Tap Buying Guide

In the process of redesigning your kitchen or simply want to revamp your kitchen tap? With so many different styles of kitchen tapware to choose from, it can be hard to tell which is best suited to your home and personal needs. Before you decide on a new sink tap, check out our tap buying guide to learn more about the types of taps available, features to look out for and more.

MIXER TAPS

One of the simplest tap designs on the market, mixer taps feature a single handle that allows you to find your perfect blend of hot and cold water.

• Quite simple in style

• Have a practical low profile

• Generally quite affordable

• Available in a variety of finishes

• Low profile design can make it difficult to clean larger pots and pans in some cases

GOOSENECK TAPS

An elegant tap style, kitchen gooseneck taps are curved above the sink, helping to elevate the head of the tap. The design of this type of tap makes it easy to fit larger pans under the water stream. 

• One of the most elegant tap styles

• Can be used as a statement design feature

• Make cleaning larger items easier

• Available in a variety of finishes

RETRACTABLE TAPS

Also known as pull out taps, retractable taps help to make cleaning easier thanks to the retractable hose that sits within the main unit. The head of the tap can be pulled out and manoeuvred as necessary.

• Make cleaning larger items easier

• Provides greater reach

• Allow you to manoeuvre the tap head as you need

• Available in a variety of finishes

• Movement can be limited by the length of the retractable hose

Similar in style to a standard kitchen mixer tap, spray mixer taps allow users to choose from several different spray settings, controlling the stream of water that exits the tap. In much the same way as a shower head, spray mixer taps can be adjusted to have wider water sprays, narrower, more focused water sprays, and more.

• Quite simple in style

• Allow users to adjust the flow of water from the tap head

• Have a practical low profile

• Available in a variety of finishes

• Low profile design can make it difficult to clean some larger pots and pans

Filtered water taps give you the freedom to enjoy boiling water, chilled water, filtered water, and more, on demand. Installed into your kitchen benchtop or sink, they are available in a number of different configurations, allowing you to choose one that best fits your needs.

• A number of different styles are available, providing instant filtered water, boiling water and more

• Add extra convenience to a kitchen, removing the need for some appliances such as kettles and standalone water filters

• Cost varies depending on the model chosen and its features

• Available in a variety of finishes

• May not be a practical choice for cleaning pots and pans, although designs do vary

Popular brands of taps: Franke, Zip, Blanco

• Finishes. Today, chrome kitchen taps aren’t your only option when choosing a kitchen tap finish. Take your pick from a variety of finishes, including hard wearing stainless steel sink taps, polished steel, brushed metals, matte blacks, gold and more. Find one that matches your kitchen cabinetry, sink, appliances, or the general aesthetic of your home.

• Style. The design of your kitchen can be a good indicator when it comes time to choose between the different styles of taps available. If your home is older or you’re wanting to go for a country feel in the kitchen, a traditional tap design is likely to be your best bet. If you’re designing a kitchen to impress, look for modern designer taps or bold industrial designs. If you’re focused more on function, a low profile or minimalist tap may be a good option.

• Quality and durability. Since a kitchen tap is a fixture that you’ll be using every day, it’s a good idea to look for a model that is sturdy, durable and can withstand daily wear and tear. Although not all cheap taps are low quality, investing in a top quality kitchen tap now could save you more money in the long run.

• Compliance. To be installed by a plumber in Australia, kitchen taps need to be Watermark compliant and have a Wels flow rating. Be sure to check that any model you’re considering is compliant and has the necessary ratings.

• Spare parts. As with any item in the home, with continued use, it’s likely that you’ll need to replace a part or two over time. To prepare yourself for any future mishaps and general wear and tear, be sure to check that spare parts, such as hoses, replacement cartridges and o-rings, are available.