Shower taps are an essential part of any bathroom, and they can make a big difference to the overall look and feel of the space. If your shower taps are looking tired or outdated, or if they’re not working properly, then it’s time to replace them. Replacing shower taps is a relatively straightforward job that can be completed in a few hours, and it’s a great way to update your bathroom without having to spend a lot of money.
Before you start, it’s important to gather all of the tools and materials you’ll need. You’ll need a new set of shower taps, a wrench, a screwdriver, and some plumbers tape. Once you have everything you need, you can begin by turning off the water supply to the shower. Next, remove the old shower taps by unscrewing the nuts that hold them in place. Once the old taps are removed, you can install the new taps by following the instructions that came with them. Finally, turn on the water supply and check for leaks.
If you’re not comfortable replacing shower taps yourself, then you can always hire a plumber to do the job for you. However, if you’re looking to save money, then replacing the taps yourself is a great option. Just be sure to follow the instructions carefully and take your time. With a little effort, you can have new shower taps that will look great and work perfectly for years to come.
Choosing the Right Taps
Selecting the right shower taps is crucial for a functional and stylish bathroom. Here are some key factors to consider:
Material
- Brass: Durable and corrosion-resistant; comes in a variety of finishes.
- Chrome: Shiny, easy to clean, and resistant to tarnishing.
- Stainless steel: Durable, rust-resistant, and available in different brushed or polished finishes.
- Ceramic: Durable, easy to maintain, and available in various colors.
- Plastic: Affordable and lightweight, but less durable.
Type
- Mixer taps: Single-handle taps that mix hot and cold water for temperature control.
- Separate hot and cold taps: Traditional taps with separate handles for hot and cold water.
- Thermostatic taps: Advanced taps that maintain a preset temperature, preventing scalding.
- Smart taps: High-tech taps controlled by voice or app, offering features like water saving and remote control.
Style
- Contemporary: Sleek, geometric designs with clean lines.
- Traditional: Classic, ornate designs with intricate detailing.
- Vintage: Nostalgic designs inspired by earlier eras.
- Industrial: Edgy, raw designs with exposed pipes and hardware.
- Coastal: Sun-bleached, weathered designs with a relaxed, beachy vibe.
Flow Rate
Consider the water flow rate for efficient showering. A high flow rate provides a more forceful spray, while a lower flow rate conserves water.
Additional Features
- Anti-scald devices: Prevent sudden bursts of hot water.
- Aerators: Mix air into the water for a fuller spray.
- Temperature displays: Provide real-time water temperature information.
By carefully considering these factors, you can choose the ideal shower taps that meet your unique needs and preferences.
Removing the Old Taps
To successfully replace your shower taps, it is essential to first remove the old ones. This process involves a few steps and precautions to ensure proper execution and safety.
Steps to Remove the Old Taps
- Turn off the water supply: Locate the main water valve and turn it off to prevent water from flowing during the removal process.
- Protect the drain: Place a towel or drain plug in the drain to catch any loose parts or debris that may fall during disassembly.
- Remove the handle: Most shower taps have handles that can be removed by unscrewing them counterclockwise. If the handles are difficult to remove, gently pry them off using a screwdriver.
- Locate the retaining nut: Underneath the handle, you will find a large nut called the retaining nut. Use an adjustable wrench to carefully loosen and remove it.
- Disconnect the cartridge or stem: Once the retaining nut is removed, you can gently pull out the cartridge or stem, which is the main component controlling the flow of water.
- Remove the faceplate: The faceplate is the decorative cover surrounding the taps. Use a screwdriver to remove any screws holding it in place and carefully lift it off.
- Loosen the mounting bolts: Behind the faceplate, you will find two mounting bolts that secure the taps to the wall. Use a wrench to loosen these bolts.
- Remove the old taps: Finally, you can gently wiggle and pull out the old taps from the wall. Be careful not to damage the pipes or surrounding surfaces.
Note: Different types of shower taps may have slightly different removal procedures. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions or seek professional assistance if needed.
Preparing the Water Pipes
Once you have disassembled the old shower taps, it is crucial to prepare the water pipes in order to install the new ones properly. Follow these steps carefully:
3. Cleaning and Inspecting the Water Pipes
Thoroughly clean the exposed water pipes to remove any debris or dirt that may have accumulated. This can be done using a damp cloth or a wire brush. Once the pipes are clean, inspect them closely for any signs of corrosion, leaks, or damage. If you notice any issues, it is best to replace the affected pipes before proceeding with the installation of the new taps.
Pay particular attention to the threads on the pipes. They should be clean and free of any rust or debris. If the threads are damaged or stripped, you will need to use a thread sealant or a thread repair kit to ensure a proper seal.
| Pipe Type | Thread Size |
|---|---|
| Hot Water Pipe | G 1/2-inch |
| Cold Water Pipe | G 3/4-inch |
Note that the thread sizes may vary depending on the type of shower taps you are installing. It is important to check the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure you have the correct thread size.
Securing the Taps
Once the taps are in place, they need to be secured so that they do not leak or come loose. Here are some tips for securing the taps:
- Use a washer to create a seal between the tap and the sink or shower base. The washer should be made of a material that is compatible with the type of tap and the surface it will be against.
- Tighten the packing nut to secure the tap in place. The packing nut is usually located at the base of the tap. Tighten the packing nut until the tap is snug but not too tight.
- Use a locknut to prevent the tap from loosening. The locknut is usually located above the packing nut. Tighten the locknut until it is snug against the packing nut.
- Apply a sealant around the base of the tap to prevent leaks. The sealant should be applied in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Check for leaks after installing the taps. Turn on the water and check for any leaks around the base of the taps. If there are any leaks, tighten the packing nut or locknut until the leak stops.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Adjustable wrench | To tighten and loosen the packing nut and locknut |
| Plumber’s putty | To create a seal between the tap and the sink or shower base |
| Teflon tape | To prevent leaks around the base of the tap |
Connecting the Water Supply
The next step is to connect the water supply to the new taps. This is a relatively simple process, but it’s important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid any leaks.
First, you need to turn off the water supply to the shower. This is usually done by turning off the stopcocks that are located under the sink. Once the water is turned off, you can disconnect the old taps from the water supply.
Next, you need to connect the new taps to the water supply. To do this, you will need to use flexible hoses. These hoses are usually supplied with the new taps, but if they are not, you can purchase them from a hardware store.
To connect the hoses, simply screw them onto the water supply pipes and then tighten them with a wrench. Once the hoses are connected, you can turn on the water supply and check for any leaks.
If there are any leaks, you can simply tighten the hoses until the leak stops. Once the taps are connected and there are no leaks, you can move on to the next step.
Here are some additional tips for connecting the water supply to the new taps:
- Make sure that the water supply pipes are clean and free of any debris.
- Use a sealant around the base of the taps to prevent any leaks.
- Turn on the water supply slowly to avoid any water hammer.
- Check for any leaks regularly and tighten the hoses if necessary.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Turn off the water supply to the shower. |
| 2 | Disconnect the old taps from the water supply. |
| 3 | Connect the new taps to the water supply using flexible hoses. |
| 4 | Turn on the water supply and check for any leaks. |
| 5 | Tighten the hoses if necessary to stop any leaks. |
Testing the Taps
Once you have everything hooked up, it’s time to test the taps. Here are the steps to follow:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Turn on the water supply to the shower. |
| 2 | Check all the connections for leaks. |
| 3 | Test the temperature of the water by turning the handle to the hot and cold settings. |
| 4 | Adjust the flow rate of the water by turning the handle to the desired setting. |
| 5 | Check for any dripping or splashing from the taps. |
| 6 | If there are any leaks or problems, tighten the connections or adjust the settings until the taps are working properly. |
| 7 | Once you are satisfied with the performance of the taps, turn off the water supply and enjoy your new shower experience! |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
1. Shower Not Turning Off
Check the cartridge or washer. If it’s worn or damaged, it may not be able to seal properly, causing water to leak. Replace the cartridge or washer as needed.
2. Shower Dripping
Tighten the packing nut around the stem. If it’s too loose, water may seep out. You can also check the O-rings on the cartridge or stem and replace them if they’re damaged.
3. Shower Temperature Fluctuating
Check the pressure-balancing valve. If it’s not functioning correctly, it may not be able to maintain a consistent temperature. Clean or replace the valve as needed.
4. Shower Spray Weak
Clean the showerhead. Mineral buildup or debris can block the water flow. Remove the showerhead and soak it in vinegar or descaling solution to dissolve any buildup.
5. Shower Head Leaking
Tighten the connection between the showerhead and the arm. If it’s not tight enough, water may leak from the joint. You can also check the rubber washer inside the showerhead and replace it if it’s worn or damaged.
6. No Water Flow
Check the water supply. Make sure the main water valve is turned on and that there are no blockages in the pipes. You can also try removing the showerhead to see if water flows out of the arm.
7. Shower Handle Loose
Tighten the screw that holds the handle in place. If it’s too loose, the handle may not be able to turn the valve properly. You may need to replace the screw if it’s stripped or damaged.
8. Shower Valve Sticking
Lubricate the valve stem with a silicone-based lubricant. This will help to reduce friction and make the valve easier to turn. You can also try cleaning the valve stem with vinegar or a descaling solution to remove any mineral buildup.
Materials You’ll Need:
- New shower taps
- Wrenches
- Screwdriver
- Plumber’s tape
- Towel
Steps:
1. Turn Off Water Supply
Turn off the water supply to your shower at the main valve.
2. Remove Old Taps
Use wrenches to disconnect the old taps from the shower body.
3. Apply Plumber’s Tape
Wrap plumber’s tape around the threads of the new taps.
4. Install New Taps
Hand-tighten the new taps into the shower body, then use wrenches to further tighten them.
5. Connect Water Supply
Connect the water supply to the new taps and turn on the water.
6. Check for Leaks
Check for leaks around the base of the taps and at the connections to the water supply.
7. Remove Handle and Escutcheon
Remove the handle and escutcheon (trim ring) from the tap.
8. Replace Cartridge (Optional)
If your taps use replaceable cartridges, now is the time to replace them.
9. Reassemble Taps
Put the cartridge back into the tap, replace the handle and escutcheon, and tighten the screws.
10. Test Taps
Turn on the water and check that the taps are working properly. Adjust the temperature and flow as needed.
Safety Precautions
1. Turn off the water supply. This is the most important safety precaution to take when changing shower taps. Locate the water shutoff valves, which are usually located under the sink or behind the toilet, and turn them off.
2. Open the taps to release any residual water. This will help prevent water from leaking out when you disconnect the old taps.
3. Wear gloves to protect your hands. This is especially important if the old taps are rusty or have sharp edges.
4. Use a flashlight to see clearly in tight spaces. This will be helpful when you are disconnecting the old taps and connecting the new ones.
5. Be careful not to overtighten the nuts when connecting the new taps. This can damage the taps or the plumbing.
6. Check for leaks once you have finished installing the new taps. If you see any leaks, tighten the nuts or call a plumber.
7. Turn on the water supply and check for any leaks. If you see any leaks, tighten the nuts or call a plumber.
8. Once you are sure that the new taps are installed correctly and there are no leaks, you can enjoy your new shower!
9. If you are not comfortable changing shower taps yourself, call a plumber. A plumber can quickly and easily change your shower taps for you.
10. Here is a table summarizing the safety precautions to take when changing shower taps:
| Safety Precaution | Reason |
| Turn off the water supply | To prevent water from leaking out |
| Open the taps to release any residual water | To prevent water from leaking out |
| Wear gloves to protect your hands | To prevent cuts from sharp edges |
| Use a flashlight to see clearly in tight spaces | To avoid mistakes |
| Be careful not to overtighten the nuts | To avoid damaging the taps or the plumbing |
| Check for leaks once you have finished installing the new taps | To prevent water damage |
| Turn on the water supply and check for any leaks | To make sure the taps are installed correctly |
| If you are not comfortable changing shower taps yourself, call a plumber | To avoid mistakes and potential damage |
How to Change Shower Taps
Changing shower taps is a relatively simple plumbing task that can be completed in a few hours. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can save money on a plumber’s bill and have new taps installed in no time.
- Turn off the water supply to the shower. This is usually done by turning off the main water valve, which is located near the water meter.
- Remove the old taps. Use a wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the taps in place. Once the nuts are loose, you can pull the taps off the shower.
- Clean the shower. Remove any old sealant or debris from the shower. This will help to ensure that the new taps are installed properly.
- Apply sealant to the base of the new taps. This will help to prevent leaks.
- Install the new taps. Insert the new taps into the shower and tighten the nuts until they are snug.
- Turn on the water supply and check for leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the nuts further.
