Upgrading or replacing a faucet can dramatically improve the look and functionality of your kitchen or bathroom. But while buying a new faucet can feel exciting, the cost of installation often catches homeowners by surprise. Between plumbing labor rates, potential extra parts, and unforeseen complications, faucet installation expenses can add up quickly. The good news is that there are several strategies you can use to keep those costs under control without sacrificing quality.

This guide explores practical ways to save money on faucet installation, whether you’re hiring a professional or rolling up your sleeves for some DIY work.

1. Choose the Right Faucet for Your Setup

One of the most common reasons installation costs increase is because the faucet purchased isn’t compatible with the sink or countertop. For example, if your sink has three pre-drilled holes but you buy a single-hole faucet, you may need an additional deck plate or modifications to make it fit. Similarly, wall-mounted faucets require more complex plumbing adjustments compared to standard deck-mounted models.

Money-Saving Tip: Before buying a faucet, check your sink or countertop’s hole configuration and choose a faucet that fits directly. This eliminates the need for extra parts or professional modifications.

2. Buy the Faucet Yourself

Plumbers and contractors often offer to supply faucets, but they may charge a markup on the product. While this can be convenient, purchasing your own faucet typically saves money and gives you more control over style, finish, and price. Many big-box retailers and online stores run frequent discounts, so you can snag a high-quality faucet at a lower cost.

Money-Saving Tip: Shop around online, compare prices, and look for coupons or seasonal sales before making your purchase.

3. Stick to a Standard Faucet

Specialty faucets—like touchless models, pull-out sprayers, or pot fillers—often require additional installation time or parts. While these upgrades can be appealing, they usually cost more to install. A traditional single-handle or double-handle faucet is easier to fit and requires less labor.

Money-Saving Tip: If your goal is to save on installation, choose a straightforward faucet design that doesn’t require electrical work, sensors, or complex plumbing connections.

4. DIY the Installation (If You’re Comfortable)

For those with basic DIY skills, installing a faucet yourself can eliminate labor costs entirely. Most modern faucets are designed with DIY installation in mind and come with step-by-step instructions. With the right tools—a basin wrench, plumber’s tape, and an adjustable wrench—you can often complete the job in under two hours.

Money-Saving Tip: Search for video tutorials that match your faucet model to gain confidence before starting. If you get stuck, you can still call a plumber, but you might save yourself hundreds by doing it independently.

5. Prepare the Workspace Before the Plumber Arrives

If you prefer hiring a professional, you can still reduce labor costs by preparing the area. Plumbers often charge by the hour, and time spent clearing out cleaning supplies under the sink or struggling with stuck valves adds to the bill.

Money-Saving Tip: Clear out the cabinet beneath your sink, ensure the water shut-off valves are accessible, and remove any obstacles before your plumber arrives.

6. Replace Old Parts Yourself

During faucet installation, plumbers may find that shut-off valves, supply lines, or seals are corroded and need replacing. While these parts are inexpensive, having a plumber replace them increases labor costs.

Money-Saving Tip: Inspect your valves and supply lines in advance. If they look worn or leaky, pick up replacements at your local hardware store and swap them yourself. That way, the plumber only installs the faucet, not extra components.

7. Bundle Jobs Together

If you’re planning other plumbing upgrades, like installing a garbage disposal, replacing a toilet, or fixing a leaky pipe, consider scheduling everything at once. Many plumbers offer reduced rates when completing multiple tasks in a single visit.

Money-Saving Tip: Create a checklist of all the plumbing work you need and request a bundled estimate. This strategy cuts down on separate service call fees.

8. Compare Quotes from Multiple Plumbers

Prices for faucet installation vary widely depending on the plumber, your location, and the complexity of the job. Some plumbers charge flat fees, while others bill hourly. Gathering multiple quotes helps you understand the going rate in your area and avoid overpaying.

Money-Saving Tip: Ask for written estimates that include labor, potential extra parts, and guarantees. Avoid choosing solely on the lowest price—focus on value and reputation.

9. Schedule During Off-Peak Hours

Plumbers often charge more for emergency calls, weekend work, or evenings. Unless your faucet is leaking severely, try to schedule installation during standard business hours.

Money-Saving Tip: Plan ahead and book your plumber for a weekday morning. You’ll save money and avoid rush fees.

10. Maintain Your Faucet to Avoid Replacements

Sometimes, homeowners rush to replace a faucet when a repair could have solved the problem for a fraction of the cost. Issues like low water pressure, dripping, or a wobbly base can often be fixed by cleaning the aerator, tightening screws, or replacing inexpensive cartridges.

Money-Saving Tip: Try basic troubleshooting and repairs before deciding on full replacement. If the faucet is still functional, a quick repair might extend its life for several more years.

Final Thoughts

Installing a new faucet doesn’t have to drain your wallet. By choosing the right faucet, preparing in advance, and making smart decisions about when and how to hire help, you can dramatically cut installation costs. Even small actions—like clearing space under your sink or buying the faucet yourself—can make a noticeable difference.

Whether you decide to DIY the project or hire a professional, the key to saving money is planning ahead and avoiding unnecessary expenses. A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring that your new faucet not only looks great but also fits your budget.