Basin Mixers are an essential fitting for your bathroom. Basin Mixers are a type of tap that sits above your vanity basin and combines your hot and cold water feeds to flow out through a single spout. The water can be controlled either by a single lever or twin handles to achieve the desired flow at a particular temperature. Basin mixers are a contemporary tap which are often preferred over the traditional three piece tap which drawhot water from one tap and cold from the other and the two flow separately into the basin.
Basin mixers are selected during the planning process of your bathroom renovation, along with the other fittings (i.e. small items), including shower heads, towel rails, lights, door handles and electrical fittings. With a Butterfield Bathrooms renovation, you and your Bathroom Designer will visit showrooms to hand select your fittings and fixtures that suit your taste, need and budget.
Why choose a mixer over a traditional tap?
Basin mixers and taps serve a similar purpose in terms of controlling the flow of water in a sink or basin, but they differ in their design and functionality.
Basin mixers provide a more streamlined and convenient experience, with a single control for temperature and flow adjustment. They also offer water-saving features and a broader range of design options compared to taps.
Design
Basin mixers typically feature a single spout with a lever or knob that controls both the temperature and flow of water. They have a sleek and modern appearance, often with a minimalist design. Taps, on the other hand, generally have separate hot and cold water handles or knobs, and they may have a separate spout for each temperature.
Functionality
Basin mixers offer greater convenience and ease of use. With a single lever or knob, you can adjust the temperature and flow of water effortlessly. Taps, on the other hand, require separate adjustments for hot and cold water, making it a bit more challenging to achieve the desired temperature.
Water Conservation
Basin mixers are often equipped with built-in aerators or flow restrictors, which help reduce water consumption by mixing air with the water stream, resulting in a consistent flow while using less water. Taps may or may not have these features, and their water flow can vary depending on the type and model.
Style and Versatility
Basin mixers offer a wide range of styles, finishes, and designs, allowing for greater customization to match your bathroom decor. They are available in various heights, spout lengths, and finishes, offering more versatility in terms of installation and aesthetic preferences. Taps, although available in different designs, may have a more traditional or classic appearance compared to the sleek and modern look of basin mixers.
Types of mixers
When it comes to selecting a basin mixer there are many factors to consider, but essentially it’s all about finding the right mix of design, functionality and durability. Think about who is using the bathroom. For example, a single lever tap is also great for families with young kids, and those with dexterity issues.
Single-Hole Basin Mixers
Single-Hole Basin Mixers feature a single pout and a single handle to control water temperature and flow. The versatility of single-hole mixers allows them to complement various bathroom or kitchen styles, from contemporary to traditional, making them a popular choice among Kiwi homeowners.
Three-Hole Basin Mixers
Three-Hole Basin Mixers are favoured by those seeking a classic or vintage aesthetic. They require three faucet holes for installation, with separate hot and cold water handles and a central spout. This type of mixer adds a touch of elegance and nostalgia to the overall design, making it suitable for heritage or traditional-style bathrooms.
Wall-Mounted Basin Mixers
Wall-mounted basin mixers offer a sleek and modern look while eliminating visible plumbing connections. These mixers are installed on the wall, above or beside the basin, and are available in both single-hole and three-hole configurations. Wall-mounted mixers can enhance the spaciousness of smaller bathrooms and contribute to a minimalist, clutter-free aesthetic.
Tall Basin Mixers
Tall Basin Mixers are particularly well-suited for those who prefer vessel sinks or basins that sit above the countertop. The extended height of the spout provides ample clearance, preventing splashing and offering convenience during handwashing. Tall mixers not only serve a practical purpose but also add a touch of contemporary elegance to the overall design of the bathroom.
Waterfall Basin Mixers
Waterfall Basin Mixers: Waterfall basin mixers have gained popularity among New Zealand audiences for their visually captivating design and soothing water flow. These mixers create a tranquil ambiance by allowing water to cascade gently, resembling a natural waterfall. Waterfall mixers are available in various styles, including wall-mounted and single-hole options, enabling homeowners to incorporate a touch of elegance and relaxation into their spaces.
Choosing a style of basin mixers
The amount of different bath mixers on the market is truly incredible. Not just in terms of style, but finish and colour as well. The different spout and handle combinations on the market allow you to bring a touch of your personality into your bathroom renovation.
Choose a tap that is in keeping the style of the rest of your fittings in your bathroom, i.e. if you have a pin handle shower mixer, then go with a pin handle basin mixer. A cohesive look is much easier on the eye. Keeping in mind, choosing a mixer from reputable brands like Caroma or Methven will ensure your taps last for years.
A modern style of tap will update the bathroom instantly, and there’s a huge selection of styles out there. We are here to help you navigate through them all! During the design phase of your renovation, your Butterfield bathrooms designer will help you choose the best taps to suit your needs and to ensure they match the rest of your bathroom.
Water Pressure
When choosing your taps keep in mind water pressure. Some taps may not suit if you have low or high water pressure.
Functionality
Functionality is an important factor when choosing a basin mixer. How easy is the mixer to use? Can everyone in the family turn the taps on and off? Instead of twist taps, consider flip-style for ease of use.
Photos by Butterfield Bathrooms, Harrison Bloy & ZucchettiKos.
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If you liked this bathroom renovation guide, head over to our Articles page for more helpful bathroom renovation tips. If you are thinking about renovating, get in contact with us for a quote. At Butterfield Bathrooms, we specialise in bathroom and laundry alterations, renovations and conversions throughout Canterbury, Darfield, Rolleston, Rangiora and Lincoln. Visit our Budget Guide page and our bathroom renovation calculator to give you a broad estimate of what your bathroom is going to cost to upgrade. Keen to see some of our recent work? Check out our Work page and Instagram and Facebook pages.
