Deciding whether to repair or replace a leaking or damaged kitchen sink faucet yourself can be tricky. While it may save money over hiring a plumber, there are some things to consider first.
The first thing to determine is the extent of the sink faucet issue. Is it a minor sink faucet repair like adjusting the spray nozzle or handle? Or does the entire sink faucet need replacing? Replacing a worn-out faucet or one with internal damage often requires installing a new water tap and fixtures.
Minor repairs like replacing the aerators, hoses, and o-rings can be fairly straightforward if you have the plumbing experience. You can find repair kits around at most hardware stores. However, major water tap replacements tend to be more difficult for DIYers.
While water tap installation may seem straightforward, complications can arise. Ensure your new sink faucet is compatible with your existing sink holes and water connections. Take careful measurements first to avoid costlier mistakes. If you decide to do the installation for your kitchen water tap yourself, here are the main steps:
- Shut off the water supply. Locate the valve under the sink and turn it off to release the water pressure.
- Disconnect the supply lines. Detach the hot and cold supply lines from the faucet shanks using a wrench. Place towels to catch any remaining drops.
- Remove the mounting hardware and old faucet. Unscrew the mounting nuts and lift the old faucet off the counter.
- Install the new faucet and mounting hardware. Place the new faucet in position and hand-tighten the mounting hardware.
- Attach the water supply lines. Connect the hot and cold water lines to the faucet shanks and tighten them with the wrench.
- Turn the water back on and check for leaks. Run the water for a few minutes to make sure there are no leaks from valves or connections.
Before you decide to do it yourself, please keep in mind that minor sink faucet repairs are ideal for DIYers. But for water tap replacements, calling in a reputable plumber may be worth the investment for a professional installation.
In summary, unless you have plumbing experience and the right tools, hiring a plumber for major sink faucet replacements is often a safer option. A professional plumber can complete the job correctly and quickly to minimize disruptions.