Faucet Installation
In today’s world, dealing with DIY is easier than ever. Many manufacturers have developed the typical faucet for a handy layman to install themselves in just a few simple steps without going under the tap!
It gets recommended that you have some knowledge when installing your faucet. But, there aren’t single-size faucet installation guides there. At a minimum, you should consult your plumber in the area for instructions. While we would recommend asking an authorized plumber to install the tap, there are some general suggestions for doing this yourself.
Get Rid of the Old Faucet
The first step of installing any appliance is removing the previous device. Faucets are likely to be mounted quite tight and may be nearly impossible to draw using a standard basin wrench.
If you’re working on your own or being directed by a professional, the following steps require skill and stamina. Cutting the nut with a rotary tool or a metal cutting blade may be the easiest way to solve the faucet’s limitations if you do not like the previous model.
If you’ve cracked the nut, then use a screwdriver to remove the nut and any other parts that are more durable out of the way.
A basin wrench can be a helpful tool many artisans use when working in difficult areas. Basin wrenches are handy when accessing tight spaces behind toilets and sinks. If you’re comfortable enough to get rid of the bathroom by cutting off its base’s nuts, you’ll be able to employ the basin wrench. It is sure to help later in the process of installing your faucet. The majority of basin wrenches can get purchased at any local hardware retailer.
Mounting Your New Faucet
In the case of most fixtures that require water, like the faucet or toilet, typically, there is an accumulation of water that could cause corrosion to the appliance. In addition, it could make the water corrode both the device and the cabinet or counter it’s sitting on top.
Many modern faucets come with a gasket to seal the faucet’s body, and the sink’s to avoid this from happening during installation. In addition, it gets recommended to add an inch of clear silicone caulk on the bottom of the tap and a gasket to create an excellent secure seal. It acts as a sealing material and keeps all water entering the appliance. After applying the silicone, clean any remnants using a paper towel or a rag.
Supply Line Improvements
With many of the latest faucets available, it is good to use a supply line connector with gaskets and braided jackets integrated to provide secure connections. In the past, connecting the supply lines to the new faucet was your installation’s most challenging and complex component.
When you install a modern faucet, going that extra mile to purchase the latest style connector will be a big help. Making sure nuts get tightened can be a grueling and challenging task.
With the brand new supply line connector, you thread it around a finger width and then apply a half-turn for tightening the seal using the help of a wrench. The convenience of not installing it traditionally gives you an iron-clad installation and will save you time!
The length of the line you provide is one of the most crucial factors. Some faucets have cookie cutters and only give the required size to shut off valves. Make sure you measure from the tap to your valves precisely to ensure enough space. You can also purchase extensions as required.
Shutting Off Valves
For any plumbing installation, it gets highly recommended to shut off the valves to ensure that there aren’t any leaks throughout the process. If you’re facing the shutoff valve getting stuck, it is possible to loosen the packaging nut. It will release any tension on the stem and let the valve move more freely. It is essential to tighten the valve’s stern to stop leaks.
There will likely be many debris and minerals released when you release the pipes within your system for all plumbing services. Minerals and debris build up over time. However, they can eliminate provided adequate precautions get taken.
To prevent this, you must remove the aerator before turning the water off after installation. The aerator is the perforated plastic cover located on the top of the faucet. To take it off, turn it counterclockwise, and it will come off entirely on its own.
Specific faucets are more complex in comparison to others. Therefore, make sure to speak to your local plumber when you are in a jam. It is better to handle the faucet installation correctly rather than trying to do it yourself!
Save Your Parts
The faucet you choose to install is likely to come with an instruction manual and the various tools and parts you’ll require for installing it. The most common practice for anyone attempting to do it themselves is putting all the equipment and components inside a plastic freezer bag. Keep it close to the sink in case of any issues that could arise following your plumbing installation.
It can help you save many hours on the road, fumbling through your toolbox and looking for missing parts that you may require in the future.
The Mounting of the New Faucet
Some things to think about when installing a new faucet
- If you’re installing a brand new sink and the faucet, connect the faucet to the sink before installing the sink.
- It is simpler to set up your appliance as an entire piece that gets placed in the ground instead of having to put it in the sink for your installation.
- Removing the old sink for more access will enable you to eliminate any remaining buildup or gunk the old sink could have accumulated.
- Before applying your new caulk, clearing away any buildup or old caulk ensures you get the most effective results with no leaks!
Final Touches In Your Faucet Installation
Like all installations, make sure you check for leaks. After installation, you should turn the water for a couple of minutes. Take a bath to wash off any buildup around your joint or unit, and search for tiny areas of water that could be your best indication. If all is good, sit back and be proud of your work!
Call (613) 317-1682 or email info@ottawaplumbingservice.com to get in touch with Ottawa Plumbing Service. For any problems from your faucet installation, have us come out and ultimately fix them!
