Alliance Plumbing Repairs: Taps
Taps
A dripping tap is not only annoying but it also wastes precious water.
Here are few tips to consider before buying tapware and the pros and cons of different types.
The bathroom used to be seen as purely functional but now is considered a luxury room, with many people creating a spa-like sanctuary in their own home. You should therefore choose the right tapware to match your bathroom which will help complete your desired look. There
is a huge range (finishes and styles) out there so following are a list of the features you should consider and the pros and cons of different taps to make your decision-making easier.
Features to consider
Water efficiency – WELS rating
One of the most important features of a tap is its water efficiency. All tapware should be WELS rated. The more stars the better. If you would like to reduce water usage by up to 13 litres per minute, you can attach aerators and flow controllers to your taps.
Temperature control
Temperature control is one of the most practical aspects of tapware, especially if you have young children. The ideal tap will heat water to a set temperature, instantly, every time. Alternatively, you can buy from water companies temperature control pads where you can pre-set the temperature as part of the water heater.
Looks
You might want to consider tapware that match the décor of your bathroom. There is a huge range, made from polished chrome, brushed stainless steel and porcelain available in varying shapes and colours.
Price
Tapware varies to a great extent in price.
Ease of use
Some taps are designed to be especially user-friendly. When you are buying tapware, turn them on and off to get a good feel for how they work.
Different types of taps
Screw-down
Screw-down taps are the conventional tapware type – two taps, one for hot and one for cold that screw down when turned on.
Pros
Available in all price ranges
Available in most finishes
Cons
Separate taps for hot and cold water sometimes makes it impossible to achieve a comfortable temperature
More grooves than other varieties make them harder to clean
Single-lever mixer
Single-lever mixers control both hot and cold water. Depending on the direction the lever is tilted determines the temperature of the water.
Pros
Currently the most popular type of tapware
Easy to use
Available in a variety of price ranges
Cons
Water can gush out quickly if turned on too fast
Double Lever
Double lever taps work in the same way as single lever; but they have separate levers for hot and cold.
Pros
Easy to use
Available in a variety of price ranges
Cons
Separate taps for hot and cold can make it difficult to get the right temperature
Cross tapware
Cross tapware is the modern version of screw-down tapware. Shaped in a cross, you turn them in a circular motion.
Pros
Minimalist aesthetic
Fewer grooves for less cleaning
Cons
Separate taps for hot and cold can make it difficult to reach the right temperature
Alliance Plumbing and Heating
Taps
Local tap specialists
We cover London and the Home Counties extensively. This enables us to arrange a visit for you for either today, tomorrow or any time that is convenient.
Free quotes for replacement taps
An experienced engineer will visit at a time that suits you. He will provide you with all the help and advice you might need, discussing your options, ensuring you make the right decisions.
Customer service
All our staff from drainage specialists to the call centre staff are all regularly appraised based on their performance as determined by you. This helps us to continuously improve the service we provide. If you have not been asked for your feedback, but would like to make a comment please e-mail or give us a ring. We would welcome and appreciate your contribution.
Why Alliance?
- We can visit you today.
- All parts and labour guaranteed.
- Written estimate within 24hrs.
- Reliable Engineers!
- Great Customer Feedback!
-
Peace Of Mind As Standard
Testimonials
- It is heartening to come across a company that takes its responsibility for quality and customer service as seriously as you do
-
Mrs. Lamb
- Click to view more testimonials.
