That dripping faucet isn’t just annoying—it’s wasting water and money. If you’re asking, “Do you need a plumber to replace a faucet?”, you’re not alone. Millions of homeowners face this exact dilemma every year. The good news? Replacing a faucet is often simpler than you think—but not always. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to decide whether to grab your wrench or call a licensed plumber.
Can You Replace a Faucet Yourself?
Yes—in many cases, you absolutely can replace a faucet yourself, especially if you’re swapping out a standard model in a kitchen or bathroom with accessible plumbing. According to a 2023 HomeAdvisor survey, 68% of U.S. homeowners successfully completed minor plumbing repairs like faucet replacement without professional help.
However, success depends on three key factors:
Your comfort level with basic tools
The type of faucet and sink setup
Whether your existing plumbing is in good condition
If you’ve changed a light fixture or assembled furniture from IKEA, you likely have the skills needed for a straightforward faucet swap.
When Should You Call a Plumber?
While DIY is possible, certain situations demand a professional plumber. Ignoring these red flags can lead to leaks, water damage, or even code violations.
Signs You Need a Plumber:
Old or corroded shut-off valves that won’t turn
Unusual pipe configurations (e.g., no shut-off valves under the sink)
Low water pressure after installation (could indicate internal debris or improper assembly)
Leaks that persist after tightening connections
Replacing a faucet in a wall-mounted or custom vanity setup
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that household leaks waste nearly 1 trillion gallons of water annually nationwide—much of it from poorly installed fixtures. A licensed plumber ensures your job meets local plumbing codes and prevents costly water damage.
Turn off water supply Locate the shut-off valves under the sink. Turn both hot and cold valves clockwise until tight. Open the faucet to drain residual water.
Disconnect supply lines Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts connecting the faucet to the water lines. Place a bucket underneath to catch drips.
Remove the old faucet Unscrew the mounting nuts holding the faucet base to the sink (usually 1–2 nuts). A basin wrench makes this easier in cramped spaces.
Clean the sink surface Wipe away old putty, grime, or mineral deposits. A clean surface ensures a watertight seal.
Install the new faucet Insert the new faucet through the sink holes. From below, secure it with the provided mounting hardware. Tighten—but don’t overtighten—nuts to avoid cracking the sink.
Connect water supply lines Attach the new flexible supply lines to the shut-off valves. Hand-tighten first, then give a quarter-turn with a wrench.
Test for leaks Turn water back on slowly. Check all connections for drips. Run hot and cold water for 30 seconds each. If dry—congrats! You just saved $150–$300 (the average cost of professional faucet replacement, per Angi).
⚠️ Warning: Never use Teflon tape on compression fittings or push-fit connectors—this can cause leaks. Only use it on threaded pipe joints.
DIY vs. Hiring a Plumber: Pros and Cons
Cost
$50–$200 (faucet only)
$150–$400 (labor + parts)
Time
1–2 hours
Same-day service
Skill Required
Basic tool use
None
Warranty
Limited (parts only)
Often 1-year labor warranty
Risk
Potential leaks if done wrong
Minimal (licensed pros insured)
Best For
Standard sinks, good shut-offs
Older homes, complex installs
If you value peace of mind or lack confidence in your skills, paying a pro is often worth it. Many plumbers offer same-day service and guarantee their work.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced DIYers slip up. Here are the top 3 faucet replacement blunders:
Skipping the shut-off valve test Always verify valves work before starting. If they’re stuck, you’ll flood your cabinet.
Overtightening connections This cracks porcelain sinks or strips threads. Snug is enough.
Ignoring aerator flow rate New faucets often include water-saving aerators (1.5–2.2 GPM). If your old one was 2.5 GPM, you might notice reduced pressure—this is normal and eco-friendly.
FAQ Section
Q: How long does it take to replace a faucet?
A: Most DIYers finish in 60–90 minutes. Professionals often complete it in under 45 minutes due to experience and specialized tools.
Q: Do I need to turn off the main water supply?
A: No—if your sink has functional shut-off valves (most do). Only turn off the main supply if valves are missing, broken, or leaking.
Q: Can I reuse old supply lines?
A: Not recommended. Flexible braided stainless steel supply lines degrade over time. Always install new ones included with your faucet kit.
Q: What if my faucet leaks after installation?
A: First, check if connections are hand-tight plus a quarter-turn. If it still leaks, the cartridge or O-ring may be damaged—replace it. Persistent leaks warrant a plumber.
Q: Are all faucets compatible with my sink?
A: Most standard sinks have 1, 2, 3, or 4-hole configurations. Measure your sink’s hole spacing before buying. Many faucets include deck plates to cover extra holes.
Q: Does replacing a faucet increase home value?
A: Not significantly—but a modern, leak-free faucet improves buyer perception during showings. It’s a low-cost upgrade with high visual ROI.
Conclusion
So, do you need a plumber to replace a faucet? The answer is: It depends. If you have basic tools, working shut-off valves, and a standard sink, DIY is safe, affordable, and empowering. But if your plumbing is old, complex, or you’re short on time, a licensed plumber offers speed, expertise, and insurance-backed peace of mind.
Either way, fixing that drip stops water waste, lowers your utility bill, and upgrades your space.
👉 Found this guide helpful? Share it with a friend who’s battling a leaky faucet! #PlumbingTips #DIYHome #SaveWater
Leave a Reply