Anyone ever just swap the supply lines under the sink instead of messing with the faucet itself? Feels like the faster fix, but maybe I'm missing something.
- Swapping supply lines is definitely quicker in a pinch, but it’s not always the best long-term fix.
- Some faucets (especially single-handle ones) are designed so the internal cartridge expects hot on the left and cold on the right. If you swap lines, you might end up with weird handle directions or even scalding risk if someone’s not expecting it.
- I’ve seen a few cases where folks swapped lines and then had issues with anti-scald features not working right, or the handle movement felt backwards. Not a huge deal for everyone, but can be confusing for guests or kids.
- Flipping cartridges works too, like you mentioned, but yeah—sometimes you get that awkward handle position. I’ve had to explain that more than once to a landlord who thought I installed it wrong.
Curious—has anyone run into code issues with swapped supply lines? I’ve heard some inspectors will ding you for it, but never seen it enforced myself.
Never had an inspector call me out for swapped lines, but I’ve heard stories. Honestly, it’s one of those “technically not to code” things that most folks ignore unless you get a real stickler. I’ve fixed more backwards handles than I care to admit... always feels weird when hot is on the right.
I get that inspectors usually let it slide, but honestly, I think it matters more than folks admit. If you’re used to hot on the left and suddenly it’s on the right, it’s just asking for someone to get burned—especially kids or guests. Swapping lines might seem harmless, but isn’t it worth doing right the first time? I’d rather not risk it just to save a few bucks or minutes.
Totally get where you’re coming from. I’ve swapped out a few faucets over the years and always double-check the lines. It’s just not worth the hassle later—confuses everyone, and yeah, could be risky with kids or guests. The “hot on the left” thing is basically muscle memory. Little details like this make a difference in daily life, even if inspectors don’t always flag it. Takes maybe five extra minutes to do it right... peace of mind is worth that, at least for me.
The “hot on the left” thing is basically muscle memory. Little details like this make a difference in daily life, even if inspectors don’t always flag it.
I learned this the hard way—first week in my new place, I hooked up the bathroom faucet backwards. Thought I was being clever, but nope, just confused myself every morning. My wife still teases me about “opposite day” showers. It’s wild how something so small can throw you off. Now I double-check everything, even if it means crawling under the sink twice.
