An experienced plumber is usually the best professional to repair or replace your faucet. However, a handyman with plumbing experience might also be able to provide a quality service. It's a quick and easy job for most professionals and can be completed in less than an hour. 

Here are some questions to consider when you're choosing who to hire:

• Are they licensed, bonded, and insured?

• How many years of experience do they have?

• Is fixing or replacing faucets a standard part of their job? Do they do it often?

• How much do they charge compared to other pros who do faucet repairs?

• Do they have reviews or testimonials of how satisfied customers have been with their faucet repairs or replacements?

According to Thumbtack data, the national average cost of faucet repairs ranges from approximately $180 to $480*, depending on the type of faucet you have. Many parts are inexpensive, so if you have DIY knowledge and the right tools, you might be able to repair your faucet for a fraction of that cost.

Meanwhile, installing a new faucet can cost anywhere from $220 to $590* on average. If the job is more complex than usual, you can expect a higher price.

*Data on file at Thumbtack. For a personalized cost estimate, request a quote from a professional.

A professional plumber usually finds it quick and easy to fix or replace a faucet. Pros can often complete the job in 30 minutes to an hour, provided they have the necessary tools and materials (wrench, caulk, pliers, etc.) and everything goes according to plan.

Sometimes, the job may get tricky, in which case you can expect it to take longer. For example, water shut-off problems, seized pipes and substandard workmanship from previous plumbing jobs could increase the project’s timeframe. 

The process to repair or replace a faucet typically includes the following steps:

1. Shut off the water supply to the faucet

2. Remove the old faucet or replace the worn-out parts of the faucet

3. Clean surfaces

4. Install the new faucet

5. Switch the water back on

6. Test the faucet to ensure everything is working properly

Tip: If you plan to replace a faucet, it's a good idea to speak to a plumber first. They'll be able to tell you which type of faucet you need and possibly even recommend which brands to choose.

Replacing a faucet is relatively simple and only requires a few tools. However, it also calls for careful planning and research. You may encounter a few surprises, such as rusted pipes, leaky shut-off valves or even a poor fit on your new faucet. 

Here are some factors to consider when deciding between DIY and hiring a professional for this project:

Benefits of hiring a pro:

• They can work on a variety of faucets and plumbing systems

• They can handle unexpected surprises due to their experience and expertise

• They can usually finish the project quicker than the average DIY-er

• They can help prevent leaks and other issues

• They have all of the necessary tools and materials, including basing and adjustable wrenches, plumber's tape, sealant, channel locks, pliers and more.

Benefits of DIY-ing:

• It's usually cheaper than hiring someone

• You'll have more control over the process

It can be hard to decide whether your faucet needs to be repaired or replaced. Faucets contain parts like washers and O-rings, which degrade over time. These parts are typically quick and easy to replace. However, in some situations, replacing the faucet might be the right choice. 

Consider these facts if you don’t know if you should repair or replace your faucet:

• Repairing is usually cheaper, especially if the maintenance required is minimal.

• Repair costs may begin to add up if the faucet breaks repeatedly. This is more common with very old or low-quality faucets.

• New faucets may save on future costs due to damage and water leaks caused by very old or low-quality faucets.

• Consider replacing an old faucet with a new one that better matches the style of your home.