(Tomasi Masima – Builder Tips)
🎯 Module Outcome
Members will learn how to remove an old kitchen tap, install a new mixer, and check for leaks — safely and correctly, using the same method a builder uses on-site.
⚠️ Safety First
Before starting:
- Turn off the water supply
- Have a bucket and towel ready
- If pipes look corroded or damaged, call a plumber
Builder Tip: Never work on a tap with the water still on — even a slow drip becomes a flood.
📌 Lesson 1: Tools You’ll Need
Simple tools only:
- Adjustable wrench
- Phillips screwdriver
- Bucket + towel
- New kitchen tap (mixer)
- Plumber’s tape (Teflon tape)
- Torch (optional)
Builder Tip: Most modern taps come with flexible hoses — makes the job much easier.
📌 Lesson 2: Turn Off the Water Supply
Steps:
- Look under the sink for the isolation valves
- Turn both hot and cold valves clockwise to close
- Turn the tap on to confirm water is off
Builder Tip: If there are no isolation valves, turn off the water at the main.
📌 Lesson 3: Disconnect the Old Tap
Steps:
- Place a bucket under the pipes
- Unscrew the hot and cold hoses
- Remove the mounting nut or bracket holding the tap
- Lift the old tap out from the top
Builder Tip: If the mounting nut is rusty, spray with lubricant and wait a few minutes.
📌 Lesson 4: Prepare the New Tap
Steps:
- Attach the flexible hoses to the new tap
- Hand‑tighten first, then snug with a wrench
- Feed hoses through the sink hole
Builder Tip: Don’t overtighten hoses — the rubber seals do the sealing.
📌 Lesson 5: Install the New Tap
Steps:
- Position the tap straight
- Install the mounting bracket or nut underneath
- Tighten firmly so the tap doesn’t twist
- Make sure the tap base sits flush on the sink
Builder Tip: Have someone hold the tap straight from above while you tighten below.
📌 Lesson 6: Connect the Water Hoses
Steps:
- Connect hot hose to hot valve
- Connect cold hose to cold valve
- Tighten with a wrench — firm but not excessive
- Use plumber’s tape if the threads need sealing
Builder Tip: Cross‑threading is common — start connections by hand to avoid damage.
📌 Lesson 7: Turn Water Back On and Test
Steps:
- Slowly open the hot and cold valves
- Check for leaks at every connection
- Run the tap for 30–60 seconds
- Check underneath again
Builder Tip: A slow drip now becomes a big problem later — fix leaks immediately.
📌 Lesson 8: Common Issues & Fixes
Tap feels loose: Tighten the mounting nut underneath.
Low water pressure: Remove the aerator and clean debris.
Hose leaks: Re‑seat the washer or add plumber’s tape.
Water hammer noise: Check valves are fully open.
📌 Final Takeaway (Tomasi’s Builder Tip)
“Turn the water off, tighten everything properly, and check for leaks. A kitchen tap is an easy DIY win when you do it right.”