Installing a new kitchen faucet can feel like a big task, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. If you’ve chosen a Pfister kitchen faucet for your home, you’ve made a great decision. Pfister faucets are known for their durability, style, and innovative designs.
Whether you’re replacing an old faucet or installing a new one for the first time, this guide will take you through each step in a simple and easy-to-follow way. By the end, you’ll have your new Pfister faucet installed and ready to use!
Tools and Materials You’ll Need:
Before starting, make sure you have all the tools and materials ready. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pfister kitchen faucet kit (including all parts provided by the manufacturer)
- Adjustable wrench
- Plumber’s tape (Teflon tape)
- Basin wrench (optional but useful for tight spaces)
- Phillips screwdriver
- Bucket or towel (to catch any water)
- Flashlight (if working in a dark area under the sink)
- Supply lines (if not included with the faucet)
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
Before removing the old faucet or installing the new one, it’s crucial to turn off the water supply to avoid any leaks or spills. Under the sink, you’ll find two water valves: one for cold water and one for hot water. Turn both valves clockwise to shut them off completely.
Pro Tip: After turning off the water supply, open your existing faucet to drain any leftover water in the pipes.
Step 2: Remove the Old Faucet
Now that the water supply is off, you can start by removing the old faucet. Here’s how to do it:
- Disconnect the water supply lines: Using an adjustable wrench, disconnect the hot and cold water supply lines from the shutoff valves under the sink. Have your bucket or towel ready to catch any water that might be left in the lines.
- Loosen the mounting nuts: Look underneath the sink for the nuts that hold the faucet in place. Use a basin wrench or an adjustable wrench to loosen and remove these nuts. You may need to reach into tight spaces, so a basin wrench can be very helpful here.
- Remove the old faucet: Once the nuts are loose, you can pull the faucet out from the top of the sink. If there’s any silicone or plumber’s putty around the faucet, use a knife or scraper to clean it off.
Step 3: Prepare the Sink for Installation
Before installing the new Pfister faucet, make sure your sink is clean and ready. If there’s any grime, old plumber’s putty, or debris around the holes where the faucet will go, clean it thoroughly with a damp cloth. This ensures a smooth and tight seal when you install the new faucet.
Step 4: Install the Deck Plate (If Needed)
Many Pfister kitchen faucets come with an optional deck plate, also known as an escutcheon. This plate covers extra holes in the sink and provides a clean look. If your sink has three holes and the faucet you’re installing only needs one, you’ll use the deck plate.
- Apply silicone or putty: If instructed in your faucet’s manual, apply a thin layer of silicone or plumber’s putty to the bottom of the deck plate.
- Place the deck plate on the sink: Align the deck plate over the holes in the sink and press it down firmly.
Step 5: Insert the New Faucet
Now it’s time to install your new Pfister faucet. Depending on the model, there may be slight variations in the installation process, so always refer to the manufacturer’s manual for any specifics. Here’s the general process:
- Feed the faucet hoses through the hole: Insert the faucet’s hoses and shank through the hole in the sink or through the deck plate (if used). Make sure the faucet is centered and sits straight.
- Secure the faucet underneath the sink: From underneath the sink, attach the provided mounting nuts onto the shank of the faucet. Use your hand to tighten the nuts, then use an adjustable wrench or basin wrench to make sure they are securely fastened. Be careful not to overtighten, as this could damage the faucet or sink.
Pro Tip: If your faucet has a pull-down sprayer, make sure the hose is routed properly through the faucet body and is not kinked.
Step 6: Connect the Water Supply Lines
Once the faucet is secured, it’s time to reconnect the water supply lines.
- Attach the water supply lines: Most Pfister faucets come with integrated supply lines. If not, you may need to purchase supply lines separately. Attach the cold water line to the cold water valve and the hot water line to the hot water valve. Tighten the connections with your adjustable wrench.
- Use plumber’s tape: To ensure a tight seal and prevent leaks, wrap plumber’s tape (Teflon tape) around the threads of the water supply valves before attaching the supply lines.
Pro Tip: Make sure the hot and cold water lines are connected to the correct valves to avoid mix-ups. The hot water line is usually marked with a red tag or stripe, and the cold water line is marked with a blue tag or stripe.
Step 7: Install the Sprayer and Weight (If Applicable)
If your Pfister kitchen faucet has a pull-down sprayer, you’ll need to install the hose weight to ensure smooth retraction.
- Attach the sprayer hose: Under the sink, connect the sprayer hose to the designated quick-connect fitting on the faucet body. Most Pfister faucets have a simple click-on system, making this step straightforward.
- Install the weight: Locate the marked area on the sprayer hose and attach the weight at that point. The weight helps the sprayer hose retract smoothly after use.
Step 8: Test the Faucet for Leaks
Now that everything is connected, it’s time to test your new Pfister faucet.
- Turn on the water supply: Slowly turn on both the hot and cold water valves under the sink.
- Check for leaks: Before turning on the faucet, check all the connections under the sink for leaks. If you see any water dripping, tighten the connections slightly. If you’re still experiencing leaks, turn off the water supply and reapply plumber’s tape to the leaking connection.
- Test the faucet: Turn on the faucet and let the water run. Test both the hot and cold water settings, as well as the sprayer if your faucet has one. Make sure the water flows smoothly and that the sprayer retracts correctly.
Step 9: Finish and Clean Up
Once you’re sure everything is working properly, clean up any tools and materials you used. Wipe down your new faucet and the surrounding sink area to remove any fingerprints, water spots, or residue.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, even after careful installation, you might encounter a few issues. Here are some common problems and how to fix them:
- Low water pressure: If your new faucet has low water pressure, check that the aerator (the small mesh screen in the faucet head) isn’t clogged. Remove the aerator and clean any debris that may have collected.
- Leaks: If you notice leaks around the base of the faucet, check the mounting nuts under the sink to ensure they are tightened properly. Also, make sure the connections to the water supply lines are secure and that plumber’s tape was used.
Conclusion
Installing a Pfister kitchen faucet is a manageable DIY task that can be completed in a few simple steps. By following this guide, you’ll have your new faucet installed and functioning in no time. Not only will your kitchen look more stylish, but you’ll also enjoy the convenience and performance of your new Pfister faucet for years to come.
Remember, if you run into any issues or need additional support, you can always refer to the faucet’s instruction manual or reach out to Pfister’s customer service for assistance.
Happy installing!