Chooseing the right kitchen tap

Get clued-up with our guide to the latest designs and clever features

Where to start

1. Can I pick any tap? Most kitchens are supplied with high-pressure water directly from the mains, so most kinds of tap should work well. However, if you have a low-pressure water system (0.1-1 bar) you'll need to make sure that the model you choose will be suitable before you buy. Some taps – especially those from the continent or those with pull-out sprays – will only work with water pressure systems over one bar. If you're replacing an existing tap or have already bought the sink, you'll need to choose a design that matches the number of pre-drilled tap holes available.

2. Will I need new pipes? Most taps come with flexible connectors so they can be fitted to existing pipework. Fitting a tap can require specialist tools, so it's always wise to call in a professional plumber; choose one who is a member of the Association of Plumbing and Heating Contractors (APHC).

3. How much will a plumber usually charge? A straightforward installation of a tap should cost between £100 and £140, according to the APHC. The average UK rate is around £40-£60 for a call-out charge, and then about £30-£40 per hour for subsequent work, with most plumbers capable of installing a kitchen tap within two hours.

4. Where should I buy my tap? On the high street, plumbers' merchants, such as Graham & Plumb Center, offer low-budget options, while kitchen studios stock high-end brands. Most taps come with a manufacturer's guarantee of between five and 25 years. If you're buying online, look for stockists with a secure website, telephone support and a UK-based address. You should also check the website's returns policy and, when your tap arrives, be sure to check for damage before you sign for delivery.

Features to consider:

• High-arch hose - good for rinsing large pans
• Boiling water tap - cook veg and pasta quicker with a tap that provides boiling water on demand
• Handy light - pick a tap that changes from red to blue, indicating water temperature
• Aerated tap - save water with a tap that adds air to the water flow
• Built-in filter - drink filtered water straight from the tap as a cheap alternative to bottled water

Where to shop
Carron Phoenix
Wickes
Perrin & Rowe
Franke

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