Kitchen Mixer Tap

taurusgb

I have a badly dripping kichen mixer tap. My husband has opened it up to replace the washers, but says they aren't like ordinary tap washers (such as he replaces in bathroom) and has been told that he probably needs a new inner part , and for this we would need to know the make of tap - which we dont as it was fitted with the kitchen about 7 years ago. Has also been told it would probably be cheaper to just fit a whole new tap. As the chrome is wearing away on part of the taps we would be happy to replace if it isn't going to cost a fortune.

So-question is how hard is it to fit a whole new tap unit? is this something a fairly cometant DIY'er can do or is it going to mean a visit from an expensive plumber (always supposing we can find one that is)

Any advice, tips really welcome.

Thanks

weekendwarrior

Firstly it is worth a look here- http://www.ultimatehandyman.co.uk/taps/index.htm

It might show you how to fix the tap, sometimes they need a new head gear.

If it is a quarter turn tap then you may need new ceramic disks.

Fitting a new kitchen tap can be an absolut pain in the butt, if you try to fit it is situ.

Ideally you need to remove the sink from whe worktop/unit, replace the tap and then refit everything.

Trying to reach the retaining nut on a kitchen tap with it in situ is extremely difficult and makes the job almost impossible!

plumb1_2

They will be the Ceramic disk type, turn off the water and take out the tap body.
Then take to a good plumbing merchants to get a new body, as there are several types.