How to Choose the Right Tap: Understanding Tap Types and Features

Choosing the right tap for your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry is more than just a matter of style. A tap is one of the most frequently used fixtures in any home, and the wrong choice can lead to inconvenience, water inefficiency, or even premature wear and tear. With the wide variety of tap types and features available today, making an informed decision requires understanding how each type works and what makes it suitable for specific applications.

Why Choosing the Right Tap Matters

Taps do more than control water flow. They contribute to your home’s overall design, influence water efficiency, and affect daily comfort. A poorly chosen tap may clash with your décor, fail to provide the water pressure you need, or require frequent repairs. On the other hand, a well-selected tap enhances both style and function while reducing maintenance and water bills.

Main Types of Taps

Before considering extra features, it’s important to understand the main categories of taps. Each type has unique advantages and is suited for different needs.

1. Pillar Taps

Pillar taps are commonly found in traditional bathrooms. They consist of two separate taps—one for hot water and one for cold. While simple and affordable, they require manual mixing of water temperature in the basin or sink, making them less convenient than modern alternatives.

Best for: Classic bathroom styles, budget-friendly installations, or where water pressure is uneven.

2. Mixer Taps

Mixer taps combine hot and cold water into a single spout, allowing you to adjust the temperature precisely. They are available in both manual and thermostatic versions. Thermostatic mixer taps maintain a consistent temperature, which is especially useful in households with children or elderly family members.

Best for: Kitchens and bathrooms where temperature control and convenience are priorities.

3. Monobloc Taps

Monobloc taps feature a single handle that controls both flow and temperature. By moving the lever left or right, you adjust the water temperature, and by moving it up or down, you control the flow. They are sleek, space-saving, and widely used in modern homes.

Best for: Contemporary kitchens and bathrooms with a minimalist design.

4. Wall-Mounted Taps

Wall-mounted taps are fixed to the wall rather than the sink or basin. They create a clean, uncluttered look and free up counter space. However, they require precise installation and pipework, making them better suited for renovations or new builds.

Best for: Modern bathrooms and kitchens where style and easy cleaning are a priority.

5. Sensor or Touchless Taps

These taps use infrared sensors to detect motion, allowing water to flow automatically when hands are near. They improve hygiene and conserve water by shutting off automatically.

Best for: Public bathrooms, busy households, or homes focused on hygiene and water efficiency.

6. Bridge Taps

Bridge taps feature exposed connections that resemble a bridge between two handles. This vintage-inspired style is perfect for traditional or rustic kitchens and bathrooms.

Best for: Farmhouse or period-style interiors seeking a classic aesthetic.

Key Features to Consider

Once you’ve chosen the type of tap that suits your style and space, it’s time to examine additional features that can improve performance, durability, and efficiency.

Water Pressure Compatibility

Not all taps are compatible with every plumbing system. Some taps require high water pressure to function properly, while others work well with low pressure. Before purchasing, check your home’s water pressure and confirm the tap’s requirements to avoid weak water flow.

Material and Finish

The durability of a tap depends largely on its construction material. Solid brass taps with chrome or stainless-steel finishes are highly resistant to corrosion. Matte black, brushed nickel, and gold finishes are popular choices for adding style, but ensure they are scratch- and tarnish-resistant.

Spout Style and Height

Consider how you will use the tap daily. A high spout provides clearance for filling large pots in the kitchen, while a lower spout may suit compact basins. Swivel spouts add flexibility for double sinks, and pull-out spray heads are excellent for rinsing dishes or produce.

Water Efficiency

Modern taps often include aerators or flow restrictors to reduce water usage without compromising performance. Look for taps with a high WELS (Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme) rating to conserve water and lower your utility bills.

Ease of Operation

Lever taps are easier to use than traditional turn-style handles, especially for children or elderly users. Sensor taps eliminate the need to touch the tap entirely, while thermostatic mixers maintain a safe and stable temperature—ideal for families.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Select taps with smooth surfaces and fewer crevices to prevent dirt and limescale buildup. Removable aerators also make cleaning easier and help maintain consistent water flow over time.

Matching Style with Function

A tap should not only meet practical needs but also complement your room’s overall design. Consider whether you prefer a modern, traditional, or transitional look. For example, a chrome monobloc tap suits a sleek, minimalist kitchen, while ornate bridge taps enhance vintage décor. Coordinating the tap finish with cabinet handles, light fixtures, and other fittings creates a harmonious appearance.

Professional Installation vs. DIY

While some taps are straightforward to install, others—especially wall-mounted or sensor taps—require professional plumbing skills to ensure correct alignment and avoid leaks. If you are replacing an existing tap with the same type, DIY installation may be possible. However, for significant upgrades or new installations, professional assistance is worth the investment.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right tap involves balancing style, function, and quality. By understanding the different types of taps and their features, you can select a fixture that not only looks great but also delivers lasting performance. Consider your home’s water pressure, preferred design, desired features, and budget before making your decision.

The right tap will enhance your daily routines, improve efficiency, and add a finishing touch to your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry. With so many options available, taking the time to understand your choices ensures you invest in a tap that will serve you well for years to come.