Improvement Direct Ideas is a series of webisodes brought to you by the Improvement Direct Network of Stores. These videos are designed to show you how to beautify your home and add value to it in the process.
In this episode of Improvement Direct Ideas, we install an eco-friendly kitchen faucet. Our host, Andrew, will talk to Caroline, a plumbing expert at FaucetDirect.com, to discover what makes a kitchen faucet eco-friendly, or green. Also, we’ll meet Stephanie, a homeowner interested in remodeling her kitchen with new products, while taking care to preserve the environment.
Stephanie’s old faucet is a single-handle, single-hole faucet that she purchased years ago. She was on a budget at the time and cut some corners. It turns out the faucet she bought leaked near the top and stained the rest of the fixture. In addition, she estimates her leaky faucet wastes about 100 gallons a year. For more information on eco-friendly products, visit the ENERGY STAR Web site.
Stephanie chose to go with a new kitchen faucet from Kohler, a single-hole fixture with a pullout spray feature. In addition, it has an optional low-flow aerator that is installed into the faucet spout.
Here’s a quick tip:
WaterSense-labeled faucets or aerators that can be installed on existing bathroom faucets are about 30 percent more efficient than standard faucets, and still provide plenty of good flow.
Caroline, a plumbing expert at FaucetDirect.com, stopped by to answer a few faucet questions:
Q: What options and accessories are available for a faucet?
A: Choose from pullout faucets, as well as single- and double-handle fixtures. Other designs include single-hole faucets and fixtures with four-inch and eight-inch centers. A soap dispenser or air gap can color coordinate with your faucet. In addition, match your sink with a garbage disposal flange and basket strainer.
Q: What if my faucet is just leaky and I don’t want to replace the whole thing?
A:Most faucets come with a manufacturer’s warranty. But at FaucetDirect.com, it’s easy to find the replacement parts you need.
Q: Where do I go if I need more specs for my faucet?
A: Most faucet specifications are online at FaucetDirect.com. If you need to speak to a representative, call (800) 864-2555.
The project of replacing an old kitchen faucet with a new, eco-friendly fixture depends on the model, but expect to pay around $300. This isn’t a difficult job, and should take about 30 minutes to do.
If you poke your head underneath the counter, you can see the shanks and the attached supplies. Take note of this, since this is also a good indication of how to install the new faucet. After shutting off the water, use a pipe wrench to disconnect the lines. Most likely, if you’re using the same faucet type, you can use the old lines for your new faucet.
One-hole and three-hole faucets are essentially the same. Instead of the shanks being close together, they’ll be farther apart. And remember, whether you’re using a one- or three-hole faucet, be sure you attach the lines to the right shank. Otherwise, you could mix up your hot and cold.
When re-connecting the water lines, Teflon tape will help create a water-tight connection. This is one of those easy steps that will ensure the project is done right. Use the pipe wrench to connect your lines, and be sure to get the connection tight. Use the pipe wrench to connect the pipe to the deck (there should be a washer which will secure it down).
After the faucet is strapped in, tighten the bolts that secure it to the deck. Voila, you’re all set.
A faucet is one of those small things you use daily and don’t realize it. But, it’s easy to forget how frustrating it can be when dealing with a leaky or broken faucet. Also, in the last decade, there have been some amazing design advances where manufacturers have replaced the rubber washer gaskets with ceramic disks, which last a lifetime.
Join us next time on ImprovementDirect Ideas when we replace the dishwasher.
