How To Buy the Correct Faucet Parts

In this guide, homeowners can learn how to buy the correct faucet parts. From the steps one should take to locate the right replacement components to detailed information about common replacement pieces, this knowledge guide can help homeowners navigate the wide array of faucet parts available on the market.

5 Steps for Finding Faucet Replacement Parts

In both the kitchen and bathroom, faucets play an important role. These fixtures are not only a convenient feature to have in the home, but add a touch of style to the space. When they wear out or begin to lose their functionality, one option is to replace a specific faucet part rather than replacing the entire fixture.

1. Determine Whether or Not a Replacement Part is the Right Option

First, decide whether or not a replacement part is the right option. There are a few key factors that can help determine this:

• How hard is replacement? For homeowners who are not accustomed to tackling plumbing repairs, trying to locate the right replacement part and install it might not be worth the effort. In this case, it can be better to hire a plumber to install a new fixture rather than spending time tracking down single parts at a time.
• How cost-effective is replacing a single component? While a single faucet part might cost less upfront than replacing the whole fixture, it’s important to think about the lifespan of the rest of the faucet. If the faucet is fairly new, replacing a small part is a good pick. If the faucet is old, replacing one part now might simply equate to spending more money on another part a month later.
• How easy will it be to find the right replacement part? In some cases, locating the right faucet part might be simple. But for homeowners with an extremely unique or rare faucet style, it can be frustrating to try to track down the right part. Consider how difficult finding the right replacement will be before heading down this path.

2. Find the Faucet Model and Information from the Original Manufacturer

If replacing a single faucet component is the ideal pick for the situation, the next step is to find the faucet model and part specifications. Find the faucet’s original specs sheet or parts diagram to ensure the right part is chosen.

3. Identify the Specific Part that Needs to be Replaced

Once the manufacturer has been identified and the faucet model determined, use the specs sheet to find out the exact part that needs to be replaced. When in doubt, consult with a professional to make sure the right terminology is being used when looking for the replacement part.

4. Locate the Replacement Part, Preferably with the Original Manufacturer.

Next, reach out to the manufacturer of the faucet or use their website to locate the replacement part that matches the faucet model.

5. Work with a Professional to Install the Replacement Part.

Once the part has been purchased, work with a professional to install the replacement part. This will help ensure that no other components are damaged during the installation process.

Common Faucet Replacement Parts

When diagnosing common faucet issues, it can be difficult to navigate the complexity of the faucet’s components. From the faucet handles to the accompanying hardware, numerous parts work together to create a functional faucet. Before purchasing a faucet replacement part, it can be helpful to brush up on a basic understanding of what each common part does.

• Cartridges (Hot/Cold): At the heart of any faucet is the cartridge. This piece controls the temperature and water flow. Dripping water or difficulty in controlling the water’s temperature can be signs it is time to replace this faucet part.
• Handles: As decorative as they are functional, faucet handles make it easy to adjust the water flow. Replacing faucet handles can upgrade the look of a faucet and can be necessary due to normal wear and tear over time.
• Aerators: Located at the end of the spout is an aerator. With mesh screens, these components help reduce splashing and dripping in the sink. They also allow for a mix of water and air to create strong water pressure with less water use.
• Side Sprays: A convenient addition to the kitchen, a side spray faucet makes it easy to wash down the sink and spray off dishes. These can be easily replaced.
• Faucet Spouts: Rising from the base of the faucet is the spout. These can be replaced due to leaks or when a homeowner wishes to upgrade the faucet’s style.
• Pull-Out Sprayers: In some cases, a faucet is equipped with a built-in pull-out sprayer. This negates the need for a side spray, offering a more compact solution.
• Air Gaps: Installed alongside dishwashers, air gaps help prevent contaminated water from entering clean supply lines. For homeowners looking to add a dishwasher, installing an air gap is a must.
• Faucet Spout Flange: Flanges are used to add a decorative transition between the faucet and wall or sink. They also stabilize the faucet spout’s position, offering improved strength for the base of the faucet.
• Faucet Supply Lines: Faucet supply lines allow for the flow of water to the faucet spout. These lines can deteriorate or corrode over time, requiring replacement.
• Flow Restrictor: A great addition to both kitchen and bathroom faucets, flow restrictors can help cut down on water usage by regulating the amount of water flow exiting a faucet head.
• Gasket: Made from rubber, gaskets often dry out and crack over time. This can lead to leaks and improper water flow.
• Escutcheon Plate: Placed over the faucet handle stem between the decorative handle and the mounting deck is the escutcheon plate. These plates are often replaced at the same time as a faucet handle.
• Handle Index: Often referred to as a handle cap or handle button, these decorative pieces cover up handle screws. They are often replaced alongside a new faucet handle or due to cracking.
• Handle Tip: For certain faucet handle types, a tip screws onto the end of the handle. When this becomes damaged, replacement is as simple as screwing off the old tip and screwing on the new one.
• Handle Base: Another style of escutcheon plate, a handle base acts as a decorative piece between the handle of a faucet and the deck.
• Pull-Down Sprayers: Similar to a pull-out sprayer, a pull-down sprayer retracts into the spout when not in use. In some cases, the pull-down sprayer will need to be replaced before the faucet head.
• Water Shut-Off Valves: When working on bathroom or kitchen plumbing, a shut-off valve makes it possible to stop the flow of water to a specific area in the home. When these valves corrode, it can be necessary to replace the entire valve with a new part.

Shop for Replacement Parts with Kingston Brass

For homeowners with a Kingston Brass faucet, shopping for replacement parts online is easy. Kingston Brass offers replacement cartridges, valves, aerators, handles, sprayers, and just about any part one could need. If the part cannot be found online, homeowners can call 1-877-252-7277, and a Customer Support representative will help assist in locating the correct faucet part.