You may need to obtain an adapter in order to connect your new faucet to your pre-existing supply lines or shut-off valves.
Most new kitchen faucets come with integral supply lines that there's no hope in avoiding. They come with 3/8'' connections. Your main dilemma is that your existing shut-off valves appear to come with their own integral supply lines as well which is unfortunate because those are known to fail after time.
Supply lines are flexible tubes that connect your water supply to your plumbing or appliance fixture. They're available in different sizes. The size refers to the diameter of the fittings on either end of the tube, so check your fixtures to see what size you need.
PVC Supply Lines: These plastic lines are affordable and easy to install but typically last around 5-8 years. They are more prone to cracking and should be inspected regularly. Copper Supply Lines: Known for their longevity, copper lines can last up to 50 years.
The size of the supply line should match the size of the faucet body. A larger faucet will require a larger supply line, and vice versa.
This means that not all hoses are not interchangeable, it is important to identify your faucet and the hose to insure you order the correct hose service kit.
The three most common parts you'll need to replace on a faucet are the washer/seal, the O-ring, or the cartridge.
Screwing a supply line on too tight is one of the worst things you can do. Such overtightening will cause the metal threads inside of the line to become warped, making it much easier for water to slip past.
How to Measure Faucet Supply Line Sizes. Identify the Connection Points: Find the supply lines and shut-off valve under the sink. For Male Threads: Measure the outside diameter (OD) of the male threads using a caliper or a ruler.
There are many types of faucets for bathroom use and not all bathroom sink faucets work with every sink. It's important to make sure the faucet you choose will fit your sink or basin. Standard faucet drillings are centerset, single-hole or widespread.
In fact, pipes should only be hand tight to help aid the flow of water throughout your home. The unique construction and configuration of pipes means they are made to be tightened just enough, making them super tight can actually prevent water from flowing properly.
The average lifespan of a water line is 50 years, so if your line is older than that, a full replacement is probably in order. Material of the waterline. Older homes may have lead piping. If you find that your property has lead water pipes, we always recommend a full replacement with a safe alternative.
O-rings, washers, and valve seats are the most common causes of a faucet dripping, so check them carefully as you remove each. Keep an eye out for corrosion, wear and tear, and any other damage.
Plumber's putty is recommended only for setting bowls, fixtures, faucets, sink frames and strainers and is compatible with stainless-steel fixtures. Plumber's putty should not be used on plastics (Acrylic or ABS) because it will affect the integrity of the material and lead to product failure.
Typically, kitchen faucets can last between 15-20 years. Lifespan depends on their quality and other factors such as whether or not it was installed properly and how hard the water is.
Manufacturing Processes
Automated mass production techniques can help reduce the cost of cheaper faucets, while more intricate, handcrafted designs often come with a higher price tag. The level of attention to detail and the overall craftsmanship can greatly impact the final cost.
If your valves are open all the way, and you're still experiencing slow water flow, the cause might be a clog. the water comes out. It has a screen and, over time, sediment gets caught in it, which impedes water flow. Remove the aerator and clean it thoroughly.
Make sure you use Teflon tape on the threads before installing. For your single handle faucet, the built-in supply lines will come labeled as hot and cold, and you'll need to connect these to the corresponding water supply valves.
When Not to Use Plumber's (Teflon) Tape. Using plumber's tape on PVC, copper, or PEX pipe threading is usually not recommended. Those fittings often have a gasket or O-ring to create a seal between the two pipes. Also, avoid using this threading tape on fluid power (hydraulic) systems.
While teflon tape is the best option for sealing threads in plumbing applications, dental floss can be used in a pinch and will hold up well enough to last! Half a dozen wraps should do the trick, but you may need to experiment with the number of wraps for your particular fixture as no two fixtures fit the same.
Best Faucet Brands According to Plumbers
You want something that is durable, attractive, and a great value for the money. The best brands according to plumbers are Moen, Delta, and Kohler. Plumbers prefer these brands due to their quality, their reliability, and their availability.
Purchase a New Supply Line with the Same Measurements
Measure your old supply line and buy a new one with the same length and connector size. Compatibility is key for a successful replacement.
The general rule of thumb is to replace all your supply line hoses every 5 years as a preventative measure to protect your home against any potential leaks. But since braided supply lines have a rubber core, we recommend that they can be replaced every 10 years.