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Reconnect supply line — Turn On Water and Check for Leaks

Beginner4 hours

Part of project

How to Replace a Kitchen Sink Faucet · Step 9 of 10

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In this video

Apply Teflon tape to the outlet of the shut-off valve. Reconnect the supply line. Tighten with the wrench. Reattach the supply line to the faucet. Turn the main water supply back on. Open both the hot and cold handles on the faucet. Check for leaks and fix immediately if found.

Goal: Re-establish the water connection

Used in this video

  • Crescent wrench (Tool Type: Wrench, Power Source: Manual, Size/Capacity: Adjustable, Durability: Medium, Cost: Low, Special Features: Adjustable jaws, Tool Size: Adjustable, Material: Metal, Grip: Textured, Purpose: Tightening, Loosening)Tightening the supply line connection
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FAQs

What specialized tools are essential for replacing a kitchen faucet, especially for a beginner?

A basin wrench (like the TEKTON or Husky models listed) is crucial for reaching and loosening nuts in tight spaces under the sink. An adjustable wrench is also a must-have for supply lines. A sturdy bucket will catch drips and keep your workspace clean.

What's the most critical safety step before I start, and what should I do if old connections are corroded and won't loosen?

Always turn off the water supply to the sink, either at the shut-off valves under the sink or the main house valve. If connections are stuck, apply penetrating oil, let it sit, and use a basin wrench with steady pressure. Avoid excessive force to prevent stripping or damaging pipes.

The project estimates 4 hours, but I'm a complete beginner. Is this realistic, and what could make it take longer?

For a complete beginner, it's wise to budget 6-8 hours. Old, corroded parts, extremely tight working spaces, or unexpected plumbing issues can significantly extend the installation time. Don't rush; taking your time prevents costly mistakes.

After installing the new faucet, I'm noticing drips or leaks. What are the most common culprits I should check?

First, ensure all water supply lines are securely tightened to the faucet and the shut-off valves, but don't overtighten plastic nuts. Next, check if the mounting nuts under the sink are snug and that the faucet's base gasket is properly seated and compressed against the sink surface, preventing leaks from above.

Transcript
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well and make sure you use that crescent wrench to align it now I'm taking some plumbers sealant tape and wrapping it around the outlet about two to three times if you want to know the size of this valve it is a half inch compression Inlet and 3 8 inch compression Outlet now I'm going to reattach the hose back with my crescent wrench make sure it's nice and tight now I'm taking the other end of the hose and attaching it to the faucet now that everything is attached make sure you turn on the main water supply in your home and then you can finally turn on this shut off valve into the on position what's great about this shutout compression shut off valve is that it is a quarter turn to turn it on and now that that's running you can turn on the handle for the hot and the cold make sure you leave the Hot Side open running for a little bit because the hot side is notorious for the one that is starting to leak but leave that on for a little bit and observe what's in the bottom do the field test feel it with your bare hands around all the fittings to make sure there is no leak so there

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