Background: a dripping mixer and uncertain connections

The customer in Ätran heard a constant drip and noticed moisture collecting in the cabinet under the sink. It’s a classic “small problem” that can become a big one over time—especially in kitchens with wooden cabinets, chipboard, and sensitive surfaces.

When a tap starts leaking, the tap itself isn’t always the culprit. It can also be hoses, seals, shut‑off valves (ballofix) or a connection that has loosened over the years. Our goal is always to find the root cause, not just replace a part and hope it holds.

We booked a time that suited the customer, discussed the desired tap, and asked for a quick photo of the existing installation. That way we can plan better and bring the right fittings from the start.

Preparation: the right tap and the right measurements from the start

Before a tap replacement we check, for example:

  • that there are working shut‑off valves for hot/cold water
  • what the connections look like (e.g., copper, PEX or flex hoses)
  • whether there are signs of previous leaks, corrosion, or “temporary” fixes
  • whether the sink/bench needs a specific mounting or seal

Many customers choose to buy the tap themselves. That’s perfectly fine—but we’re happy to confirm fit (hole pattern, height, swivel radius, and connection type) so there are no surprises on site.

In this case, the customer chose a modern kitchen tap with good swivel range and stable mounting—perfect for a kitchen used a lot in everyday life.

Execution: how we replace a tap the safe way

We started by shutting off the water locally at the valves. If they are stiff or don’t seal properly, we fix that right away—it’s an important safety detail in the kitchen.

Then we removed the old tap and inspected the connection points. Here we look for anything that could cause future problems: worn seals, moisture damage, poor fittings, or hoses installed under unnecessary tension.

When installing the new tap we make sure that:

  • the mounting is stable and the tap doesn’t move in the sink
  • connections are sealed correctly and tightened to the right torque
  • hoses have the correct bend radius so they don’t kink or chafe
  • we perform a proper leak test and functional check (hot/cold)

Finally we tested flow and temperature to confirm everything works as it should, and showed the customer how to shut off the water if needed.

Result: a dry cabinet and better everyday flow

After the replacement, the drip was gone and the installation was both stable and more service‑friendly. The customer also got a clear explanation of the cause, what we did, and how to prevent it in the future.

A tip we often share: clean the aerator/strainer now and then (the small “mesh” at the end of the spout). Limescale and particles can affect flow and cause odd symptoms like splashing or an uneven stream.

If you live in Ätran, Falkenberg, or nearby and have a drip, a loose tap, or moisture in the cabinet under the sink, it’s smart to address it early—it’s almost always easier (and cheaper) before it becomes water damage.

Project photos

Selected photos from this case study.

Dripping kitchen tap – a common plumbing issue that needs proper sealing

Fix the drip before it becomes water damage – safe, fast plumbing help.

Kitchen tap with steady flow – result after a tight installation

Steady flow, clean finish, zero leaks – exactly as it should be.

Contact us

Need plumbing help in the Falkenberg municipality? Call us or use the form and we’ll get back to you.

Planeterra Installation AB
Org. no.: 559459-7543
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FAQs about the tap replacement in Ätran

What does it cost to replace a kitchen tap in Ätran/Falkenberg?

Pricing mainly depends on the under‑sink conditions: working shut‑off valves, the state of the connections, and how accessible the installation is.

If the tap is already purchased and everything is in good condition, the job is often quick. If we also need to replace a shut‑off valve (ballofix) or fix a leaking fitting, there’s more work—but a safer result.

We always explain what’s included before we start so you know what you’re paying for and why. Send a photo of the installation and we can often give a better estimate up front.

Can I buy the tap myself, or should you supply it?

You can absolutely buy it yourself—many want to choose design, features, and brand. We’re happy to confirm fit with your sink/bench and connections so everything goes smoothly.

What usually matters is hole pattern, mounting, and which hoses/fittings are included. A tap can look right in the store but still be unnecessarily tricky in a specific kitchen.

If you want full service we can also supply the tap and materials. Either way, you get a correctly installed, leak‑tested result.

How do I know if the drip is from the tap or a connection?

A drip from the spout (when the tap is off) often means wear in the cartridge/seals. Moisture in the cabinet can just as easily come from hoses or fittings.

A good first step is to dry everything and see where moisture appears first. But it’s not always obvious—water can travel along hoses and drip somewhere else.

We troubleshoot by checking both function and sealing, and by testing the installation under normal use. The goal is a solution that lasts—not a quick guess.

Do you need to shut off the whole house to replace a tap?

Usually, it’s enough to shut off locally under the sink using the valves. It’s faster and more convenient.

If local valves are missing or don’t seal properly, we can either shut off at the main valve or fix the local valves as part of the job. Many customers appreciate having reliable shut‑off valves for future service or emergencies.

We’ll guide you before the visit, and if you’re unsure you can leave everything as it is—we’ll handle it on site.

Do you remove the old tap and handle disposal?

Yes, we can take the old tap with us if you want. Many prefer not to deal with it themselves.

If you want to keep it (for storage, a summer house, or as a spare), that’s fine too—we’ll leave it cleaned and clearly removed.

What matters most is that the new installation is correct and verified in practice. That’s what creates long‑term peace of mind.

How long does a tap replacement take?

A “standard replacement” where everything under the sink is in good condition is usually quite quick. It takes longer if we need to adjust connections, replace valves, or deal with tight access.

We always plan to do the job properly—including leak testing and functional checks. That’s often what separates a professional installation from one that’s “fine today but drips in two months.”

If you want a more precise estimate, send a photo of the installation and the tap you’ve chosen, and we can assess it more accurately.

I have very low pressure or uneven flow—will a new tap help?

Sometimes, but not always. Low pressure can be caused by many things: a clogged aerator/strainer, debris in filters, valves that don’t open fully, or issues further back in the system.

A new tap can solve it if the fault is in the tap—but we prefer to check the whole setup so you don’t replace parts unnecessarily. In some cases, cleaning or a simple adjustment is enough.

We explain what we see and what’s most reasonable to do, so you can choose a fix that fits both your needs and your budget.

Can I get ROT tax deduction for a tap replacement?

ROT tax deduction usually applies to labor costs when the conditions are met (e.g., you own the property and the work qualifies).

We’re happy to handle ROT on the invoice when applicable, which makes the process easy for you.

If you’re unsure, mention it when you contact us and we’ll confirm eligibility before we start.

What’s the most common reason a tap starts leaking?

Common causes are wear in seals/cartridge, limescale, or a connection under the sink that has gradually lost its seal. Sometimes vibration or movement over time is also a factor.

That’s why we always check both the tap and the surrounding installation. A new tap mounted on a questionable connection just moves the risk.

Doing it right from the start—and leak‑testing properly—gives you a longer‑lasting, more service‑friendly solution.

What can I do myself to prevent future problems?

A simple but effective tip is to occasionally check the cabinet under the sink: does it feel damp, smell musty, or show discoloration? Early signs can save a lot of money.

Clean the aerator/strainer as needed and watch for a loose tap or small “clicks.” Small symptoms are often the first signal.

Most importantly, know how to shut off the water. If you’re not sure where the valves are, ask us—we’re happy to show you. It’s peace of mind in any home.