A dripping faucet isn’t just annoying—it can waste hundreds of gallons of water and spike your utility bills. If yours is beyond repair, you’re probably wondering: how much does a plumber charge to replace a faucet? You’re not alone. Homeowners across the U.S. face this exact question every day, often while balancing budget concerns and the urgency of a leaky sink. The good news? Replacing a faucet is usually a straightforward job—but costs can vary widely depending on several key factors. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to make an informed, cost-effective decision.
What’s the Average Cost to Replace a Faucet?
According to HomeAdvisor’s 2024 data, the national average cost for a plumber to replace a faucet ranges from $120 to $350, with most homeowners paying around $225. This includes both labor and the new faucet (if supplied by the homeowner). However, prices can climb to $500+ for high-end fixtures, complex installations, or emergency service calls.
💡 Pro Tip: Labor typically costs $45–$150/hour, and most faucet replacements take 30–90 minutes—unless plumbing modifications are needed.
What Factors Affect Faucet Replacement Costs?
Several variables influence the final price. Understanding them helps you avoid surprise charges.
Simple drop-in replacements are quick. But if your sink lacks proper mounting holes, has corroded pipes, or needs new supply lines, expect additional labor and parts.
Common complications:
Old shut-off valves that won’t close
Need for new supply lines or escutcheons
Removing old caulk or sealant
4. Who Supplies the Faucet?
You buy it: Lower total cost, but you’re responsible for compatibility.
Plumber supplies it: Convenient, but markups can add 15–30% to the fixture price.
DIY vs. Hiring a Plumber: Which Is Better?
Many homeowners consider DIY to save money—but is it worth the risk?
✅ Pros of DIY Faucet Replacement
Save $100–$200 on labor
Sense of accomplishment
Quick job (if you have basic tools)
❌ Cons of DIY
Risk of leaks, water damage, or voiding warranties
May require specialty tools (e.g., basin wrench)
No professional guarantee
According to a 2023 study by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), 68% of DIY plumbing repairs required a professional fix within 6 months due to improper installation.
🔗 For a deeper look at plumbing standards and best practices, see Plumbing on Wikipedia .
When to Call a Pro:
You’re unsure about water shut-off locations
Pipes are corroded or leaking
Installing a non-standard faucet (e.g., touchless, wall-mounted)
Your home is older than 30 years (potential lead pipes or outdated fittings)
Step-by-Step: What Happens During a Professional Faucet Replacement?
If you hire a plumber, here’s what to expect:
Shut off water supply (usually under the sink; plumber verifies it’s off).
Disconnect supply lines using adjustable wrenches.
Remove old faucet by unscrewing mounting nuts (often requires a basin wrench).
Clean the sink surface and inspect for damage or corrosion.
Install new faucet following manufacturer instructions—ensuring proper alignment and sealant use.
Reconnect supply lines, turn water back on, and test for leaks.
Adjust flow and temperature settings if applicable.
Most pros complete this in under an hour—unless unexpected issues arise.
How to Save Money on Faucet Replacement
You don’t have to sacrifice quality to stay on budget. Try these strategies:
Get 3+ quotes from licensed plumbers (use platforms like Angi or HomeAdvisor).
Buy your own faucet during sales (Home Depot and Lowe’s often discount 20–30%).
Schedule during off-peak hours (avoid weekends/holidays to dodge surge pricing).
Bundle services—e.g., replace faucet + fix garbage disposal in one visit for a discount.
💡 Bonus: Some plumbers offer free estimates—always ask!
FAQ Section
Q: How long does it take a plumber to replace a faucet?
A: Typically 30 to 90 minutes for standard kitchen or bathroom faucets. Complex installations (e.g., wall-mounted, with new plumbing) may take 2–3 hours.
Q: Can I replace just the faucet handle or cartridge instead of the whole unit?
A: Yes! If the leak is from the handle or spout, replacing the cartridge or O-rings (cost: $5–$25) may fix it. A plumber can diagnose this quickly—often for a small service fee.
Q: Do plumbers charge more for emergency faucet replacement?
A: Yes. After-hours, weekend, or holiday service can cost 1.5x to 2x the standard rate. Only call for emergencies (e.g., flooding, no water shutoff).
Q: Is faucet replacement covered by home insurance?
A: Generally no, unless the damage results from a covered peril (e.g., burst pipe due to freezing). Routine wear-and-tear isn’t covered.
Q: What’s the cheapest faucet I can install?
A: Basic models start at $30–$50 (e.g., Glacier Bay at Home Depot). While affordable, they may lack durability. Mid-range ($80–$150) offers the best value.
Q: Should I replace my faucet if it’s still working but outdated?
A: It’s not necessary—but modern faucets improve water efficiency (look for WaterSense labels) and can boost your home’s resale value. Kitchen faucet upgrades often yield a 70%+ ROI, per Remodeling Magazine.
Conclusion
Knowing how much a plumber charges to replace a faucet empowers you to budget wisely, avoid scams, and choose the right solution for your home. While DIY might seem tempting, hiring a licensed professional ensures a leak-free, long-lasting result—especially if your plumbing system is older or complex.
Ready to fix that drip? ✅ Get 3 quotes ✅ Compare faucet models ✅ Schedule during business hours
If this guide saved you time or money, share it with a friend on Facebook, Pinterest, or Twitter! Your next home improvement project just got easier—and smarter.
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