## How to Install a Kitchen Sink Faucet
Installing a kitchen sink faucet is a relatively simple plumbing project that can be completed in a few hours. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can easily replace your old faucet with a new one.
### Materials You’ll Need
* New kitchen sink faucet
* Adjustable wrench
* Plumber’s putty
* Teflon tape
* Basin wrench
* Flashlight (optional)
### Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
Before you start working on the faucet, turn off the water supply to the sink. There are typically two shut-off valves located under the sink, one for the hot water and one for the cold water. Turn both valves clockwise until they are completely closed.
### Step 2: Disconnect the Old Faucet
1. **Remove the aerator.** Use a wrench to remove the aerator, which is the small screen attached to the end of the faucet spout.
2. **Disconnect the supply lines.** Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts that connect the supply lines to the faucet. The supply lines are the flexible hoses that bring hot and cold water to the faucet.
3. **Remove the mounting nuts.** Use a basin wrench to loosen the mounting nuts that hold the faucet in place. The mounting nuts are located under the sink.
### Step 3: Install the New Faucet
1. **Apply plumber’s putty.** Roll out a small amount of plumber’s putty into a rope and place it around the base of the new faucet. The plumber’s putty will help to seal the faucet and prevent leaks.
2. **Insert the faucet into the sink hole.** Carefully insert the new faucet into the sink hole. Make sure that the plumber’s putty is sealing the faucet around the edges.
3. **Tighten the mounting nuts.** Use a basin wrench to tighten the mounting nuts under the sink. Tighten the nuts until they are snug, but do not overtighten them.
4. **Connect the supply lines.** Hand-tighten the nuts that connect the supply lines to the faucet. Use an adjustable wrench to tighten the nuts further, but again, do not overtighten them.
5. **Install the aerator.** Screw the aerator onto the end of the faucet spout.
### Step 4: Turn On the Water Supply
Turn on the water supply to the sink and check for leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the nuts that connect the supply lines to the faucet.
### Step 5: Test the Faucet
Turn on the faucet and let the water run for a few minutes. Check for any leaks and make sure that the water is flowing smoothly.
### Troubleshooting Tips
* **Faucet is leaking from the base.** Make sure that the plumber’s putty is sealing the faucet around the edges. You may need to apply more plumber’s putty and tighten the mounting nuts.
* **Faucet is leaking from the handle.** The handle may need to be tightened. Use a wrench to tighten the set screw that is located on the handle.
* **Faucet is not flowing smoothly.** The aerator may be clogged. Remove the aerator and clean it with vinegar or a mild detergent.
* **Faucet is making a noise.** The faucet may be damaged or there may be debris in the water lines. Contact a plumber if the noise persists.
### Additional Tips
* If you are not comfortable working with plumbing, it is best to hire a licensed plumber to install the faucet for you.
* Make sure that you purchase the correct faucet for your sink. Faucets come in a variety of sizes and styles, so it is important to measure your sink before you purchase a new faucet.
* Use Teflon tape on the threads of the supply lines to help prevent leaks.
* If you need to use a flashlight, be careful not to drop it into the sink.
By following these instructions, you can easily install a kitchen sink faucet and enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done.