Taps, also called faucets in some regions, are plumbing and pipeline fixtures designed to control the flow of water in multiple commercial and residential settings. They come in different styles, designs, and configurations to meet the specific demands and aesthetics of spaces where water is needed. Water taps can either come equipped with a single handle/lever for controlling both hot and cold water or have separate handles for each. Typically, a tap is made from durable materials, including brass, stainless steel, chrome, and plastic, with plating for enhanced durability and resistance features.
Special Features and Benefits of Taps: Why Buy Water Taps?
Taps are essential fixtures that provide controlled access to clean water while offering multiple design options and features to suit diverse needs and preferences. They are indispensable tools in residential and commercial settings and provide a range of benefits to users, including:
- Promote Water Conservation
- Easy to Use
- Enhance Aesthetics
- Improve Hygiene
- Durable and Design Varieties
- Versatile and Cost-Effective.
Basin Mixer Taps vs. Bib Taps: The Key Differences
Basin mixer taps and bib taps are types of faucets that serve different purposes and have distinct designs. Basin mixer taps typically have a sleek and modern appearance and are primarily used in indoor settings like bathrooms and kitchens to control water temperature and flow. On the other hand, bib taps (also called pillar taps) are more functional taps used for outdoor and utility purposes. A bib tap features a classic two-tap design for simple on/off control of hot and cold water, making it ideal for tasks like filling buckets, washing clothes, or accessing water from an outdoor hose.
Popular Types of Taps
There are several types of taps designed for specific purposes, including:
- Kitchen Taps – Kitchen taps are explicitly designed for use in the kitchen – providing access to water for washing dishes, filling pots and pans, and cleaning food. They come in a variety of styles and configurations, including single-handle and double-handle designs. A kitchen tap often features a pull-out or pull-down spray nozzle for more versatile use.
- Bathroom Taps – Bathroom taps control the flow of water in sinks, bathtubs, and showers, matching the decor and functional requirements of the bathroom. Bathroom taps are typically categorised into three main types: basin taps, bath taps, and shower taps.
- Hot Water Taps – Hot water taps are fixtures that dispense hot water. They are typically colour-coded, indicating hot water flow through the faucet into the sink, bathtub, or any other location where the tap is installed. Hot taps also come as boiling water taps (also called instant hot water taps) that provide hot water on demand.
- Cold Water Taps – Cold water taps are fixtures that dispense cold water from the main water supply to flow through the faucet and into the desired location. They are used for a wide range of purposes, including drinking water, washing hands, rinsing dishes, and filling containers with cold water.
Types of Taps Based on Materials
Water taps come in distinct types based on their durable materials, such as:
- Brass Taps – Brass is a popular material for taps due to its durability and corrosion resistance. A brass tap is a suitable design for both traditional and modern bathrooms or kitchens.
- Stainless Steel Taps – Stainless steel taps feature a sleek and contemporary appearance. They are easy to clean and maintain, making them a suitable choice in various settings.
- Chrome-Plated Taps – Chrome-plated taps are crafted from brass or other metals with a chrome finish. They offer a shiny and reflective surface that is easy to clean.
- Copper Taps – Copper taps add a rustic and vintage charm to spaces and are often seen in farmhouses or rustic-style kitchens and bathrooms.
- Nickel Taps – Nickel taps are durable and resistant to tarnishing. They come in various finishes, including polished, satin, or brushed, and offer a contemporary and elegant look.
- Plastic Taps – Plastic taps are cost-effective and lightweight, typically used in budget-friendly settings or outdoor applications.
- Glass Taps – Glass taps feature glass components, often combined with metal elements. They add a classic and decorative touch to bathrooms.
- Ceramic Taps – Ceramic taps are durable and resistant to scratches and stains. These taps are commonly used in traditional and vintage-style bathrooms.
