B&Q 'Delux' garden tap kits

[The Medway Handyman]

Had to fit an 'outside' tap for a client yesterday - except it wasn't 'outside'.

Industrial unit, want to use a hose outside, tap required just inside the door.

Popped into B&Q on the way to the job to be faced with 'outside tap kits' and 'deluxe outside tap kits'. £9:99 & £12:99 respectively.

The 'outside tap kit' was in a clear plastic bag, proper bib tap, self cutting valve. The 'deluxe outside tap kit' was in a green printed bag. Bought the 'deluxe outside tap kit' for the extra few quid.

What a pile of s**te. The 'deluxe bit was the inclusion of two cheap & nasty plastic hose connectors & an equally cheap & nasty spray gun.

The self cutting valve was Ok, the tap was absolute crap, inlet on the top outlet on the bottom, or vice versa, skimpy thing that wouldn't last 5 minutes, bloody rubbish. Took it back.

Avoid like the plague.

[Bill]

In message , The Medway Handyman writes

I always would.

Only ever used one of those self cutting things once, I learnt how to use a gas torch and solder after that. I realise time is money for you but I much prefer my way, higher flow rate as well.

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[The Medway Handyman]

Self cutting taps have their place, in this instance a very confined space between two racks that I had to squeeze into. Hard enough getting me in, let alone soldering.

Strangely, my public liability insurance has two exemptions, working above gutter height & use of a blowlamp indoors.

Also the issue of draining down the pipework which went up some 30'.

I'd agree your way is better, but as you say time is limited for me.

[John Bull]

Yeah. as I plumber myself, I wouldn't want to put my name to use of a self-cutting tap, but they do work. Some customers have needs that are about speed and lack of disturbance and would favour a quick job over doing it 'properly'. In fairness, self-cutting taps seem to work okay until they are disturbed, though I do wonder if they are certified to any standard that makes them 'suitable' for use with potable water.