Choosing the Right Tap for Your Commercial Kitchen

In a commercial kitchen, the choice of tap is more than just a matter of convenience or aesthetics; it is central to maintaining efficiency, hygiene, and durability. With the right tap, your kitchen will operate at its best. This guide aims to provide comprehensive insights into selecting the ideal tap for your commercial kitchen, considering key factors like usage, material, design, and hygiene standards.

Understanding Your Kitchen's Needs

As the heart of your operation, your commercial kitchen has specific needs that should be considered when choosing a tap.

Usage Requirements
Begin by evaluating the primary functions the tap will serve. For instance, will it be used mainly for washing dishes, filling pots, or handwashing? High-traffic areas, such as dishwashing stations, may require taps that can withstand frequent use and deliver a high volume of water quickly.

Water Pressure and Flow
Ensure that the tap you choose is compatible with your kitchen's water pressure and flow rate. Commercial kitchens often require taps that can handle higher pressures and deliver water efficiently.

Types of Taps

There are several types of taps to consider, each designed to meet specific needs within a commercial kitchen.

Pre-Rinse Taps
Pre-rinse taps are designed for rinsing dishes before they go into a commercial dishwasher. They come with a powerful spray nozzle that can remove food residues quickly and effectively. These taps are ideal for busy kitchens where speed and efficiency are paramount.

High Spout or Long Neck Taps
These taps feature a high, curved spout, making them perfect for filling large pots and pans. Their height and reach provides ample space underneath for manoeuvring bulky items, which is essential in a commercial kitchen setting.

Wall-Mounted Taps
Wall-mounted taps are fixed to the wall rather than the sink or countertop. This design saves valuable counter space and allows for easy cleaning around the sink area. They are particularly suitable for larger kitchens with multiple sink areas.

Under Counter Taps
Many kitchens have units about sinks and therefore it is important to consider the spout height. There are specialist undercounter taps available.

Material Matters

The material of your tap significantly impacts its durability and ease of maintenance. Whilst materials such as plastic can be found the majority of taps are made from either chrome plated brass or stainless steel.

Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a popular choice for commercial kitchen taps due to its resistance to corrosion, chemicals and staining. It is also easy to clean and maintain, making it ideal for environments where hygiene is critical.

Brass
Brass taps are robust and durable, normally in a chrome plated finish. They offer a classic look and are known for their durability, making them a solid investment for busy kitchens.

Design and Ergonomics

The design of your tap should facilitate ease of use and complement the overall workflow of your kitchen.

Lever Handles
Taps with lever handles or extended single levers are easy to operate and can be turned on and off with minimal effort. This feature is particularly useful in a fast-paced kitchen environment where efficiency is crucial.

Swivel Spouts
A tap with a swivel spout can be rotated to direct water exactly where it is needed, offering flexibility and convenience during food preparation and cleaning tasks.

Anti-Scald Features
To ensure the safety of your staff, consider adding a TMV valve that regulates the hot water temperature and prevents accidental burns. Or install a kitchen tap from the Thermassure 'Anti-Scald' Tap range.