Olivia Carter
Are you tired of your old and leaking kitchen tap? Or maybe you just want to upgrade your kitchen with a stylish and modern mixer tap? No matter the reason, fitting a kitchen mixer tap is a relatively easy DIY project that can be done in just a few steps. In this video guide, we will show you exactly how to fit a kitchen mixer tap, so you can enjoy a fully functional and aesthetically pleasing tap in your kitchen.
Step 1: Gather the tools and materials
Before starting the installation process, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials. You will need a basin wrench, an adjustable wrench, a screwdriver, plumber’s tape, silicone sealant, and, of course, the new kitchen mixer tap. Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the tap and its components.
Pro tip: It’s always a good idea to read the manufacturer’s instructions before starting any installation process.
Step 2: Turn off the water supply
Before you begin, turn off the water supply to your kitchen. You can usually find the shut-off valves under the sink. Once the water supply is turned off, open the tap to let any remaining water drain out.
Step 3: Remove the old tap
Using the adjustable wrench and screwdriver, carefully remove the nuts and screws that hold the old tap in place. Once the nuts and screws are removed, lift the old tap out of the sink. It’s a good idea to clean the sink area thoroughly before proceeding.
Pro tip: Take some photos or make a note of how the old tap was connected. This will make it easier for you to install the new tap.
Now that you have successfully removed the old tap, you can move on to the exciting part – fitting the new kitchen mixer tap. Follow the rest of the steps in this video guide to ensure a smooth installation process.
How to Fit a Kitchen Mixer Tap Video
If you’re looking to update the look of your kitchen and improve its functionality, installing a new kitchen mixer tap can make a big difference. In this step-by-step video guide, we’ll show you how to fit a kitchen mixer tap yourself, saving you time and money.
What You’ll Need:
- A new kitchen mixer tap
- An adjustable wrench
- A set of pliers
- Teflon tape
- A bucket or towel
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
Before you begin, make sure to turn off the water supply to your kitchen. You can usually find the shut-off valve underneath the sink.
Step 2: Disconnect the Old Tap
Use your adjustable wrench and pliers to disconnect the old tap. Start by removing the plastic caps from the hot and cold water supply lines, and then use the adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts. Once the nuts are loose, you can use your hands to disconnect the tap from the water supply lines.
Step 3: Prepare the New Tap
Take your new kitchen mixer tap out of its packaging and make sure all the components are included. Install any washers or gaskets that came with the tap, and apply Teflon tape to the threaded connections to ensure a watertight seal.
Step 4: Install the New Tap
Position the new tap onto the sink or worktop, making sure it aligns properly with the existing holes. Use your wrench to tighten the mounting nuts, ensuring that the tap is secure.
Step 5: Connect the Water Supply Lines
Attach the hot and cold water supply lines to the corresponding connections on the new tap. Use your adjustable wrench to securely tighten the nuts, but be careful not to overtighten and damage the connectors.
Step 6: Turn on the Water Supply
Once you’ve connected the water supply lines, open the shut-off valve to allow water back into the system. Check for any leaks around the connections and tighten them further if necessary.
That’s it! You’ve successfully fitted a new kitchen mixer tap. Now you can enjoy the improved functionality and style of your updated kitchen.
Preparation for Installation
Before you begin the installation process, it is important to gather all the necessary tools and materials. Make sure you have the following items on hand:
- Adjustable wrench: This tool will be used to tighten the nuts and bolts.
- Screwdriver: A screwdriver will be needed to remove any screws or fasteners holding the old tap in place.
- Plumber’s tape: This will help create a watertight seal between the fittings.
- Cloth or rag: Having a cloth or rag nearby will be useful for wiping up any spills or drips.
- Kitchen mixer tap: Make sure you have the new tap ready to install.
Next, turn off the water supply to the kitchen sink. This can usually be done by turning off the shut-off valves located under the sink. If there are no shut-off valves, you may need to turn off the main water supply to your home
Once the water supply is turned off, open the kitchen faucet to drain any remaining water in the pipes. This will help prevent any leaks or spills during the installation process.
Before installing the new tap, take a moment to clean the area around the sink. Remove any dirt or debris to ensure a clean working surface.
Removing the Old Tap
Before installing your new kitchen mixer tap, you’ll need to remove the old tap first. Here are the steps to follow:
- Start by shutting off the water supply. Locate the isolating valve under the sink, and turn it clockwise to close.
- Next, use a basin wrench to disconnect the water supply hoses from the old tap. Place a cloth or bucket underneath to catch any water that may spill.
- Once the hoses are disconnected, use an adjustable wrench to loosen the fixing nut that holds the tap in place. Turn it counterclockwise until the old tap is loose.
- With the fixing nut removed, gently lift the old tap out of its position. Be careful not to damage any surrounding pipes or fittings.
- Inspect the area where the old tap was installed. Clean away any debris or buildup to ensure a smooth installation for the new tap.
Now that you have successfully removed the old kitchen tap, you are ready to move on to installing the new mixer tap in your kitchen.
Installing the New Tap
Once you have removed the old tap, it’s time to install the new one. Follow these steps:
- Prepare the new tap by removing any packaging and protective covers.
- Place the threaded connectors on the new tap through the holes in the sink.
- Secure the tap in place using the supplied nuts and washers. Use a spanner to tighten the nuts, but be careful not to overtighten.
- Connect the flexible hoses from the tap to the water supply. Make sure to correctly match the hot and cold water connections.
- Ensure the connections are tight and secure using an adjustable wrench.
- Turn on the water supply and check for any leaks. If you notice any leaks, tighten the connections further.
- Test the tap by turning it on and off, checking that the water flows smoothly and there are no issues.
Once you have completed these steps, you have successfully installed your new kitchen mixer tap. Enjoy your updated kitchen and the convenience of your new tap!
Connecting the Water Supply
Before connecting the water supply, make sure you have turned off the main water valve to prevent any water leakage. You should also open any nearby taps to relieve the pressure and drain any remaining water from the pipes.
Next, you will need to connect the flexible tap connectors to the pipes. These connectors should be included with your mixer tap and will typically have a rubber seal at both ends. Ensure that the seals are in good condition and not worn out.
Step 1: Attach the connectors to the pipes
First, thread one end of each connector onto the hot and cold pipes. Make sure to use the correct connector for each pipe. The hot water pipe is usually marked with a red marker, while the cold water pipe is marked with a blue marker. Use a wrench to tighten the connectors securely.
Step 2: Attach the connectors to the tap
Once the connectors are securely attached to the pipes, you can now attach the other end of the connectors to the tap. Slide the connectors onto the threaded tails of the tap and hand tighten them. Again, use a wrench to ensure they are securely tightened.
Make sure not to over-tighten the connectors, as this could damage the rubber seals and cause leaks.
Once the connectors are in place, you can turn on the main water valve and check for any leaks. It’s a good idea to have someone assist you by watching for leaks while you turn on the water.
If there are no leaks, you can now test the function of your mixer tap by turning on the hot and cold water separately and checking for proper water flow and temperature.
Remember to clean up any debris or excess sealant that may have accumulated during the installation process. And there you have it – your kitchen mixer tap is now connected to the water supply and ready to use!
Checking for Leaks
Once you have installed your kitchen mixer tap, it is important to check for any leaks. Follow these steps to ensure everything is watertight:
Step 1: Turn the Water Supply Back On
After installing the tap, turn the water supply back on by reopening the shut-off valves under the sink. This will allow water to flow to the tap.
Step 2: Inspect for Visible Leaks
Take a close look at the base of the tap, the connections, and any hoses for any visible leaks. If you notice any water dripping or pooling, you may need to tighten the connections or replace any faulty parts.
Step 3: Check for Leaks Under the Sink
Place a dry cloth or paper towel under the sink, specifically below the connections for the tap. Run the water and check if any water drips onto the cloth. If there are no leaks, the cloth will remain dry. If you notice any water drips, you may need to adjust or tighten the connections further.
Note: It is important to fix any leaks as soon as possible to prevent water damage to your cabinets or countertops.
Step 4: Check the Flexi Hoses
If your kitchen mixer tap has flexible hoses, carefully inspect them for leaks. Run the water and check if there are any drips or leaks coming from the hoses. If necessary, tighten the connections or replace the hoses if they are damaged.
Step 5: Use a Leak Detection Solution (Optional)
If you want to be extra sure, you can use a leak detection solution to check for any hidden leaks. Apply the solution to the base of the tap, connections, and hoses. If any bubbles form, it indicates a leak, and you will need to address it.
| Issue | Possible Solution |
|---|---|
| Visible leaks at connections | Tighten connections |
| Visible leaks at tap base | Check gasket or sealing ring |
| Leaking flexi hoses | Tighten connections or replace hoses |
By following these steps and checking for leaks, you can ensure that your kitchen mixer tap is securely installed and functioning properly. Remember to address any leaks promptly to prevent water damage and maintain the longevity of your tap.
Final Steps and Testing
Once you have completed all the necessary steps for fitting a kitchen mixer tap, it is important to perform a final inspection and test to ensure everything is functioning correctly. Follow these final steps to complete the installation:
1. Check for any leaks: Carefully inspect all connections for any signs of water leakage. Tighten any loose connections if necessary.
2. Turn on the water supply: Slowly turn on the water supply valves underneath the sink. Check for any water leaks or irregularities in water flow.
| Issue | Resolution |
| Leaking tap | Tighten the tap’s connecting nut or replace the washer |
| Irregular water flow | Check for any obstructions in the water supply lines and clear them if necessary |
3. Test the hot and cold water settings: Turn the mixer tap handles to the hot and cold positions individually. Check if the water temperature changes accordingly.
4. Test the mixer function: Gradually turn the mixer tap handles towards the center to blend hot and cold water. Check if the water temperature and pressure are balanced.
5. Test the swivel and spout flexibility: Rotate the swivel spout in different directions to ensure smooth movement and flexibility.
6. Clean and finalize: Wipe off any excess water and clean the tap surfaces with a gentle cleaner. Secure any loose fixtures or components to ensure stability.
By following these final steps and conducting thorough testing, you can ensure that your newly fitted kitchen mixer tap is fully functional and ready to be used.
FAQ
What is a kitchen mixer tap?
A kitchen mixer tap is a type of faucet that combines hot and cold water into one stream. It allows you to control the temperature and flow of water with a single lever or handle.
Why would I need to fit a new kitchen mixer tap?
You may need to fit a new kitchen mixer tap if your old one is leaking, damaged, or you simply want to upgrade to a newer model. Fitting a new tap can improve the functionality and aesthetics of your kitchen.
What tools do I need to fit a kitchen mixer tap?
You will typically need a wrench, screwdriver, adjustable spanner, and plumber’s tape to fit a kitchen mixer tap. It is also helpful to have a bucket or towel to catch any water that may spill during the installation process.
Can I fit a kitchen mixer tap myself?
Yes, you can fit a kitchen mixer tap yourself if you have some basic plumbing knowledge and the right tools. However, if you are unsure or uncomfortable with DIY plumbing, it is recommended to hire a professional plumber to ensure proper installation.
Are there any safety precautions I should take when fitting a kitchen mixer tap?
Yes, it is important to turn off the water supply to your kitchen before starting the installation process. This can help prevent any accidents or water damage. It is also a good idea to wear protective gloves and eyewear while working with tools and plumbing materials.
