How to Install 3-Hole Faucets the Quick and Easy Way

There is quite a bit that a faucet manufacturer can do to affect how a faucet is installed. For example, the quick installation technology that Pioneer, Olympia and Central Brass developed and use is industry-leading. If you’re a pro, skip directly to the instructions below. If you’re a homeowner with some experience, here’s a fun quiz to see how well you know the parts of a faucet. Give it a try!

Instructions for easy installation of a three-hole or widespread faucet:

1. Gather the following supplies:

• New faucet
• Supply lines
• Silicone caulk
• Plumber’s tape
• Adjustable wrenches
• Basin wrench
• Small bucket
• Putty knife

2. Shut off the water supply. Turn off the hot and cold water using the shut-off valve under your basin. Turn on the faucet to drain the water that has remained inside and release the pressure. If you have a disposal, make sure to unplug that as well.

3. Disconnect the hot and cold water supply lines with an adjustable wrench. Remove the nut holding the faucet tailpiece assembly in place, and remove the faucet. (If possible, have someone help you hold the faucet in place from above while you loosen and remove the nut).

4. Now it’s time to install the new faucet. First, clean the area thoroughly of debris left over from removing the old faucet.

5. Place a gasket or trim ring over each of the three holes. For some faucets, plumber’s putty is recommended. Place the faucet exactly where you want it and feed the faucet lines into the holes. Underneath the counter, slide the easy-install mounting nut onto the shank of the spout and hand tighten.

6. For pull-down faucets, add the weight that will retract your pull-down sprayer. (Make sure there is enough space beneath your sink to allow the weight to move freely).

7. If you’re installing one of our faucets with quick-connect technology, insert the Y connector into the end of the quick-connect adapter until it clicks. Pull on it to test it.

8. Once you’ve checked to be sure the faucet is completely centered, tighten it with a basin wrench.

9. Place the two faucet levers over the trim or gasket piece on the right and left holes and feed the lines through.

10. Attach the water supply lines, using plumber’s tape if necessary, first to your faucet, then to the shut-off valves. Insert the hose of the side valve into the quick connect on the Y connector, then push until it clicks. Pull down to test. Connect the hot and cold sides. Connect hot water on the left and cold on the right.

11. Hand-tighten the locknut to the side valve. When the levers are centered and right where you want them, tighten the screws on the locknut with a screwdriver to secure. 

12. Turn on the water and check for leaks. Tighten water supply connections if necessary.

Congratulations! You’re done. Step back and admire your work.

There are many ways to the same destination. This saying applies to multi-family housing builds just as much as to anything else in life. The ultimate goal is save as much money as possible while delivering a great finished project – that’s simply showing smart business sense. But, finding a one-off deal or sacrificing quality isn’t the only way to get a healthy ROI. We have a better way.

Pioneer works with professionals every day to develop specification packages and plans that save our valued partners both time and money, sometimes in surprising ways. It’s our goal to ensure your project meets or exceeds its expected outcome. We want to get to know you and your company and show you how we can save you money.  Please reach out via our website form or call us at (800) 338-9468.