What to Consider When Choosing a Kitchen Tap
The tap is often the most underrated finish in a kitchen. If you’re trying to cut costs after a big revamp, tap fittings might be a tempting place to do so but beware.
A cheaper tap not only can take away from the overall look of a new kitchen, but it can also mean a sacrifice of functionality.
Not only does the tap’s aesthetics play a role in the overall look and feel of your kitchen, but it has flow-on effects on the efficiency and enjoyment of your space, too.
When choosing a tap for your kitchen upgrades, there are several factors to consider, including shape, size, finish, and where to mount it. We’ve taken all of these into account and rounded up the best options for you here.
Function
While selecting your tap based on what looks best in the showroom can be tempting, it’s important to prioritise functionality over form when making initial selections.
When choosing your new tap, think practically about what you’ll be using it for. You may choose one with a detachable nozzle head for spraying dishes or vegetables, but if your sink is on the smaller side, then something like this might mean you’re creating a mess more often than cleaning it up
If you have a little more room in your kitchen upgrades budget, look for a tap that combines multiple appliance functionalities into one unit, like a Zip or Billi tap. Providing instant boiling, chilled or sparkling water from one single tap could help you save money on other appliances while amping up the convenience factor of your kitchen.
For something less pricey, separate filtered water taps come in at as little as $50.
Finish
While there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to choosing a finish for your tap, it will generally depend on the style of your kitchen, along with hardware and appliances.
Creating a cohesive space, a tap that references other finishes in your kitchen, is a subtle way to tie everything together.
If you’ve got an industrial aesthetic, perhaps consider a black matte. Modern minimalist would suit a sleek chrome, while brushed brass would lend well to a country or Hamptons style kitchen.
Need some help picking out the right finishes for your kitchen? Download our free eBook to learn more about choosing kitchen materials and fittings.
Ergonomics
Opting for a mixer tap as part of your kitchen upgrades isn’t just more convenient for when you have your hands full or you’re trying to get the perfect water temperature – it can also be a more user-friendly option for children and people with reduced dexterity.
Taps with lever-style handles are easy to operate with a single hand and don’t require much force or grip strength, making them a safe option for families with young children or older family members living with them.
You could always take this to the next level and ditch the handles altogether for a sensor-operated tap instead.
Shape
Paying attention to the shape of the spout is not only important from a stylistic point of view, but also for the purpose of functionality.
If you use your sink to wash dishes, large oven trays, and pots and pans, a medium or high C-shape tap with a swivel spout will be more accommodating and practical.
If you have a butler’s pantry for the heavy lifting, then something with a lower profile for your main kitchen may be a better option.
Mounting
Where you mount your new tap can depend on a number of factors. If the budget for your kitchen upgrades is of concern, mounting it straight to the sink can often be the cheapest and easiest option.
Having a wall-mounted tap allows for more space on the bench to store soaps, scrubbers and the like and is easier to clean, but installation can be a much more involved process.
Want to get an idea of the different tap functions and finishes on the market? Visit one of our showroom locations to learn more about the latest innovations in tapware and get advice from our expert team on which tap will be the best fit for your kitchen.
