How to Install a Basin Tap: A Simple DIY Guide

Installing a new sink tap is very easy with Koala's easy guide if you want to upgrade and improve your bathroom. It is a fun project that you can do yourself! Before you get started, you need to prepare some tools and arrange everything needed for a seamless installation.

Plan cleanup tools and prepare for action

Now, first things first, let's get everything you need for this project. You’ll require a new basin tap, an adjustable wrench, a flathead screwdriver, a cloth or towel, and a few plumber’s tape. Be sure you have all these items before you get started. After you have your tools, the first step is to turn off the water supply. This involves shutting off the valves, often positioned under or just behind your sink. This is very essential in order to prevent any water to spill out while you are doing your job.

Next, you're going to want to prepare the area where you're installing. Remove all items under your sink: cleaning supplies, backup toiletries, etc. This will provide adequate room for you to workstation properly. Other than that, put a rag or towel on the floor under the sink where you may spill water doing this. The first step is to take off the old tap. This is done by loosening the bolt on the back of the sink and lifting the old tap up and out. It will probably require some force, but just keep twisting until it comes free.

Steps to Connect the New Tap

Next, you’ll want to hook up that new tap to the sink! Box the new tap came in and check that all the parts are included. That should give you all that you need. Put the rubber or silicone gasket on the base of the new tap. This gasket is necessary in order to tighten it to prevent leaks. From there, gently push the tap through the hole in your sink.

It is important to secure the tap so it remains in place. Insert the securing plate or nut over the bottom of the tap, and loosely tighten it using your adjustable wrench. Just don’t be too tight! If you do, it can destroy the seal or even break the sink, and we don’t want that.”

The next step is to connect the hoses to the bottom of the tap. These hoses, known as tails, connect the tap to the water supply. You can wrap some plumber’s tape around the threads of the hoses, which should assist in sealing them up and stop them from leaking. After that, take your wrench to tighten them firmly. They should be tight enough to prevent leaks but not so tight you damage the tap or the hoses.

Tips to Prevent Leaks

When you’re ready to turn the water supply back on, it’s critical to look out for any leaks. Slowly turn on the tap and look closely to check if any water seeps out at the tap connection or if the securing bolt is loose. If you discover any leaks after all, panic not! Simply switch off the water supply again and re-tighten the connections. If the leaks continue, you may need to replace the rubber gasket or apply another layer of plumber’s tape to the connections.

Mounting the Handle and Testing

And now that your new tap is snugly in place, it’s just the handle to pop on. Reach for the handle and slide it into the spindle at the top of the tap. When it’s on, tighten it by way of the screw or retaining clip that came with the handle. Then, re-open the water supply and check your new tap. Ensure that the water runs out properly, a constant stream without low pressure or flow. This is so you can confirm everything is operational.

Troubleshooting Common Issues and Maintaining It

Here are five reasons why you might notice a decreased water flow from your jump water fountain. If so, you may have to clean the aerator. This is the small piece at the end of the tap that mixes air with water, ensuring a smooth flow. It may get clogged with dirt or mineral buildup, which will hinder the flow of water. Cleaning it is as easy as unscrewing the aerator, rinsing it under water to remove any debris, and screwing it back on. You can perform this cleaning every few months to help ensure that your tap continues to work well.

Leaking from the tap handle may indicate a loose seal or missing o-ring. First, focus on the handle and tighten it up to see if that works. If that doesn’t work, remove the handle and inspect the seal or o-ring for damage. If you notice they are torn, swap these out for new ones, and place the handle back on.

You can replace your sink tap yourself with super easy steps. All your tools prepped and ready to go, you'll want to gather your space and make sure you connect the new tap to the sink, test for leaks, attach the handle and test the water flow. With proper maintenance, you can continue to use your basin tap for years after the initial installation, eliminating common problems from the past.