Types of taps

Bib taps have a tee-shaped or capstan handle and a horizontal inlet.

Pillar taps have a vertical inlet, can be made of metal or plastic with capstan or elbow-action handles or shrouded head. Made to fit holes in sinks, basins and baths.

Supataps are a patented pillar tap. The water control is on the nozzle and a washer can be changed without turning off the supply.

Mixers are pillar units in which hot and cold water meet and come out through a central spout.

• kitchen mixers have a divider in the spout – a regulation to stop mains (cold) and stored water (hot) mixing in one plumbing fitting
• bath mixers can have a shower attachment to divert mixed water up to a sprinkler.

TOOLS FOR TAP REPAIRS

• thin screwdriver is useful for prising off clipped on coverings, separating washer from jumper, removing ‘O’ rings, grub-screws
• cross-headed screwdriver might be needed for retaining-screw on some shrouded or mixer taps
• adjustable wrench or spanner is needed to remove the headgear.

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