Basin mixer taps, as the name suggests, differ from standard basin hot and cold taps in that they mix water from both the hot and cold water supplies to provide a constant flow of water which can be maintained at the desired temperature. However, manual basin mixer taps are subject to fluctuating temperatures which can be a disadvantage. The latest design in basin mixer taps offers both exposed and concealed options in regard to where the mixer valves are located. The exposed mixer taps are easy to install and are therefore the most common basin mixer taps to be found in the bathroom.
These taps require only that the pipework be attached to the bathroom wall, whereas concealed basin mixer taps require the bathroom walls to be hollow in order that the mixer valves may be recessed. Concealed basin mixer taps may be more difficult to fit and unsuitable for some bathrooms, however their appeal lies in the fact that the necessary pipework is hidden from view, giving these taps more aesthetic appeal. Basin mixer taps are commonly found in more modern homes, although the original idea was patented in 1880 by Thomas Campbell who pioneered the concept of mixing both hot and cold water to prevent scalding. Basin mixer taps are generally preferred to the more conventional old-style pillar taps, which make obtaining a good mix of hot and cold water challenging!
Modern styling and design mean that basin mixer taps offer a blend of stunning simplicity with a contemporary and minimalist touch sure to appeal to many homeowners looking to enhance the existing décor of their bathroom. Basin mixer taps are ideal for use in smaller basins as they require only one hole for installation and therefore are the perfect space-saving solution when room is limited. Mixer taps for the basin also have the advantage of being easy to maintain as modern technology provides ceramic discs rather than the original rubber washers so are less liable to leak - no more drip, drip, drip!