Switching from a single-handle faucet to a double-handle faucet can modernize your bathroom or kitchen, enhance functionality, and potentially even increase your home’s value. While it might seem daunting, with careful planning and execution, this project is achievable for many DIY enthusiasts. This comprehensive guide breaks down the process step-by-step, ensuring a smooth and successful faucet conversion.
Understanding the Why and the How of Faucet Conversion
Before diving into the practicalities, it’s crucial to understand why you might want to make this change and what it entails.
Why Choose a Double-Handle Faucet?
The reasons for opting for a double-handle faucet are varied. Some homeowners simply prefer the aesthetic, finding it more traditional or elegant. Others appreciate the greater control over water temperature offered by separate hot and cold handles. Double-handle faucets can also sometimes be easier to repair, as individual components are often more accessible.
Ultimately, the decision hinges on personal preference and functional needs. Consider your existing decor, the overall style you’re aiming for, and how you use your sink daily.
The Core of the Conversion: What’s Involved?
Converting a single-handle faucet to a double-handle model generally involves these key steps: turning off the water supply, disconnecting the existing faucet, preparing the sink deck or countertop, installing the new faucet, connecting the water lines, and testing for leaks. The complexity will vary depending on your plumbing setup and the specific faucet you choose.
Careful planning and preparation are essential to avoid common pitfalls. Take accurate measurements, gather all necessary tools and materials beforehand, and thoroughly understand the instructions provided with your new faucet.
Preparation is Key: Gathering Your Tools and Materials
A well-prepared workspace is half the battle won. Ensure you have everything you need before you even think about turning off the water.
Essential Tools of the Trade
Here’s a checklist of tools you’ll likely need:
- Basin wrench: For loosening and tightening faucet nuts in tight spaces.
- Adjustable wrench: For general tightening and loosening.
- Pliers: For gripping and manipulating small parts.
- Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead): To remove and install screws.
- Putty knife or scraper: For removing old plumber’s putty.
- Measuring tape: For accurate measurements.
- Level: To ensure the faucet is properly aligned.
- Bucket and towels: To catch any water spillage.
- Safety glasses: To protect your eyes.
- Work gloves: To protect your hands.
- Flashlight: To illuminate dark areas under the sink.
This list isn’t exhaustive, but it covers the most commonly needed tools. You might need additional tools depending on the specific faucet you choose and the condition of your existing plumbing.
Required Materials: Beyond the Faucet Itself
Beyond the new double-handle faucet, you’ll also need:
- New supply lines: To connect the faucet to the water shut-off valves.
- Plumber’s putty or silicone sealant: To create a watertight seal between the faucet and the sink.
- Thread sealant tape (Teflon tape): To seal threaded connections.
- Cleaning supplies: To clean the sink and surrounding area.
- Replacement sink deck plate (optional): If the new faucet requires a different hole configuration.
Choosing high-quality materials is a worthwhile investment. Cheaper materials can degrade quickly, leading to leaks and other problems down the line.
Step-by-Step Guide to Faucet Conversion
Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of the conversion process.
Step 1: Shut Off the Water Supply
This is the most crucial step. Locate the shut-off valves under your sink (or the main water shut-off valve for your house if necessary). Turn both the hot and cold water valves clockwise until they are completely closed. Then, turn on the existing faucet to relieve any residual pressure in the lines. Place a bucket under the faucet to catch any remaining water.
Double-check that the water is completely off before proceeding. Nothing is worse than a sudden burst of water in the middle of your project.
Step 2: Disconnecting the Old Faucet
Using your basin wrench, disconnect the supply lines from the old faucet. Be prepared for some water to spill, even after shutting off the valves. Use a bucket and towels to minimize the mess.
Next, loosen the nuts that secure the faucet to the sink. These are usually located underneath the sink, and can be difficult to reach. The basin wrench will be your best friend here. Once the nuts are loose, you should be able to lift the old faucet out of the sink.
Step 3: Preparing the Sink Deck or Countertop
With the old faucet removed, clean the sink deck or countertop thoroughly. Remove any old plumber’s putty or sealant using a putty knife or scraper. Ensure the surface is clean, dry, and free of debris.
Examine the existing holes in the sink. Double-handle faucets typically require three holes: one for each handle and one for the spout. If your sink only has one hole, you’ll need to drill additional holes, which is a more advanced task that might require professional assistance. If your sink has more than three holes, you may need a deck plate to cover the unused holes.
Step 4: Installing the New Double-Handle Faucet
Carefully follow the instructions included with your new faucet. Generally, this involves inserting the faucet components through the holes in the sink deck or countertop, securing them with the provided hardware from underneath.
Apply a bead of plumber’s putty or silicone sealant around the base of the faucet where it meets the sink. This will create a watertight seal. Tighten the mounting nuts securely, but don’t overtighten, as this could damage the sink or faucet.
Step 5: Connecting the Water Lines
Attach new supply lines to the faucet tails (the threaded pipes extending from the faucet). Apply Teflon tape to the threads before connecting the supply lines to ensure a watertight seal. Tighten the connections with an adjustable wrench.
Next, connect the other ends of the supply lines to the water shut-off valves. Again, use Teflon tape and tighten the connections securely.
Ensure the supply lines are not kinked or twisted, as this can restrict water flow.
Step 6: Testing for Leaks
This is the moment of truth. Slowly turn on the water shut-off valves, starting with the cold water valve. Check all connections for leaks. If you see any leaks, immediately turn off the water and tighten the connections further. If the leaks persist, you may need to disassemble the connections, reapply Teflon tape or plumber’s putty, and reassemble.
Once you’re confident that there are no leaks, turn on the hot water valve and repeat the leak test. Run both hot and cold water for a few minutes to flush out any debris from the lines.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful planning, things can sometimes go wrong. Here’s how to handle some common issues.
Persistent Leaks: Finding and Fixing the Source
If you’re still experiencing leaks after tightening the connections, try these steps:
- Dry the area thoroughly to pinpoint the exact source of the leak.
- Check the Teflon tape and plumber’s putty to ensure they are properly applied.
- Inspect the supply lines for any cracks or damage.
- Tighten the connections further, but be careful not to overtighten.
- If the leak persists, consider replacing the supply lines or the faucet itself.
A small leak can quickly turn into a major problem, so it’s important to address it promptly.
Low Water Pressure: Identifying and Resolving the Cause
If you notice a significant drop in water pressure after installing the new faucet, check for these potential causes:
- Kinked or twisted supply lines.
- Debris blocking the faucet aerator.
- Partially closed shut-off valves.
- Problems with your home’s water pressure regulator.
Cleaning the faucet aerator and ensuring the supply lines are clear are usually the first steps to take.
Difficulty Removing the Old Faucet: Tips and Tricks
Sometimes, the old faucet is stubbornly stuck. Here are some tips to help you remove it:
- Apply penetrating oil to the nuts and bolts to loosen them.
- Use a heat gun to warm the metal and break the corrosion.
- If all else fails, you may need to cut the faucet off with a hacksaw or reciprocating saw. Be extremely careful not to damage the sink or countertop.
Patience is key when dealing with stubborn plumbing fixtures.
When to Call a Professional
While this guide provides a comprehensive overview of the faucet conversion process, there are situations where it’s best to call a professional plumber.
These situations include:
- If you’re uncomfortable working with plumbing.
- If you encounter significant plumbing issues, such as corroded pipes or damaged valves.
- If you need to drill additional holes in your sink or countertop.
- If you’re unable to resolve leaks or low water pressure issues.
- If you simply don’t have the time or tools to complete the project yourself.
Hiring a plumber can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run. A professional can ensure the job is done correctly and safely, and can also help you avoid costly mistakes.
Why would I want to convert a single-handle faucet to a double-handle faucet?
Converting from a single-handle to a double-handle faucet offers several potential benefits. Many homeowners prefer the classic aesthetic of a double-handle design, finding it more visually appealing and complementary to traditional bathroom or kitchen styles. Furthermore, double-handle faucets often provide more precise control over water temperature. With separate hot and cold handles, you can finely adjust the water to your desired warmth without the back-and-forth adjustments sometimes required with a single-handle mixer.
Beyond aesthetics and control, double-handle faucets can sometimes be easier to repair than single-handle faucets. The internal components are often simpler and more readily accessible, making DIY repairs a more viable option. Additionally, some individuals with limited dexterity or arthritis find separate handles easier to grip and manipulate compared to the single lever of a mixer faucet. This enhanced usability can significantly improve the overall bathroom or kitchen experience.
What tools will I need for this faucet conversion project?
A successful faucet conversion requires a well-prepared toolkit. Essential tools include an adjustable wrench for loosening and tightening connections, a basin wrench (also known as a sink wrench) for reaching hard-to-access nuts under the sink, and a set of screwdrivers (both Phillips head and flathead) to disassemble the old faucet and assemble the new one. You’ll also need plumber’s putty or silicone sealant to create a watertight seal around the base of the faucet and Teflon tape to seal threaded pipe connections.
In addition to the basics, consider having a bucket and towels on hand to catch any stray water. A flashlight or headlamp will be invaluable for illuminating the dark spaces under the sink. Finally, a pipe cutter might be necessary if you need to shorten or adjust existing water supply lines to fit the new faucet configuration. Always ensure you have the correct size replacement parts and fittings before beginning the project to avoid unnecessary delays.
How do I shut off the water supply before starting?
Locating and shutting off the water supply is the most crucial first step to prevent flooding and water damage. Most sinks have individual shut-off valves located directly underneath them, one for the hot water line and one for the cold water line. Turn these valves clockwise until they are completely closed. Test the faucets briefly to ensure the water is indeed shut off before proceeding. If these valves are old or corroded and difficult to turn, or if they are leaking, it’s advisable to replace them before you begin.
If individual shut-off valves are not present or are malfunctioning, you’ll need to shut off the main water supply to your house. This is typically located in the basement, garage, or near the water meter. Once you’ve shut off the main water supply, open all faucets in the house to relieve pressure in the pipes. Remember to inform everyone in the household that the water will be temporarily unavailable.
What if the existing holes in my sink are not the right size for the new faucet?
Mismatched hole sizes can pose a challenge, but there are solutions to overcome this issue. If the holes in your sink are too small for the new faucet, you might be able to enlarge them using a specialized drill bit designed for drilling through porcelain or stainless steel. Exercise extreme caution when drilling, using slow speeds and applying consistent pressure. Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris. It is often best to have a professional do this to avoid damaging the sink.
If the holes are too large, or if the faucet requires a different number of holes, you can use a deck plate or escutcheon to cover the existing holes. Deck plates are decorative metal plates that sit between the faucet and the sink, providing a clean and finished look while adapting the faucet to the existing hole configuration. Alternatively, you may consider replacing the entire sink with one that is pre-drilled with the correct hole configuration for your desired double-handle faucet. This can be a more expensive option but will guarantee a perfect fit and aesthetic.
What is the best way to ensure a watertight seal when installing the new faucet?
Creating a watertight seal is essential to prevent leaks and potential water damage. Before installing the faucet, thoroughly clean the surface of the sink around the faucet holes to remove any debris or old sealant. Apply a generous bead of plumber’s putty or silicone sealant around the base of the faucet where it will contact the sink. This will create a flexible and waterproof barrier that conforms to any irregularities in the surface.
When connecting the water supply lines, use Teflon tape on all threaded connections. Wrap the tape clockwise around the threads several times, ensuring a tight and secure seal. Hand-tighten the connections first, then use a wrench to tighten them further, but avoid over-tightening, as this can damage the fittings. After installation, carefully inspect all connections for leaks and tighten as needed. Run water through the faucet for a few minutes to check for any seepage.
How do I connect the water supply lines to the new faucet?
Connecting the water supply lines is a critical step that requires careful attention to detail. Ensure that the hot and cold water lines are connected to the correct faucet inlets – usually marked with “H” for hot and “C” for cold. If the existing supply lines are the correct length and have the appropriate fittings, you can connect them directly to the new faucet. If not, you may need to replace them with new supply lines of the correct length and with compatible fittings.
When connecting the supply lines, hand-tighten the connections first to ensure proper alignment. Then, use a wrench to tighten them securely, but be careful not to over-tighten, which can damage the fittings or the supply lines themselves. After making the connections, turn the water supply back on slowly and carefully inspect each connection for leaks. If you notice any leaks, tighten the connections slightly until the leaks stop. If leaks persist, you may need to disassemble the connection, apply fresh Teflon tape, and reassemble.
What if I encounter a problem I can’t solve during the conversion?
Despite careful planning, unexpected challenges can arise during a DIY faucet conversion. If you encounter a problem that you cannot resolve, such as stripped screws, damaged pipes, or persistent leaks, it’s best to stop and reassess the situation. Continuing to struggle with a complex issue could potentially lead to further damage or even injury. Document the problem you are encountering.
Consider consulting online resources, such as plumbing forums or video tutorials, for guidance. If the problem persists, don’t hesitate to call a licensed plumber. A professional has the experience and tools to diagnose the issue accurately and provide a safe and effective solution. It is always better to seek professional help than to risk causing further damage or compromising the integrity of your plumbing system.