1-      Prepare the Area & Have your Tools Ready

Before you start the removal or installation process, get the area ready for your DIY project. Clear out all contents underneath your kitchen sink and make sure there is enough space to work. As well, make sure to have a towel and bucket ready for any leakage or spills that may occur during the process.

As for tool preparation, most faucets just require an adjustable wrench, but it’s always a good idea to have additional tools such as plyers, channel locks and vice grips handy in case you need them. Also have penetrating oil nearby such as WD-40 to loosen any rusted or corroded parts.

2-      Disconnect your existing faucet.

The first step to installing a faucet is to disconnect the old one. Make sure the water is shut off at that sink, and begin dismantling the unit. Your oil may come in handy during this step, as the bolts and threads can often become seized over time. Once everything is disconnected, clean off any residue or staining that may have occurred over time on the surface of the sink and take the time to analyze all other piping to make sure it is in good shape to be connected to your new faucet.

3-      Pick out the kitchen faucet

Once you have the old faucet off, head to your local hardware store and choose the kitchen faucet you wish to replace it with. You may already have a faucet picked out, but make sure it will fit with the number of holes you have in your sink. For simplicity, you’re going to want the new faucet to take up the same number of holes as your old one. If your new faucet uses a different amount of holes, you may have to replace the sink altogether or drill holes to accommodate additional plumbing features.

4-      Install your new faucet

Once you have your new faucet ready, connect the supply lines to the appropriate hot and cold pipe fitting and prepare to seat the faucet body on to the sink and secure tightly. During this step, make sure that your supply lines connecting to your new faucet are in good shape. If you notice cracking, rusting or corrosion on the existing supply lines, make sure to replace them. You don’t want any leakage, and you want this installation to last as long as possible before having to do any further repairs, so changing these lines is always a good rule of thumb.

5-      Turn on the Water & Check for Any Leaks

Once everything is sealed, tightened and ready for use, turn on the water and check for leaks. Keep a bucket underneath all pipes just in case any water escapes, and tighten where necessary. It’s always best to use plumbing tape on top of all threads to make for the best possible seals.  If there aren’t any leaks, and your hot and cold water is working properly, you are ready to use your new kitchen faucet for many years to come!