There's no doubt that your first search for the perfect bathroom tap can be overwhelming. From water pressure to designs, tap holes to plumbing in, navigating the landscape can be a minefield. But don't worry, we're here to help. With our handy tap buying guide, you'll have all the answers to better understand your bathroom and elevate your space.
To begin, take a closer look
Before browsing, take the time to really get to know your bathroom, as only then will you truly understand the type of tap you need.
Already have a shower in place? A bath filler would be the ideal solution. Looking to upgrade your downstairs toilet? Look no further than our wide array of cloakroom options. Or perhaps you have a countertop basin? Find a seamless option from our selection of extended basin taps.
An additional aspect to bear in mind is that certain basins are designed to harmonize with certain taps, for example, the best option for a dual-holed basin would be a pair of twin taps. It's important to understand that it is something to consider, but only when updating just your taps and not your bath or basin as this circumstance tends to limit options of tap design.
One last topic to consider is the water pressure, as some taps are not suitable for certain pressures (to be completely sure, do check out individual product descriptions). In general terms, most taps in the UK are suitable for water pressure between 0.5 and 3.0 bar, but if you'd like to gain a further understanding of your own water pressure, feel free to follow the steps below.
How to check your flow rate
- 1. Turn off all taps within your home.
- 2. Place a two-litre bucket underneath your bath tap.
- 3. Turn on the tap fully and remove the bucket after 6 seconds.
- 4. Multiply the amount filled by 10 to find your flow rate.
If, for example, 0.8 litres were filled, your flow rate is 8 litres/minute. A flow rate above 10 l/m is considered good, 15 l/m is ideal. If you have less than 10 l/m, then it's very likely you have low water pressure.
Next, explore your options
When choosing a design, it’s crucial to be guided by the size of the bathroom and your own personal needs, as choices are incredibly varied. Let's take a look at each option in a little more detail.
Basin taps
Mixer taps
With a plethora of choices, a basin mixer is far from being your average standard tap. Ideal for basins with just one hole, this type offers endless possibilities surrounding beautiful design and aesthetics, plus control of water temperature and intensity.
Twin Taps
Designed as a set, each twin tap releases water from either the hot or cold supply individually, so you can easily obtain the perfect temperature manually. Ideal for lower pressures but an option for all, our twin tap models are created from outstanding quality materials and are available in a variety of styles to add a touch of luxury to every look.
Cloakroom Taps
If you're looking for the perfect amalgamation of ease and elegance that's ideal for a smaller space, the cloakroom tap is for you. Designed as a miniature mixer, this choice enables maximum cleansing space without compromising on aesthetics.
Wall-mounted taps
A seamless option that provides an easy-to-clean, elegant touch, the wall-mounted tap is a wonderful choice where tap holes aren't suitable or for countertop basins. Although initially costing a little more to install due to the drilling involved, it would be ideal for those saving space, with lower water pressure, or not preferring a free-standing tap.
Extended basin taps
With its sleek, elegant style, the extended basin tap is guaranteed to make a statement. Needing just one tap hole, and suitable for all water pressures, it's sure to be the perfect option for all with ample room and a countertop basin.
Sensor taps
With state-of-the-art infrared hand-detecting design technology, a sensor tap is a superb option for those seeking easier accessibility or an ultra-hygienic choice.
Bath taps
Bath Fillers
Suitable for all dual tap-holed bath designs, a bath filler is the perfect way to add a gorgeous finishing touch to an individual bath or to a setup with a shower head already in place, no matter the bathroom style.
Bath Shower Mixers
Offering incredible convenience and flexibility, you can experience the best of both worlds with a well-chosen bath shower mixer. Needing only a dual-holed bath set up and available in a variety of styles to suit every bathroom, it's an incredible way to maximize choice and truly make the most out of your space.
Freestanding Taps
A stunningly simple and elegant focal point for any bathroom, the free-standing tap is a beautiful design that stands as a separate entity from a bath and basin unit. Although this design requires a water pressure of at least 1.5 bar to work effectively, it's sure to guarantee a magnificent finishing touch to larger bathrooms.
Wall Mounted Taps
The wall-mounted tapprovides a sleek, contemporary and seamless option for those seeking an ideal design for a smaller space and a bath with no holes. Although initially costing a little more to install due to the drilling involved, it would be ideal for those saving space, with lower water pressure, or not preferring a free-standing tap.
