DIY kitchen makeover: Replacing your kitchen tap with ease and confidence

When your old kitchen taps start to give out, corrode, and leak, it might be time to kiss them goodbye. Is it easy to replace a kitchen tap yourself? Don’t worry if you’re not a seasoned plumber; if you’re unsure how to replace kitchen taps, you should be able to do it with the right tools and a little guidance. In this guide, get ready to roll up your sleeves as we’ll walk you through the steps to easily replace a kitchen tap.

Signs that you need to replace your kitchen tap

Several things indicate it’s time to replace your old tap:
 

• Leaks - If you notice persistent leaks or dripping from your kitchen tap despite numerous fixes, the old tap is beyond repair and needs to be replaced.
   

• Corroded or damaged tap - If your old tap is corroded, damaged, or shows signs of wear and tear, such as loose handles or difficulty in turning the faucet on and off, it’s time to replace your kitchen mixer tap with a new one.
   

• Changes in water pressure - You might notice unusual noises when using the tap and a difference in water pressure without adjusting anything. This could indicate internal damage, which could warrant kitchen tap replacement.
   

• Outdated aesthetics - If your existing tap no longer suits your kitchen’s style or if you plan on renovating your kitchen altogether, consider upgrading your existing kitchen tap to match your new aesthetic.

Preparing to replace kitchen taps (tools, safety measures, etc.)

From replacing kitchen taps to installing kitchen sinks, it’s important to gather all the right tools you need for a smooth and safe process. You’ll need a set of adjustable pliers, a wrench to loosen and tighten connections, pliers to grip and turn fittings if needed, a bucket to catch spilling water, and a cloth or towel to clean up any mess. Additionally, you might need plumber’s tape, more commonly known as Teflon tape, to provide a secure and leak-free seal on threaded connections.

Aside from gathering all the tools to install a new tap, proper safety measures should be followed. For example, you’ll need to turn off the water supply to your kitchen. This can be done by shutting off the main water valve or locating the specific valve connected to your kitchen. Turning off the water will prevent accidental leaks or water damage during the replacement process.

It’s also a good idea to wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from debris, harsh chemicals, and water splashes while removing or installing your kitchen mixer tap. If you’re still not confident about replacing a kitchen tap yourself, it’s wise to ask a professional plumber for assistance.

How to replace a kitchen tap on your own

After you have prepared your tools, turned off the water, and followed all required safety measures, you can start working on your old kitchen mixer tap. Here are step-by-step instructions on how to replace a kitchen tap on your own:

1. Prepare the workspace

Place a bucket underneath the tap area to catch any water that may spill during the removal process. This will help keep your workspace clean and minimise potential messes.

2. Disconnect the supply lines

Using an adjustable wrench or pliers, carefully loosen and disconnect the supply lines connected to the existing tap. Be cautious of any water remaining in the lines and drain it into the bucket.

3. Remove the old taps

Unscrew and remove the old tap from the sink or countertop. Depending on the type of connections, you might need to use an adjustable wrench or pliers.

4. Apply plumber’s tape

Wrap a few layers of plumber’s tape around the threaded connections of the new tap. This will create a tight seal and help prevent leaks.

5. Install the new taps

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to securely attach the new tap to the sink or countertop. Use the provided hardware and tools, ensuring all connections are tightened properly.

6. Reconnect the supply lines

Reattach the supply lines to the corresponding connections on the new tap. Use an adjustable wrench or pliers to tighten them securely, but be careful not to overtighten and cause damage.

7. Turn on the water supply

Slowly turn the water supply valve on and check for wetness around the new tap and connections. If there are leaks, tighten the affected connections further or reapply plumber’s tape if necessary.

8. Test for functionality

Once you’ve confirmed there are no leaks, turn on the tap and check its functionality. Make sure that the water flow is smooth and that the handles operate properly.

Replace your kitchen tap easily with Airtasker

It might require a little bit of elbow grease, but you can replace your own kitchen mixer taps. If you’re still hesitant, fret not! Airtasker understands that plumbing jobs require a lot of skill and hard work, and you can hire professionals for all your plumbing needs. 

Just log in and connect with nearby plumbers to help you get the job done. All you need to do is post a task, set your preferred schedule and budget, and wait for offers to come in. Be sure to review each offer before choosing the Tasker who best fits your needs. 

If you’re ready to replace kitchen mixer taps, upgrade your kitchen fixtures, or tackle any other home improvement project, give Airtasker a try today and get a quote or learn about mixer tap installation rates.