Do you want to install a kitchen tap on your own but don't know what tasks await you? Before you pick up the phone to call a handyman, check out our guide! With it, you'll learn what tools and materials you'll need to install the tap, how to prepare the plumbing, and the steps involved in replacing an old tap with a new one. It turns out that self-installing fixtures isn't as complicated as it seems. Read on to learn all practical tips and find out how to mount taps to your sink!
How to install a new sink tap?
Wondering how to connect the tap in your home? Know that before installing the kitchen tap, you should first gather the necessary equipment. In this case, an adjustable wrench is indispensable. You must also have Teflon tape, rubber washers, mounting screws, and flexible supply hoses. Before purchasing a new tap, check the plumbing, including the size of the drain, the size of the valve thread, and the spacing of the holes in the sink.
Before starting work, remember to turn off the main valve to cut off the water supply. This way, you'll prevent leaks when unscrewing the tap or during the installation of the new one. Earlier, make sure you know where this main valve is, along with the valves that cut off the supply of hot and cold water!
Tap replacement – dismantling the old tap
Are you faced with dismantling a kitchen tap or will you be installing a standing washbasin tap? It is worth knowing all the steps so that the renovation works proceed correctly and smoothly. Dismantling a sink tap begins by unscrewing the supply hoses from the ends of the water system. An adjustable wrench should be used to gently loosen the nuts connecting the hoses to the valves. Then, the screws securing the fixtures to the sink or countertop must be loosened.
Once all mounting elements are unscrewed, the tap should slide out freely. Ensure that all parts, such as gaskets or washers, have been removed. Know that the old fixtures should be taken to the large waste collection point and clean the hole in the sink thoroughly. This is very important when installing new fixtures, as this activity ensures the proper adhesion of the tap.
Tap installation – what is worth knowing?
- Preparing the hole and installing the base of the kitchen tap: before placing the brand-new tap in its intended spot, be sure the hole is the correct diameter and fits the purchased equipment. Under the tap base, just fit a rubber washer to ensure tightness and protect the countertop surface from damage.
- Securing the kitchen tap: after placing the tap in the countertop, it must be precisely screwed down using the mounting screws included in the installation kit. These elements should be screwed evenly to avoid tilting the tap and ensuring stable mounting. Remember not to over-tighten the screws, as this may damage the sink or countertop and cause leaks. Tighten just until a clear resistance is felt.
- Connection of flexible supply hoses: The next step is connecting the fixtures to the plumbing pipe. It is important to properly connect the hoses to the appropriate valves – cold water to the cold water valve and hot to the hot water valve. The hoses should be hand-tightened and then tightened using an adjustable wrench to ensure maximum seal. Remember, flexible tap hoses must match the pipe ends; otherwise, you might have water where you don’t want it, like on the floor.
- Securing additional elements: if the purchased bathroom fixtures are equipped with a retractable spout, it should be installed according to the manufacturer's instructions. For wall taps, the body should be fixed to the wall using the appropriate screws and wall plugs. It's important to check if all connections are tight and stable.
Checking the seal of the installation and testing after installing the tap
After installing the tap, before putting the tools away, the installation's seal should be thoroughly checked. To do this, slowly turn on the main water valve and the shut-off valves, then check if the water flows through the fixtures without leaks. In case of any leaks, you must immediately turn off the valves and correct the connections.
Testing the tap also involves checking whether the water stream is even and there are no pressure issues. Well-installed fixtures should ensure smooth water flow for both cold and hot.
Maintenance and care for items such as wall-mounted kitchen taps
Do you want to enjoy your new kitchen tap for a long time? Remember to maintain it regularly. This means systematically cleaning the body and spout from lime deposits, which affect the aesthetics and functionality of the tap. Mild cleaning agents and soft cloths are often recommended for cleaning. Otherwise, scratches may occur on their surface.
What are the types of kitchen taps, and how to choose the right one for your sink?
The choice of the right kitchen tap affects both the convenience of use and the aesthetics of the room. Manufacturers offer various types, differing in style, functionality, and installation method. Among the most popular types are standing taps, wall taps, with a retractable spout, and models with a built-in water filter. When choosing the fixtures, you should focus on the plumbing specifications, available space in the countertop, and personal preferences regarding appearance and function.
Popular kitchen taps
- Standing taps (pillar taps): These are the most popular types directly mounted on the sink. Standing variants are characterized by easy installation and are available in various styles – from classic to modern. When choosing this type of tap, pay attention to the height of the body and the spout's reach, to ensure convenient space for washing dishes and filling high pots. Mexen offers a wide range of pillar taps, including models with retractable spouts that significantly facilitate kitchen work.
- Wall taps: This type of tap is perfect for kitchens where the water supply network is already run in the wall. Installation of wall taps may be a bit more complicated than a standing variant, as it requires precise adjustment to the spacing of the water connections. Mexen offers wall taps in various spacings, making their installation easier.
Replacing a sink tap – check out modern models too!
In recent years, taps with built-in water filters have gained increasing popularity. Such a solution allows for clean water straight from the tap. It is not only convenient but also beneficial for health. On the market, modern kitchen fixtures with built-in filters are available, which are extremely easy to install yourself and maintain over time. Moreover, you can adapt their appearance to the style prevailing at home.
Replacing an old tap? Opt for modernity!
The water filter is just one of the innovations available on the market. Nowadays, you can easily buy practical models with thermostats. They ensure precisely set water temperatures, which is undoubtedly particularly useful in the kitchen. With such a solution, you can avoid accidental scalding with hot water while also saving energy by maintaining a constant temperature in the tap. Modern kitchen taps with thermostats, perfectly fit minimalist interiors, as they give them style and elegance.
How to choose the right tap for your kitchen?
When choosing a kitchen tap, several important factors need to be considered, including the room style, type of sink, and individual user needs.
The kitchen tap should first and foremost be ideally matched to the interior decoration. In classic kitchens, taps with a traditional design will perform well, while in modern ones – simple models with a minimalist shape. In both cases, it may be a standing variant or one directly attached to the wall.
Installing a tap matched to the style
It is worth knowing that contemporary bathroom fixture manufacturers, such as Mexen, also offer variants made of brass or stainless steel. Among our options, you can also find a high-quality metal tap, which will successfully last many years of use, providing you with excellent resistance to corrosion and mechanical damage.
Meanwhile, in the case of single or double bowl sinks, the matter looks like this: they require different types of taps. Therefore, when installing a tap, always make sure to adjust its height to the height of the sink. This way, you'll ensure adequate space for dishwashing. It's also worth checking the spout's range and its ability to rotate to ensure smooth use of the sink.
Installing a kitchen tap has its own set of rules – so check what else you need to know!
Two more variables are key:
- Water installation and its parameters: before purchasing a kitchen tap, check the specification of the water installation, especially whether it is adapted to the installation of the selected model. In this case, the spacing of the shut-off valves, the diameter of the angle valve thread, and the main water valve are particularly important.
- Installation instructions: before starting work, carefully read the instructions and find out how to mount the selected tap to the sink; it seems obvious, but we often "like" to forget such apparent things.