The tap is one of the hardest working tools in the kitchen, as it’s used every day, for everything from making drinks to washing dishes and filling pans for cooking. Consequently, it’s important to choose a tap that's functional as well as stylish. There are a variety of different factors you need to consider, such as style and finish, so read on for our top tips.
The first decision to make is what type of tap you want. The main options include monobloc (single and dual lever), bridge and pull-out taps. Single-lever versions have one control for both the hot and cold water, while dual-lever models have separate levers for hot and cold water.
Bridge taps are typically paired with Belfast fire-clay ceramic sinks; these dual-lever mixer taps are an elegant accessory with two separate pillars for hot and cold water, connected via a central ‘bridge’.
A pull-out function can be another great addition to a tap. It works by simply pulling down on the nozzle to release the end from the spout – perfect for getting into the corners of the sink and washing larger items, such as pots or pans. Most of our designs feature a retractable hose that sits discreetly within the spout, maintaining the look and feel of a standard tap.
Once you’ve decided on the type of tap you want, you’ll need to choose a style. From classic and traditional to sleek and modern, pick a look that complements the overall design of your kitchen. Then, it’s time to select the finishing touch! At Rangemaster, we offer a variety of finishes, including Chrome, Matt Black, Brushed Brass and Graphite.
Next, it’s worth considering the practical features, such as our anti-splash spout, which boasts a honeycomb aerator that mixes air with water to emit a soft ‘champagne-like’ flow with no splash, and water pressure. Some taps will work with all levels of water pressure in the home from 0.2 bar, while others are designed specifically for plumbing systems that operate at 1 bar or higher, such as with combi boilers.
There are also 4-in-1 taps that offer even more functionality and features – these models typically dispense standard hot and cold, as well as filtered cold and boiling water. They are convenient for homes that do a lot of cooking or entertaining, and they free-up worktop space, as a kettle is no longer required – the tap does it all. Our GEO Intense 4-in-1 tap has a compact boiler that fits neatly under the sink within a standard-size kitchen unit. It has a 2.1-litre capacity and can fill eight cups of hot water from one tank – approximately 65 cups of tea or coffee per hour! Hot 4-in-1 taps can also save money and energy in the long run when compared to a kettle.
When choosing a new kitchen tap, it's important to consider your needs and preferences. If you have a small kitchen, a single-lever monobloc or 4-in-1 tap are good options, or if you want to achieve the classic country kitchen look, then a bridge tap ticks a lot of boxes. Ultimately, the best way to choose a new kitchen tap is to visit a showroom, try out different models and find the one that’s right for you.
