How to replace leaking taps?

Question

I have a leak in my kitchen taps and don’t know where to start with whether I can remove and replace them myself to install them properly. As you can see they don’t fit the space and are held there with some kind of paste. Does anyone know if this is something I will be able to do. And which products I can use from Bunnings?

JacobZ · Accepted Answer

Hi @maria1234,

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, it is fantastic to have you with us.

Replacing your taps is certainly an achievable option.

Step one is to remove the old tap handles and spout. Start by turning off the mains water at your water meter.

You will need to cut away the sealant to remove the cover plate at the base of the tap handles. You can do this with a utility knife. Just make sure to wear gloves and long protective clothing to reduce the risk of lacerations.

It looks like the tap handles have had the hot and cold buttons removed, and you can likely just pull them off. If not, then check out step 2 of How to replace a tap washer for some guidance on removing the tap handles. Once they are off, remove the cover plates to reveal the spindles beneath. They may just twist off after the sealant has been cut, or you may need to use a tool such as some multigrip pliers or a strap wrench to grip and pull them off.

You will then have to remove the spindles. This is done by rotating them counterclockwise. Multigrip pliers or a strap wrench will help with this, also. Check out Step 4 of How to replace a tap washer for some guidance.

Once the tap handles and spindles are off, the spout will likely rotate off by rotating it counterclockwise at the connection to the wall. At this point, it would be a good idea to tidy up any leftover sealant from the tiles. This can be done with a paint scraper. If it is caked on and stuck, use some Cleaning Vinegar to soften it before scraping again.

You can then replace the taps with a wall tap assembly such as this Estilo Chrome Wall Top Assembly Set and the spout with a wall spout such as this Shaw & Mason 180mm Chrome Swivel Wall Spout, following the instructions in the packaging. The process will more or less be the reverse of the removal process.

Let me know what you think and if you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Jacob