Out of all the fittings and fixtures in your kitchen sink area, the kitchen tap is the most valuable one. Why? Because the right kitchen tab can make the mundane everyday tasks much easier and more convenient. So, whether you’re about to hit your favourite home improvement store and find the perfect faucet for your new kitchen, or you simply want to change your old tap, there are a few things to keep in mind before buying.

Types of Kitchen Taps

Before you commit to a certain tap, it’s important to explore the different types of kitchen tapware, so you can choose the best one for your needs and preferences.

Monobloc Kitchen Taps

Monobloc taps are one of the most popular types due to their convenience of use. They feature a single spout that is usually connected to a single lever handle that can control both, the water flow and the temperature. But this doesn’t mean that monobloc taps can’t be found in the classic variant featuring two lever handles – one for hot and one for cold water. Aside from that, they come in many different styles and designs, so you won’t have to struggle to choose the one that fits your kitchen design perfectly.

Kitchen Mixer Taps

A deck kitchen mixer tap is the most practical model you can choose since it successfully combines functionality with the gorgeous look they provide for your sink. They’re featuring a single spout and two tap holes, as well as many different styles- from the classic, traditional ones to the modern contemporary shapes for different kitchen designs.

Pillar Kitchen Taps

Pillar taps are the simplest, classic type that features two spouts and two handles. They’re also very practical since they’re easy to use and install and at the same time the most budget-friendly model you can find on the market.

Opt for Functional Features

Aside from choosing the perfect type for you and your kitchen sink, it’s important to consider the functional features to make using it more pleasant.

Handles play a big role in your new tap’s functionality. You can choose between lever and cross-head shaped handles. Lever kitchen taps, especially the single-handled ones are always a great choice, due to their simplicity of turning on and off using only the back of your hand and the ease of controlling the flow and the temperature of the water. On the other hand, cross-head shaped handles aren’t that practical to use, but they look extra gorgeous, especially for the traditionally-styled kitchens.

When it comes to spouts, one of the options is to choose a tap that has a pullout spray, since it’ll also make it easier to control water with one hand while you’re multitasking. This means that you can always “hose down” your vegetables instead of rolling them around under your basic faucet, or spray your dirty sink with one hand while you’re scrubbing it with the other. Also, one of the greatest advantages of pullout kitchen taps is that they’re suitable for almost every type of sink.

Taps that have filters included are a highly recommended option as well. Such filters are often fitted to the part of the tap that sits underneath the sink. Not only you won’t have to consider buying a filtration system additionally, but you’ll also get clean water by just pulling the handle.

Determine the Water Pressure

Kitchen tapware isn’t only about functionality, since the water pressure and the type of water system is also an important factor for choosing the right kitchen tap. So, make sure you check it. For instance, low-pressure water systems will require a specially designed tap to fit the cold water tank in the loft and the hot water cylinder usually in the airing cupboard.

On the other hand, high-pressure water systems can be vented or unvented. Vented high-pressure systems feature a boiler, which is probably fitted into the wall of your kitchen. Such boilers don’t feature any water tanks, but they’re fed directly by the pressure that quickly heats the water and pumps it to your tap. On the other hand, unvented hard-pressure systems feature a tank where the water is stored and immediately heated by immersion heaters.

However, if your kitchen features a high-pressure water system regardless of its type, then you’re lucky because almost every kitchen tap will work perfectly fine.

Choose a Tap That Matches Your Kitchen Design

Kitchen taps don’t have to be a boring, stainless steel fixture. Nowadays, they’re so versatile that you can find them in a plethora of colours, styles and designs to fit every type of kitchen.

So, if you have a modern, contemporary kitchen, you can always make a statement with a matte black finish tap. Besides standing the test of time, black will fit your kitchen regardless of what colour dominates. Also, contemporary style is all about simplicity, so make sure you choose a simple shape too, such as the sharp lines or a nice gooseneck tap to fit the entire aesthetic.

On the other hand, having a traditional kitchen also means that you have a huge range of tap styles and designs to pick from. So, you can always choose the classic silver, chrome finishes to give your sink area a shiny hint, or a lavish gold or bronze tap for a more luxurious touch. When it comes to the shape, it’s best to choose a tap that features soft edges with elegant curves, and handles that are easy and simple to use.