If your kitchen tap is dripping, difficult to operate or has stopped working altogether, replacing it is usually a quick and straightforward job. Whether you're replacing a worn-out tap or simply updating the look of your kitchen, the work can often be completed during a single visit.

This guide explains what you can expect when you book a kitchen tap replacement with EPM.

Before Your Appointment

There's very little you need to do before we arrive.

If possible, it can be helpful to remove any stored items from beneath the kitchen sink to allow easy access to the pipework and isolation valves.

If you've purchased your own tap, please have it available for the engineer when they arrive. Alternatively, we're happy to supply and install one of our standard mixer taps.

If there are any parking restrictions or access instructions, please let us know when booking.

What Happens During the Visit?

When your plumber arrives, they'll first inspect the existing tap and confirm that a replacement is the most suitable solution.

Most kitchen taps can be isolated using the service valves beneath the sink, allowing the replacement to be carried out without interrupting the water supply to the rest of the property. If suitable isolation valves aren't fitted or aren't operating correctly, we may need to isolate the main water supply. In some cases, fitting new isolation valves may also be recommended, which can add a little extra time to the job.

The existing tap will then be removed and the replacement installed. Once fitted, the new tap will be connected to the existing pipework, checked for leaks and tested to ensure everything is operating correctly.

Before leaving, the plumber will make sure the work area is left clean and tidy and answer any questions you may have.

How Long Does It Usually Take?

A straightforward kitchen tap replacement typically takes around one hour.

The exact time can vary depending on access beneath the sink, the condition of the existing pipework and how easily the existing tap can be removed.

Things That Could Affect the Job

While most kitchen tap replacements are straightforward, every property is different. Occasionally we may find:

• Suitable isolation valves aren't fitted or aren't working correctly.

• Access beneath the sink is restricted.

• Existing pipework or flexible tap connectors require replacement.

• The replacement tap requires additional fittings or minor alterations.

• The retaining nuts securing the old tap have become heavily corroded and are difficult to remove. In some cases, they may need to be carefully cut away before the new tap can be fitted.

Minor adjustments are often part of the job and can usually be completed during the visit. If we discover anything that significantly changes the scope of work, we'll explain the available options before carrying out any additional work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my water be turned off?

Usually not. Most kitchen taps have isolation valves beneath the sink, allowing the replacement to be completed without affecting the rest of the property's water supply. If these aren't fitted or aren't working correctly, the main water supply may need to be isolated for a short period.

Can I supply my own tap?

Yes. We're happy to install customer-supplied taps, provided they're suitable for your existing plumbing and include all the necessary components.

Can you supply a new tap?

Yes. We carry a standard mixer tap on our vans, and other taps can be sourced if you're looking for a specific style or finish.

What if my isolation valves don't work?

If the existing isolation valves have seized or aren't operating correctly, we may recommend replacing them while carrying out the tap replacement. This can make future maintenance much easier.

Key Points

Typical appointment: Around 1 hour

Engineer required: One plumber

Typical visits: Usually one

Materials: We carry a standard mixer tap as van stock. Customer-supplied taps can also be installed, and other taps can be sourced if required.

Property disruption: Water will usually remain on throughout the replacement. If required, the main water supply may be isolated for a short period.

Access required: Access beneath the kitchen sink.