How to Fit a Kitchen Mixer Tap — Trade Method
Kitchen taps live above sinks with tight access from below. Here is how UK plumbers make it a one-hour job with the right tools.
Step-by-step method
1. Clear under the sink
Empty the cupboard. Torch, kneeling pad and a basin wrench save hours.
2. Isolate hot and cold
Close both isolator valves. Open the tap to drain.
3. Remove the old tap
Undo flexi tails, then the top-hat back nut with a basin wrench (crows-foot socket also works).
4. Fit new tap
Insert tails through hole, add horseshoe/rubber seal, tighten from below. Torque snug, not gorilla.
5. Connect and test
Screw flexi tails to isolators, open water, run hot & cold 60 seconds, check under sink for drips.
Frequently asked questions
What's a basin wrench?+
A long-shaft wrench with a swivelling jaw for reaching back nuts in confined under-sink spaces. £15 from Screwfix — pays for itself on the first job.
Can I fit a kitchen mixer without an isolator?+
Yes if you turn off the main stopcock — but fit isolators while you're there. £3 each and saves hours next time.