So you’ve fallen in love with a gorgeous new pull-down faucet with a touchless sensor. It’s going to look amazing in your kitchen! But before you click “buy now” and dive into a DIY project this weekend, let’s have a quick chat. As plumbers, we’ve seen the “before and after” of faucet installs gone wrong. Here’s our insider checklist to make sure your upgrade is smooth, not stressful.

Step 1: Do Your Under-Sink Recon (Right Now!)
This is the most important step. Open the cabinet, grab a flashlight, and look up. You’re checking three things:

• Number of Holes: Your sink deck has 1-4 holes (for the faucet, soap dispenser, sprayer, etc.). Your new faucet must match or cover them. A single-hole faucet won’t fit a 3-hole sink without a deck plate.
• Type of Connections: Are your existing water supply lines braided steel (flexible) or old copper tubing? Are the shut-off valves the old multi-turn kind or quarter-turn ball valves? Take a picture. This tells you if you need new supply lines (you usually should).
• Clearance: Is there enough room for the new faucet’s tall base or bulky mounting hardware? Is there a garbage disposal in the way?

Step 2: Read the Darn Instructions (Seriously)
Unbox the faucet and lay out all the parts. The little bag of washers and O-rings is not optional. Manufacturers often have specific steps for their model. Knowing you need a special tool before you’re lying on your back under the sink is a game-changer.

Step 3: Gather Your Arsenal
You’ll likely need: Basin wrench (an under-sink lifesaver!), adjustable wrenches, plumber’s putty or silicone sealant (check the instructions for which one), a bucket/ towels, and possibly a helper. Don’t try to MacGyver it with the wrong tools.

Step 4: The “Should I Call a Pro?” Quiz
Be honest with yourself:

• Are your existing shut-off valves old and crusty? (If they don’t turn easily, they could break, forcing you to shut off water to the whole house.)
• Are the connections corroded or seized?
• Does the new faucet require an electrical outlet for a sensor or hot water dispenser?
• Are you just not comfortable working in a tight, wet space?

If you answered “yes” to any of these, hiring a professional is not a defeat—it’s a smart investment. A pro can handle surprises, ensure no leaks, and often have it done in under an hour.

The goal is to enjoy your new faucet, not to spend your Sunday dealing with a flooded cabinet. A little prep makes all the difference!