The kitchen mixer tap has become quite a sophisticated appliance, both in terms of design and function. There is an extensive choice of styles and finishes available to suit contemporary or traditional kitchens. You can also choose from dual-flow models for straightforward hot and cold water delivery, tri-flow taps that additionally supply purified water and taps with a pull-out spray rinse.

There are sleek, minimalist style taps to complete the look of contemporary, semi-professional kitchens and there is a wide choice of period reproduction designs – from Victorian to Art Deco – for traditional kitchens. Because stainless steel is the most popular sink material, there is a range of complementary metallic tap finishes to choose from. Nickel, pewter and silk effects provide alternatives to the high gloss of chrome. Taps in coloured finishes are available to match the colours of composite sink materials.

Dual-flow mixers provide independent hot, cold or mixed water after leaving the end of the spout. They can be deck-mounted on the sink or pillar/bridge-mounted for a more traditional look. Alternatively, choose a monobloc tap, which is a single-hole fitting that usually has two handles for hot and cold water supply, and in the UK is normally dual flow.

Continental-style single lever taps combine the on/off function and temperature adjustment using one lever control: Move the lever up and down for on/off operation and from side-to-side for temperature adjustment. Choose from top lever, side lever or ‘joystick’ designs.

Three-way or tri-flow taps with built-in purification system provide a stylish, convenient and cost-effective alternative to bottled water or a jug filter and complete the fully integrated kitchen. As with all taps, models are available in contemporary, classic or traditional designs and in a range of finishes.

The three-way tap delivers hot and cold water independently or mixed just like a normal kitchen mixer. For purified water in some cases, the centre lever or handle on the tap body is selected, and cold water is diverted to the purification unit which is fitted neatly away under the sink. After purification, the water is channeled through its own waterway inside the tap to deliver purified water at the point-of-use. Alternatives to this delivery system are also available.

If you want a sink with large bowl dimensions to cope with big-pan washing-up, it is worth considering a tap with a pull-out or pull-down spray rinse. This gives you water anywhere you need it around the bowl area.

With such a broad spectrum of taps available it is important to give consideration to the specific requirements to avoid costly mistakes later.