Have you ever found yourself in need of connecting two faucet supply lines together? Maybe there is any plumbing or faucet reaping work going on in the kitchen or you are adding a new appliance in the kitchen that need to connect its supply lines with the faucet. How to connect two faucet supply lines together to avoid leaks?
This guide is about all steps you need to take while connecting 2 faucet supply lines. Get a process in detail to connect the same or different supply lines.
Supply Lines
For a plumbing system, faucet supply lines are essential components. They connect the faucet to the main water supply of the house. These lines allow water to flow from the faucet to the lines, supplying the water required for a variety of kitchen operations including dishwashing, food preparation, and water-filling pots.
For supply lines, several diameters and lengths are offered. You must choose the proper length and size for your faucet. You will have leaks, poor water pressure, and plumbing system damage as a result of incorrectly sized lines.
Supply lines are not universal. Certain faucets may need braided stainless steel or copper supply lines, whilst others may use PVC or other plastic materials.
The life of faucet supply lines depends on the material and quality used. Low-quality supply lines are easily prone to leaks and corrosion. They will damage the plumbing system and lead to costly repairs.
How To Connect Two Faucet Supply Lines Together?
Tools and Materials You’ll Need:
- Adjustable wrench or pliers – For the nuts on the supply lines and valves, make sure you have the proper size adjustable wrench or pliers.
- Teflon tape or pipe dope – To stop leaks, the threads on the supply line connections can be sealed with Teflon tape or pipe dope. While pipe dope could be required for older or damaged pipes, teflon tape is simpler to use and effective in the majority of circumstances.
- Pipe cutter or hacksaw (if needed) – If you need to cut existing supply lines, make sure you have the proper tool. A pipe cutter is the most convenient and clean alternative, but a hacksaw can be used in a pinch.
- New supply line connector (if needed) – If you need to connect two distinct types of supply lines (for example, a copper line to a braided line), a new supply line connection that can accommodate both types may be required.
- Bucket or container – As you cut off the water supply, be prepared with a bucket or other container to capture any water that may remain in the supply pipes. Your flooring and cabinets won’t suffer from water damage as a result.
Steps To Connect 2 Faucet Supply Lines
Water flows in the faucet supply lines. Before starting the process, turn off the water supply to those lines. Clean underneath the sink to make enough space for you to work there. Keep bucket and towel ready to catch any excess water from the fixture supply lines.
Determine The Type of Connectors You Need
There are different connectors for the faucet supply lines. It is important to find the right connector for your supply lines.
- Compression Connectors: Since they are straightforward to install and produce a tight seal, compression connectors are a popular option for connecting supply lines. A ferrule is compressed onto the supply line by a threaded nut in order to form an airtight seal.
- Push To Connect: Without using tools or tightening, push-to-connect connectors are made to snap onto the end of the supply line. They work well with supply lines made of PVC and PEX.
- Threaded: Male and female threads on threaded connections allow them to screw into supply lines. These can be used with Teflon tape or pipe dope to make a watertight seal on threaded supply lines.
Cut The Supply Lines
Cut the supply lines to the length you want. Obtain accurate length measurements and mark the supply line for the cut. A pipe cutter or hacksaw can be used to cut the supply lines. Be careful to measure the length twice to avoid any length issues.
Clean Ends
To guarantee a secure connection, clean the ends of the supply lines after cutting them. Remove any dirt, debris, or rust that may be preventing a secure connection with fine-grit sandpaper or a wire brush.
Insert The Connectors
You might need to first enter the connectors into the supply lines, depending on the type you have, before connecting them. For the particular type of connections you have, adhere to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
When installing some connections, such as compression connectors, a ferrule must first be placed into the supply line.
Connect The Supply Lines
You may connect the supply lines after installing the connectors. With a wrench or pair of pliers, insert the supply lines into the connections, then tighten them down firmly. Avoid overtightening since this may harm the connections or result in leakage.
Read also – How To Connect Outdoor Faucet To a PVC Pipe?
Tips To Ensure a Secure and Leak-Free Connection
It’s crucial to make sure that the connectors used to join two faucet supply lines are the appropriate size for the supply lines. Leaks, air in the water, damage to the connections or supply lines, and a dangerous plumbing system can all arise from using connectors that are too tiny or too big.
Check the size and composition of the supply lines before making a connection purchase to be sure they will fit.
Use Teflon tape or pipe dope to provide a watertight seal if you’re using threaded connectors to connect the fixture supply lines.
Teflon tape and pipe dope both assist in filling any holes or flaws in the threads, resulting in a watertight barrier that stops leaks. Teflon tape should be wrapped around the threads clockwise, being careful not to wrap it too tightly.
It’s crucial to avoid pressing the connections if they don’t fit readily when joining the fixture supply lines. The supply lines or the connections themselves may be damaged by forcing them, leading to leaks or a dangerous plumbing system.
After the tap supply lines are attached, it is crucial to routinely inspect the connections for corrosion, damage, or leakage. The connections may become more vulnerable to leakage or failure as a result of corrosion. Cracks or breakage in the connections might cause leaks or make the plumbing system dangerous.
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Types of Supply Lines
Braided Stainless Steel Supply Lines
These are the most common supply lines for kitchen fixtures. The outer side of these supply lines is built with a flexible stainless steel braided layer and the inner tube is made of PVC or other plastic material.
Its inner tube carries water to the faucet. The outer layer of the supply line provides flexibility, durability, and protection against leaks. These supply lines are resistant to corrosion and the right choice for longer use in the kitchen. Its flexible body can be installed in tighter spaces. Its inner tube can withstand high water pressure.
Copper Supply Lines
Copper is a durable and corrosion-resistant material so it is widely used to make faucet supply lines. But copper supply lines are typically more expensive than other lines. It can be used where hard water is found because it prevents mineral buildup.
Installation of these lines is tougher than braided lines. You need to do the perfect cutting with the right measurements. To create watertight seals, copper lines required soldering.
PVC Supply Lines
PVS supply lines are made of plastic material. Its price is cheaper than other supply lines and installation is a breeze. These lines are a good choice where water pressure is low. It comes in white and Grey color mostly.
In terms of durability, PVC lines are not as durable as others. If not taken care of properly may be prone to cracking. These lines are not advised to use in the area where water pressure is high or water is hot.
How To Measure For Your Water Supply Line?
You need to measure the distance between the supply lines and the fixture in a straight line. If the distance is not straight and has some obstacles, take measurements in parts, and at the end add all parts to get the final length of the supply line.
If there is a bend or curve in the supply line, you need to take measurements of the curve also to get an accurate length. It will make sure that the line reaches the faucet perfectly. Measure the diameter of the supply line. By measuring the diameter, you can make sure both supply lines will be fitted properly. To measure the diameter a caliper is the right tool but everyone doesn’t have it so you may use measuring tape.
| Diameter | Common Applications | Flow Rate | Common Materials | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3/8 inch | Residential sinks, toilets, showers | Up to 5 gallons per minute | Braided stainless steel, PVC, PEX | Flexible, easy to install, suitable for most residential applications |
| 1/2 inch | Commercial or industrial sinks, toilets, showers | Up to 10 gallons per minute | Copper, galvanized steel, brass | Rigid, less flexible, suitable for higher volume applications |
James Lewis is a seasoned plumber and faucet enthusiast who shares his expertise on Faucetsavvy.com. With over 15 years of experience in the plumbing industry, he’s passionate about helping homeowners find the perfect faucet for their needs. He’s also dedicated to empowering DIY enthusiasts with the plumbing knowledge and skills needed to repair and maintain their faucets.