The kitchen is often considered the center of the home, and having a functional kitchen mixer tap is essential for its daily operations. Whether your current tap is showing its age or just not performing as it should, replacing it can refresh the heart of your home.
Switching out a kitchen mixer tap might seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right tools and a straightforward approach, you can install a new tap yourself. This guide will walk you through the process, making it easy to understand and execute.
Tools Needed for Changing a Kitchen Tap
To undertake this task, you’ll need several key tools. Here’s what you should have and how each tool is used:
- Adjustable Wrench: This tool is useful for adjusting to different sizes of nuts and bolts. Its adjustable jaw allows it to fit various fasteners, making it perfect for loosening or tightening connections.
- Basin Wrench: Specifically designed for working in tight spaces, such as behind sinks, this wrench has a long handle and a swiveling jaw for reaching difficult spots and providing additional leverage.
- Screwdriver: Essential for driving screws, a screwdriver comes in various types such as flathead and Phillips. It’s used here to adjust screws securing the tap.
- Plumber’s Putty: A soft sealing material, plumber’s putty ensures a watertight seal between the tap and the sink, preventing leaks.
- Pliers: Useful for gripping and twisting, pliers will help you handle supply hoses and mounting bolts during installation.
- Bucket: Keep a bucket handy to catch any water that spills while you disconnect the old tap and install the new one.
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing a Kitchen Mixer Tap
1. Removing the Old Tap
- Turn Off the Water Supply: Start by shutting off the water under the sink to stop water flow to the tap.
- Disconnect the Supply Hoses: Use pliers to loosen and detach the supply hoses from the tap, placing a bucket underneath to catch drips.
- Remove the Mounting Nuts: Use the basin wrench or adjustable wrench to remove the nuts holding the tap under the sink.
- Lift Out the Old Tap: Once the nuts are off, you can remove the old tap. Clean the sink area where the tap was mounted to prepare for the new installation.
2. Installing the New Mixer Tap
- Set the New Tap in Place: Insert the new tap into the pre-drilled holes in your sink, ensuring it’s positioned correctly.
- Secure with Mounting Nuts: Fasten the new tap from below using the nuts, securing it tightly with the basin wrench.
- Attach the Supply Hoses: Reconnect the water supply hoses to the tap and tighten them with pliers, ensuring there are no kinks.
- Install the Aerator: This component controls water flow and should be screwed onto the tap’s spout.
- Turn On the Water: Restore the water supply and check for any leaks, making adjustments as needed.
How Long Does It Take to Replace a Kitchen Tap?
The duration to replace a tap can vary based on the complexity of the tap design and your own DIY experience. For simple replacements, a few hours should suffice. More complex setups or less experience might extend this time.
Cost of Replacing a Kitchen Mixer Tap in Sydney
Costs in Sydney range from $150 to $500, influenced by the tap’s quality and the plumber’s expertise. It’s wise to compare several quotes to ensure competitive pricing and quality service.
Plan Your Kitchen Tap Replacement in Sydney with Sewertec Plumbing Services
If you’re considering a tap replacement in Sydney and seeking reliable service, look no further than Sewertec Plumbing Services. Known for our quality and reliability, our professional team is ready to assist with your plumbing needs. Visit us at Sewertec Plumbing Services or call us at 0499 219 454 for expert guidance and efficient installation.
