once disconnected, carefully remove any mounting hardware holding it in place before lifting it from its position on your sink or countertop.
If you encounter stubborn connections or corroded parts during this removal process, use penetrating oil to help loosen them up. Be patient and persistent when dealing with these issues, as forcing connections may cause damage to your plumbing system.
Tip: Test New Faucet For Functionality
After installing your new faucet according to its specific instructions, slowly turn on the main water supply valve while monitoring for leaks around all connections.
Inspect all areas where you have made new connections. This can include the supply lines and mounting hardware. Taking this step lets you confirm there are no visible leaks or drips. Address any issues immediately before moving on to test functionality.
Contact a local plumber to learn more about faucet installation.
When you have a plumber come work on your home, we hope you thank them. Really, you should be thanking any contractor who works on your home, but we are a little partial to plumbers and happen to think they deserve a little more recognition. After all, the stuff inside the pipes they work on doesn't usually smell very good. And even though they wear gloves, they have to get pretty close to it! If you would like to learn a little more about plumbers, then we invite you to read this blog. After learning the basics, you'll really want to thank your plumbers!