How I Installed My Kitchen Faucet in Neptune, NJ — And What I’d Do Differently!

bryanedwards651
Jun 27
5 min read

If you're anywhere near Neptune, NJ, and wondering about installing kitchen faucet, you're in the right place. I recently tackled the project myself—stepping into uncharted waters (literally)—and I want to share exactly how it went. I'll cover what worked, what I’d do differently next time, and tips to make it smoother and more fun for you.

🛠️ Why I Took on the DIY Faucet Project

Save money – Hiring a plumber in Neptune, NJ, can cost $150–$300 just for labor.
DIY satisfaction – Something is rewarding about upgrading your own space.
Avoid delays – I didn’t want to wait around for appointments.

Step 1: Preparation Is Everything

Before grabbing your wrench, you need to prepare. This is where most projects take off—or stall.

Gather tools & parts: I picked up a basin wrench, adjustable wrench, plumber’s putty, Teflon tape, and the faucet kit with all its components (supply tubes, gaskets, mounting hardware).
Turn off the water: Neptune NJ homes often use easily accessible shut-off valves under the sink. I found mine and shut them off, then opened the tap to drain leftover water.
Clear the workspace: Kitchen sinks can get cramped. I cleared everything out, placed a towel at the bottom (to catch any dropped tools or screws), and ensured good lighting.

Step 2: Removing the Old Faucet

Disconnect supply lines: With my adjustable wrench, I loosened the nut on each water line. You’ll want to hold the valve steady with a second wrench to avoid damage.
Unscrew mounting hardware: Underneath the sink, nuts were holding the faucet in place—removed those. I used a basin wrench since the space was tight.
Lift it out from above: Once freed, I gently lifted the old faucet out. Tip: Have a rag or bucket ready to catch any residual water.

Step 3: Installing the New Faucet

Install a gasket or use putty: If your faucet comes with a rubber gasket, use it. If yours doesn’t, apply the plumber’s putty around the base before placing it in the mounting hole.
Insert the faucet from above: Guide the faucet through the hole in the countertop. Make sure the handles are facing forward—this may seem obvious, but I initially grabbed mine backward.
Secure underneath: Holding the faucet steady, I threaded the mounting nuts from below. Don’t fully tighten until all parts are in place.
Align the faucet body: Once all the nuts were snug, I adjusted the faucet so it looked straight, then finished tightening.

Step 4: Attaching the Water Supply

Apply Teflon tape: To prevent leaks, wrap cold and hot water inlet threads with plumber’s tape (3–5 wraps). In Neptune’s humid climate, seals need extra attention.
Connect the supply lines: Screw them onto the matching hot and cold inlets under the faucet, then attach the other ends to the shut-off valves. Ensure that hot goes to hot and cold goes to cold.
Hand-tighten, then wrench: Tighten by hand first, then finish with a wrench—just snug, not crushing the fittings.

Step 5: Check for Leaks & Flush the System

Turn the water back on slowly: Gradually open both valves, then turn the faucet handles to the on position.
Check under the sink: I watched closely for drips around the supply line nuts and the faucet base. No leaks? Success!
Flush and test: Let water run full blast on both hot and cold for a minute to clear debris. Try the sprayer if you have one. Everything worked perfectly.

What I’d Do Differently Next Time

This is the juicy part—my “lessons learned” so you don’t repeat my mistakes.

1. Get the Right Faucet Mount Right Away

I accidentally bought a single-hole faucet for a sink with three holes. That meant installing a base plate, which I didn’t need. Next time, I’d double-check the hole configuration first.

2. Use Better Lighting Under the Sink

Under-sink space in Neptune, NJ, is often dark and cramped. I used my phone's flashlight, but a small LED headlamp would be a game changer.

3. Label the Water Valves

I initially mixed up the hot and cold lines—which isn’t life-threatening but indeed confusing. I now label them with little tags, so no more guesswork.

4. Rely on Helper at the Tightening Stage

Holding the faucet in place while tightening the nuts from below is awkward. A second pair of hands—someone on top holding the faucet—would’ve made that step faster and cleaner.

5. Always Have Extra Teflon Tape & Putty

When I had demand flare-ups during final tightening, I needed more materials. A small spool and extra plumber’s putty next time will save late-night runs to the hardware store.

My Final Thoughts on Installing a Kitchen Faucet in Neptune, NJ

Tackling the installation of a kitchen faucet on your own can feel daunting, but with some simple planning, patience, and the right tools, it’s a manageable—and even rewarding —task. I saved a few hundred dollars, learned a ton, and love the view of my new faucet every time I wash dishes.

If I had to sum it up:

Plan meticulously – Match the faucet to the sink, collect your tools, and prepare the space.
Work deliberately – take each step slowly and check alignment and seams.
Embrace the learning curve – Mistakes happen. My misfires taught me more than success ever would.

Quick Neptune, NJ-Specific Tips

Water quality – If your Neptune water is hard or slightly alkaline, mineral buildup may show up after a few months. Consider installing a small inline filter or use a vinegar rinse occasionally to help maintain the cleanliness of your system.
Local hardware stores – Neptune has reliable stores like Neptune Ace, where you can find high-quality plumber’s putty, supply lines, and helpful advice.
Codes and permits – For basic faucet swaps, you typically don’t need licenses in Neptune Township. Still, always check local codes or contact the municipal building if you are unsure.

Got Questions About Installing Kitchen Faucets?

If you’ve installed a faucet before and want my tips, or if this is your first time and you’re feeling intimidated—drop a comment! I’ll respond with answers and share my real-world experience.

💬 Common DIY Questions I Can Help With:

Got a model in mind? I can help you double-check a few things before making a purchase.
Trouble with the sprayer hose retracting? I went through that.
Can’t get a clean line from the hot and cold handles? Please let me know your sink setup, and I’ll offer suggestions.

Wrapping up: Installing a kitchen faucet in Neptune NJ isn’t rocket science, and it doesn't have to break your budget. With good prep, innovative technique, and a dash of patience, you can handle it like I did—with better results next time!

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Enjoyed this DIY journey? Consider bookmarking this post and sharing it—you might help a neighbor in Neptune, NJ, take the plunge, too!