The total kitchen faucet replacement cost can range widely, but generally, you should expect to pay between \$150 and \$750 for the whole job. This price includes the cost of the new faucet fixture and the plumbing costs for faucet work.
Replacing a kitchen faucet is a common home repair. Sometimes, an old faucet leaks badly. Other times, you just want a new look. Knowing the real cost helps you plan your budget. This article breaks down all the expenses involved. We look at parts, labor, and hidden fees.
Breaking Down the Total Cost of Faucet Replacement
The final price for replacing your kitchen faucet is made of two main parts: the cost of the new faucet itself and the cost of labor to put it in.
Cost of the New Kitchen Faucet Fixture
The cost of new kitchen faucet fixtures varies a lot. You can find basic models for less than \$50. High-end, feature-rich faucets can cost well over \$1,000. Where you shop and the brand you choose matters greatly.
Factors Affecting Faucet Price
Many things make one faucet more expensive than another. Think about the style you want. Also, consider the materials and special features.
- Style and Type: Pull-down sprayers cost more than basic two-handle models. Touchless faucets are usually at the higher end of the price scale.
- Material and Finish: Solid brass faucets last longer and cost more than plastic or zinc alloy ones. Finishes like matte black or brushed gold often cost more than standard chrome.
- Brand Name: Well-known plumbing brands often charge a premium for their reputation and warranty.
- Features: Faucets with built-in water filters or smart technology add to the price.
Here is a quick look at what different tiers of faucets might cost:
| Faucet Tier | Typical Price Range (Fixture Only) | Common Features |
|---|---|---|
| Budget/Basic | \$40 – \$100 | Simple design, plastic parts, limited finish choices. |
| Mid-Range | \$100 – \$300 | Good quality build, stainless steel, pull-down sprayer included. |
| High-End/Designer | \$300 – \$700+ | Premium materials, smart features, unique designer look. |
Labor Fees: The Plumbing Costs for Faucet Work
Labor is a big part of the kitchen faucet replacement cost. This covers the plumber’s time to remove the old unit and install the new one.
The average price to install new kitchen faucet usually falls between \$100 and \$300. This estimate assumes a straightforward swap. If your old faucet is very old or stuck, the job takes longer. Longer jobs mean higher plumbing costs for faucet service.
Labor Cost to Replace Sink Faucet Components
The labor cost to replace sink faucet breaks down into a few key tasks:
- Assessment: Checking the water shut-off valves and the sink area.
- Removal: Disconnecting and taking out the old faucet.
- Preparation: Cleaning the sink surface where the new faucet will sit.
- Installation: Putting in the new faucet, connecting water lines, and testing for leaks.
If you hire a licensed plumber, they usually charge an hourly rate or a flat fee for the job. Plumbers often have minimum service fees.
Understanding Plumbing Service Call for Faucet Fees
When you call a plumber, you often pay a plumbing service call for faucet fee just for them to show up. This fee often covers the first hour of work or diagnostic time. If the repair is simple, like a direct swap, the service call fee might cover most of the labor cost.
Factors That Increase the Replacement Cost
Not every faucet replacement is quick and easy. Certain issues can drive up the final bill significantly.
Removing Old Kitchen Faucet Cost
The removing old kitchen faucet cost can be surprisingly high. This happens when the old faucet is rusted in place. Old plumbing connections can seize up over time. If the plumber has to use special tools or cut pipes, the labor time increases. This extra time adds to the overall labor cost to replace sink faucet.
Sink Type and Faucet Mounting
The type of sink you have affects the installation process.
Standard Drop-In Faucets
Most standard faucets go into holes in the sink deck. These are usually the easiest and cheapest to replace. The labor time is minimal here.
Under-Mount Kitchen Faucet Installation Cost
Faucets designed for under-mount kitchen faucet installation cost more in labor. Under-mount sinks mean the plumber has less room to work underneath the counter. They must often contort into tight spaces to secure the mounting nuts. This cramped work requires more time and effort, leading to higher labor charges.
Dealing with Damaged or Old Supply Lines
If the flexible water supply lines leading to the faucet are old, cracked, or corroded, the plumber must replace them. This is necessary for a safe, leak-free installation. Replacing supply lines adds to both the material cost and the labor time. This is a common necessary add-on during replacement.
Issues with the Shut-Off Valves
If the shut-off valves under the sink don’t close tightly, or if they leak when the plumber tries to turn them off, they must be replaced immediately. Replacing faulty shut-off valves adds expense but is crucial for future maintenance access and safety.
DIY vs Professional Faucet Replacement
A major decision in managing your kitchen faucet replacement cost is choosing between doing it yourself (DIY) or hiring a pro.
Going the DIY Route
If you are handy, replacing a faucet can save you the entire labor cost.
Pros of DIY:
- Saves significant money on labor fees.
- Gives you complete control over the timeline.
Cons of DIY:
- Requires having the right tools (basin wrench, pliers, Teflon tape, etc.).
- Risk of leaks if connections are not tight enough. A small leak can cause major water damage quickly.
- If you run into a difficult removal, you might end up paying a plumber anyway, plus the cost of buying tools you don’t need again.
If you choose DIY, your cost is limited to the kitchen faucet fixture price plus any small necessary supplies like plumber’s putty.
Hiring a Professional Plumber
Hiring a pro guarantees the job is done correctly and quickly.
Pros of Hiring a Pro:
- Expertise ensures proper sealing and leak prevention.
- They handle tough removal jobs easily.
- Often, the plumber’s work comes with a short warranty.
- They can manage any unexpected plumbing issues that arise.
Cons of Hiring a Pro:
- You must pay the full labor cost to replace sink faucet.
- You must schedule the work around the plumber’s availability.
For most homeowners, hiring a plumber is the safer bet, especially if you are unsure about working with water connections under the sink.
Total Estimated Cost Scenarios
To help you budget, here are three common scenarios for replacing a kitchen faucet, combining fixture cost and labor.
| Scenario | Faucet Quality | Labor Difficulty | Estimated Total Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Swap (Budget) | Budget/Basic (\$50) | Easy (Direct replacement) | \$150 – \$300 |
| Standard Replacement (Mid-Range) | Mid-Range (\$150) | Average (Some minor issues possible) | \$350 – \$550 |
| Complex Installation (High-End) | High-End (\$400) | Hard (Under-mount or old parts stuck) | \$650 – \$1,100+ |
These figures give you a solid idea of the kitchen faucet replacement cost you might face. Remember, the more features your new faucet has, the higher the kitchen faucet fixture price will be.
Deciphering Faucet Warranties and Hidden Costs
When buying a new faucet, look closely at the warranty. Good warranties cover the finish and the internal parts for years, sometimes even a lifetime. This reduces the chance of future costs related to faucet failure.
Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
Always ask your plumber about potential extra charges before they start work. Clear communication prevents billing surprises.
Hidden costs often include:
- Disposal Fees: Some plumbers charge a small fee to haul away the old, heavy faucet unit.
- Parts Markup: Plumbers might mark up the cost of new supply lines or specialized washers they supply.
- After-Hours Fees: If you need the repair done on a weekend or holiday, expect higher rates.
- Permits (Rare for Faucets): While rare for a simple faucet swap, major re-plumbing might require local permits, adding administrative costs.
Comparing Faucet Brands and Features
The selection of the new faucet heavily influences the overall spending. Modern kitchens often demand features that cost more upfront but offer convenience later.
Single Handle vs. Double Handle
Single-handle faucets are very popular today. They are easier to use with one hand. They are generally easier to install than older, separate hot/cold handle setups. This ease slightly lowers the labor cost to replace sink faucet.
Touchless Technology
Touchless or motion-sensor faucets offer high convenience. They are great for busy kitchens. However, the technology inside them makes the cost of new kitchen faucet higher. Installation might require an extra connection for power (batteries or an AC adapter).
Side Sprayer vs. Integrated Sprayer
Faucets with side sprayers require drilling an extra hole in the sink deck or countertop. Faucets with integrated pull-down or pull-out sprayers are more common now. Integrated sprayers simplify the install because fewer holes are needed, potentially simplifying the plumbing costs for faucet service.
Faucet Installation for Different Countertops
If you have granite or quartz countertops, the plumber must be careful not to chip the stone when working underneath. While this doesn’t always raise the labor charge directly, extreme caution might slow down the process slightly.
Comprehending Installation Specifics: Under-Mount vs. Top-Mount
The way the faucet meets the counter or sink dramatically impacts the work required.
Top-Mount (Drop-In) Installation
This is the standard setup. The faucet assembly sits on top of the sink or counter. Installation is generally quick because the plumber works mostly from above the sink basin. This keeps the plumbing costs for faucet low.
Under-Mount Sink Installation Nuances
Under-mount kitchen faucet installation cost is higher for a reason. The sink is attached below the counter surface. This means the plumber must work entirely in the dark space under the sink. They have to feel for the nuts and tighten them from below. Tools like a basin wrench are essential here, and the work is slow. Expect this type of installation to take at least 30 to 60 minutes longer than a simple top-mount swap.
Budgeting for Essential Accessories
Even if you buy a faucet on sale, you might need a few extra items. These small purchases add up.
- New Supply Lines: If the existing ones are old, budget \$15 to \$30 for two new braided stainless steel lines.
- Plumber’s Putty or Silicone: Needed to seal the base of the faucet against the sink/countertop. Usually less than \$10.
- Basin Wrench: If you DIY, this specialized tool is essential for reaching the nuts holding the faucet in place. It costs about \$20 to purchase.
These small accessory costs are part of the overall kitchen faucet replacement cost.
How to Reduce Your Faucet Replacement Budget
If the initial quote seems high, there are ways to manage your spending without sacrificing quality too much.
- Shop Sales for the Fixture: Buy your kitchen faucet fixture price during major holiday sales (like Black Friday or Memorial Day). Major retailers often discount quality brands.
- Choose a Simple Design: Opt for a single-handle model without touchless technology if your main goal is saving money.
- Bundle Repairs: If you have other small plumbing issues (like a dripping showerhead), address them all at once. Some plumbers offer a slight discount when tackling multiple jobs in one visit, effectively spreading the plumbing service call for faucet fee over more work.
- Pre-Inspect Valves: Before calling the plumber, try turning off your hot and cold water valves under the sink yourself. If they work smoothly, tell your plumber this upfront. This confirms a smoother start to the job.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take a plumber to replace a kitchen faucet?
For a straightforward replacement where the old faucet comes out easily and the new one is a standard top-mount model, a plumber typically takes 1 to 2 hours. If it is an under-mount kitchen faucet installation cost scenario or if the old faucet is heavily corroded, the job can easily extend to 3 hours or more.
Is replacing a kitchen faucet considered a major repair?
No, replacing a kitchen faucet is generally considered a minor plumbing repair or fixture upgrade. It rarely requires cutting into walls or major pipe work. Therefore, the plumbing costs for faucet work are usually reasonable and contained to the sink area.
Can I save money by only replacing the cartridge instead of the whole faucet?
Yes, if your faucet is leaking but the exterior finish is still fine, replacing just the internal cartridge might be much cheaper. This repair usually costs less than \$50 for the part, plus a small labor fee. However, if the faucet body is old or finishes are worn, investing in a new cost of new kitchen faucet might be better long-term value.
What is the typical labor cost to replace a sink faucet if I supply the fixture?
If you buy the faucet yourself, the labor cost to replace sink faucet generally falls between \$100 and \$300, depending on your local rates and the complexity of the removal. Always confirm if the quoted price includes disconnecting and disposing of the old unit.
Should I replace the supply lines when I replace the faucet?
It is highly recommended. If your supply lines are more than five years old or show any signs of wear, replacing them while the plumber is already there is smart preventative maintenance. It adds a small amount to the overall kitchen faucet replacement cost but prevents potential future leaks and water damage.