When renovating a kitchen, many important decisions must be made. It is easy to forget the details like taps. These taps are an important component of your kitchen and will be used a lot. It's therefore crucial that they're durable, stylish, and suitable for your needs. Even though this is a small part of your kitchen, it can be a significant component of the overall design of your kitchen. This guide should help you make a decision.
"WATER PRESSURE IS IMPORTANT"
Before you begin looking at kitchen faucets, you need to be aware of which of these water systems you have:
LOW-PRESSURE SYSTEM
These systems are also known as gravity-fed systems. They have a cold water tank in the loft and a hot water tube elsewhere.
HIGH PRESSURE VENTED SYSTEM
This system uses a combination boiler to heat water instead of cold or hot water tanks. It is immediately heated from the mains when a hot tap is turned on.
HIGH-PRESSURE UNVENTED SYSTEM
Only high-pressure, unvented systems require a hot water tank. The water is heated by immersion heaters. These can be either found on the tank or in the central heating boiler.
You can avoid buying a tap that isn't performing as expected by knowing the details of your water system. If you have a low-pressure system, but a high-pressure tap, your water flow will be very poor. Some taps are only compatible with low-pressure systems. However, most taps are compatible with high-pressure unvented systems. All tap options can be used with high-pressure vented systems. Knowing your water system will immediately determine which kitchen taps you have access to.
"DIFFERENT TYPES OF KITCHEN TAPS"
PILLAR TAPS
A pillar is the most classic and affordable type of kitchen tap. It comes with two taps and spouts. One dispenses cold water and the other hot.
MONOBLOC KITCHEN TAPS
Monobloc kitchen taps are equipped with a single lever that controls the flow and temperature of the water and a single spout.
DECK MIXER TIPS
Deck mixer taps are similar to monoblocs but have one spout and two handles for hot or cold water.
"FEATURES OF KITCHEN TAP"
HANDLES
Your taps' appearance and functionality are affected by the handles. Lever handles, for example, are great for busy kitchens because you can quickly turn on the water using your backhand. Taps with crosshead handles, however, are perfect for classic aesthetics.
SPOUTS
High-spout kitchen taps make it easier to clean and fill pots and pans with water. Swivel spouts can also be very convenient, as they can be moved out of the way and directed water to different utensils.
VALVES
Another thing to consider is what type of valve you are using. The traditional brass compression valve is made of solid brass and has a rubber washer and watertight seal. However, these can wear and cause drips over time. Ceramic disc valves are more durable and resist leaks and drip, making them more popular.
"KITCHEN TAP TECHNOLOGY OPTIONS"
Although you wouldn't think you would ever hear the words "tap" or "technology" together, there are many useful features that can be added to your kitchen taps to make them more functional.
PULL OUT KITCHEN TAPS
The pull-out kitchen taps can be removed and have a nozzle attached to the hose that allows you to clean your entire kitchen.
BOILING WATER TAPS
These taps provide boiling water immediately, which is ideal for busy kitchens that don't have time to wait for the kettle to boil. These taps can be integrated into a monobloc handle or used as an additional boiling water lever.
FILTER TAPS
These taps let you enjoy filtered water at any time you want. Important to remember that the filter beneath the sink must be replaced regularly.
"KITCHEN TAP FINISHES"
There are three options for tap finishes: chrome stainless steel brushed stainless steel and coloured. No matter what finish you choose, it is important to match your taps with the rest of your room.
CHROME STAINLESS STEEL
The most popular finish is chrome stainless steel. It resists heat and water well.
BRUSHED STAINLESS STEEL
If cleanliness is your priority, this finish is the best. These taps are a great choice for families as they have fewer fingerprints than chrome stainless steel taps.
COLOURED TAPS
Coloured taps are an option if stainless steel doesn't suit your taste. You can find them in many colours, including gold, copper, brass, black and rose gold. You can match your tap with any kitchen design thanks to the wide selection of options.
