If your U-shaped taps are starting to show their age, or if you're simply ready for a change, then it's time to replace them. Depending on the type of sink and countertop you have, this can be a relatively easy job. Here's what you need to know about removing U-shaped taps.
tools required: adjustable wrench, basin wrench, pliers, screwdriver
1. Turn off the water supply to your sink. This is usually done by turning a knob underneath the sink in either the hot or cold position.
2. Place a bucket underneath the U-shaped taps to catch any water that may drip out when you remove the old taps.
3. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen and remove the nuts that secure the hot and cold water lines to the back of each tap. Have someone hold onto the taps so they don't fall into the sink while you do this.
4. Next, use a basin wrench or an allen key to loosen and remove the screws that hold each tap in place at its base (underneath where the water lines were attached). Again, have someone hold onto each tap so it doesn't fall into the sink while you do this step.
5. With both sets of screws removed, lift out each tap and set them aside until you're ready to install your new ones (Step 8). If there are any washers or other small parts left behind in either holes, remove them as well; these will be replaced with new parts when installing your new taps.
6.. Clean around both holes where your old taps were installed; this will help ensure a good seal for your new taps' O-rings (see Step 8). If necessary, use sandpaper or a utility knife carefully score any build-up inside either hole so your new tap will sit flush against the surface of your sink or countertop..
Depending on what type of finish you have on your sinks and countertops, it may be necessaryto apply plumber's putty aroundthe underside of eachnewtapbeforescrewingitinplace(seestep8below).Ifyou'reunsurewhetherornotputtyisneededin yoursituation,. contacta professionalplumberforadvicebeforeproceedingwiththisstep