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The 4 Different Types of Taps Washers in Australia for Bathrooms and Kitchens

29 August

A tap is a tap, whether it’s in your kitchen or bathroom. When you want to fill the sink up or pour a refreshing glass of water, you turn that tap on, and the water comes out. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t several different types of taps.

You might have disc tap types, bass effect taps, round shape taps, wall-mounted taps or shiny chrome taps, standard chrome taps, a pillar tap, and even taps for people with Arthritis. There are many different types of taps available in the market. Compression washer taps and monobloc taps are not your only choice.

But first, before all those different taps or types of washer taps— the definition. What is a tap? Simply put, a tap is a mechanical device that allows a user to control liquid flow from a pipe. But tap explained can get a bit more complex — because there are at least four different basic types of taps and tap washers.

The Four Common Types of Taps Explained

If you’re browsing various tap types for your kitchen or bathroom renovation, aside from your usual pillar taps, cartridge taps, ball taps, and older-style taps, you’ll notice that there are HUNDREDS (and even thousands!) of different hot and cold tap styles or mixer tap types.

But we’re not talking about the many different washer tap styles, hot and cold water kitchen tapware and bath taps, mixer taps or the most common types of taps, like a pillar tap, to match your chic decor preferences. We’re talking about the fundamental mechanics of how your tap will function, whether it’s a traditional washer tap or modern bathroom fixtures.

There are four basic tap-type configurations: compression tap washer, ball, disk, and cartridge to break it down. These tap-type differences will be crucial when changing tap washers to stop a drip or a leak.

Cartoon Of Bathroom Mixer Tap

1. The Compression Washer Tap

Think about the typical garden tap. Its basic form is a pillar tap with a twisting handle. It’s a simple handle that screws out to turn the water flow on and screws in to turn it off. The compression washer tap is still found inside many homes. It is a typical traditional tap type. But it can also be the one that causes the most trouble.

How it works: The flow of water is controlled by a nut covered by a washer, which is moved either up or down against the seat of the tap. If the sink has hot and cold water, you need a separate compression washer tap for each water source. This type of tap washer commonly needs replacing.

2. The Ball Tap

If you haven’t heard of a ball tap, you probably know it by its more common name: the mixer tap. It’s called a mixer tap because a single handle can control the flow from hot and cold water sources.

How it works: The ‘hollow ball’ rotates when the user manipulates the handle in different directions. It lines up with various holes that control the water flow from the hot or cold sources.

3. The Ceramic Discs Tap

The disc cap is another tap type with a single handle, described as a ‘mixer tap’. These taps are more common in homes, bathrooms, kitchens, and ball tap types. You can spot the difference between a ball tap type and a disk tap from the latter’s wider, cylinder-shaped body.

How it works: Water flows out of the tap when holes inside its workings align. The holes are located on two disks, usually made of ceramic, to last a long time. Another benefit of disk tap types is that a slight tap turn will allow water to flow at maximum capacity.

4. The Cartridge Tap

In all honesty, the types of taps mentioned above are similar in that simple on/off mechanisms control water flow. The cartridge tap is yet another water tap type referred to as ‘mixer taps’ all over Australia and beyond. Its main attraction is temperature control.

How it works: This type of tap gets its name from the internal cartridge that lies within. When the cartridge is twisted sideways, the water temperature is controlled. Up and down movements control the intensity of the flow.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the most durable type of tap for high-traffic areas?

Ceramic disc taps are often the most durable option for high-traffic areas, such as a kitchen or a family bathroom. The ceramic discs inside are highly wear-resistant, reducing the risk of leaks or damage.

2. Are all mixer taps suitable for low-water pressure systems?

No, not all mixer taps are suitable for low-water pressure systems. Check the tap’s specifications, as specific mixer taps require a higher water pressure to function correctly. Look for taps specifically rated for low-pressure systems.

3. Can I use a wall-mounted tap in the kitchen?

Yes, wall-mounted taps can be used in the kitchen, although they are more commonly seen in bathrooms. A wall-mounted kitchen tap offers a modern aesthetic and makes cleaning the sink area easier.

4. How often should tap washers be replaced?

The frequency of replacing tap washers depends on usage and the quality of the tap. Typically, compression washer taps may need their washers replaced every 1-3 years, especially if leaks develop or the tap becomes difficult to turn off.

5. What are anti-scald taps, and do I need them?

Anti-scald taps are designed to regulate water temperature, preventing it from becoming dangerously hot. These are particularly useful for homes with children or elderly people to avoid burns and scalds.

6. Are sensor taps worth considering for a household?

Sensor taps, commonly used in commercial settings, can also be helpful in households. They offer a hygienic, touch-free operation that reduces water waste and prevents cross-contamination in the kitchen or bathroom.

7. What are quarter-turn taps?

Quarter-turn taps use ceramic discs to open or close with a 90-degree rotation, providing a smoother, quicker way to control water flow compared to traditional twist taps. They are convenient for people with limited hand mobility.

8. Are taps with separate hot and cold controls more efficient?

Not necessarily. While separate taps provide distinct control over hot and cold water, mixer taps are generally considered more efficient, allowing users to adjust the temperature more precisely.

9. Can I install a tap or need a plumber?

If you have basic plumbing skills, DIY installation is possible for simple tap replacement. However, hiring a professional plumber is recommended for wall-mounted taps, mixer taps with complex plumbing, or when dealing with low or high water pressure issues.

10. Is there a tap style suited for eco-friendly water use?

Yes, aerated taps reduce water flow while maintaining pressure, allowing users to conserve water without sacrificing functionality. Some mixer taps also include eco settings to limit maximum flow, which helps reduce water consumption.

What Type Of Tap Should You Choose?

Is your tap leaking, but you’re not sure what type it is to fix it? Are you on the market for a new set of taps to match your bathrooms, recently renovated with contemporary designs, but have no idea which way to go? With all those different types, it can get pretty confusing which one is the correct type of tap for you and your home or business. Especially when you love cooking and bubble baths, you’d want the perfect tap for your bathroom and also the best in kitchen taps.

Perhaps you’ll want a mixer tap. But don’t worry! Gold Coast Plumbing Company can help with tap types and recommend the best one! We are the Gold Coast plumbers with 40 years of combined experience in every plumbing issue in and around your home or premises.

Our fully qualified and licensed team goes the extra mile to provide you an excellent job. You can still rely on our plumbing service for other plumbing problems and needs, like your hot water system and plumbing maintenance or entire bathroom renovation! Call 1300 792 041 today for friendly advice and efficient service.