In this article, we will cover the different steps to fit a mixer tap on a bathtub. As a home handyman, this guide will provide you with all the necessary information to successfully complete this task.
Choose the right mixer tap and equipment
To begin, you need to choose the bathtub mixer tap suitable for your bathroom. There are several types of mixer taps:
- Single-lever mixer: allows you to control the water temperature and flow with a single handle.
- Thermostatic mixer: allows you to set the water temperature automatically thanks to a thermal sensor. They are more comfortable but also more expensive.
Next, make sure you have all the necessary equipment such as:
- Bathtub tap
- Fittings
- Plumber’s tape
- Sealing gasket
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver
Make the water supply connections
Before proceeding with the installation of the mixer tap, do not forget to turn off the water supply! Once this is done, continue with connecting the water pipes by following these steps:
- Identify the hot and cold water supplies. Generally, hot water is on the left and cold water on the right.
- Tighten the nuts of the two flexible hoses onto the water supply pipes using the adjustable wrench.
- Check the tightness of the connections by running a damp finger around the seals. If you feel resistance or a gap between the seal and the pipe, tighten the nuts until the seal is properly in place.
Attach the mixer tap to the bathtub
Once the connections are made, you can attach the mixer tap to the bathtub. Here is how to proceed:
- Remove the cover of the mixer tap to access the fixing holes on the wall.
- Position the tap at the desired height, then mark the location of the fixing holes on the wall.
- Drill the wall using a drill and insert the plugs provided with the mixer tap into the holes.
- Reposition the mixer tap and insert the screws into the plugs.
- Tighten the screws using a screwdriver, then replace the cover.
Assemble the mixer tap and the bathtub
To complete this installation, all that remains is to assemble the mixer tap to the bathtub:
- Slightly tilt the mixer tap forward to facilitate assembly.
- Slide the flexible hoses into the holes provided on the bathtub, then screw the nuts using the adjustable wrench.
- Check again the tightness of the connections by running a damp finger around the seals.
- Finally, tighten all the nuts after verifying that the mixer tap is well positioned and straight.
Adjust the maximum hot water temperature (for thermostatic mixers)
To avoid burns, it is recommended to adjust the maximum hot water temperature if you have chosen a thermostatic mixer. To do this:
- Open the cover located on the side of the mixer tap using a flat screwdriver.
- Set the desired maximum temperature using the graduated dial under the cover.
- Close the cover with the flat screwdriver.
Test the operation
After completing all these steps, do not forget to test the proper functioning of the mixer tap:
- Open the water supply and check that there are no leaks at the connections.
- Check that the water temperature and flow are correct, adjusting the thermostatic cartridge setting if needed for thermostatic mixers.
By carefully following our practical guide, you should be able to fit a mixer tap on a bathtub successfully. Do not hesitate to consult a professional if you have any doubts or difficulties during the different steps.
