When the time comes to replace your basin taps, it's best to leave the task to a qualified professional tradesperson. However, if you'd like to see how to fit basin taps, please read on.
First off, it's a good idea to work out exactly which type of basin taps you need to replace. They can generally be divided into 2 disctinct types:
- Basin pillar taps – 2 separate taps for hot and cold water
- Basin mixer taps – 1 tap which combines both hot and cold water
If you're still unsure which type of tap you need to fit, check out our basin taps buying guide for further information.
You can find fitting instructions for other bathroom products by clicking the links below:
What are basin pillar taps?
A pillar tap is a single tap that supplies either hot or cold water. Nearly all pillar taps come as a pair and can be used with basins which have 2 tap holes.
Basin pillar taps are smaller than bath pillar taps as they aren’t required to deliver a very large volume of water quickly.
Before you do anything
Always unpack your taps immediately after delivery. Check for any damage or faults as it’s better to find them now, rather than during installation.
Always turn off your water at the mains before attempting any DIY in the bathroom.
Tools you’ll need:
- Standard spanner set
- Tap spanner
Check you have the following:
Usually supplied with tap:
- 2 x rubber washers
- 2 x nuts
Typical time to complete:
- 30 minutes
Typical cost for installation
£100–£110 (price may vary—find out more about bathroom fitting costs)
Fitting your basin pillar taps
At Victoria Plum, you’ll find our basin pillar taps are manufactured to the highest standards, with chrome plated brass for both durability and a beautiful finish. All our taps come with ceramic disc technology which helps eliminate drips.
Here's how to fit your basin pillar taps
Step 1
Start with the hot tap which should always be on the left side of the basin as you look at it from the front.
Unscrew the nut from the bottom of the tap and lower the tap into the tap hole in your basin. Make sure the tap is at 90 degrees to the rim of the basin.
Step 2
From below the tap hole, screw the nut back on by hand.
Step 3
Once you’re satisfied that the tap is in the correct position, tighten the nut using your tap spanner, taking care not to damage the basin.
Step 4
Repeat the process for your cold tap.
Step 5
Depending on how your plumbing is set up, you may need to fit flexible tap tails and connectors to attach to your water pipes. It’s best to leave this to a qualified professional.
Step 6
Make sure there aren’t any leaks by turning the water back on at the mains and turning the taps on. If any leakage occurs, check the connectors and tighten as required.
Congratulations, you’ve now fitted your basin pillar taps.
Whilst DIY can be a good way to save time and money, you should always hire a qualified professional to plumb and install your products. The instructions above are simply a guide to fitting your new basin taps and shouldn’t be used to attempt full plumbing and installation.
Shop basin taps
At Victoria Plum, you'll discover a wide range of high quality basin taps in a selection of styles to suit your bathroom.
