Bath Taps on Basin ???

[Andy46]

Hi,

I'm looking at the following taps;

http://www.britishbathroomcompany.co.uk ... illar-taps

http://www.britishbathroomcompany.co.uk ... a-bath-tap

Question:

Would there be any issues getting two pairs of bath taps and using them for both bath and basin? I notice the BSP measurement is different?

Regards

[DrFfybes]

Usually bath taps use a 22mm supply and basin taps a 15mm. This is not a major problem as adapters are available,

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/sh ... p?t=638361

If the holes in the basin are big enough then it should be OK - but note that the size is not what you think, a 1/2 inch BSP refers to the internal diameter of the pipe it fits to, and is about 3/4 inch external thread diameter whereas 3/4 inch needs a hole slightly over 1 inch to fit in.

Paul

[jfgw]

Bath taps are usually bulkier so may look odd on a basin.

The tails have a different size thread so a bit of plumbing will be required. The holes in basins are plenty big enough to take bath taps.

Basin taps may be connected to the pipework by one of the following means:

- By using a nut and olive on the tap tail itself. Not all taps are suitable for this method and it can only be done with sink and basin (1/2") taps, not bath taps. This method is rarely seen.
- By using a tap connector on the end of the pipe. This is a solder one, https://www.screwfix.com/p/flomasta-end ... mm-x/94798 . Compression and push-fit tap connectors are also available. A service valve is a tap connector and isolating valve combined, https://www.screwfix.com/p/straight-ser ... mm-x/58008 .
- By using a flexible tap connector: https://www.toolstation.com/shop/p71894 .

If you currently have flexible tap connectors, you could replace them with 3/4" ones. Get WRAS approved ones: https://www.toolstation.com/shop/Plumbi ... tor/p54390 . You could also use these if you currently have copper or plastic pipe going to the taps if you cut the pipe in a suitable location.

If you currently have copper or plastic pipe to the taps and you wish to keep it that way, you will need to replace the 1/2" tap connectors with 3/4" ones, taking care to get the height right. I suggest removing each section of pipe before working on it. If you do not already have isolating valves, cut the pipe and use them to rejoin the pipe. Temporarily assemble to the tap first so that you can see how much to shorten the pipe so that it is the correct length. A pipe slice can usually be used to cut copper pipe close to a wall: https://www.screwfix.com/p/rothenberger ... tter/36198 .

I recommend using a thin smear of Jet-lube V-2 Plus on olives when assembling or refitting compression joints, https://www.diy.com/departments/jet-lub ... 085_BQ.prd .

Alternatively, just buy the proper taps. It will also be easier next time someone comes to replace them with basin taps.

Cheers,

Julian F. G. W.

[jaizan]

Would there be any issues getting two pairs of bath taps and using them for both bath and basin? I notice the BSP measurement is different?

I have done this & the only real issue is the size of the taps on a modest basin. The flow rate is also higher for bath taps, so if you have users who like to leave the taps running whilst using the sink, it will cost more. In my case, I have in line flow restrictors.

The threaded part and fittings are larger on bath taps, but quite easy to sort if you are competent at plumbing.

The larger threads fitted through the holes in my basin OK, however I have no idea if they will fit every basin.

[bungeejumper]

The flow rate is also higher for bath taps, so if you have users who like to leave the taps running whilst using the sink, it will cost more. In my case, I have in line flow restrictors.

In my case, I give the isolation valves a tweak.

Speaking of which, if you're fitting isolation valves, make sure you put them in the right way round. That little arrow on the valve casing is easy to miss, and not everybody is aware that there is a right way round. Get it wrong, and it'll leak any time that the valve is closed. I only found that out once.

BJ

[Andy46]

Hi,

Thanks for the advice. The reason i was looking at bath taps is that the spout is longer therefore hanging further over the edge of the basin so easier to get your hands under. With the basin taps the water tends to run too close to the back of the basin. The basin is plenty big enough and the bath taps only measure a few mm bigger so don't think them looking bulky with be an issue.

Thanks
Andy

[bungeejumper]

The reason i was looking at bath taps is that the spout is longer therefore hanging further over the edge of the basin so easier to get your hands under. With the basin taps the water tends to run too close to the back of the basin. The basin is plenty big enough and the bath taps only measure a few mm bigger so don't think them looking bulky with be an issue.

Ah yes, I get that. Last year I was fitting seven pairs of identical taps to our seven hand basins, all of which are on the large and 'traditional' size and shape. (Hey, it's an old house). And we wanted those fine upstanding, traditional-looking taps that are now back in vogue. Like these. https://www.vado.com/wentworth-basin-pillar-taps. For some of the basins, the bath taps did look (and fit) better!

BJ