A Complete Guide to Different Types of Taps for Your Home

When it comes to designing or renovating your kitchen or bathroom, one element that often goes unnoticed—but plays a huge role in functionality and style—is the tap. Whether you’re washing your hands, doing the dishes, or filling a glass of water, taps are a vital part of everyday life. However, with so many options available in the market, choosing the right tap can be a little overwhelming.

In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into the different types of taps, their features, ideal usage areas, and how to pick the right one for your home.

1. Pillar Taps

Best for: Traditional bathrooms and basins
Design: Two separate taps for hot and cold water

Pillar taps are a classic tap type commonly found in older homes and traditional-style bathrooms. They consist of two separate units—one for hot water and one for cold. Each tap has its own control, allowing you to manage the water temperature manually.

Pros:

• Easy to install and maintain

• Ideal for homes with two plumbing supplies

• Affordable

Cons:

• Less control over water temperature mix

• Not the most water-efficient option

2. Mixer Taps

Best for: Modern bathrooms and kitchens
Design: A single spout with combined hot and cold water flow

Mixer taps are extremely popular in modern homes. These taps mix hot and cold water within the unit and deliver it through a single spout. You can control the temperature using a single lever or two separate handles.

Pros:

• Better control over water temperature

• Sleek and modern design

• Ideal for basins and sinks

Cons:

• Requires high water pressure to work effectively

• Usually more expensive than pillar taps

3. Monobloc Taps

Best for: Contemporary basins and kitchen sinks
Design: A single unit with one or two handles

Monobloc taps are a type of mixer tap that uses a single hole in the basin or sink. They usually have a lever or twin controls to regulate temperature and flow. Monobloc taps come in various sleek designs, making them ideal for minimalist spaces.

Pros:

• Stylish and space-saving

• Wide variety of designs

• Precise temperature control

Cons:

• Can be tricky to install

• Requires balanced water pressure

4. Wall-Mounted Taps

Best for: Countertop basins and freestanding baths
Design: Mounted on the wall above the basin or tub

Wall-mounted taps are gaining popularity in designer bathrooms. They free up space around the sink or bathtub and create a clean, uncluttered look. These taps can be mixers or separate hot and cold taps.

Pros:

• Modern and stylish

• Saves space on the sink or countertop

• Easy to clean around the basin

Cons:

• Complex installation (may require wall modification)

• Maintenance can be difficult if leaks occur

5. Deck-Mounted Taps

Best for: Most standard sinks and bathtubs
Design: Installed directly onto the rim of the sink or tub

Deck-mounted taps are perhaps the most common type found in homes. They come in many styles, from mixer taps to pillar designs. The tap sits directly on the sink or bath ledge.

Pros:

• Widely available and versatile

• Easy to install on pre-drilled sinks

• Suitable for both modern and traditional styles

Cons:

• Can crowd sink space

• Less flexible for design upgrades

6. Sensor Taps (Touchless)

Best for: Hygiene-conscious environments, public restrooms, modern homes
Design: Infrared sensor activates water flow

Sensor taps use motion detection to activate the water flow, making them ideal for touch-free operation. They're commonly used in public places but are becoming more popular in smart homes.

Pros:

• Hygienic and touch-free

• Water-saving

• Ideal for children and elderly

Cons:

• Higher cost

• Requires power source (battery or mains)

7. Bridge Taps

Best for: Farmhouse or vintage-style kitchens
Design: Two handles connected by a visible "bridge" to a single spout

Bridge taps combine traditional design with modern functionality. These taps work well in kitchens aiming for a rustic or vintage look, often paired with ceramic or apron-front sinks.

Pros:

• Unique, stylish appearance

• Strong water flow

• Ideal for statement sinks

Cons:

• More expensive than standard mixers

• Takes up more space

8. Boiling Water Taps

Best for: Busy kitchens and tea lovers
Design: Instant boiling water directly from the tap

Boiling water taps are a modern kitchen upgrade, offering near-instant hot water for cooking, cleaning, or making hot beverages. Some models come with cold filtered water functions as well.

Pros:

• Saves time and energy

• Eliminates need for kettles

• Convenient and efficient

Cons:

• High initial cost

• Requires professional installation and regular maintenance

9. Filtered Water Taps

Best for: Health-conscious households
Design: Tap includes built-in water filtration

These taps filter out impurities such as chlorine and heavy metals, offering cleaner and better-tasting drinking water. They can be standalone or integrated with standard mixer taps.

Pros:

• Improves water taste and safety

• Reduces reliance on bottled water

• Eco-friendly

Cons:

• Filters require replacement

• Can be bulky under the sink

How to Choose the Right Tap for Your Home

When choosing a tap, consider the following:

1. Functionality – Do you need a simple water source, or one with boiling, filtered, or touchless features?

2. Aesthetic Style – Choose a tap that complements your bathroom or kitchen design.

3. Water Pressure – Some taps require high or balanced pressure to function properly.

4. Installation Type – Wall-mounted or deck-mounted? Make sure your plumbing layout supports your choice.

5. Budget – Prices can vary from economical models to luxury designer taps.

Final Thoughts

Taps might seem like a small detail in your home, but the right one can make a big difference in daily convenience and the overall aesthetic. Whether you're looking for functionality, design, or efficiency, there's a tap out there that perfectly suits your needs. From classic pillar taps to high-tech sensor options, understanding your choices ensures you make a smart, lasting investment in your home.