How to Install a Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet

Faucets are the workhorses of the kitchen, and a faulty or outdated model can turn simple cleanup into a daily frustration. Upgrading to a pull-down model is one of the most effective ways to refresh the utility and aesthetic of your sink area without embarking on a full-scale renovation. Getting this right is all about accessibility and managing the limited space beneath your sink. When done well, the faucet sits perfectly flush against the countertop, the hoses move freely without snagging on pipework, and, most importantly, there isn't a single drop of water weeping from the connection points when you turn the valves back on.

  1. Kill the Water Supply First. Locate the hot and cold water shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise until tight. Open the faucet handle to bleed out remaining pressure and catch any residual water in a small bucket.
  2. Free the Old Faucet. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the supply line nuts from the shut-off valves. Then, use a basin wrench to unscrew the mounting nuts holding the old faucet assembly to the underside of the sink.
  3. Prep the Deck Perfectly. Lift the old faucet out from above and scrub away any mineral deposits, old caulk, or grime from the sink deck. A clean, smooth surface is essential for the new gasket to create a watertight seal.
  4. Seat the New Faucet. Feed the new faucet supply lines and the pull-down hose through the center hole of the sink. Ensure the rubber or plastic gasket is centered beneath the faucet base before it touches the sink deck.
  5. Tighten With Care. Slide the mounting bracket and washer onto the shank from underneath the sink. Thread the mounting nut onto the shank by hand, then tighten with a wrench until firm, ensuring the faucet does not wiggle.
  6. Connect the Supply Lines. Attach the supply lines to the shut-off valves and tighten the nuts firmly with your wrench. Install the provided counterweight onto the pull-down hose according to the diagram, ensuring it clears all pipes when the hose is extended.
  7. Test and Flush. Slowly turn on the shut-off valves and check every connection for leaks. Remove the aerator from the new faucet, turn on the water for one minute to flush out sediment, then replace the aerator.