How Long Does It Take to Replace a Kitchen Faucet?

Quick Answer

Replacing a kitchen faucet takes 1–2 hours for most DIYers. If the existing supply lines and connections are in good condition, an experienced homeowner can complete the job in under an hour. Complications like corroded fittings, hard-to-reach connections, or installing a faucet with a different mounting configuration can extend the project to 2–3 hours.

Time Breakdown by Phase

Phase	Time
Gathering tools and materials	10–15 minutes
Shutting off water and disconnecting old faucet	15–30 minutes
Cleaning the mounting surface	5–10 minutes
Installing new faucet	20–40 minutes
Connecting supply lines	10–15 minutes
Testing and checking for leaks	5–10 minutes
Total	1–2 hours

Tools and Materials Needed

• Adjustable wrench
• Basin wrench (essential for hard-to-reach nuts under the sink)
• Plumber's tape (Teflon tape)
• Bucket and towels
• Flashlight or headlamp
• Channel-lock pliers
• New supply lines (if existing ones are old or incompatible)

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Turn Off the Water Supply

Locate the shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise to close. If your home lacks individual shut-off valves at the sink, you'll need to shut off the main water supply. Open the faucet to release remaining pressure and drain residual water.

2. Disconnect the Old Faucet

This is often the most time-consuming step, especially in older homes. Use a basin wrench to reach the mounting nuts behind and beneath the sink basin. Disconnect the supply lines from the shut-off valves and have a bucket ready to catch residual water. If the mounting nuts are corroded, penetrating oil applied 15–20 minutes before removal helps significantly.

3. Clean the Mounting Area

With the old faucet removed, clean the sink deck of old plumber's putty, silicone, and mineral deposits. A plastic scraper and white vinegar work well for this. Inspect the sink surface for cracks or damage.

4. Install the New Faucet

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific model. Most modern faucets use a single-hole or three-hole mounting pattern. Apply plumber's putty or the included gasket to the base, insert the faucet through the mounting holes, and tighten the mounting hardware from below.

5. Connect Supply Lines

Use new braided stainless steel supply lines rather than reusing old ones. They cost only a few dollars each and eliminate a common source of leaks. Hand-tighten the connections, then snug them with a wrench. Over-tightening can crack fittings, so a quarter-turn past hand-tight is usually sufficient.

6. Test for Leaks

Slowly turn on the shut-off valves and check every connection point. Run both hot and cold water for several minutes while inspecting under the sink with a flashlight. Place a dry paper towel under each connection — even a slow drip will show immediately.

Common Complications

Corroded or Seized Mounting Nuts

Older faucets with brass or steel mounting hardware may be frozen in place by corrosion. Apply penetrating lubricant and allow it to soak. In extreme cases, you may need to cut the old nuts off with a reciprocating saw or rotary tool, which adds 30–60 minutes.

Non-Standard Hole Configurations

If your new faucet has a different hole pattern than the old one, you may need a deck plate to cover unused holes, or in rare cases, additional holes drilled in the sink. Stainless steel sinks can be drilled with a step bit, but this adds complexity.

No Shut-Off Valves

Older homes may lack individual shut-off valves under the sink. Installing them (highly recommended) adds $20–$40 in parts and 30–45 minutes of work but saves significant hassle for future repairs.

When to Call a Plumber

Consider professional help if you discover corroded pipes behind the wall, if the shut-off valves leak when operated, or if you're uncomfortable working in tight spaces. A plumber typically charges $150–$350 for a faucet installation, which includes the labor and guarantee against leaks.