Guide
Tap and mixer guide
The terms you meet when choosing a mixer, the mounting types and the differences between finishes. Technically accurate, in plain language.
Mixers by mounting type
Which type of mixer you need is decided by where your existing plumbing delivers water. There are three basic types.
| Type | Water supply | Body | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deck-mounted | Through a hole in the basin or worktop, from below | Fully exposed | Basin, kitchen sink |
| Wall-mounted | From two pipes coming out of the wall | Exposed, against the wall | Sink, bath, industrial kitchen |
| Concealed | From a body buried in the wall | Hidden in the wall | Shower, bath, modern designs |
Cartridge diameters
The cartridge is the part inside a single-lever mixer that opens and closes the water and sets the hot-cold mix. Its diameter is given in millimetres and the sizes are not interchangeable.
| Diameter | Body | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| ø35 | Slim | Basin mixers |
| ø40 | Thick | Sink and bath mixers |
Finishes
The finish determines both appearance and durability. Cleaning is the same for all: soft cloth, warm soapy water, then dry.
| Finish | Appearance | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Chrome | Bright silver | Most common; shows limescale, drying advised |
| Gold | Bright yellow | Classic and luxury bathrooms; sensitive to abrasives |
| Nickel | Matt silver | Hides fingerprints better |
| Black | Matt black | Modern designs; limescale is visible |
| Stainless steel | Matt grey | Spouts and shower heads; corrosion resistant |
Terms
Expressions that come up often in the catalogue and during fitting.
- Aerator
- The mesh at the spout outlet. It mixes air into the water, softening the flow and reducing consumption. When it scales up the flow weakens; it can be unscrewed and cleaned.
- Cartridge
- The ceramic-disc part inside a single-lever mixer that opens the water and sets the temperature. It is usually the part to replace on a dripping mixer.
- Stem unit
- The mechanism that shuts off water in two-handle taps and valves. It is the classic-tap equivalent of a cartridge.
- Angle valve
- A small isolating valve fitted between the wall pipe and the tap. It lets you shut off that point during repairs without turning off the whole house.
- Swan neck mixer
- A mixer with a tall, curved spout. The curve resembles a swan's neck, hence the name; preferred for deep sinks and to clear large pots.
- Vessel basin mixer
- A raised-body mixer for basins that sit on top of the counter. A standard basin mixer is too short for these.
- Monobloc mixer
- A mixer whose body and spout are cast as one piece. With fewer joints, the risk of leaking is lower.
- Pull-out spring mixer
- A kitchen mixer whose spout extends on a sprung hose. It reaches every corner of the sink and is common in industrial kitchens.
- Sensor mixer
- A mixer worked by an infrared sensor, needing no contact. Used where hygiene is a priority, and it reduces water consumption.
- Shattaf tap
- A small tap fitted beside the WC that feeds a shattaf head. Usually a 1/2 inch or 3/8 inch connection.