Having an outside tap can be incredibly convenient for a variety of tasks, from washing your car to watering your garden. Installing an outside tap can be a relatively straightforward DIY job, and in this article, we’ll take you through the process step by step.
Materials Needed:
Before you begin, you’ll need to gather the following materials:
- 15mm isolation valve
- 15mm T-piece
- 15mm Flexible Hose/Copper pipe
- Outside tap
- Adjustable spanner
- Adjustable wrench
- Compression fittings
- Tape measure
- Pipe cutter or hacksaw
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
The first step in installing an outside tap is to turn off the water supply. This will prevent any water from flowing through the pipes while you work. Locate your main stopcock, usually found under the kitchen sink, and turn it off.
Step 2: Locate the Water Supply
Next, locate the water supply that you want to connect your outside tap to. This is usually found near the kitchen or bathroom, and is a 15mm or 22mm copper pipe. Measure the distance from the tap to the water supply, and add an extra 300mm to allow for the tap to be fitted.
Step 3: Cut the Copper Pipe
Using a pipe cutter or hacksaw, cut the copper pipe to the length you measured in the previous step. Clean the cut edge of the pipe with sandpaper or a file.
Step 4: Attach the T-Piece
Insert the T-piece into the end of the copper pipe, and tighten the compression fitting using an adjustable spanner.
Step 5: Attach the Isolation Valve
Screw the isolation valve into the T-piece, again using an adjustable spanner. This valve will allow you to turn the water supply off and on, without affecting the rest of your plumbing.
Step 6: Attach the Flexible Hose
Screw the flexible hose onto the isolation valve, and tighten it using an adjustable wrench.
Step 7: Attach the Outside Tap
Screw the outside tap onto the end of the flexible hose, and tighten it using an adjustable wrench.
Step 8: Test the Tap
Turn the water supply back on, and check for any leaks. If there are no leaks, you’re done! If there are leaks, tighten the compression fittings and hose connections until they’re snug.
Conclusion:
Installing an outside tap is a simple DIY project that can be completed in just a few hours. With the right materials and a bit of know-how, you can have a convenient source of water for all your outdoor needs. Whether you’re washing your car or watering your garden, an outside tap is a must-have for any homeowner.
