What different types of commercial taps are available, and what are their benefits?

April 30, 2018

There are numerous styles of commercial taps available, varying in both look and operation, and each with their own benefits. Shown below are the features and benefits of sensor taps, push-button taps, and lever taps.

Sensor Taps

Sensor taps are fitted with an infra-red sensor which is often fitted within the tap, just under the spout, or can be found as a separate bezel that is linked to the tap via a concealed cable. Sensor taps are often used in areas such as hospitals or laboratories as their hands-free activation makes them particularly useful when hygiene and cleanliness is paramount. Functionality is not the only benefit, with sensor taps coming in a range of designs to suit the more stylish and contemporary washroom. Washrooms prone to vandalism or heavy foot traffic will also benefit from the installation of a sensor tap, with specific designs warranting HM Prison certification and mental health requirements. Overall the clear benefits of using a sensor tap are ease of use, hands-free activation to minimise the spread of bacteria, and increased water-saving benefits when the taps automatically shut off.

Non-Concussive Taps

Non-concussive taps are often used as a go-to tap in many washrooms as they offer great value for money. Also knows as push-button taps, many are priced from as little as £30 and available on a next day delivery. The reliability and functionality of a push-button tap ensures the user is greeted with a simple to use tap that will deliver warm water on demand. The added benefit for the building manager and maintenance team is the tap will automatically shut off the water after the user has finished. Push-button taps can be purchased as a single tap or as a pair. If a pair of taps is required, this allows the washroom designer to provide a warm tap and also a cold tap. Alternatively, a pair of taps may be used as two separate hot water taps. It is important to remember that non-concussive taps require a separate Thermal Mixing Valve so as to regulate the water temperate.

Lever Taps

Lever taps are often used in low foot traffic environments such as hotel washrooms or small offices. Unlike sensor taps and push-button taps, lever taps have the added concern that the user may leave the tap running resulting in a waste of water and potential flood. Lever taps are generally not recommended for use in large general public toilet rooms that have a high volume of users. Often minimalistic in design, the tap's lever is used to control and regulate the water temperature, as well as adjust the flow of the water. Lever taps can have an in-built Thermal Mixing Valve which controls the maximum temperature of the water, thus preventing users from scalding themselves, but also ensures the water temperature is not too low so as to control the growth of Legionella and other water-borne bacteria. Lever taps are of particular benefit to young children and the elderly as they aid with dexterity issues. Many of the lever taps offered by Commercial Washrooms are designed specifically for use in Nursery School and Nursing Homes as they are easy to turn on and off. Other lever tap designs include extended levers which are useful to industrial workers who may have oily or dirty hands and want to operate the tap using their elbow.

A variety of budgets are offered within each tap type. Our easy to use the website will help you to find a model ideal for your use. Alternatively please contact one of our team.