How to Replace a Bathroom Tap

Fitting a new tap can really lift an old bathroom. Whether you’re looking for something traditional or modern, the process is the same, very simple and can be completed with just a few basic tools.
To help you along we have compiled a handy guide to replacing your bathroom taps. If in doubt please follow the manufacturer's instructions or consult a plumber.

Tools You Will Need:

• Pipe cutting tool
• Flat Head Screwdriver
• PTFE tape
• Adjustable wrench
• Basin spanner
• Junior hacksaw
• Tap connector pipes 
• Your new bathroom basin tap

Replacing A Tap:

1. Turn Off The Water Supply

First, you will need to shut off the water supply to the tap via the isolation valve. This is usually found on the pipework to your existing tap and is operated by using a flat head screwdriver (sometimes they have a lever attached) and turning 90 degrees to shut off the water. Once this has been done, we would recommend putting the plug in the basin to prevent any bolts and fixings falling into the drain and causing any issues or delays. Sometimes you may need to use a knife to remove any excess sealant around the base of the tap to make it that easier to remove but you need to make sure you’re careful not to damage the finish of the basin when doing this.

2. Remove The Nut Under The Basin

Next, you will need to remove the nut that clamps the tap to the basin. This is located on the underside of the basin itself. This can be tricky when you don’t have a lot of space, so it is best to use a cranked basin spanner or a box spanner to loosen the nut. If you’re removing a very old tap, the nut may well have become corroded. If this is the case, using a penetrating fluid left to soak for a
few minutes to free the nut or you could use a junior hacksaw to cut through the nut or the stem of the tap if the fluid doesn’t work.

3. Check Your Tap Connectors

Unless the tap that you’ve purchased will fit straight onto the existing pipework, you will need to use a tap connector. Most new basin and bath taps will come with flexible tails to make the installation easier. If needed, you can use a pipe cutting tool to trim the end of the pipe ready for the compression fitting.

4. Fitting Connectors To The Tap

Fit the tap connector the end of your new tap by hand and then tighten gently with an adjustable wrench (you should not need any thread tape at this point due to the seals on the connectors). Hold the main body of the tap as steady as possible whilst you’re doing this to prevent any damage to the fitting or the baseplate.

5. Fitting The Connector To Main Pipe

Now that your tap is ready to be connected to the mains supply by connecting the pipe to the end of the flexible tails with a compression fitting. Sometimes plumbers opt for placing a bit of plumbers tape (PTFE tape) around the threads of the compression joint to create a waterproof seal. Push the cap nut, followed by one of the olives on to the main pipe. Now push the joint on firmly so that the end of the pipe hits the stop inside the joint. You will now need to tighten the nut onto the compression fitting by hand and then using a spanner or adjustable wrench (you will need 2 spanners or wrenches for this part) tighten the joint fully. You can now switch on the water (reverse of step 1) and check for any leaks.
Please note that this is a basic step by step guide. Installation of some taps will require a slightly different method. Please consult the manufacturer’s instructions before attempting installation, or if you don’t feel confident, you may want to hire a professional to carry out the work for you.