Is your faucet leaky, inefficient, or simply looking outdated? A malfunctioning faucet isn’t just an inconvenience - it can lead to higher water bills, water damage, and frustration in your daily routine.
Whether you're dealing with persistent drips, low water pressure, or a style that no longer fits your space, replacing your faucet can be a smart and satisfying upgrade.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to replace a faucet step-by-step, and break down the most common reasons homeowners choose to make the switch.
1. Faucet Replacement: How to Guide
2. Why You Need a Faucet Replacement
Contact WaterSmart today to book the best faucet replacement in Kitchener-Waterloo.
1. Faucet Replacement: How to Guide
If you’re tackling a faucet replacement yourself, here’s a simple step-by-step breakdown to help you get the job done right:
Shut off the water supply: Locate the shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise to close. Open the faucet to release any remaining water.
Remove the old drain (if applicable): If your new faucet includes a matching drain, place a bucket under the sink and remove the P-trap to access the existing drain. Unscrew and remove the old drain assembly.
Install the new faucet: Insert the faucet through the mounting holes on your sink or countertop. From underneath, tighten the mounting nuts securely.
Install the new drain assembly: If replacing the drain, insert the new drain body and rubber washer from the top of the sink. Apply a small bead of silicone between the rubber gasket and the underside of the sink to help seal it.
Reconnect the water supply lines: Attach the supply lines to the faucet shanks first, then connect them to the shut-off valves.
Turn the water back on and check for leaks: Slowly turn the shut-off valves back on and test the faucet. Look underneath for any signs of leaking around connections.
At Watersmart, we can repair and install any type of faucet you have or want, including:
Compression Faucets: A compression faucet has two separate handles, one for hot and one for cold water.
Ceramic-Disk Faucets: A ceramic-disk faucet has one central, swivelling arm that you swing from hot to cold and it contains a ceramic cylinder inside.
Cartridge Faucets: A cartridge faucet also has one central swivelling arm and a cartridge inside instead of a ceramic cylinder. It often has a decorative cap.
Ball Faucets: Like the ceramic and cartridge faucets, ball faucets have single swivelling arms but they contain a ball bearing inside.
2. Why you need a faucet replacement
There are several reasons why a faucet replacement might be necessary—or simply a smart upgrade.
1. It's leaking: A dripping faucet might seem like a minor annoyance, but over time, it can waste a significant amount of water and drive up your utility bills. While small leaks can sometimes be repaired, persistent or worsening leaks may be a sign that it’s time for a full replacement.
2. You're updating your space: Sometimes, function isn’t the issue—style is. Replacing an old or outdated faucet is an easy and affordable way to refresh the look of your kitchen or bathroom. A sleek, modern faucet can instantly elevate the room's overall appearance and make it feel brand new.
3. You're renovating or building: Whether you’re remodeling your current home or building a new one, choosing the right faucet can tie the whole space together. Faucets are small details that make a big visual impact.
4. There's corrosion or scale buildup: If you live in an area with hard water, you may notice white scale or rust developing on and inside your faucet. This buildup can reduce water flow and damage the fixture over time. In this case, replacement is the best option. Installing a water softener system can also help prevent future buildup and extend the life of your new faucet.
3. Why call a plumber?
Often when you’re tackling a plumbing problem, the unexpected happens - something you weren't prepared for or an issue that wasn't covered in the video that you watched.
Many times these unexpected surprises will require you to act fast in order to avoid even more damage.
If you don't know what you are doing, you will probably be at a loss as to what you should do; and the time that it takes for you to find out could end up costing you a lot of extra money in further damages.
A licensed plumber will have the knowledge and experience to tackle any major and minor plumbing project or repair, including a faucet replacement.
They will know what to do if the unexpected happens and they will be able to react quickly to any surprises that might come up thus saving you from any unnecessary damages.
Click the following link to discover some more pros and cons of DIY plumbing vs. calling a professional.
Trust WaterSmart For a Faucet Replacement and Other Plumbing Needs!
Looking to hire a professional plumber? You can trust WaterSmart with all of your plumbing needs.
We are your local plumbing experts in the Kitchener-Waterloo region proudly celebrating almost 30 years of professional service.
If you are having problems with your sewer or would like to have it inspected, contact us today.
We also provide a full range of other plumbing services that include but are not limited to:
Kitchens and Bathrooms
Toilets and Taps,
Leaks and Repairs
Clogged or Slow Drains
Countertop Pre and Post Installation
Tankless Hot Water Heaters
New Plumbing and Renovations
Master Plumber and Gas Fitter
Water Softener and Dishwasher Installations
Our high-quality water softeners can protect your faucets from lime buildup and damage.
“Everyone was very pleasant and answered all my questions. Installer was on time and very courteous. He did a great job and cleaned everything up when he was done.”
