Comparison taps

Types of application provided by the design of the tap.

Modern taps can be designed for bath, shower, washbasin, bidet, kitchen, drinking water filter only and with the possibility of connecting to a filter. At the same time, many models are designed for several application formats at the same time — for example, functioning with a bathtub and a washbasin at the same time; and there are models without mixing water at all (with one connection pipe) — only for cold or only for already mixed water. More details in the separate paragraphs below.

— For bathtub. Taps used to fill the bathtub. Traditionally provided for wall mounting (see "Installation"), although there are exceptions in some specific models. In addition to a bathtub, such a tap can be used for a shower and/or a washbasin; in the first case, the design provides for the connection of a shower set, in the second, a long swivel spout that can be turned from the bathroom to the sink of the nearby washbasin.

— For shower. This option means that a shower set can be connected to the tap; sometimes such units are even supplied as a set (see "Spout design"). Specialized shower taps are exclusively wall-mounted or built-in (see "Install...ation"). At the same time, in addition to “shower-only” models, there are also “multi-purpose” products designed to be used simultaneously with a bathtub, and sometimes also with a washbasin (see “For bathtub” above).

— For washbasin. Specialized taps designed only for washbasins and have a relatively short spout, usually fixed, and can be installed in almost any way (except that floor models are a rather exotic option that has not gained distribution). Due to the similarity of washbasins with kitchen sinks, some models of a similar design can also be used as kitchen taps. Another, quite common, option is a hygienic shower for use with a bidet. Also note that the “washbasin” assignment can also be provided as an additional function in taps originally designed for bathtubs (see above).

— For kitchen. Taps for this purpose can be both highly specialized and provide other applications — for a washbasin (see above) or for a drinking water filter (see below). Anyway, such products are mounted mainly on a wall or tabletop, and the spout can be made quite high so that a pan or other large dish can be placed under. Also, in kitchen taps an interesting feature as a spring spout can be found (see "Spout design").

— For bidet. A bidet is a device in the form of a hygienic bath for washing the external genitalia and anus after going to the toilet. The classic bidet tap is installed directly on such a bath in a horizontal way (see "Installation"); the shape and design of the spout in such models is selected in such a way as to ensure effective ablution. However, in addition to this, the “bidet” category also includes specialized taps for a hygienic shower — a similar procedure carried out using a separate shower set. Such taps are built into the wall and do not require a separate bidet — a hygienic shower can also be used with a conventional toilet.

— For drinking water filter. Taps designed to supply drinking water from a tap filter, usually located under the kitchen sink. They are installed exclusively on the tabletop (see "Installation"), most often on the sink itself. Specialized models with only this equipment are distinguished by their small size and single-valve design (see "Tap type"). In addition, the possibility of connecting a drinking water filter can be provided as an additional feature in kitchen taps (see above). In such models, the spout has two holes — for "common kitchen" and for drinking water; each flow is controlled separately by its own valve (set of valves) or by a joystick.

— No water mixing. Taps that are designed to supply water at the still temperature. Outwardly, such models are no different from the classic ones: some are made with levers, others with a cross handle. But the key to them is the presence of only one pipe for supplying water. Accordingly, you can connect only cold, only hot or already mixed water.

The tap type is indicated by the type of controls installed in it. A number of features of both management and application in general depend on this. Nowadays, on the market you can find single cross handle, two cross handle, single lever (including those with additional touch control), non-contact and thermostatic taps, as well as push button models, which include both self-closing and thermostatic with a button. Here are the main features of these options:

— Single handle. Taps controlled by a single rotary handle (or a lever that moves in only one plane). In fact, they are not even "taps" as such, since they cannot mix hot and cold water and only regulate the pressure of the water supplied to them. It makes sense to use single handle models where the water temperature is constant and/or it makes no sense to regulate it — for example, in models for a kitchen filter (see "Suitable for"), for a washbasin where only cold water is used, or for an English-style washbasin, where hot and cold water is supplied from separate taps and mixed in the sink.

— Double handle. The classic design of taps, which does not lose popularity nowadays: two rotary handles responsible for...hot and cold water, respectively. This design is simple and inexpensive, while being reliable, moreover, it is convenient for precise temperature control. In addition, two handle taps are not afraid of the difference in the pressure of hot and cold water, and therefore it is recommended to use them with boilers. The disadvantage of this option is the impossibility of changing the pressure separately from the temperature and vice versa — any change requires turning both valves, while the pressure and temperature can fluctuate.

— Single lever. Taps where the flow of water is controlled by a single lever. Most often, turning the joystick from side to side in such models regulates the temperature, and tilting relative to the axis of rotation controls the pressure. This allows you to adjust the temperature without changing the pressure (and vice versa) and even “remember” the selected temperature option (just lower the lever to close without turning it sideways). At the same time, such devices are less accurate in adjustment than double cross handle ones.
Occasionally, you can also find a more specific variety — single-lever taps, supplemented by a separate temperature control lever (see below). In such models, the main joystick controls only the pressure.

— Push button. Models of mixers in which the control of turning the water supply on and off is assigned to a button. The first press turns on the water flow, the second turns it off. The button can be either an auxiliary means for conveniently turning on/off the water, or the main control element for the mixer. In the latter option, to adjust the water supply pressure, the button is often made rotary.

— Self-closing. A variety of taps with button activation. However, here the button works on the principle of a timer: when you press it, water flows, and then a special mechanism gradually returns the button back, blocking the flow. Closing time is selected in such a way that one press allows you to more or less effectively wash your hands. Such devices are especially popular in public places, such as toilets of cafés, shopping centres, cinemas, etc.: there is no need to worry that an inattentive visitor will forget to turn off the tap. Most often, these taps are single-temperature, but there are also models with a temperature adjustment lever (see below).

— Thermostatic. Taps that have a thermostat function — that is, capable of automatically maintaining the temperature set by the user. Such models are extremely convenient: when the pressure or temperature of the water in the pipes fluctuates, you do not need to fiddle with the settings — the device will independently select the operating mode so that the outlet temperature does not change (or at least these changes are minimal). The main disadvantage of thermostatic models is the complexity of the design and, as a result, the high cost. In addition, many of them require an electrical connection. For control, models may include rotary controls or a button (see above).

— Non-contact. Models operated in a non-contact way — without the need to touch the device. This format of operation is most popular in washbasin taps (see "Suitable for"): in such models, a sensor is used that reacts to the presence of the user's hands under the spout. This is especially convenient in common areas where it is undesirable to touch the tap once again. There are other types of non-contact models — in particular, devices for the kitchen or shower. In the first case, it can be inconvenient to open an ordinary tap with dirty hands after kitchen work. At the same time, the control may not be completely contactless — there are devices with valves or other equipment for pre-setting the temperature, while the sensor in them works only as a water flow switch. And touchless shower taps necessarily have an additional control for setting the temperature; the sensor in them reacts not just to the hands, but to the whole person.

— Single-lever + touch. A variety of single-lever mixers (see above), equipped with an additional switch. As in conventional single-lever models, the joystick in such devices is used to adjust the pressure and temperature; the difference lies in the fact that the water is opened not by a lever, but by the mentioned switch. In other words, it is enough to set the optimal pressure and temperature once using the joystick — and then you can turn on the water by simply touching the switch. The device of the switch itself can be different: in some models, the entire tap's body plays its role, in others a special button or even a foot pedal is provided. The exception is the non-contact models described above — they may be similar in design and method of use, but all the same, these taps are classified into a separate category.

— Straight. Spout that have straight or almost straight shape and directed almost horizontally (other arrangements are highlighted in a separate paragraph — see “At right angle”). Generally, such a spout combines simplicity, practicality, and versatility. In particular, it can be of any length, and can also be rotary (see “Spout”), while being inexpensive to manufacture. Nowadays, straight spouts are extremely popular, and in almost all types of taps (see “Suitable for”). The exception is perhaps the kitchen application: this form is inconvenient for washing dishes by itself and leaves less space for dishes in the sink than other shapes (for example, angled or gooseneck spouts).

— Gooseneck. Taps with a spout in the shape of an arc, usually semicircular and rather steep. This design is most popular in kitchen taps, as it provides the necessary space for washing large dishes. Many models with such a spout are designed for washbasins — they also use a vertical installation, for which the arc is very convenient. And gooseneck bath taps are most often original premium models installed directly on the side of the bath (also horizontally).

— L-shaped. Spout in the shape of the letter “L” — with a vertical base and a horizontal “crossbar” extending from it. Thanks to this shape, the spout can be positioned at a sufficiently high height, which is especially conveni...ent when used in the kitchen or with a washbasin. Most of the L-shaped models refer to these specialization options (see “Suitable for”). According to the type of the tap (see the corresponding list), they are usually single-lever, while the joystick is located on the side; however, there are other options — both in the location of the joystick, and in the type of control.

— U-shaped. Spouts of this category resemble L-shaped models (see the relevant paragraph), in which the end of the spout is noticeably bent downwards. This gives them an original shape, as well as some resemblance to gooseneck models. U-shaped spouts are typically taller and are intended for use in kitchens or washbasins. At the same time, they are not as popular as the mentioned L-shaped ones, and even more so the gooseneck ones. In particular, because of the higher cost with no obvious practical advantages (although this form may well be optimal in terms of design).

— S-shaped. A variant that is predominantly found in bath models (including bath and washbasin solutions) as well as in some kitchen taps. The spout in this arrangement has the shape of the letter “S”, laid “on its side”. This design is well suited for wall-mounted models, where the spout outlet must be placed noticeably below the tap itself.

— At right angle. A straight spout located at a right angle relative to the tap body — directed from the base of the body up or down. This shape is especially suitable for washbasins and kitchens, and it is mainly found in taps of those specializations (see “Suitable for”). Most models with a similar spout have a fairly modern appearance, thanks to that they fit well into modern, high-tech interiors, etc.

— Curved at an angle. A spout that leans upward from the base of the tap and curves slightly downward at the end. The shape is in many ways reminiscent of the “at right angle” option, but it has its own characteristics. Firstly, such a spout can be made somewhat longer, which is convenient for kitchen use: the outlet is at a sufficiently high height and there is enough space under it to wash even large dishes without any problems. Most of the models in this category are just made for the kitchen. Secondly, for some users, this form is preferable from an aesthetic point of view (although, of course, this is a matter of personal taste). These spouts look more “cheap” compared to the products of the “at right angle” form factor and are extremely rare among top plumbing brands.

— Vertical jet. This type of spout is found among bidet taps. It involves vertical spraying of a water jet for taking a hygienic shower after visiting the toilet. The mortise vertical spray module is installed separately from the tap. Usually, the design also assumes a water return valve.

— Connected to overflow. Taps with a spout in the form of a flexible hose that connects to the overflow of the bathtub, and the water is poured through it. Thanks to such taps, minimalism is ensured in the appearance of the bathtub, which is caused by the absence of a classic spout. In addition, there is no need to make extra holes in the side of the bathtub to install the tap.

Possibility to turn spout from side to side. In this way, you can change the location of the water jet, which can be useful in a variety of cases. This feature of the swivel spout is most popular in two varieties. The first is bath and washbasin devices, where one spout serves both the bathtub and the washbasin. The second is kitchen taps: the ability to rotate the spout is important in order to place large dishes in the sink.

The spout of a large length is typical mainly for models designed for bathtubs and washbasins. Most often, such a spout is made swivel (see below), due to which the flow of water can be directed as needed, both into the bathtub and into the sink.

Material and design features of the valve (valves) responsible for opening and closing water in the tap.

— Rubber. Valve material for low-cost one- and two-valve mixers (see “Product type”). Rubber is inexpensive, easy to replace, and resistant to contaminated water (unlike ceramics). On the other hand, rubber valves have a relatively short service life — when they wear out, they begin to leak, and they have to be changed time to time.

— Ceramic. These valves are based on a pair of ceramic-metal plates polished for maximum contact and tightness. They can be used both in cross-handle and lever taps (see "Product type"). This material is much more durable than rubber, and in the case of a single-lever tap, it also makes adjustment easier, because the friction between the plates is low, and it is much easier to move the lever than with a ball valve. The disadvantage of ceramics is the sensitivity to water contamination by solid particles — getting between the plates, they can break the tightness of the valve. Therefore, it is recommended to install filters in front of such taps.

— Electromagnetic. A type of valve used in all non-contact mixers (see "Product type"), as well as some models of a different design — in particular, push-button and single-lever with touch. As the name implies, an electromagnet is responsible for opening and closing water i...n such models. At the same time, the valve in most models has only two positions — “open” and “closed” — and does not imply pressure adjustment. But the temperature controller can be provided — for example, in the form of an appropriate lever (see above). Electromagnetic valves are quite efficient, but expensive and require external power to operate.

— Ball valve. A type of valve originally developed for single-lever taps (from which the tendency to call such devices "ball valves" came from, which is not technically correct). At the heart of such a valve is a spherical element with a special slot through which water is supplied; when the lever moves, the slot occupies one position or another, on which the pressure and temperature of the water depend. In domestic taps, this type of valve is considered obsolete and is rarely used.

In most cases, this is not one accessory, but a whole set that allows you to use the tap for showering. A mandatory element of the shower set is a shower head, in most cases it is supplemented with its own hose. In addition, the design may provide a mount for a watering can — on the wall or directly on the tap's body (for the second option, see below). But the purpose and functionality of the shower set may be different, depending on the specialization of the tap itself (see "Suitable for"). So, in bath and shower models, water can be supplied either through a spout or through a shower set, and an appropriate switch is provided for selection (sometimes automatic, see below). Shower-only taps do not have this switch. In models for washbasins, the shower set is designed for the so-called hygienic shower — washing certain parts of the body (primarily the groin area, etc.); the watering can for such a shower is small in size and is equipped with its own button that turns the water on and off. There are even kitchen taps with this function — the shower performs the same function as the pull-out spout. And the number of modes may not be limited to one. Several hand shower modes allow you to get a shower water jet of your favour — from classic small streams to one continuous stream, with all sorts of variations. The more settings provided, the wider the choice.

A diverter is a device that switches a water flow between spout and shower head. The design of such a device and the way it is controlled can be different, in modern taps you can mainly find the following options:

— Button. Diverters of this type have the form of a button; but its design depends on the characteristics of a particular tap. In relatively simple mechanical models (most of them), the button is also made mechanical, and to switch from spout to shower, you need to pull it up. And switching in the opposite direction — from a shower to a spout — can often be carried out not only manually, but also automatically, when the water is turned off (see "Features — Shower / bath auto switch"). In some taps, auto-switching can also be blocked by the user (usually by turning the button in the up position).
In turn, in advanced electronic devices, such a diverter is made in the form of an electric button that closes the contacts that control the valve.

— Lever. Diverter in the form of a rotary lever. Most often, this lever directly controls the valve that switches the flow of water. This design is considered somewhat less reliable than push-button, but it is much simpler and cheaper, which makes it very popular — especially in relatively inexpensive taps. But in premium devices, this type of diverter can operate according to other, more advanced principles — for example, a lever can work as an electronic switch.

— Turning the spout. A r...ather rare and specific option: the role of the lever that controls the flow of water is performed directly by the spout, to the base of which a shower hose is connected. Such a control, usually, works as follows: while the spout is perpendicular to the tap body, water flows through it, and to switch to the shower, the spout turns, being under the tap. Such devices look interesting, and are convenient to use. On the other hand, they are quite complex and expensive, and the spout itself, for a number of reasons, is typically made quite short. Therefore, this variant has not gained popularity.

— Removable. A diverter located outside the body — usually between the tap itself and the spout. Typically, on one side of such a device there is a control element (most often a small lever or a rotary tap), and on the other, a pipe for connecting a shower hose. And the name "removable" suggests that this part can be easily removed if needed — unlike, for example, push-button or lever solutions, which are usually built directly into the tap body and are very difficult to dismantle or replace. Accordingly, after removal, the diverter can either be replaced with another one, or removed altogether by connecting the spout directly to the tap. This is the main advantage of this option: in case of malfunctions in the diverter, it can be removed without any problems for repair or replacement, while the tap (with the exception of the “shower part”) remains fully operational.

Installation type for which the tap is designed. Nowadays, wall and sink taps (classic, freestanding and under the window), as well as built-in solutions, are most widely used — usually with installation in the wall, less often horizontally. Models built into the wall can be equipped with a bar(it plays the role of a kind of body and combines all the elements of the tap) or can be supplied without a bar(this option often allows you to choose the distance between the separate parts of the set). A special, rather rare and specific variety are floor taps.

Here is a more detailed description of each option:

— Wall (vertical). Models designed to mount to a vertical surface, typically a wall. This installation method is found mainly in bath and/or shower models, but can also be used in other types of taps— in particular, kitchen ones.

— Sink (horizontal). Installation on a horizontal surface such as a washbasin or kitchen sink. This method is extremely popular in models for kitchens and washbasins, it is also used in traditional bidet taps, but in other varieties, for a number of reasons, it has not gained much popularity.

— Sink (under the windo...w). A special kind of taps, which, due to their design, can be installed under the window, without preventing it from opening and closing. This is achieved in two ways. The first is the ability to tilt the spout towards the washbasin or sink, thereby hiding the tap in the sink bowl. The second method is based on a special mount of the tap body to its base, which makes it easy to pull it out of the “base” and put it next to it.

— Built in (wall). Mounting method in which most of the structure is hidden behind a wall or other vertical surface. Outside, there are only elements for which it is essential: spout, valves, shower set, etc. Recessed installation provides a neat appearance and saves space. In addition, many models of such taps allow you to choose the distance between individual external elements and their relative position. However, embedding is noticeably more difficult than usual installation, and repair/maintenance of such a tap can be quite difficult. This option is used in models for baths, showers, washbasins, as well as some types of bidet taps (see "Suitable for").

— Built in (horizontal). Another type of built-in taps, designed, in accordance with the name, for installation on a horizontal surface. They have the same main advantages and disadvantages as the in-wall taps described above, but differ in specialization: this type of installation is most popular in “washbasin only” models, it is somewhat less common in bath and shower taps.

— Floor. Installation on the floor using a special stand, thanks to which the main part of the tap is placed at the desired height. Such models are expensive, and the installation itself is quite complicated, it requires a spacious room with a specific organization of plumbing. Therefore, this option has not received much distribution: it is used mainly in designer taps made for freestanding bathtubs or washbasins.