What are Mixer Taps?
Mixer Taps are single-structured taps with a single outlet for hot and cold water, combining the two streams of water into one. Mixer taps are available in various styles and designs for kitchens and bathrooms.
Why is choosing the right faucet important?
Being a constantly used item, the kitchen tap needs to be sturdy. A proper kitchen tap may simplify and facilitate tasks like filling pots and pans, wiping up spills, and dishwashing. Also, it can improve the look of the area, making it appear and feel better. Water-saving features of many contemporary fixtures, such as flow restrictors and aerators, help cut down on water consumption without compromising performance.
Types of Mixer faucets
Based on the lever (No. of Handles)
- Single Lever Mixer Taps: These elegant and simple taps have a single lever for temperature and flow control. Single-lever mixer taps are popular for modern kitchen and bathroom installations due to their simplicity and ease of usage.
- Dual Lever Mixer Taps: Dual-lever mixer taps are a shift toward classic design; two different levers control the hot and cold water flows. Because of their ability to accurately regulate temperature, they are a good option for people who choose practicality above modern style.
Based on the installation:
- Wall-Mounted Taps: Wall-mounted sink taps are ideal for people who like their sink area to be clutter-free. These taps save major counter space because they are mounted straight to the wall, giving them an attractive, modern look.
- Deck-Mounted Taps: These taps are installed on the countertop or sink, making them easy to use. They offer a traditional look and are simple to install and maintain, giving you more flexibility in design.
Modern Kitchen Sink Mixer Tap
- Pull-Out Taps: Pull-out mixer taps combine comfort and performance with an extendable spout which can be extended to meet your requirements. They are particularly helpful as a kitchen tap because of their increased adaptability, which makes chores like filling pots and washing dishes easy.
How to Choose the Right Style and Size?
1. Consider Your Kitchen Layout
Taking your kitchen's layout into account is the first step in choosing the perfect kitchen sink mixer tap. Compact designs are more suited for smaller areas, whereas large sink mixer faucets typically perform well in larger kitchens where space is not a concern.
A high-arch water mixer faucet can provide extra room for washing large pots and pans, while a low-profile sink mixer tap might suit a minimalist kitchen with a smaller sink.
2. Material and Finish
The material and finish of your sink mixer tap play a key role in both its durability and appearance. Stainless steel is a popular choice for its longevity and resistance to rust and corrosion. Chrome and brushed nickel finishes are also common, offering a sleek, polished look that complements most kitchen styles.
For a more modern appearance, you might consider matte black or brass finishes. These taps can make a bold statement in your kitchen while still providing the same functionality.
3. Type of Spout and Sprayer Features
Mixer faucets with various spout designs and sprayer features to enhance your kitchen experience. A pull-out sprayer equipped with dual spray offers increased flexibility for rinsing dishes or filling large pots. This feature is handy when working with double sinks, making cleaning more efficient.
You can also choose between a straight or swan-neck spout. A swan-neck design offers extra clearance for washing larger items, while a straight spout is more compact, fitting well in smaller kitchens. Some faucets also feature a silicone spout and a foam flow aerator, which ensures a smooth, splash-free water flow.
4. Flow Rate
When selecting a kitchen sink mixer tap, ensure that it fits your daily needs. The flow rate of a faucet depends on the water pressure. For a faucet to work at its best, the standard water pressure should be between 1.0 to 1.5 bars. This guarantees a smooth water flow. Pull-out faucets and mixer faucets perform optimally at this pressure, providing the right balance for everyday use. In any case, if the water pressure in the faucet is not satisfactory, one can always install a pressure pump in the overhead tanks.
How to Install a Kitchen Sink Mixer Tap
Once you’ve chosen the perfect sink mixer tap, the installation process is the next step. While some homeowners may prefer to call a professional, installing a kitchen sink mixer tap can be a manageable DIY task with the right tools and instructions.
1. Turn Off the Water Supply
Before starting, ensure the water supply to the kitchen is turned off. You can find the valves under the sink. This prevents any water leakage during the installation process.
2. Remove the Old Tap
If you're replacing an old tap, disconnect the water supply lines using a wrench. Once the connections are loose, carefully remove the old mixer faucet from the sink. It’s helpful to have a bucket handy to catch any remaining water in the pipes.
3. Prepare the Sink
Before installing the new tap, clean the area around the sinkhole. Make sure there are no remnants from the previous installation, as these could cause problems during the fitting of the new sink mixer tap.
4. Clean the water pipes
Make sure you clean the water pipes before installing the new faucet. This helps remove any dirt, debris, or buildup inside the pipes, ensuring clean and smooth water flow. Cleaning the pipes also helps prevent blockages or damage to your new faucet.
5. Install the New Tap
Place the new sink mixer faucet through the sinkhole, ensuring it's aligned correctly. Secure the tap in place from underneath using a mounting bracket or locking nut. It’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions, as each tap may have specific fitting requirements.
6. Connect the Water Supply
Once the tap is secure, connect the hot and cold water supply lines to the corresponding connections on the water mixer faucet. Use a wrench to tighten the connections, but be careful not to overtighten, as this could damage the pipes.
7. Turn the Water Back On
Finally, turn the water supply back on and check for any leaks. If there are no issues, your new kitchen sink mixer tap is ready for use.
8. Check for any leakage
After installing the new faucet, it's important to check for any leaks. Turn on the water and carefully look around the connections and pipes for any signs of dripping or moisture. Catching a leak early can prevent water damage and promise your faucet is working properly.
Installing and selecting the right sink mixer tap for your home doesn't have to be a complex task. By understanding the different styles, sizes, and functionality available, you can easily find the perfect mixer faucet to enhance both the practicality and looks of your kitchen. Whether you opt for a compact design or a larger, more feature-rich model, the right sink mixer faucet will make your kitchen tasks easier and more enjoyable.