5 Easy Steps to Change Shower Taps

5 Easy Steps to Change Shower Taps

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5 Easy Steps to Change Shower Taps

Are you tired of leaky, outdated shower taps that diminish your bathing experience? Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a novice handyman, changing shower taps is a straightforward task that can enhance both the functionality and aesthetics of your bathroom. With some basic tools, a bit of patience, and this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped to transform your shower into a rejuvenating sanctuary.

Before you embark on this project, ensure you have gathered all the necessary materials, including new shower taps, a pair of adjustable wrenches, a screwdriver, and a basin wrench. Turn off the water supply to prevent any unwanted leaks and protect your bathroom from potential water damage. Once everything is in place, disconnect the old taps by loosening the nuts that secure them to the water pipes. Carefully remove the taps and clean the threads on the pipes.

Now it’s time to install the new shower taps. Apply plumber’s tape to the threads of the pipes to create a watertight seal. Hand-tighten the nuts onto the pipes, then use the adjustable wrenches to secure them firmly. Avoid overtightening, as this can damage the taps or pipes. Reconnect the water supply, and check for any leaks by running water through the taps. Once you’re satisfied that everything is functioning correctly, finish the job by tidying up and disposing of the old taps.

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Choosing the Right Replacement Taps

Selecting the ideal replacement taps for your shower requires careful consideration of various factors. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the right choice:

1. Type of Tap

Determining the type of tap you need is crucial.

a. Mixer Taps: These single-lever taps combine hot and cold water into a single stream, allowing for precise temperature control. They are ideal for showers that lack separate hot and cold taps.

b. Separate Hot and Cold Taps: This traditional setup features separate taps for hot and cold water, providing greater control over the temperature. However, they require additional plumbing connections and may take up more space.

c. Thermostatic Taps: Thermostatic taps offer enhanced safety by maintaining a consistent water temperature. They feature a temperature knob that allows users to set a maximum temperature, preventing scalding.

2. Material

The material of the taps influences both their durability and aesthetics. Common materials include:

a. Brass: Durable and corrosion-resistant, brass is a popular choice for shower taps.

b. Ceramic: Ceramic taps are known for their sleek appearance and easy cleaning, but they may be more fragile than other materials.

c. Stainless Steel: Stainless steel taps offer excellent rust resistance and durability, making them a good choice for areas with high humidity.

3. Style and Finish

The style and finish of the taps should complement your bathroom décor. Consider the following options:

Style Finish
Modern Chrome, Brushed Nickel, Black
Traditional Polished Brass, Antique Bronze
Contemporary Matte Black, Rose Gold, White

Gathering Necessary Tools and Materials

Before starting the task of changing your shower taps, it’s crucial to gather all the essential tools and materials. This will help ensure a smooth and efficient process. Here’s a comprehensive list to ensure you have everything you need:

Essential Tools:

  • Adjustable wrench
  • Adjustable pliers
  • Allen key (if required for your tap model)
  • Spanner or crescent wrench
  • Flathead screwdriver (if required for your tap model)
  • Phillips head screwdriver (if required for your tap model)
  • Tape measure or ruler
  • Plumber’s putty (if required for your tap model)
  • Teflon tape (if required for your tap model)
  • Putty knife (if required for your tap model)
  • Flashlight (if working in a poorly lit area)

Materials:

Item Purpose
New shower taps The new taps you will be installing
Flexi-hoses To connect the taps to the water supply
Teflon tape To seal the connections between the taps and the water supply
Plumber’s putty To seal the joints between the taps and the mounting surface

NOTE: The specific tools and materials required may vary depending on the model of your shower taps. Please refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for a more accurate list.

Isolating the Water Supply

Before you begin working on your shower taps, it’s crucial to isolate the water supply, ensuring there is no water flow during the replacement process.

Locate the stopcocks, which are typically found underneath the sink or behind the toilet. Turn both the hot and cold stopcocks clockwise to shut off the water supply. If there are no stopcocks present, you will need to locate the main water valve for your home and turn it off.

To confirm that the water supply is indeed isolated, turn on a nearby faucet to release any residual water pressure. If there is no water flow, you have successfully isolated the water supply.

Pressure Relief

With the water supply isolated, it is advisable to release any remaining pressure in the plumbing system. To do this, open the shower tap handles to their full hot and cold positions. This will allow any pressurized water to escape, making it easier to remove the old taps.

Safety Reminder: Always ensure that the water supply is isolated and depressurized before attempting any plumbing work. Failure to do so may result in water damage or injury.

Removing the Old Tap Handles

1. Turn Off the Water Supply

Before starting any work, turn off the water supply to the shower. This will prevent water from spraying everywhere and causing a mess. The water supply is usually located under the sink or behind the shower panel.

2. Remove the Decorative Caps

Some tap handles have decorative caps that need to be removed before the handle can be taken off. These caps are usually held in place by screws or clips. Use a screwdriver or pliers to carefully remove the caps.

3. Loosen the Handle Screw

Once the decorative cap is removed, you will see a screw that holds the handle in place. Use a screwdriver to loosen the screw. Do not remove the screw completely at this stage.

4. Remove the Handle

Once the screw is loosened, you can remove the handle. To do this, gently pull the handle towards you. If the handle is stuck, you may need to use a bit of force. Be careful not to damage the handle or the tap.

Handle Type Removal Method
Lever handle Pull the handle towards you.
Cross handle Pull the handle up and off the tap.
Handle with set screw Use a hex key to loosen the set screw. Pull the handle towards you.

Replacing Mixing Tap Valve Cartridge

Mixing tap valves are typically made up of a cartridge that controls both the temperature and flow of water. To replace the cartridge, follow these steps:

  1. Turn off the water supply to the shower.
  2. Remove the handle. Most handles are secured with a small screw on the side. Remove the screw and pull the handle straight off.
  3. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the retaining nut that holds the cartridge in place. The retaining nut is usually located behind the handle.
  4. Pull the cartridge straight out. O-rings may be attached to the cartridge; make sure to remove them and install them on the new cartridge.
  5. Insert the new cartridge into the housing and tighten the retaining nut. Be careful not to overtighten the retaining nut.
  6. Reinstall the handle and turn on the water supply to the shower.

Replacing a Washer

Washers are used in older style taps to control the flow of water. To replace a washer, follow these steps:

  1. Turn off the water supply to the shower.
  2. Remove the aerator. The aerator is usually located at the end of the tap spout. Use a wrench or pliers to unscrew the aerator.
  3. Use a screwdriver to remove the screw that holds the washer in place. The screw is usually located in the center of the tap spout.
  4. Remove the old washer and replace it with a new one. Make sure that the new washer is the correct size and type for your tap.
  5. Reinstall the screw and aerator. Turn on the water supply to the shower.

Reinstalling the Tap Handles

Now it’s time to put the tap handles back on. Here’s how:

  1. Take the handle and align it with the tap body.
  2. Push the handle onto the tap body until it clicks into place.
  3. Repeat this process for the other handle.
  4. Turn on the water to check for any leaks.
  5. If there are any leaks, tighten the packing nut until the leak stops.

    6. Testing the Taps

    Once the tap handles are reinstalled, it’s important to test the taps to make sure they are working properly. Here’s how:

  6. Turn on the water and check for any leaks.
  7. Adjust the handles to different temperatures to make sure they are working properly.
  8. If there are any problems, consult a qualified plumber.

    9. Connecting the Water Lines

    To connect the hot and cold water lines to the new shower tap, follow these steps:

    1. Identify the Hot and Cold Water Lines

    Locate the hot and cold water lines supplying the shower. Typically, the hot water line is on the left and the cold water line is on the right.

    2. Turn Off the Water Supply

    Locate the main water shut-off valve for the house and close it to turn off the water supply to the shower.

    3. Disconnect the Old Tap

    Unscrew the old shower tap from the water lines using a spanner or pliers.

    4. Apply Plumber’s Tape

    Wrap a few layers of plumber’s tape around the threads of the cold and hot water lines.

    5. Thread Unions

    Screw male unions onto the ends of the water lines. Ensure they are hand-tightened at first.

    6. Connect Unions

    Connect the unions to the corresponding inlets on the new shower tap. Use a spanner or pliers to tighten the unions securely, but do not overtighten.

    7. Flexible Hoses

    If your shower uses flexible hoses, disconnect the old hoses and connect the new hoses to the hot and cold water supply lines. Tighten the hose connections using a spanner or pliers.

    Water Line Inlet on Shower Tap
    Hot Water Right-hand side
    Cold Water Left-hand side

    Testing the New Taps

    Once the new taps are installed, it’s essential to test them thoroughly to ensure they’re functioning correctly.

    Step 1: Open the Water Supply

    Turn on the water supply valves that you closed earlier.

    Tip: Do this slowly to prevent any water hammers or damage to the pipes.

    Step 2: Run the Water

    Turn on the new taps and let the water run for a few minutes. Check for any leaks or drips from the taps, connections, or pipes.

    Step 3: Check Showerhead or Spray

    If your new taps include a showerhead or spray, test them as well. Ensure that the water flows evenly and has the desired pressure.

    Step 4: Adjust Temperature and Pressure

    Adjust the temperature and water pressure to your desired settings. Make sure that the hot water is not too hot and the cold water is not too cold.

    Step 5: Inspect for Leaks

    After running the water for a few minutes, carefully inspect all the connections and pipes around the taps for any leaks or water seeping through. Tighten any loose connections if necessary.

    Step 6: Check Water Flow Rate

    Use a measuring cup to measure the water flow rate from the taps. Compare it to the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure the flow rate meets expectations.

    Step 7: Test Functionalities

    If your new taps have any additional features, such as a pull-out spray or a spray mode, test them to ensure they are working properly.

    Step 8: Repeat Testing Regularly

    It’s a good practice to test your new taps periodically, especially after significant use or if you notice any changes in their performance. This will help identify any potential issues early on and ensure continued smooth operation.

    Dealing with Leaks and Water Damage

    Leaks and water damage can be a major headache, but they don’t have to be a nightmare. Here are a few steps you can take to deal with them:

    1. Identify the Source of the Leak

    The first step is to identify the source of the leak. This can be done by visually inspecting your shower and looking for any signs of water damage, such as discoloration or mold.

    2. Shut Off the Water Supply

    Once you have identified the source of the leak, you need to shut off the water supply. This can be done by turning off the main water valve or by closing the individual shut-off valves for your shower.

    3. Open the Faucet

    Once the water supply is turned off, open the faucet to release any remaining water pressure.

    4. Remove the Showerhead

    Remove the showerhead by unscrewing it from the shower arm.

    5. Remove the Handle

    Remove the handle by pulling it straight off of the stem.

    6. Remove the Cartridge

    Remove the cartridge by unscrewing it from the body of the faucet.

    7. Inspect the Cartridge

    Inspect the cartridge for any signs of damage or wear. If the cartridge is damaged, it will need to be replaced.

    8. Replace the Cartridge

    If the cartridge is not damaged, it can be reinstalled. To do this, simply screw the cartridge back into the body of the faucet.

    9. Reassemble the Faucet

    Reassemble the faucet by following the steps in reverse order. Start by attaching the handle to the stem, then the cartridge to the body of the faucet, and finally the showerhead to the shower arm.

    10. Turn On the Water Supply

    Once the faucet is reassembled, turn on the water supply and check for any leaks. If there are no leaks, you have successfully repaired your shower tap.

    Troubleshooting Common Issues

    Low Water Pressure

    This could be caused by a clogged aerator, which can be easily removed and cleaned. If the aerator is clean, check the water supply lines for any kinks or bends that may restrict water flow. You can also check the pressure reducing valve (PRV), which is usually located under the sink or next to the water heater, to make sure it is set correctly.

    Leaking

    A leak from the showerhead could be caused by a worn-out washer or a loose connection. Replace the washer or tighten the connection to resolve the leak. A leak from the faucet handle may require replacing the O-rings or adjusting the packing nut.

    Knocking Noise

    A knocking noise when you turn on the water could be caused by a loose washer in the faucet handle. Tighten the packing nut or replace the washer to stop the noise.

    Water Temperature Fluctuations

    Sudden changes in water temperature could indicate a malfunctioning cartridge or mixing valve. Replace the cartridge or mixing valve to resolve the issue.

    Dripping Faucet

    A dripping faucet can be caused by a worn-out washer or a loose connection. Replace the washer or tighten the connection to stop the drip.

    Squealing or Grinding Noise

    A squealing or grinding noise when you turn on the water could be caused by a worn-out O-ring or cartridge. Replace the O-ring or cartridge to eliminate the noise.

    Blocked Drain

    A blocked drain can cause water to back up in the tub or shower. Remove the drain cover and use a drain snake to clear the blockage.

    Hard Water Deposits

    Hard water deposits can build up on the showerhead, aerator, and faucet handles. Clean these components regularly with a vinegar solution to remove the deposits and prevent them from causing problems.

    Corroded Pipes

    Corroded pipes can leak or burst, causing water damage. If you notice any signs of corrosion, such as rust or pitting, have the pipes replaced by a professional plumber.

    How to Change Shower Taps

    Replacing shower taps is a relatively simple plumbing task that can be completed in a few hours with the right tools and materials. Here are the steps involved:

    1. Turn off the water supply to the shower.
    2. Remove the old taps.
    3. Install the new taps.
    4. Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.

    Tools and materials you will need:

    • Adjustable wrench
    • Allen key
    • Plumber’s tape
    • New shower taps

    People Also Ask

    How much does it cost to change shower taps?

    The cost of changing shower taps will vary depending on the type of taps you choose and the complexity of the job. However, you can expect to pay between $100 and $500 for materials and labor.

    Can I change shower taps myself?

    Yes, it is possible to change shower taps yourself. However, if you are not comfortable working with plumbing, it is best to hire a qualified plumber.

    What are the most common types of shower taps?

    The most common types of shower taps are single-handle taps, two-handle taps, and thermostatic taps. Single-handle taps are the most popular type, as they are easy to use and control. Two-handle taps offer more precise temperature control, while thermostatic taps are the most expensive but offer the most consistent temperature control.