In every home, the kitchen is a hub of activity where design and functionality are key. Choosing the right kitchen tap is crucial, not only to complement the décor but also to enhance the efficiency of daily tasks.
With the wide range of options available, finding the right tap for your kitchen can seem overwhelming.
Whether you're renovating your kitchen or updating its fixtures, our curated list of the best kitchen taps will help you find a tap that perfectly matches your needs and enhances your kitchen’s functionality.
Key Takeaways
- A tap's design significantly influences kitchen functionality and aesthetics.
- Considering the sink compatibility, lever type, and tap durability is crucial in the selection process.
Top 10 Best Kitchen Taps
Discover our top selections for kitchen taps that perfectly blend design with functionality, enhancing both the efficiency and aesthetic of your kitchen space.
- Dorchester Georgian Dual Flow Kitchen Sink Tap in Antique Bronze with Twin White Levers: The Dorchester Georgian tap features a classic design with twin white ceramic levers and an antique bronze finish, giving a sense of Georgian elegance. This dual flow kitchen sink tap separates hot and cold water supplies for independent control, making it not only a visually appealing addition but also a practical choice for traditional and period-style kitchens.
- Astbury Traditional Bridge Kitchen Mixer Tap in Antique Bronze: With traditional aesthetics, the Astbury kitchen tap boasts a bridge design with white ceramic levers and a sleek antique bronze finish. Deck-mounted, it blends classic styling and modern functionality, ideal for those looking to combine antique charm with contemporary ease of use.
- Alpha Dual Flow Kitchen Sink Tap in Mocca Brown: Modern yet understated, the Alpha tap in mocca brown offers a dual flow system with a twin lever mechanism, allowing for effective temperature and water flow management. The distinctive mocca brown finish not only adds to the visual appeal but also complements a variety of kitchen designs from modern urban to rustic farmhouse.
- Alpha Dual Flow Kitchen Sink Tap in Cream Beige: The Alpha dual flow tap in cream beige features a contemporary twin lever design that provides a subtle yet stylish touch to any kitchen. Its cream beige finish ensures it integrates seamlessly with different kitchen designs, supported by a dual flow system that efficiently separates water temperatures.
- Astbury Traditional Bridge Kitchen Mixer Tap in Brushed Nickel: The Astbury tap combines the elegance of a traditional bridge structure with the modernity of a brushed nickel finish. Its durable construction and easy-to-clean surface make it an excellent choice for busy kitchens, blending functionality with a style that suits both traditional and contemporary interiors.
- Dorchester Georgian Dual Flow Kitchen Sink Tap in Black: Featuring a striking black finish and Georgian design elements, the Dorchester kitchen sink tap adds a bold touch to any kitchen setup. Its dual flow capability enhances usability, ensuring that water temperature can be controlled with precision.
- Astbury Traditional Bridge Kitchen Mixer Tap in Gold: The Astbury bridge mixer tap shines in a luxurious gold finish, detailed with white ceramic levers for a classic look. Ideal for kitchens that want to make a luxurious statement, this tap not only dazzles with its appearance but also provides all the functional benefits of modern kitchen fixtures.
- Langley Traditional Bridge Kitchen Sink Mixer Tap in Antique Bronze: The Langley kitchen mixer tap in antique bronze features colonial crosshead handles and a rustic bridge design. Perfect for adding a touch of traditional elegance, it comes equipped with a swivel spout for complete sink coverage.
- Urban Modern Pull-Out Kitchen Sink Mixer Tap in Matt Black: Sleek and contemporary, the Urban Modern tap features a matte black finish and a pull-out spray head that enhances kitchen convenience. The single lever operation simplifies flow and temperature control, making it an indispensable tool for any modern space.
- Langley Traditional Bridge Kitchen Sink Mixer Tap in Brushed Nickel: The Langley bridge tap in brushed nickel offers a timeless design with practical functionality. Its colonial crosshead handles and durable finish are designed for easy maintenance and long-lasting performance, providing a stylish yet functional addition to any kitchen.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Kitchen Taps
Selecting the right kitchen tap can significantly influence the functionality and aesthetic of your kitchen. It's not just about choosing a tap that matches your décor; various practical considerations should guide your decision to ensure the tap you select meets your needs for years to come.
Here are some key factors to consider:
Material and Finish
The material and finish of your tap not only dictate its durability but also how well it complements the overall kitchen aesthetic.
Stainless steel is renowned for its resistance to corrosion and tarnishing, making it a practical and popular choice. Chrome and gold offer a high gloss finishes that work well in many kitchens, while brushed nickel or matte finishes might be preferred for their subtlety and resistance to smudging and fingerprints.
Consider taps with ceramic disc technology, which helps prevent leaks and extends the tap’s lifespan.
Design and Functionality
The design of the tap should harmonise with the style of your kitchen. Traditional kitchen taps, with their classic lines and ornate details, suit period interiors, whereas contemporary kitchen taps with sleek, minimalist lines blend better with modern aesthetics.
Consider how the functionality of the tap aligns with your kitchen habits: do you need a pull-out spray feature for easy rinsing? Would a single lever tap for quick temperature adjustment be helpful, or are two handles better for complete control?
Spout Height and Reach
The height and reach of the tap’s spout are crucial for daily kitchen tasks. A high-arch spout can make filling tall pots easier, while a long reach is useful for double sinks or wide basins. Be sure to choose a tap that fits well within the space and scale of your sink to avoid splashes and ensure efficient water flow.
Installation and Compatibility
Ensure your choice is compatible with your kitchen's water pressure system. Low pressure systems might not be suitable for certain types of modern taps that require high pressure to operate effectively.
Additionally, the installation process can vary; some taps are simple to install with standard fittings, while others might need additional tools or professional help, especially if retrofitting is involved with kitchen sink and tap sets or filter kitchen taps.
Sink Configuration and Tap Hole Requirements
Your kitchen sink configuration directly influences the type of tap that will fit. Sinks with one tap hole are suited for mono mixers, while those with two holes accommodate pillar taps.
If you're considering a kitchen renovation or a new sink installation, factor the tap hole requirements into your plan. For an antique kitchen aesthetic, traditional kitchen taps with two holes may be the way forward, offering a classic charm suitable for period-style homes or for creating a timeless look.
Understanding Different Types of Kitchen Taps
There are several styles of kitchen taps available, each offering distinct benefits and suiting various kitchen needs.
Here are some of the most common types to help you make an informed decision:
- Pillar Taps: Pillar taps are traditional, consisting of two separate taps where one dispenses hot water and the other cold. This type is typically seen in older or more classically styled kitchens. They require two tap holes in the sink and are straightforward to install and maintain, making them a durable option for those seeking simplicity and efficiency.
- Monobloc Taps: Monobloc taps are a popular choice in modern kitchens, featuring a single spout with either one or two handles to mix hot and cold water. These taps require only one hole, offering a cleaner look that complements sleek, contemporary kitchen designs. They are available in various materials and finishes, with models featuring ceramic discs inside the tap to control water flow and temperature precisely.
- Pull-Out Spray Taps: Ideal for busy kitchens, pull-out kitchen taps have a detachable head, making it easier to perform kitchen tasks like filling pots, rinsing produce or cleaning the sink. These taps provide excellent flexibility and functionality, typically coming with an extendable hose which retracts neatly when not in use.
- Bridge Taps: Bridge taps are characterised by a bridge connecting hot and cold water supplies, merging them into a single spout. They blend traditional style elements with modern functionality, making them suitable for both contemporary and classic kitchens. This type often features ornate styling and is available in finishes like chrome, brass, and nickel.
- Filtered Water Taps: For those who prioritise health and flavour, filtered water taps are a great addition to the kitchen. These taps come with integrated water filters to purify tap water, removing contaminants and improving taste.
- Wall Mounted Taps: Wall mounted taps provide a clean, uncluttered look around the sink area, with pipework and fixtures concealed within the wall. This type is particularly useful for caravan kitchen sinks and in smaller kitchens where counter space is at a premium. They require professional installation to ensure the plumbing is correctly fitted and waterproofed within the wall.
- Boiling Water Taps: A boiling water tap is a modern innovation that delivers instant boiling water, perfect for making tea, coffee, or speeding up cooking processes.
Top Tip: Check out our Dual Flow Kitchen Taps Guide or our Mixer Taps Buying Guide for more information and expert advice.
Enhance Your Kitchen's Style and Functionality with the Perfect Tap
Choosing the right kitchen tap is essential for balancing style and practicality in the heart of your home. With our extensive selection of high quality kitchen taps at HOUSE OF ENKI, you're sure to find the perfect tap that not only complements your kitchen’s décor but also improves your daily kitchen tasks with ease and efficiency.
From luxurious gold finishes to innovative pull-out spray features, our taps combine quality construction with aesthetic appeal to cater to every preference and kitchen style. Whether you're renovating your kitchen or simply updating its fixtures, our taps offer the perfect blend of functionality and elegance.
If you need assistance or have any questions about which tap is the right choice for your kitchen, please contact us. Our experts are ready to help you make the best selection that ensures your kitchen is as stylish as it is functional.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What features should I look for in a tap suitable for hard water areas?
In hard water areas, it’s advisable to look for kitchen taps constructed with a finish resistant to limescale build-up, such as quality kitchen taps with ceramic disc cartridges which can help in mitigating the wear from mineral deposits.
2. Which finishes are most durable and easy to maintain?
Stainless steel and chrome finishes are typically the most durable and easy to maintain, offering a timeless look that doesn’t show water spots or fingerprints easily. These materials resist corrosion and can be cleaned with standard household cleaners.
3. In what ways do mixer taps provide an advantage over other types?
Mixer taps allow for precise control of water temperature and flow with a single handle, making them practical and efficient. They are particularly beneficial in kitchen settings for tasks that require a specific water temperature, like food preparation or dishwashing.
4. How often should I replace my kitchen tap?
The lifespan of kitchen taps varies depending on its material, build quality, and usage. On average, a well-made tap should last between 15 to 20 years. Signs that you might need a replacement include persistent leaks, difficulty in operation, or visible wear and tear. Upgrading your tap can also be a stylistic choice to refresh your kitchen’s look.
5. What maintenance do kitchen taps require?
Regular maintenance can extend the life of your tap. This includes cleaning the aerator to remove limescale build-up, checking for leaks and addressing them promptly, and cleaning the tap's surface according to the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent damage to the finish. Periodically, you may also need to replace washers or cartridges, especially in models that use them for water flow and temperature control.