How to Replace a Kitchen Faucet Yourself

Replacing a kitchen faucet takes 1-2 hours and involves shutting off water, disconnecting the old faucet, and installing the new one with basic plumbing tools.

1. Stop Water Before You Start. Turn off both hot and cold water shut-off valves under the sink by rotating them clockwise. If you can't find shut-off valves or they don't work, turn off the main water supply to your house. Turn on the faucet to drain any remaining water from the lines.
2. Unhook the Old Lines. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts connecting the supply lines to the faucet. Have a bucket ready to catch any water that spills out. If the connections are corroded, apply penetrating oil and let it sit for 10 minutes before trying again.
3. Access the Hidden Hardware. From underneath the sink, locate the mounting nuts that secure the faucet to the countertop. Use a basin wrench or adjustable wrench to loosen these nuts counterclockwise. This is often the trickiest part due to tight spaces, so take your time and use a flashlight if needed.
4. Extract and Clean the Sink. Once the mounting nuts are removed, the faucet should lift straight up and out of the sink holes. Clean around the holes thoroughly, removing any old plumber's putty or debris with a putty knife and damp cloth.
5. Get the New Faucet Ready. Read the manufacturer's instructions for your specific faucet model. Apply plumber's putty around the base of the new faucet if required, or use the rubber gasket provided. Some modern faucets come with everything pre-assembled.
6. Secure the New Fixture. Lower the new faucet through the mounting holes from above. Make sure it sits flush and straight. From underneath, thread on the mounting nuts and tighten them snugly with your basin wrench, but don't overtighten as this can crack the sink.
7. Reattach Water Supply. Attach the hot and cold supply lines to the appropriate faucet connections. Hand-tighten first, then use a wrench to snug them up. The hot line typically goes to the left side when facing the faucet. Don't overtighten as this can damage the fittings.
8. Verify Everything Works. Turn the water supply back on slowly and check for leaks under the sink. Turn on the new faucet and test both hot and cold water flow. If you notice any drips, turn off the water and slightly tighten the connections until the leak stops.