How to Install a Single-Handle Kitchen Faucet

Make sure your sink can accommodate a new single-handle faucet.

Installing a single-handle faucet in the kitchen sink adds aesthetic appeal and functionality, but before the installation begins, the sink must be checked to make sure it has the proper holes for the features on the new faucet. In particular, the sink must have a hole for a spray nozzle if applicable. Also check under the sink to make certain that the area is clear. The average homeowner can install the single-handle faucet in 30 minutes.

Things You'll Need

• Plumber's putty
• Thread seal tape
• Scissors
• Basin wrench
• Adjustable wrench
• Electrical tape
• Combination pliers

Instructions

1. Apply a thin ring of plumber's putty around each hole. Knead the putty in your hands and roll it into a thin band. Wrap the band of putty into a ring and place firmly around each sink hole.

2. Place a layer of thread seal tape around the hot and cold water connections on the new faucet. Wind the tape in a clockwise direction and overlap the end by 1/4 inch and snap the end off with scissors while holding your thumb over the tape on the pipe thread.

3. Attach the faucet base gasket onto the faucet. Make sure it is properly seated.

4. Place the single-handle faucet firmly in place in the holes of the sink to provide a good seal between the plumber's putty and the base of the faucet. Check the positioning of the faucet for center alignment.

5. Attach the faucet retaining nuts from under the sink and tighten them by hand until snug enough to hold the faucet in place. Check the alignment of the faucet again to ensure that it is square and centered in the sink and then tighten the retainer nuts with the basin wrench. Take care not to overtighten the retainer nuts.

6. Apply a thin ring of plumber's putty around the hole for the sprayer nozzle if applicable.

7. Install the sprayer nozzle base into its hole and tighten the retaining nut hand-tight if applicable.

8. Place the small end of the sprayer nozzle hose into the sprayer base and connect the hose, if applicable, to the appropriate fitting with the adjustable wrench.

9. Connect the house cold water supply line to the faucet cold water connection on the right side and tighten with the adjustable wrench. Take care not to overtighten.

10. Connect the house hot water supply line to the faucet hot water connection on the left side and tighten with the adjustable wrench. Take care not to overtighten.

11. Remove the aerator from the faucet by hand. If the aerator is tight, use electrical tape and wrap a few turns around each jaw of the combination pliers. This will prevent scratching or gouging of the finish as the aerator is loosened with the pliers.

12. Restore the water supply and open both hot and cold lines individually with the single handle to purge any sediment from the lines.

13. Shut the faucet off and check the supply line connections for leaks. Replace the aerator hand-tight.

References

• Bob Vila: How to Replace a Kitchen Faucet
• Home Tips: How to Install a Kitchen Faucet
• Ask the Builder: How to Install a Kitchen Faucet