How to Install a Tap

Knowing how to install a tap can save you both time and money. With modern tap designs like kitchen mixer taps, basin mixers, and bath filler taps becoming increasingly popular, understanding the basics of installation is an essential skill for anyone. Whether you’re updating your kitchen or giving your bathroom a fresh look, proper tap installation ensures functionality and prevents costly leaks or damage to your plumbing system.  

This guide from Showers to You will walk you through the process of installing a tap in just five easy steps. By the end, you’ll know how to fit a tap securely while maintaining safety and ensuring a perfect finish. 

Step 1. Preparing for Tap Installation  

Before you begin, preparation is key. Having the right tools and a clear understanding of the process will make installing a tap much smoother.  

Tools You’ll Need  

Gather these tools before starting the installation:

• An adjustable spanner/wrench
• A pipe wrench  
• A bucket or towel (to catch any water)  
• Plumber’s tape (also known as PTFE tape)  
• A screwdriver  
• Sealant or silicone (if required)  

Should You Hire a Plumber or DIY?  

Do you need a plumber to install new taps? Not necessarily. If you’re comfortable with simple plumbing tasks and have the right tools, you can install a tap yourself. However, if you’re handling more complex fittings, such as those involving multiple pipes or bespoke bath filler taps, professional support might be advisable.  

Can you install a tap yourself? Absolutely! Many modern taps, such as kitchen mixer taps and basin mixers, are designed for straightforward installations. With a bit of patience, detailed instructions, and this guide, most DIY enthusiasts can confidently handle the task.  

Step 2. Turn Off the Water Supply  

Before removing or installing a tap, ensure the water supply is fully turned off to prevent any mess or flooding.  

• Locate the isolation valve, typically found under the sink or basin. Turn it clockwise to shut off the water flow.  
• Open the tap you’re replacing to release any remaining water in the pipes. Use a bucket or towel to catch any drips.  

Pro Tip: If you cannot find the isolation valve, turn off the main water supply to your home before proceeding.  

Step 3. Remove the Old Tap and Prepare for Installation  

Now that your water supply is off, it’s time to remove the existing tap and prepare the area for your new installation.  

Steps for Removal:  

1. Use your wrench to unscrew the nuts securing the tap to the kitchen sink or bathroom basin.  
2. Disconnect the flexible hoses or attached pipes carefully.  
3. Clean any residue from the sink, basin, or bath, ensuring a smooth surface for the new fitting.  

Take a moment to examine your new tap fittings. Kitchen mixer taps and basin mixers often come with a mounting bracket or additional hardware. Familiarise yourself with these components before proceeding. 

Step 4. Install the New Tap  

With the old tap removed and the area prepared, it’s time to install your new tap.  

General Process for Installation:

1. Position the Tap: Place your new tap into the designated hole on your sink, basin, or bath. Ensure it is aligned straight. Most bath filler taps are wide, so that extra care may be needed for proper placement.  
2. Secure the Tap: Use the mounting bracket or screws provided in the tap kit to hold the tap in place. Tighten the fitting with your wrench.  
3. Connect the Hoses: Attach the flexible hoses to their corresponding water supply pipes. Apply the plumber’s tape around the threads to ensure a watertight connection.  
4. Check for Tightness: Give each connection a final twist with your wrench, but be careful not to overtighten, as this may damage the pipes or tap fittings.  

Pro Tip: For bath filler taps or heavier kitchen mixer taps, having a second person hold the tap steady during installation can be very helpful.  

Step 5. Test for Leaks and Final Adjustments  

Once the new tap is in place and the connections are secure, turn the water supply back on and test the tap.  

Testing Your New Tap:

1. Slowly turn the isolation valve or central water supply back on.  
2. Open the tap and check if the water flows smoothly.  
3. Inspect all connections beneath the sink or basin for any leaks. If leakage occurs, tighten the joints slightly or add more plumber’s tape to the threads.  

Is it easy to install a bathroom tap? Yes, most bathroom taps, including basin mixers, are straightforward to install. However, double-check all fittings and don’t rush the process.  

Are kitchen taps easy to install? Yes, kitchen taps are generally easy to install, especially with options like the Bristan Easyfit Taps. These taps come with everything you need in one box, making installation a breeze and allowing you to complete it in just minutes.

Why Proper Tap Installation Matters  

Installing a tap correctly is crucial for ensuring long-term durability and preventing water damage. Whether you’re fitting a stylish basin mixer in your bathroom or upgrading your kitchen with a sleek kitchen mixer tap, following these steps is the key to a successful installation.  

Adequately secured and tested taps not only improve the aesthetic appeal of your space but also give you confidence in the functionality of your plumbing. Plus, doing it yourself can save money while giving you a sense of accomplishment.  

What Taps do you recommend?

With over 22 different tap brands available at ShowerstoYou, it’s challenging to know which brand is best. Tap choice often comes down to personal preference, the look of the particular tap range, and how this suits the accessories and fittings in your bathroom or cloakroom. If you are looking for a traditional and classic look, then Burlington Bathroom Taps are worth browsing. For affordability without compromising on quality, we recommend Scudo Bathroom Taps, which has a massive selection of finishes and designs.

For a choice of over 400 taps and a brand renowned for quality, we recommend browsing the Bristan Taps. Many of these are available for next-day delivery, whether you are looking for Bristan Basin Taps, Bristan Mixer Taps, or Bristan Bath Shower Mixers. It is a brand worth perusing.

That being said, all Taps stocked at ShowerstoYou are from leading brands in the bathroom and shower industry, and therefore, we recommend reading our customer reviews for their opinions, too! Happy Shopping!