Removing Water Diffuser on Mixer Tap

[patricia53]

Does anyone know how I can remove the existing diffuser from the mixer tap - the diffuser is black plastic and only protrudes about 2mm. I want to fit an adapter that I had on my previous tap that aerates the water and has a swivel head. Thanks.

[marden40]

does the protruding black plastic have square edges to remove it with a spanner?

[patricia53]

Hi - no it is smooth & round - can't get a grip on it at all!

[Old_Geezer]

No expert but I think these things just screw on don't they ? If the problem is griping the 2mm bit then maybe the thread has limescale hold it tight.

One can get tools to open stuff like jars, some of which may work. Failing that you could try with a Mole wrench. But you'd need to be careful not to crush it or scratch the tap. I guess it depends on how keen you are to make the swop as to what you'd risk. I was thinking you might be able to cut a notch in it and use a screwdriver and hammer to turn it.

Looking up the tap from below, there nothing you can catch a screwdriver on in order to turn the insert maybe ? I think it is a case of looking at it and a bit in ingenuity on coming up with possible solutions.

[patricia53]

Thanks OG - it is a new tap so no limescale - if I had thought about it I would have done it before it was fitted!!!! My problem is I will try too hard and mess it up!!

[marden40]

.......looking underneath, if the holes are big enough you could try a pair of long nosed pliers in the holes and turn them, but to be honest, if its not easily removed then its probably not meant to come out.

[patricia53]

I'll give it a go - watch this space, thanks.

[patricia53]

Thanks Marden - Job done!