How can we help?

All orders must be placed through our website, as we do not usually take orders or payments over the telephone.

Simply browse our website, find the item you need, select any required options, and click "Buy Now" to add it to your basket. You can then review your basket, update quantities or remove items before proceeding to checkout.

When you're ready, click "Pay Now" and follow the on-screen instructions to complete your purchase. We accept all major credit and debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and PayPal for secure online payments.

If you would prefer to pay by bank transfer, simply request an invoice before placing your order and we'll be happy to arrange this for you.

We dispatch orders Monday to Friday (excluding Bank Holidays) using Royal Mail Tracked 48 as our standard delivery service. Each product page displays the current dispatch time, so you'll know when your order is expected to leave us.

• Royal Mail Tracked 48: Usually arrives within 2–3 working days after dispatch.
• Royal Mail Tracked 24: Faster delivery option available at checkout.
• Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed: Guaranteed next working day delivery (subject to our dispatch cut-off time and Royal Mail's terms).

Orders placed before 3:00pm Monday to Friday are eligible for same-day dispatch, subject to stock availability.

International Customers

We dispatch international orders Monday to Friday using Royal Mail International services. Delivery typically takes 5–14 working days after dispatch, although customs clearance and local postal services may occasionally cause delays. For international orders you will be responsible for custom charges.

A VAT invoice will be sent to your email address immediately the order is shipped. If you do not receive this email then please first check your spam folder.

If you have not received this please email sales@tapmagician.co.uk with your post code and we will re send this for you.

We prepare orders for despatch very quickly. If you need to cancel or amend an order please telephone us 01444 871313 as we might not pick up an email quick enough to action your request. We will try our best to action any change or cancellation but we cannot guarantee we can amend any order once placed. If it is too late to amend or cancel you will need to return the order for a refund.

Please use your tracking number provided in the despatch confirmation email.

You can enter this tracking reference here https://www.royalmail.com/track-your-item

For standard delivery please allow 1 week for delivery. Royal Mail should deliver in 2-3 days however sometimes delays can occur. If you have not received your order after 1 week please get in touch with us to discuss this further.

If you have placed your order with Tracked 24 service please note this is a delivery aim and is not a guaranteed 24 hour delivery service. 

If you have placed your order using the Royal Mail special delivery and your order does not arrive next day we will refund the additional delivery cost paid. 

Yes. We ship throughout the UK and to many countries worldwide. International shipping options and costs are calculated automatically at checkout based on your delivery address.

If your country isn't listed or you have any questions about international delivery, please get in touch and we'll be happy to help.

We don't normally take orders over the telephone, as placing your order online is the quickest and most secure way to pay.

If you need help identifying the correct part or have any questions before ordering, our technical team is always happy to help by phone, email or WhatsApp. Once you've found the right item, you can complete your order securely through our website.

Yes. If you need your item guaranteed to arrive the next working day, please select our Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed service at checkout.

This is our fastest and most reliable delivery option for urgent orders. Please note that orders must be placed before our daily dispatch cut-off time of 3pm. Orders placed after 3pm Friday will be despatched on the Monday. 

For up to date postage costs please add the items to your basket. Postage costs are based on size and weight. 

If you would like to collect from Burgess Hill we can arrange this.

Please do not order online - please contact us and we can set up a click and collect order for you. 

Yes - UK prices are shown including VAT. VAT invoice emailed after dispatch.

If you wish to return an item, please ensure it is unused and undamaged and send it back to us within 14 days of receipt.

Return Address:

Tap Magician Ltd
Unit 1 Regents Business Centre
Jubilee Road
Burgess Hill
West Sussex
RH15 9TL
United Kingdom

Please include the address label from the original packaging, as this contains your order details and acts as proof of purchase. If you no longer have the label, please include your name, order number and contact details inside the parcel.

We recommend obtaining a proof of posting when returning your item, as we cannot accept responsibility for returns lost in transit.

If you're returning an item because it isn't the correct part, we're happy to help identify the right replacement. Simply email sales@tapmagician.co.uk with clear photographs and the dimensions of your valve or cartridge, and our technical team will help you find the correct part.

We offer a 12 month spare parts warranty. This means we will send you replacement ceramic discs in the rare instance your valve should fail within 1 year of purchase.

Unfortunately we do not accept returns on bespoke and made to order valves.

After inspection of the returned items, refunds are issued promptly.

Your bank may take up to 5–10 working days to show the funds.

 

We cover costs for damaged/incorrectly recommended items. For change of mind returns, the customer covers the return postage cost.

We advise you to return using a tracked postage method as we will not be responsible for any returns not received back.

 

 

Tap Magician offer a cartridge matching service. Please send your valve along with your tap handle (if possible) to: 

Unit 1 Regents Business Centre, Jubilee Road, Burgess Hill, RH15 9TL, United Kingdom

Please include a cover note with your contact details. We have a fast turnaround and will match your cartridge the day it is received with us. 

Before contacting us, why not try our bespoke Valve Finder? Simply enter your valve dimensions and we'll show you any compatible replacements we have available:

https://www.tapmagician.co.uk/NSShowerValveMaker.aspx

If you still can't find a matching valve, don't worry—we may still be able to help.

Simply email sales@tapmagician.co.uk with:

• Clear photographs of your valve or cartridge.
• The full A–K dimensions (where applicable).
• Any make or model information you have.

We'll do our best to help you find the correct replacement.. Even if we can't help we may be able to point you in to the right direction.

If you know the make and model of your tap, we may be able to identify the correct spare part for you without you needing to remove the cartridge. Simply browse our Spares by Manufacturer section and select your tap brand.

If we can't identify it or you don't know the model, you'll need to remove the cartridge and take some measurements. We'll ask you to count the number of splines on the cartridge and measure each section using our A–K measurement guide. 

 

 

 

Most of our valves can be converted. Please Click here to find out if the valve you have purchased can be converted.

To convert please follow the following steps:
1. Remove the bottom gasket using your fingers - it just pulls out
2. Shake out the three component parts into your hand.
3. Turn the stem of the valve in the direction of turn you require for the valve to be in the open position
4. Replace the plastic spade adaptor into the barrel so that the "+" slots engage into the brass spade with the fingers of the plastic component facing the aperture(s) in the side of the barrel.
5. Replace the first part of the ceramic discs so that it marries with the plastic spade adaptor.
6. Replace the second part of the ceramic discs into the slots so that the valve water ways are open.

Yes, it is possible, and many of our customers have successfully done this. However, it can be problematic if the tap does not have a good “seat” (the area of the tap body beneath the valve).

This seating area must be in excellent condition to allow the valve to create a watertight seal. If the seat is scratched or pitted, the tap may need to be re-seated before installing a new valve.

It is also essential to ensure that the replacement valve has the correct seating depth (shown as dimension “C” on our valve drawings). This measurement must be taken accurately using a depth probe on a vernier gauge. The measurement should be taken from inside the tap body — from the seat up to the rim.

Please note: it is not possible to measure this dimension from the old valve, as it is not a fixed length. Seating depth is a highly sensitive measurement, so accuracy is critical.

To make yourself a plastic adaptor piece to go between the tap handle and the valve follow these steps:

1. Purchase a pack of resin putty from your local hardware shop ("Milliput is the leading brand).
2. Purchase some "grease" (vaseline or similar product) to act as a releasing agent.
3. Apply a thin coat of grease to both the stem of the valve and the inside of the tap handle. These are the two components that you will use as your inner and outer mould.
4. Mix a small amount of putty and then wrap a thin band of it around the stem. You may not need much thickness.
5. Place the handle in position over the stem with its applied putty wrapping.
6. Leave the resin putty to harden for few hours. The tap handle can then be removed in the normal way, if you wish. The resin will not have adhered to the two parts because of the grease and the resin putty will have formed into a removable adaptor piece.

Yes, in most cases you can replace a tap cartridge yourself. All you'll usually need is an Allen key or a crosshead screwdriver (depending on your tap handle) and an adjustable spanner.

We have a range of step-by-step videos on our YouTube channel to guide you through the process. The video below shows how to remove the different types of tap handles and replace the cartridge.

If you need any further assistance, our technical team is always happy to help guide you through the process by phone.

 

 

In the half inch range of valves we stock a large range with 21.5mm and 23.0mm seating depths. In the three quarter range we stock 23mm, 24mm and 26mm. For greater seating depths we sell a range of brass extension pieces that replace the silicone gasket. These are currently available to increase the seating depths by 2mm or 3mm and it is planned to increase the range shortly. For further information please contact us.

Once you have removed the ceramic tap cartridge you will need to identify the thread size. In the UK 95% of taps are either BSP 1/2" (Basin size) or 3/4" (Bath size).

The BSP "British Pipe Standard " doesn't refer to any physical dimension, which is very confusing and is why we display all the dimensions in mm. Our 1/2" valves measure 18mm diameter across the bottom and 20.9mm across the thread, whereas the 3/4" measure 24mm across the bottom and 26.4mm across the thread. We also have a range of old BS1010 1/2" and 3/4" valves, Metric 18mm, 20mm, 28mm, 34mm and plug in / push fit valves. 

Yes. The blue and red coloured gaskets are simply our way of identifying the clockwise and anti-clockwise opening models.

The valves are identical in every other respect, with the only difference being the direction in which they open. A blue-gasket valve can be fitted to a hot tap, and a red-gasket valve can be fitted to a cold tap, provided the opening direction is correct for your tap.

The first step is to rule out the possibility of a faulty valve. Although this is very uncommon, it can occasionally happen if the ceramic discs have been damaged during transit. If this is the case, we'll send you a replacement.

If the valve itself is not faulty, the most likely causes are:

• An incorrect seating depth – the replacement valve may have the wrong seating depth (Dimension C on our technical drawings).
• A tap seating problem – the seating area inside the tap body, where the valve forms a watertight seal, may be dirty, scratched or pitted.
•  

1. Check the tap seat

Remove the valve and inspect the seating area underneath it. This surface should be clean, smooth and free from scratches or pitting so the valve can create a watertight seal.

Try cleaning the seat first. If its a compression valve and the seat is worn or damaged, you may need to re-seat the tap by carefully removing a small amount of metal using a tap reseating tool. Taps that use ceramic Disc Cartridge should not be reseated as this will alter the seating depth. 

2. Check the seating depth

When measuring your old cartridge, you are measuring an old, worn cartridge and the seating depth may be shorter than it needs to be on a new Valve. 

If the seating depth is incorrect, the valve will not seal properly, even if it is otherwise the correct model. 

Ifyou are having difficulties with a valve please contact our experienced technical team. We'll be happy to help you identify the cause of the problem and recommend the correct solution.

 

If your tap is still dripping after replacing the valve or washer, the problem may not be the valve itself. The issue may be a  damaged, dirty or uneven tap seat inside the tap body.

Conventional Rubber Washer Taps

If you've replaced the rubber washer and the tap still drips, the valve seat is the most likely cause.

Over time, grit, corrosion and limescale can wear grooves or pits into the metal seat, preventing the rubber washer from forming a watertight seal.

To fix the problem:

1. Clean the seating area thoroughly, removing any dirt or limescale.
2. Inspect the seat for scratches, grooves or pitting.
3. If the seat is damaged, it can often be restored using a tap reseating tool, which removes a very small amount of metal to create a smooth sealing surface.

Quarter Turn Ceramic Disc Cartridges

Quarter-turn ceramic cartridges also rely on a smooth, clean tap seat.

Although the ceramic discs inside the cartridge stop the water flow, the silicone seal on the base of the cartridge must seal tightly against the metal seat inside the tap. If water passes beneath this seal, the tap will continue to drip.

To check the tap seat:

1. Remove the cartridge and inspect the metal seating area.
2. Look for limescale, corrosion or pitting.
3. Carefully remove any limescale using a flat-bladed screwdriver or clean the seat with white vinegar and a brush.
4. The seat should be perfectly clean and smooth before installing the new cartridge.

Important: Do not use a tap reseating tool on taps fitted with quarter-turn ceramic cartridges. Removing metal from the seat can alter the sealing depth and will prevent the cartridge from sealing correctly.

If you're unsure whether your tap has a seating problem or need advice identifying the correct replacement valve or cartridge, email sales@tapmagician.co.uk with photographs of your tap and valve, and our technical team will be happy to help.

In most cases, we recommend replacing the complete valve or cartridge, as this is usually the quickest, easiest and most reliable solution.

However, if your valve is otherwise in good condition, it is sometimes possible to repair or renovate it by replacing the internal ceramic discs, seals or gaskets.

Please note that these internal components are not standard between manufacturers. They vary in size and design, so replacement parts must match your existing components exactly to work correctly.

We stock a wide range of genuine spare parts for the valves we supply, allowing you to repair or refurbish them where suitable.

If you have purchased a cartridge from us we can identify which spare parts you will require to refurbish it. Simply email sales@tapmagician.co.uk and we'll be happy to help identify the correct parts.

The method varies depending on the make and model of your tap or shower, but most Kitchen and bathroom tap handles, and shower handles are secured in one of the following ways:

• A grub screw located on the side or underneath the handle, usually removed with a small Allen key (taps are usually 2 or 2.5mm, showers 2.5mm or 3mm).
• A retaining screw hidden beneath a decorative cap on the end or top of the handle. This would use a crosshead screwdriver.
• A push-fit handle which can be pulled off without any retaining screws.

You may  need to use some force to remove the handle. Corrosion can make the handles difficult to remove. Brace the tap block so it does not twist and use some force to remove. Hot water can help. 

If you're unsure how your tap handle is removed, simply email sales@tapmagician.co.uk with a clear photograph of your tap, and our technical team will be happy to offer further advice.

No. We supply replacement tap cartridges, valves and spare parts, but we do not offer an installation service.

If you need help fitting your new part, we recommend contacting a local plumber or handyman. If you're unsure which replacement part you need before ordering, our technical team is happy to help identify the correct item from photos and measurements, helping to ensure you order the right part first time.

If your kitchen or bathroom tap is dripping from the spout, the most common cause is a worn or faulty cartridge. If you have had plumbing work done in the house or have turned off the main cock, this can dislodge debris and grit and upset the cartridge. Dismantle the cartridge by removing the circlip and internal discs. Service the cartridge by soaking in vinegar and re lubricating the ceramic discs inside with a silicone grease suitable for potable water.

If your tap is older, it's also worth checking for a tap seating problem. The seating is the surface inside the tap body that the valve seals against. If this surface is worn or damaged, the valve cannot form a watertight seal, even with a new cartridge.

A blocked aerator on the end of the spout can stop the spout from clearing and drip slowly through the aerator appearing like a drip. Remove the aerator from the end of the spout and clean this out. You may need to replace the aerator - we sell a range of these.

If your tap is leaking from the base of the spout, the spout O-rings are usually worn and will need replacing.

If water is pooling on the worktop around the base of the tap, the leak is not coming from the tap base itself. Water will be running down from a leak higher up the tap, such as the handle or the base of the spout. Dry the tap thoroughly, then run the water and identify exactly which joint the water is escaping from before replacing any parts.

If your tap is leaking at the bottom of the spout (the join/neck between the base of spout and tap body) you will need to replace the spout o'rings. We sell spout o'ring repair kits for many taps. They are easy to replace yourself. 

If you know the model of your tap we might be able to identify which o'rings you need. If you do not know the model then we can help but will need to know the inside diameter and thickness of the o'rings. 

The method for removing your tap spout depends on the design of your tap.

If your tap has a collar at the base of the spout, simply unscrew the collar. Once it has been removed, the spout can be pulled upwards and out of the tap body.

More commonly, the spout is secured with a grub screw located at the back of the spout. This is usually removed using a 2mm or 2.5mm Allen key. Once the grub screw has been loosened, carefully pull the spout upwards and away from the tap body.

To replace the spout O-rings:

1. Remove the old O-rings from the grooves on the spout.
2. Fit the new O-rings into the same grooves.
3. Apply a generous coating of potable water silicone grease to the new O-rings before refitting the spout. This helps prevent damage during installation and ensures smooth operation.
4. Push the spout back into the tap body and tighten the grub screw or collar to secure it.

If you're unsure which type of spout fixing your tap has, or need help identifying the correct replacement O-rings, our technical team will be happy to assist.

 

Orders placed before 3pm Monday - Friday are dispatched same day.