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TAPWARE

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between mixer taps and three piece taps?

A three-piece bathroom tap and a mixer tap are two different types of tapware used in bathrooms. Here are the main differences between them:

Three-piece tap: This type of tap consists of three separate components - two handles (one for hot water and one for cold water) and a spout. Each handle controls the flow of water from its respective supply pipe. Temperature control is achieved by adjusting the two separate handles for hot and cold water. Users can mix the water manually to achieve the desired temperature. Installation involves fitting three separate components, which may require more space and effort during installation. Some people prefer the traditional and classic look of three-piece taps.


Mixer tap: A mixer tap combines the hot and cold water supplies within a single unit. It typically has a single spout and a single lever or handle that allows the user to control both the temperature and flow of water. Temperature control is usually done through a single handle, making it more convenient to adjust both hot and cold water simultaneously to achieve the desired temperature. Installation is generally simpler as it involves a single unit. Mixer taps often have a more modern and streamlined appearance, which can contribute to a contemporary bathroom design.

What does 0, 1 and 3 taphole mean?

The reference to 0 taphole, 1 taphole and 3 tapholes usually is asked when purchasing a vanity. This is in reference to how many tapholes you will need on your vanity top - here's a breakdown below;

0 Taphole: This means you will be having wall mounted tapware over your basin. 0 taphole means there is no need for a taphole to be cut out of your bathroom vanity.
1 Taphole: This is for when you are using a mixer tap for your bathroom vanity. 1 taphole will be cut into the benchtop for the mixer tap. You can have different positions when it comes to a micer tap, 12 oclock means directly behind the basin, 10 oclock means to the left of the basin and 2 oclock means to the right of the basin.
3 Tapholes: This is when you are using three piece tapware on your benchtop. There will be 3 holes cut into your vanity benchtop for the spout and 2 tap handles to be installed.

How can you tell a good quality tap?

Determining the quality of a bathroom tap involves considering various factors such as material, finish, construction, brand reputation, and functionality. Here are some key aspects to look for when evaluating the quality of a bathroom tap:

Material:
Solid Brass: High-quality taps are often made from solid brass, which is durable, corrosion-resistant, and has a long lifespan.
Stainless Steel: Some taps use stainless steel, which is also corrosion-resistant and offers a sleek and modern appearance.
Ceramic Disc Cartridges: Look for taps with ceramic disc cartridges, as they are more durable and provide smoother operation compared to rubber or plastic alternatives.


Finish:
A good quality tap will have a well-applied finish that not only enhances its appearance but also protects it from corrosion and tarnishing. Common finishes include chrome, brushed nickel, brushed brass, and matte black.


Brand Reputation:
Choose taps from reputable brands with a history of producing high-quality plumbing fixtures. Established brands often invest in research and development, ensuring their products meet industry standards.

Are bath taps different to basin taps?

There are a lot of instances where bath and basin taps are universal and can be used for either application. The tap you are looking at will specify if it is universal or for one application only.

The main difference between bath and basin taps is that the flow rate may be higher on a bath tap to ensure a quick fill of the bath. This fow rate would be too much for a basin application.

Are taps easy to replace?

Taps and mixers must be replaced by a licensed plumber in order to maintain your warranty period. Changing over bench-mounted tapware is usually a very simple process while changing wall mounted tapware can be more labour intensive. This also depends on the age of your home and whether or not you already have isolation taps in place, which we recommend.

What does in wall component of a tap mean?

The term "in-wall component" of a tap refers to parts of the tap that are installed within the wall rather than being visible on the surface. This type of installation is commonly associated with wall-mounted taps. The in-wall components are typically concealed behind the wall, leaving only the visible parts, such as the spout and handles, exposed.

What coloured taps can I get?

We have a great range of colours and tapware finishes available from leading Australian brands. Tapware colours include brushed brass, brushed gold, chrome, matte black, champagne, brushed nickel and gunmetal.

All tapware colours and finishes have matching showers and bathroom accessories.

Should I match my tapware, shower and bathroom accessories?

We recommend matching your tapware to your shower and bathrom accessories for a cohesive bathroom look.

To ensure colour matching, it is best to stick to the same brand when choosing your bathroom fittings.

What is a pin and paddle lever on tapware?

This refers to the handle design on a mixer tap.

Pin Lever Taps - A pin lever tap is a slender handle that resembles a pin. This is great for classic and minimalist bathroom styles as it is very simple and dainty.

Paddle Lever Taps - A paddle lever tap has a thicker handle and is great for a bold look.

What is a WELS rating?

The WELS (Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards) scheme is an Australian initiative designed to promote water efficiency in water-using products, including taps (faucets). The WELS tap rating is a labeling system that indicates the water efficiency of a tap based on its flow rate and performance.

The WELS rating is represented by a star rating system, with more stars indicating higher water efficiency. The higher the star rating, the less water the tap uses per minute of use. The WELS scheme helps consumers make informed choices about water-efficient products, ultimately contributing to water conservation efforts.

Here is an overview of the WELS star rating system for taps:

6 Stars: Excellent

Taps in this category are highly water-efficient and have a very low flow rate.
5 Stars: Very Good

Taps with a 5-star rating are also considered very water-efficient.
4 Stars: Good

Taps in this category offer a good level of water efficiency.
3 Stars: Average

Taps with a 3-star rating are considered to have an average level of water efficiency.
2 Stars: Below Average

Taps in this category have a lower level of water efficiency.
1 Star: Least Efficient

Taps with a 1-star rating are the least water-efficient.
The WELS scheme also provides information on the actual flow rate of the tap in liters per minute (L/min). This allows consumers to understand how much water the tap consumes during use.

When purchasing a tap, checking the WELS rating can help you choose a product that aligns with water conservation goals and may also contribute to cost savings by reducing water bills. The WELS scheme covers various water-using products, including showers, toilets, washing machines, and dishwashers, in addition to taps.

What is a Watermark and why is it important?

A tap watermark refers to a marking or label on a tap that indicates its compliance with water efficiency standards. The term is commonly associated with the Australian Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) scheme, which requires certain water-using products, including taps, to be labeled with a watermark to show their water efficiency.