Bathroom from A to Z / Chapter G

Taps in brief: lever, thermostatic and wall-mounted

A brief overview: lever, thermostatic and wall-mounted taps, freestanding or wall-mounted, surfaces and water saving. Detailed articles on taps.

Prepared by: the TGB Kúpeľne team, bathroom showroom in Senec since 1991expert guide2 min read

This is a brief overview. We cover the topics shower mixer: single-lever, thermostatic or concealed and bathtub and sink mixer in detail. All articles can be found in the section Mixers and showers.

The mixer is the item you will use most often in the bathroom. It's worth investing in quality, as a cheap mixer often drips and its surface quickly deteriorates.

Types of mixers

• Single-lever: controls both temperature and flow with one lever. A universal choice for the sink.
• Thermostatic: maintains the set temperature even if someone else turns on the water elsewhere. The safest choice for the shower and bath, especially for children.
• Concealed: the body is hidden in the wall, only the control and outlet are visible. It looks clean and is easy to clean, but the body must be installed before the wall tiles.
• Touchless: activated by a sensor, suitable for public spaces and homes with children.

Deck-mounted or wall-mounted

For a countertop sink, choose a tall deck-mounted mixer or a wall-mounted one. The outlet should direct water approximately to the centre of the sink to avoid splashing.

Surfaces

Chrome is the most durable and easiest to clean. Matte black, brushed nickel, gold or bronze are trendy but require gentler cleaning agents without abrasives and acids.

Water saving

Aerators with flow restriction and single-lever mixers with a cold centre (cold water flows in the middle position) save both water and energy for heating.

Mixers are produced by brands such as Grohe, Hansgrohe, Axor, Kludi and Hansa.

If the mixer is dripping or has a weak flow, check the guide Dripping mixer: cartridge and aerator.

The values provided are common recommendations. The project, technical data sheet from the manufacturer, and applicable standards apply during implementation.