Replacing a kitchen tap can seem like a difficulty task, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, it’s a manageable DIY project. Whether you’re upgrading to a more stylish model or fixing a leaky tap, this step-by-step guide will help to replace kitchen tap by yourself.
How to Replace a Kitchen Tap: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide
Before you start, check if you have the following tools:
- New Kitchen Mixer: Choose one that fits your sink and meets your needs.
- Adjustable Wrench: For loosening and tightening nuts and connections.
- Basin Wrench: Essential for reaching and turning nuts in tight spaces.
- Plumber’s Tape: Helps ensure a watertight seal on threaded connections.
- Towels: To catch any water and keep the area dry.
- Pliers: Handy for gripping and adjusting various components.
- Screwdriver: For any additional adjustments or fittings.
With all the material handy, time to follow the step-by-step to replace the kitchen tap.
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
Begin by turning off the water supply to your kitchen tap. Locate the shutoff valves under the sink—usually, there are two, one for hot and one for cold water. Turn both valves clockwise to close them.
The below video can be helpful:
The below video can be helpful:
To confirm that the water is off, turn on the existing tap to let any remaining water drain out and relieve pressure in the lines.
You may want to use a bucket and have some dry cloths around, to dry the area and avoid accidents when the rest of water comes out of the lines.
Step 2: Disconnect the Old Tap
Start by disconnecting the water supply lines from the old tap. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts connecting the lines to the tap. Turn them counterclockwise to detach the lines.
Next, use a basin wrench to loosen and remove the mounting nuts that hold the tap in place. These nuts are typically located under the sink and can be difficult to reach. Once the nuts are loose, remove them and lift the old tap out from the sink.
Step 3: Clean the Surface
Before installing the new tap, clean the area around the sink where the old tap was mounted. Remove any old plumber’s putty, sealant, or debris to make sure that the surface is clean for the new installation. It will help prevent leaks and ensure a good seal.
Here is a video to help you to remove the current kitchen tap and clean the surface:
Here is a video to help you to remove the current kitchen tap and clean the surface:
Step 4: Install the New Tap, reconnecting the water tubs
With the new tap in place, reconnect the water supply lines. Wrap plumber’s tape around the threads of the connections to ensure a watertight seal. Attach the lines to the new tap and tighten them with an adjustable wrench. Again, be cautious not to overtighten, which could cause damage.
Now you’re ready to install the new tap. Insert it into the sink’s mounting holes, aligning it properly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific model, as installation steps can vary.
Secure the tap by hand-tightening the mounting nuts from underneath the sink. Once they are snug, use a basin wrench to tighten them further. Do not to overtighten, as this could damage the sink or the tap.
This seems like a good installation video. Check it out and learn how to replace kitchen tap yourself:
This seems like a good installation video. Check it out and learn how to replace kitchen tap yourself:
Step 5: Check for Leaks
Turn the water supply valves back on slowly and check all the connections for leaks. Inspect the area around the base of the tap and the supply lines. If you find any leaks, tighten the connections slightly or reapply plumber’s tape to address the issue.
Step 6: Test the New Kitchen Tap
Once you’ve checked for leaks and are confident that everything is secure, test the new tap. Turn it on and check both the hot and cold water settings to ensure proper flow and temperature control. Make sure everything is working as expected before finishing up.

Step 7: Well done! It's cleaning up time
After verifying that the new tap is functioning properly, clean up your workspace. Remove any tools, buckets, or towels. Dispose of the old tap and packaging materials. Wipe down the area under the sink to ensure it’s clean and tidy.

Replacing the kitchen tap is not an easy task, but you can definitely replace kitchen tap by yourself if you know the step-by-step.