Water taps are a staple of every household and are essential fixtures for managing the flow of water in kitchens, bathrooms, and other utility areas. Though a tap might seem like a small detail, choosing the right one can make a significant difference in functionality, durability, and even the aesthetics of your space. In Bangladesh, water taps come in a wide variety of designs, materials, and price ranges, and understanding these options can help you make the best choice for your home. This comprehensive guide will explore the different types of water taps, key features to look for, the benefits of various materials, and a breakdown of price ranges in the Bangladeshi market.
1. Types of Water Taps Available in Bangladesh
a. Kitchen Sink Taps
Kitchen taps are designed for ease of use and utility. They typically feature higher spouts to accommodate large pots and utensils. Many modern kitchen taps come with added features, like pull-out sprayers, swivel functionality, and dual water outlets for hot and cold water.
Popular Designs for Kitchen Taps:
- Pull-Out Spray Taps: These taps come with a hose that can be pulled out, making it easier to clean utensils and wash vegetables.
- Dual Function Taps: With separate handles or levers for hot and cold water, these taps allow precise temperature control.
- Swivel Taps: Ideal for sinks with two compartments, swivel taps can rotate from one bowl to the other, offering versatility.
b. Bathroom Basin Taps
Basin taps are smaller in size compared to kitchen taps and come in elegant designs to complement bathroom interiors. They often have either single-handle controls or separate hot and cold controls, allowing for easy temperature adjustments.
Common Styles for Basin Taps:
- Single-Handle Mixer Taps: These allow you to control both the temperature and the water flow with a single lever.
- Double Handle Taps: Featuring separate hot and cold water controls, these taps are commonly found in traditional designs.
- Wall-Mounted Basin Taps: Mounted on the wall above the basin, these taps are a popular choice in modern bathrooms.
c. Shower Mixers
Shower mixers are a must-have in modern bathrooms. They combine hot and cold water to provide the perfect temperature for your shower, making them convenient and comfortable.
Shower Mixer Options:
- Thermostatic Shower Mixers: These allow you to set a preferred temperature, automatically adjusting the hot and cold water ratio.
- Manual Mixer Showers: You can manually control the temperature and water flow, making it more affordable than thermostatic mixers.
- Diverter Taps: These taps direct water either to the shower or the bathtub, ideal for bathrooms with both options.
d. Bidet Taps
Bidet taps are used specifically for hygiene purposes in bathrooms. They typically have a small, spray-style nozzle and are mounted either on the bidet or near the toilet.
2. Materials Used in Water Taps and Their Benefits
Choosing the right material is crucial, as it affects the durability, maintenance, and look of your water tap. Here are the main materials used in water taps available in Bangladesh:
a. Brass
Brass is one of the most durable materials for taps, resistant to rust and corrosion. It’s known for its longevity and robustness, which makes it a top choice for kitchens and bathrooms. Although it is usually more expensive than other materials, brass offers good value for money due to its long lifespan.
b. Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is another durable material commonly used in taps, known for its resistance to corrosion and tarnishing. Stainless steel taps have a sleek, modern appearance, making them a popular choice in contemporary homes.
c. Chrome
Chrome is not a material itself but rather a finish applied to other materials like brass or plastic. Chrome-finished taps are affordable and have a shiny, attractive appearance, though they may require regular cleaning to prevent water spots.
d. Plastic and ABS
Plastic taps, often made from ABS, are the most affordable and lightweight option. They are suitable for utility areas or temporary use but may not offer the same durability or aesthetic appeal as metal taps.
3. Key Features to Consider When Buying a Water Tap
Understanding the following features can help you choose a water tap that meets your specific needs:
a. Leak Prevention
High-quality taps come with design features that help prevent leaks, such as better seals and cartridges. Avoiding leaks not only saves water but also reduces maintenance costs.
b. Water-Saving Aerators
Aerators are small screens inserted into the tap’s spout that control the flow of water, reducing wastage while maintaining water pressure. This feature is especially useful for areas with water restrictions.
c. Smooth Operation Cartridges
Ceramic cartridges are common in modern taps, offering smooth operation and longer life. These cartridges help to prevent leaks and allow for easy control over water flow.
d. Anti-Rust and Anti-Corrosion Properties
Taps with anti-rust coatings, especially in brass and stainless steel models, resist corrosion from daily use, enhancing the longevity of the product.
e. Design and Finish Options
From matte black to gold finishes, water taps are available in various colors and finishes. Selecting a finish that complements your interior adds an extra aesthetic appeal to your kitchen or bathroom.
4. Water Tap Price Ranges in Bangladesh
Water taps are available across different price ranges in Bangladesh, allowing you to find something within your budget. Here is a rough breakdown:
a. Basic Plastic Taps
Plastic taps are the most affordable, with prices starting as low as BDT 100. They are ideal for areas where durability isn’t a major concern, such as outdoor or temporary setups.
b. Mid-Range Stainless Steel and Chrome Taps
For stainless steel and chrome-finished taps, prices generally range from BDT 500 to BDT 2,000. These taps are popular in both kitchens and bathrooms and are durable enough for long-term use.
c. Brass Taps and Shower Mixers
High-quality brass taps and shower mixers start from around BDT 1,500 and can go up to BDT 5,000, depending on features. These models often come with better warranties and anti-corrosion coatings, making them a solid investment.
d. Premium and Imported Options
Luxury and imported taps, including designer brands and models with advanced features, can cost upwards of BDT 10,000. These high-end taps are crafted for style, performance, and durability.
5. Popular Brands of Water Taps in Bangladesh
Some well-known brands available in Bangladesh include:
- RFL: Known for its affordable options, RFL offers a range of budget-friendly plastic and stainless steel taps.
- Tanvir Metal : A reputed local brand, Sattar Metal specializes in durable brass taps for both kitchens and bathrooms.
- Astra Bathware : Astra Bathware is a trusted brand in the bathroom fittings industry, known for its high-quality products that combine style, durability, and functionality. Astra offers a wide range of bathware solutions, including faucets, showers, mixers, and accessories, catering to various customer preferences and styles. Their products are designed to meet the demands of modern living with advanced features, eco-friendly designs, and sturdy materials, making Astra a popular choice for homes, hotels, and commercial spaces.
- Sharif and Satttar metal : These brands are known for their mid- to high-end taps that blend quality, style, and functionality.
6. Tips for Choosing the Right Water Tap
a. Determine Your Needs
Assess the primary use of the tap. Kitchen taps require a flexible range of movement and additional features, whereas bathroom taps can be more compact and decorative.
b. Consider Your Budget and Material Preference
While budget is an important consideration, it’s often worth investing a little more in durable materials like stainless steel or brass, as these can reduce future maintenance costs.
c. Match the Finish with Your Décor
Whether it’s a matte black or chrome finish, the tap’s color should match or complement the existing décor for a cohesive look.
d. Look for Warranty and Brand Reputation
Investing in a tap from a reputable brand with a solid warranty can offer peace of mind and ensure you’re getting a quality product.
Conclusion
Selecting the right water tap involves understanding the different types, materials, and price points available on the market. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a high-end designer tap, there are plenty of choices in Bangladesh to suit your needs. With the right tap, you can add both functionality and style to your home’s kitchen or bathroom, enhancing the overall utility and appearance of your space. Remember to balance cost, material, and design to find a tap that meets your unique requirements for the best results in both durability and style.
For those seeking premium quality, considering stainless steel or brass options with water-saving aerators and anti-leak technology is recommended, as these features enhance long-term use and add value to your purchase. Explore your options, compare brands, and invest wisely for a solution that meets your needs and fits within your budget.