Mixer taps are installed on kitchen sinks more commonly in urban areas. These are installations that utilize both hot and cold water lines that can be mixed in a basin. This will provide a range of temperatures that should suit the needs of every household. These can range from chilly to steaming hot just by simply adjusting the lever or knob.
Basically, these components come with dual handles that will provide hot and cold options. Others come with special valves that should offer varying ratios of hot or cold depending on the way the tap is being twisted. Either way, the plumber never has a problem installing or even repairing this. However, it is always so rewarding to do it on your own when the need arises. So, here are some easy steps that you can follow.
1. Shutting Off Water Supply
Always make sure that the water supply has been shut off accordingly. This will avoid a messy outcome during the installation process. Most of the time, the valve can be found just under the sink.
2. Keeping Components in One Place
One way of keeping things such as bolts, gaskets and washers in one location is to cover the sink drain with the stopper being held by a chain. Later on, you will have a need for these components, so you need to know where to find them.
3. Removing the Old Tap
Before engaging into this type of task, make sure that you know exactly what you are doing. Without any knowledge about basic plumbing works can lead to undesirable results. So the first thing that you can do is to remove the tap you wish to replace using a wrench.
4. Cleaning Up the Old Installation
Use a utility knife to scrape the putty or epoxy away so that a new installation can be possible. Take note of the exact size of the tap as it will be the basis of installing a new one. New taps can be reinforced with adapters to fit right the old lines of the cold and hot water.
5. Plumbing the New Mixer Tap
After cleaning the decorative plate, it is essential to replace the plumber’s putty with a new one. This is needed in order to keep the tap fixed to the sink. Simply make sure that the valves should be reattached correctly so that you can get the best result from your own work.
This can be an easy task for people who have prior knowledge about basic plumbing. However, if you think that this is a really challenging job, perhaps you will have to seek the assistance of a licensed plumber. Most of the time, easy tasks done terribly wrong can be a disaster. Hence, try to research on the do’s and don’ts of installing a mixer tap before engaging into this type of endeavor. Likewise, equip yourself with the right tools such as a wrench and utility knife to make the job a success.
