You’re in your kitchen, trying to fill a pot with water, but your old tap is dripping and barely working. It’s frustrating! You finally decide it’s time for a new kitchen sink mixer tap installation.
Now comes the big question—should you do it yourself, or should you hire a professional plumber?
Installing a mixer tap might seem like a simple task. After all, you just remove the old one and put the new one in place, right? Well, not always!
There are many things that can go wrong—leaks, low water pressure, or even a completely broken tap.
That’s why it’s important to understand the difference between DIY and professional mixer tap installation before making a decision.
Whether it’s a kitchen sink mixer tap installation, basin mixer tap installation, or bathroom mixer tap, we’ll help you figure out the best way to get the job done.
What Is a Kitchen Sink Mixer Tap?
Let’s first understand what a kitchen sink mixer tap actually is.
A mixer tap is a modern type of tap that combines hot and cold water into a single spout. Unlike traditional taps that have separate handles for hot and cold water, a kitchen sink mixer tap allows you to control the temperature and water flow with just one handle. This makes it more convenient and user-friendly.
Mixer taps aren’t just for kitchens—you can also get a basin mixer tap installation for your bathroom sink or a bathroom mixer tap for your bathtub. No matter where you install it, a mixer tap makes using water much easier.
DIY Kitchen Sink Mixer Tap Installation
Many homeowners like to try installing a mixer tap themselves to save money. If you enjoy DIY projects, you might think this is a job you can handle. But before you start, there are some things you should know.
Pros
- Saves Money – You won’t have to pay for a plumber.
- Quick Fix – If you’re just replacing an old tap, it might not take too long.
- A Learning Experience – If you love DIY, it can be a fun challenge.
Cons
- Risk of Leaks – If you don’t install it properly, it might leak, leading to water damage.
- Wrong Installation – If the connections aren’t tight or aligned properly, your tap might not work correctly.
- More Costs Later – If you make a mistake, you might need to call a plumber anyway, which will cost even more.
What Do You Need for DIY Mixer Tap Installation?
If you’re confident in your DIY skills, you’ll need the following tools:
- A new kitchen sink mixer tap
- Adjustable wrench
- Teflon tape (for sealing)
- A bucket (to catch any dripping water)
- A towel (to clean up messes)
How to Install a Mixer Tap Yourself
If you want to try installing a mixer tap on your own, here are the basic steps:
- Turn Off the Water – Shut off the water supply to avoid flooding.
- Remove the Old Tap – Use a wrench to unscrew and disconnect the old tap.
- Attach the New Mixer Tap – Connect the pipes and make sure they’re tightly secured.
- Test for Leaks – Turn the water back on and check for any leaks.
Professional Kitchen Sink Mixer Tap Installation
If you want to avoid the risks of DIY mistakes, hiring a professional plumber is the best choice. A skilled plumber will ensure that your kitchen sink mixer tap installation is done correctly and efficiently.
Pros
- No Mistakes – Plumbers have experience and know how to install a mixer tap properly.
- Saves Time – The job will be done quickly without any hassle.
- No Risk of Leaks – A professional ensures all connections are sealed and secure.
- Better Water Pressure – Plumbers check that your water pressure is not affected by the new tap.
Cons
- Costs More – Professional installation costs money, but it’s often worth it.
- Wait Time – You might need to schedule an appointment and wait for the plumber to arrive.
How Does a Plumber Install a Kitchen Sink Mixer Tap?
Here’s what a professional plumber will do when they install a kitchen tap mixer:
- Inspect the Plumbing – Make sure the existing pipes are in good condition.
- Use the Right Tools – Plumbers have specialised tools to prevent damage to pipes and sinks.
- Properly Seal Everything – They use high-quality materials to avoid future leaks.
- Test the Tap – Before leaving, they make sure the water flows properly and that there are no leaks.
A plumber can also install a basin mixer tap or a bathroom mixer tap in case you need those too!
DIY vs. Professional Mixer Tap Installation – Which One Should You Choose?
DIY Installation is a good option if:
- You have experience with plumbing.
- You are just replacing an old tap with a similar one.
- You want to save money and are willing to take the risk.
Professional Installation is the better choice if:
- You want the job done quickly and correctly.
- You don’t want to risk water leaks.
- You’re installing a new tap in a different location or making major plumbing changes.
If you want a kitchen, basin, or bathroom sink mixer tap installation in Perth without any hassle, Alkimos Plumbing & Gas is here to help with fair prices that fit your budget. We arrive quickly at your property to get the job done efficiently and correctly.
FAQs
It usually takes 30 minutes to 1 hour, but it can take longer if there are plumbing issues.
The cost depends on the type of tap and plumbing work needed. Professionals will provide an estimate before starting the work.
Check if all connections are tight. If it still leaks, call a plumber to fix it properly.
Yes! Professionals can install kitchen sink, basin, and bathroom mixer taps.