Some plumbing tasks can be easily done without having a plumber step in and changing your water tap is one of them. But it does take some research via online tutorials and a step-by-step guide to take you through it!
Read our article to learn how to change a water tap in 8 easy steps — remove it in 5 steps and install a new one in 3! Tools needed and product recommendations are included as well.
Table of Contents
Signs Your Water Tap Needs To Be Changed
Typically, water taps are replaced every 1 to 5 years to ensure that it’s functioning well. However, if you notice any of these signs, it’s time to get it changed!
Leaking tap
If you notice leaking in your tap after turning it off, check for the root cause of the issue and solve it as soon as possible. A tap that’s left leaking can use up to 146 litres of water a year!
As a long-term solution, it might be best to change the tap.
Inconsistent water flow or pressure
Another sign that your tap should be changed is when you realise that the water flow or pressure is not the same as before. Or it could be that the flow is inconsistent.
This may be due to a blockage or build-up of minerals and rust in the pipes.
Rusty and discoloured handle
In recent years, water taps are usually made to last for up to 10 years. Thus, any rusting or discolouration is a sign to replace the tap and any parts (e.g., o-rings, washer etc.) that have gone through significant wear and tear.
Squeaky sounds from tap handle
If there’s resistance when turning the faucet on, it might be because the handle or body is damaged due to limescale build-up. This is usually accompanied by a screeching or squealing noise.
How To Remove A Water Tap
We’ve broken down the water tap changing process into 2 parts — removal and installation. This first portion will touch on a simple 5-step process to remove a water tap successfully and the tools you’ll need.
Tools you need- Slotted screwdriver
- Spanner
- Towels
- Current tap instruction manual (Optional)
Step 1: Turn off the main water supply
Before you change the water tap, the first step is to turn off the main water supply. After that’s done, turn the tap on to relieve any remaining pressure and to check that the supply is indeed off.
Once the water stops flowing, it’s time to begin!
Step 2: Detach loose attachments (if any)
Depending on where your water tap is or what it’s used for, there may be attachments such as hoses and spouts. Be sure to remove any of such extensions first to prevent obstructions from getting in the way of the removal.
Step 3: Prep the area
Next, it’s good to prep the workspace to smoothen the process. If you’re working on a kitchen sink, place some towels below the sink to catch any residual water that may flow out. This will help prevent your cabinets from getting damaged!
You can also prepare all the tools required for the removal and installation, including the instruction manual for the current tap if required.
Step 4: Disconnect the tap from the water pipes
Now, it’s time to detach the tap from the water pipes! There are 2 types of water pipe connections: standard and flexible and the way to disconnect them may differ.
Standard system:
Using an open-handed spanner, loosen the screw connecting the tap joints to the water pipe. It’s normal to have some water flow after disconnecting the tap.
Flexible system:
Loosen the nuts connecting the tap to the mains pipe connection or isolated valves. While doing this, it’s important to hold the connection or valve in place with a pair of adjustable pliers. You may experience difficulty loosening the nuts as they tend to tighten over time.
Step 5: Remove the existing tap
Now, you can finally remove the tap! Hold it in place while loosening the nut that fastens it to the surface. It’s important not to rotate or move the tap so as to be able to remove the tap together with the flexible hoses (if any) easily!
After removal, use a kitchen sponge or rag to clean any residue at the sink area and under the sink.
How To Install A New Water Tap
Now that the sink surface is clean, it’s time to install your new water tap! Here are the tools you need and an easy 3-step process.
Tools you need- Cleaning cloth or dish sponge
- Slotted screwdriver
- Spanner
Step 1: Pre-assemble the new tap
Before installation, assemble the new tap by screwing the mounting bolts in. Next, attach the hot and cold flexi pipes if you’re using a flexible system. Once that’s ready, insert this assembly through the sink tap hole.
Step 2: Secure tap in place and connect to pipes
After the tap assembly is in, place the washer under the sink and ensure that the nuts are secured well — there should be no movement of the tap.
Tighten the flexi hoses to the valves. Here, make sure that you don’t over tighten them to prevent damage to the rubber washer seal.
Step 3: Turn on the main water supply and check for leaks
Now that everything is installed, turn on the water supply. Turn the tap on to allow any trapped air to escape and check for any leaks.
If the water is flowing fine without any leaks, your job is done!
Water Taps Recommended By Selleys Singapore
There are many water taps in the market to choose from. As a trusted Australian brand, Selleys Singapore has a range of taps for kitchens and bathrooms. Our bathroom taps are available as wall-mounted models or those that are installed into the sink. Learn more about our products below!
Kitchen sink taps
Chrome Kitchen Sink Tap (U-shape)
Price: $36.50
Chrome Kitchen Sink Tap (L-shape)
Price: $37.80
SUS304 Kitchen Sink Tap (U-shape)
Price: $39.70
SUS304 Kitchen Sink Tap (L-shape)
Price: $41.00
Basin taps
SUS304 Basin Tap (Flat)
Price: $43.70
SUS304 Basin Tap (Cold)
Price: $41.00
Bib/Wall-mounted taps
SUS304 Bib Tap – Lever
(15mm nozzle)
Price: $22.80
SUS304 Bib Tap – Lever
(19mm nozzle)
Price: $24.70
FAQs About Changing Water Taps
How often do I need to replace my water tap?
You’re encouraged to maintain your water tap’s condition by cleaning it frequently to prevent buildup of deposits. Depending on the durability of your water tap, it’s good to replace it every 1 to 5 years to ensure optimal function and water efficiency.
If you start to notice problems such as leaking or rusting, it’s time for a replacement!
How long will it take to change my water tap?
Generally, it would take homeowners about 1 to 2 hours to complete the job. To speed up the process, it would help to have the right tools within reach.
A professional plumber can also help you with it quickly.
Do I need a plumber to change a tap?
If you prefer to change a tap yourself, it’s possible for you to do it with some online tutorials and instruction manuals. However, if you face difficulties during the process (e.g., if the tap is too tight to remove) or if you’re not confident, it’s best to hire a professional plumber!
How do I maintain my water tap?
To save you the trouble of having to change your water tap, here’s how you can maintain its condition:
- Daily maintenance: Clean with a damp cloth and mild cleaner and dry with a clean cloth
- Cleaning water deposits: Clean with a damp cloth and mild cleaner and leave it for 10 minutes before rinsing it off and wiping the tap dry
