Faucets

to give your sink a quick and easy facelift? Install a new faucet . Follow these simple steps, and you'll be finished in no time. Before you buy a new faucet , see how many holes are currently in your sink or countertop to determine what style you need. We're showing a common setup of three holes with a 4-inch spread, which is designed for a center-set faucet . You may also see three holes with an 8-inch spread for a widespread faucet , or an individual hole for a single-stem faucet . Once you've brought your new faucet home, gather your tools. You'll need two adjustable wrenches, and a basin wrench, which is made to fit in tight spaces. Before you remove the old faucet , get to know the parts of your new faucet . Most models have mounting nets that secure the faucet to the sink, a lift rod, and possibly, a rubber gasket. Next, shut off the water supply to the faucet . Turn on the faucet to drain the line. To remove the existing faucet , unscrew the mounting nets and disconnect the supply lines from the shut-off valves. Once the old faucet is out, wipe away any residue. Some faucets have rubber or plastic gaskets for the seal. Others require a putty or silicone caulk around the base plate. For this step, follow the manufacturer's instructions. Insert the lift rod and ensure the knobs are in the 'off' position. Now, you're ready to connect everything under the counter. Under the sink, screw the mounting nets to the faucet and tighten them with a basin wrench. Connect the supply lines first to the faucet , and then to the shut-off valves, moving the lines to the back so they're not in the way. Before you turn the water back on, use one adjustable wrench to hold the shut-off valve in place, using the other to tighten the water line. Then, turn the water back on and allow it to run a few seconds to remove air from the supply lines and ensure there are no leaks. When the water is running smoothly, your new faucet is now ready to use.

-Is the dripping faucet driving you crazy? Before you call a plumber or replace it, you may be able to fix it by replacing a small part. Different faucets require different fixes depending on style and brand. Often, the cause of the dripping is a worn out part that is easily replaced. An older faucet may need a new rubber washer while newer models may require new seats and springs, a new cartridge, or a new stem. If you're unsure, your local hardware store or the faucet manufacturer can help. Start by shutting off the water supply under the sink. Turn on the faucet and drain the line. Cover the drain with a cloth to catch any small parts you may drop while you work. To see the parts you will need to replace, use an Allen wrench to loosen the handle screw and remove the handle. Unscrew the cap with an adjustable wrench. Tape the jaws of your wrench with painter's tape, so you don't scratch the faucet's finish. This faucet requires removing the metal stem and ball to remove the faulty seats and springs. Use the Allen wrench to remove these parts from inside the faucet . Take the originals with you to the hardware store to ensure you buy the correct replacement part. It's also smart to compare how much the replacement part will cost in relation to a brand new faucet . Some parts can cost almost as much as new faucet . Using the Allen wrench, insert the new seat and spring into the faucet . Reassemble, turn the water back on, and with any luck, the drip is gone.