Do-It-Yourself (DIY) replacing a standard tap* is not as difficult as you think it might be. Anybody having the right tools, patience and know the process of replacement can perform tap replacement. We are here to share with you on how to change a water tap. This self-help instruction is mainly for residential home owner’s reference.
* Standard tap is a Mixer or Cold water tap mounted on a table top, basin or sink.
Answer the following questions before proceeding to replacing the tap.
- Did you select a tap that is fitting to replace the current tap?
Refer to the article “How to select a tap” if you are unsure.
- Are the water source control valves looking in good functional condition and not leaking? If they are not then likely they are to be replaced with you need to call in plumber or handyman.
- Do you have tools for removing tap securing nuts?
Cold water tap : 6~8” Adjustable Pliers / Monkey Pliers and 27mm box spanner
Mixer tap : Tools for the mixer tap are harder to ascertain due to various sizes and designs of the securing nut. Measure the size of the securing nuts and then to have the right tools
When you have the right tap and tools on hand we can proceed with process of replacing the tap
Step 1: Close off the water
Close of the water to the tap by turning off the miniball valve or the main water valve of the house.
Step 2: Remove the water flex hose
Cold water: Remove the flex hose from the tap using the pliers or the box spanner
Mixer: Remove the mixer tube from the miniball valves using pliers or fingers and keep the flex hoses attached to the mixer.
Step 3: Remove the securing nut of the tap
Using the correct tools to twist out the securing nut of the taps. Turn the nut anticlockwise.
Take note: – The securing nut could be loosened for easier removal by twisting the body of the mounted taps anti-clock wise.
– Sometimes taps are secured to the surface with silicon seal, thus have to cut away for tap to be removed.
Step 4: Connect Flex hose to the new tap
Connect the water flex hose to the tap before mounting the tap. It is lesser effort to secure the flex hose this way as compared to constrained space.
Step 5: Mounting the tap
Mount the tap on the table top, basin or sink. Twist in the securing screw and ensure the position is correct before tightening the securing nut.
Step 6: Connect water hose to the valve
Connect the water hose to the same miniball valve or the fittings as were removed in step 2
Step 7: Turn on the water sourceIn Summary
It is not complicated to change the tap. With patience and logic is what you need. However take note that it is much easier to change a cold water tap than a mixer tap because of the tools availability and complexity. Another major concern is space constraints. If you struggle or think you are unable to change the water tap, do engage the plumbers or handyman.
Thanks for your blog, nice to read. Do not stop.
Good luck.