The kitchen tap is the most used water point in the home. A good model makes washing up and food preparation easier; a poor choice is felt every time you use it. Here are the criteria to check.
1. Height under the spout
This is the most important dimension. It determines what you can fit under the tap: a saucepan, a stockpot, or a baking tray.
- Low spout (less than 20 cm): discreet, suitable under a window or shelf, but impractical for large containers.
- High spout (around 25 to 30 cm): filling a pot or rinsing a large tray becomes easy.
Also check the space above the tap: a window, shelf, or wall cabinet can block a model that is too large.
2. Spout reach
Reach is the distance between the body of the tap and the water outlet. It should direct the water towards the centre of the sink. If it is too short, the water flows near the edge; if it is too long, it splashes the bottom.
3. Pull-out spray or flexible spout?
- Pull-out spray: it pulls out from the spout thanks to a hose. Ideal for rinsing the entire sink, vegetables, or filling a saucepan placed next to the sink.
- Flexible spring spout: the entire spout bends and pivots. Professional look, very manoeuvrable.
- Dual spray: most sprayers offer a continuous stream and a rain spray for rinsing without splashing.
Point to check: the space under the sink. The hose of a pull-out spray needs room to slide, without being obstructed by the bin or drawers.
4. Sink hole diameter
Most mixer taps sit on a single hole, often 35 to 40 mm in diameter. Check:
- the diameter of the existing hole;
- the thickness of the worktop or sink;
- the position of the hole relative to the sink bowl.
5. Material and cartridge
- Body: brass or 304 stainless steel for durability.
- Sprayer: often made of ABS, which is normal and lighter in the hand.
- Cartridge: opt for ceramic for smooth and durable operation.
6. Useful options
- Filtered water outlet (3-way tap): a single tap distributes mains water and filtered water. Note: you need a compatible filtration system, generally sold separately.
- Temperature display: some models show the water temperature, without batteries or electrical connection.
- All-in-one sink: some multifunctional sinks come with a tap, cutting board, and sliding drainboard.
Summary before purchase
| To measure or check | Why |
|---|---|
| Height under the spout | Fit your largest containers |
| Space above | Avoid windows and shelves |
| Spout reach | Aim for the centre of the sink bowl |
| Hole diameter | Installation compatibility |
| Space under the sink | Hose movement |
| Material and cartridge | Durability |
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Frequently asked questions
What height of kitchen tap should I choose?
A high spout, around 25 to 30 cm under the water outlet, is the most practical if nothing obstructs the area above the sink.
Is a pull-out spray fragile?
No, if the hose slides freely. Check that it is not obstructed under the sink and that the counterweight is properly positioned.
Does a 3-way tap filter the water?
No, it distributes water from a filtration system installed under the sink, generally sold separately.
