A Homeowner’s Guide to New Fixture Installation

Upgrading plumbing fixtures in your home? Maybe that leaky faucet has started to sound like a ticking clock. Or your showerhead just isn’t giving you the power you crave. It’s tempting to grab a wrench and get started. But the path from “before” to “after” can have some surprising twists.

At Argos Plumbing, we know homeowners want the satisfaction of a job well done—without the headache of hidden leaks or code violations. This guide helps you weigh your options, see where to save, and understand when professional help is the best investment.

Popular Fixture Upgrades 🚿

Replacing tired fixtures freshens up kitchens and bathrooms instantly. Some of the most popular projects we see:

• Faucets: Modern pull-down kitchen faucets, touchless bathroom taps, and waterfall styles.
• Showerheads: Low-flow models for water savings, rain showerheads for luxury, or handheld sprayers for flexibility.
• Toilets: Water-saving dual-flush, comfort-height, or one-piece designs.
• Sinks: Deeper kitchen basins, stylish new vanities, or farmhouse looks.
• Garbage Disposals: Quieter, more powerful models to handle kitchen cleanup.
• Laundry & Utility Fixtures: Upgraded utility sinks, smart shut-off valves.

Whether you’re aiming for style, efficiency, or convenience, upgrading a fixture is a project you’ll see and use every day. But even simple swaps hold surprises—rusted nuts, old shut-off valves, or pipes that don’t quite line up.

DIY vs Pro Installation: Weighing the Risks 🛠️

Some fixture swaps are as simple as changing a light bulb. Others, not so much. Here’s how to decide:

Good DIY Candidates

• Replacing a bathroom faucet or showerhead (if shut-offs work and pipes are standard)
• Swapping out toilet seats or tank hardware
• Installing a new handheld shower wand

When to Call a Pro

• Replacing toilets or sinks (especially if there’s caulking, wax rings, or heavy lifting)
• Upgrading kitchen plumbing near you that involves garbage disposals or dishwashers
• Fixtures connected to gas lines, like some water heaters or ranges
• Anything involving soldering, new pipes, or moving water lines
• Suspected pipe corrosion or leaking shut-off valves

A misstep can mean water damage, voided warranties, or even safety hazards. It’s like hiking a trail—some paths are a pleasant stroll, others are best tackled with a guide.

Step-by-Step Guide: Faucet, Showerhead, Toilet

Thinking of tackling a fixture swap yourself? Here’s a step-by-step look at three common upgrades.

How to Replace a Faucet

1. Turn off water supplies under the sink. Open the faucet to drain lines.
2. Disconnect supply lines with an adjustable wrench. Place a bucket to catch drips.
3. Loosen mounting nuts under the sink. Remove the old faucet.
4. Clean the area—scrape away old caulk or plumber’s putty.
5. Install the new faucet per manufacturer’s instructions. Place the gasket (or use putty).
6. Reconnect supply lines—hand-tighten, then gently snug with wrench.
7. Turn water on slowly and check for leaks.

How to Swap a Showerhead

1. Unscrew the old showerhead by hand or with pliers (use a cloth to protect finish).
2. Clean the threads on the shower arm. Wrap with new Teflon tape.
3. Screw on the new showerhead by hand. Tighten gently.
4. Turn on water and check for leaks or drips.

How to Install a Toilet

1. Turn off water and flush to empty tank.
2. Disconnect supply line and remove caps/nuts from toilet bolts.
3. Rock toilet gently to break seal. Lift and remove (it’s heavy!).
4. Remove old wax ring and clean flange.
5. Set new wax ring on flange. Lower new toilet into place, aligning bolts.
6. Press down firmly and tighten nuts evenly. Don’t overtighten.
7. Reconnect water supply and test for leaks.

If you run into trouble—rusted bolts, broken shut-offs, or water won’t stop flowing—pause and consult a professional. Sometimes, the most valuable tool is a phone.

Permits and Code Considerations ⚖️

It’s not just about getting the water to flow. Local building codes (refer to the International Plumbing Code or your municipal guidelines) set clear rules for:

• Shut-off valve requirements: New fixtures often need accessible shut-offs.
• Backflow prevention: Essential for kitchens and bathrooms.
• Drain and vent sizing: Improper connections can cause slow drains or sewer smells.
• Gas safety: Any gas line work (even moving a gas stove) requires a permit and licensed professional.

Most simple fixture swaps (like showerheads or faucets) don’t need a permit. But major upgrades—new toilets, sinks, or anything involving pipe changes—often do. Always check with your city’s building department first.

And remember: work done without proper permits can cause headaches if you sell your home, and may void insurance coverage in case of water damage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid 🚫

Even a small job can go sideways. Watch out for these traps:

• Over-tightening connections: Can crack porcelain or damage seals.
• Forgetting plumber’s tape: Threads on showerheads and supply lines need sealing.
• Not checking for level: A crooked faucet or toilet is a real eyesore.
• Skipping leak checks: Always run water and inspect every joint.
• Ignoring old shut-off valves: If they won’t budge, don’t force—call a pro.

If you’re unsure, take a photo and bring it to your local hardware store—or call Argos Plumbing for friendly advice.

Signs of a Quality Installation

You’ll know the job’s done right when:

• All joints are dry—no drips, no puddles
• Fixtures sit flush and level
• Water flows smoothly, with no odd noises or splashing
• Hot and cold are correctly labeled
• There’s no wobble, rocking, or shifting

If something feels off, it probably is. Trust your instincts—and don’t hesitate to ask for a second opinion.

Final Thoughts: Upgrade with Confidence

Installing new fixtures brings instant rewards—better looks, improved function, even water savings. But every job, big or small, has its tricks. Take your time, follow the steps, and know your limits.

For larger projects, or if you hit a snag, professional fixture installation is just a call away. Our plumbers handle everything from routine Fixture Installation to complex bathroom plumbing and kitchen plumbing upgrades.

Ready to refresh your home? Call Argos Plumbing now — or reach us anytime at  844-484-9980 .