Do You Need A Plumber To Replace A Faucet?

A faucet replacement is a common task for any professional plumber. Even though this is a routine repair, you should still call ahead. Your plumber will almost certainly need to order the necessary parts or materials to complete the replacement. There are a few cost factors to consider when replacing a faucet, so be prepared.

What’s Wrong With Your Faucet?

The problem with your faucet determines whether you can get away with a quick fix or need a more extensive repair or a replacement. If you’re unsure what’s wrong with your faucet or whether you should repair or replace it, consult a local repair specialist.

Worn O-Ring

An O-ring is a small disk found inside your faucet. O-rings can become loose or wear out over time. Fortunately, this is usually a simple repair that does not necessitate a replacement.

Valve Seat Corrosion

Between the faucet and the spout is the valve seat. Sediment and mineral deposits eventually accumulate, corroding the valve seat and resulting in a leaky faucet. You may get away with a simple repair if the buildup is minor. Still, if there is also corrosion or excessive wear from the debris buildup in the faucet or spout, you should replace it.

Problems with Washer Installation

One of the most common causes of leaking faucets is improperly installed washers. This emphasizes the importance of hiring a professional plumber for any plumbing job, no matter how minor, unless you are certain you have the necessary skill set. Suppose washers are installed or seated incorrectly or aren’t exactly the right size. In that case, you’ll soon have a leaking faucet that needs to be repaired.

Do-It-Yourself Vs. Professional Faucet Installation

You can do a faucet replacement if you have the right tools and knowledge of plumbing for your kitchen sink, bathroom sink, tub/shower, hose bib, or utility sink. However, for homeowners without experience, a task that might take a licensed plumber an hour or two to complete can easily balloon into a half day.

Get estimates from local plumbers to see if a professional installation is within your budget, if this is a new faucet installation or part of a larger renovation, or if you are not familiar with plumbing, you should probably call a professional. Most faucet installations cost between $45 and $400 in labor.

How Much Does a DIY Faucet Replacement Cost?

If you decide to do it yourself, do your homework on the tools you’ll need and the project’s scope. If you don’t already have the necessary tools, buying them may be more expensive than hiring a plumber. Here are some of the tools you’ll need, along with their prices:

Adjustable wrench – $10 to $40

Tape measure – $5 to $25

Channel-locking pliers – $10 to $50

Plumber’s putty – $5 to $15

Flexible supply line (if not included with faucet) – $3 to $20

Consider your expertise in plumbing repair and replacement. Although a project like a faucet replacement may appear simple, it can have unexpected complications and costs. Not only will you need to locate the appropriate materials, but you will also require specialized tools. Sounds like a pain? “Where can I find a plumber?” is a good question to ask yourself at times.

New Flow Plumbing has specialized training and knowledge to assist you with faucet replacement and repair. Call us now!