Faucets

What to ask before purchasing a plumbing faucet?

Before adding the first product to your cart, it's important to clarify a few technical and practical aspects. A poorly chosen faucet can cause installation complications or reduce comfort during use.

Before purchasing, ask yourself these questions:

• Where will you install the faucet? Do you need a solution for a washbasin, sink, bathtub, shower, or bidet? Each type has its specifics in terms of height and spout reach.
• What is the mounting method? Are the water outlets prepared in the wall (wall-mounted faucet), or will you be installing the faucet directly into a hole in the washbasin or countertop (deck-mounted faucet)?
• If choosing a wall-mounted version, what is the center distance?
• Who will control the faucet? For seniors or children, lever or thermostatic faucets are better, as they are easier to control and prevent scalding.
• What is your water pressure and heating type? Some models (e.g., for unpressurized water heaters) require special low-pressure versions.

Note: When measuring the center distance for a wall-mounted faucet, always measure the center distance between the hot and cold water inlets.

How to choose a plumbing faucet based on its purpose

Each area in the house requires a different type of faucet. They differ not only in appearance but primarily in functionality and ergonomics.

Washbasin faucets

Washbasin faucets are the most common type. When choosing, pay special attention to the height of the faucet in relation to the depth of the washbasin. If you choose a faucet that's too low for a shallow washbasin, you won’t have enough space under the water flow to wash your hands. Conversely, a faucet that's too tall can cause excessive splashing.

Kitchen sink faucets

Kitchen faucets need to be practical. They often feature a swiveling arm or a pull-out sprayer, which makes it easier to wash large pots and rinse vegetables. A very popular option in recent years is a water-filtering faucet or one with an instant boiling water function.

Bathtub and shower faucets

For bathtub faucets, the key feature is the switch between filling the bathtub and showering. Shower faucets are typically more compact, and in modern bathrooms, they are often installed in concealed versions, where the body is hidden in the wall and only the control elements are visible.

Bidet faucets and valves

For maximum hygiene, bidet faucets are used, which typically have an adjustable joint at the end of the spout. Don’t forget about valves, which are necessary for connecting washing machines, dishwashers, or as shut-off elements under the washbasin.

How to choose a high-quality plumbing faucet?

For your faucet to last for decades, focus on what’s hidden beneath the surface.

A quality cartridge is the heart of the faucet

The most important part is the ceramic cartridge. It ensures smooth mixing of water. Avoid cheap models with plastic cartridges that are prone to limescale buildup and mechanical wear. Ceramic disks in high-quality faucets are virtually indestructible and ensure that the faucet won’t drip.

Material and surface treatment

The standard material is brass, which is corrosion-resistant. The surface can be treated using different technologies:

• Chrome: classic, easy to maintain, and suitable for any setting.
• Stainless steel: robust and very hygienic.
• PVD coatings: top-notch technology that applies color in a vacuum. The result is a surface several times more durable than regular chrome and extremely scratch-resistant (e.g., brushed gold or graphite colors).

Are thermostatic plumbing faucets worth it?

Thermostatic faucets maintain a constant water temperature regardless of pressure fluctuations. They are the safest choice for showers and bathtubs, as they eliminate the risk of scalding. And they are beneficial not only in family bathrooms.

How long will plumbing faucets last?

The lifespan of a faucet mainly depends on the quality of the internal mechanism and the cleanliness of the water. While cheap models from hardware stores with plastic components may start leaking after two or three years, a quality plumbing faucet with a ceramic cartridge will last 10 to 15 years without issues.

Another significant factor is water hardness. Limescale is the biggest enemy of seals and moving parts. If you have hard water, the lifespan of your faucet will be extended by regularly cleaning the aerator and using water filters at the water entry point. With premium brands, it’s also an advantage that even after ten years, you can easily find spare parts, so you won’t have to replace the entire faucet for a worn-out seal.

SANITINO tip: Investing in a faucet with an extended warranty (often 5 years or more) is a clear sign that the manufacturer trusts its product. We offer such models across all categories.

Faucet control methods

• Lever – the most popular for its speed and ability to control water with one hand.
• Tap – ideal for retro or rustic styles, but they are more difficult to set the temperature precisely.
• Touchless – sensor-operated faucets are the peak of hygiene. You turn the water on with a simple hand movement, which is especially appreciated in the kitchen when working with raw meat or dough.
• Button – especially popular with shower faucets, as you can easily turn the water flow on or off with a button press.

RECOMMENDATION: If you’re building a new bathroom or doing a complete renovation, consider a concealed solution. It looks luxurious and makes cleaning significantly easier as you only clean the minimal area of the control elements.

Modern technologies for savings and comfort

Today's high-quality plumbing faucets are not just about aesthetics, but also smart solutions. Popular features include:

• Water-saving aerators – they can reduce water flow from the usual 12 liters to just 5 liters per minute, without feeling any weaker flow. The water is enriched with air.
• Cold start – this feature ensures that only cold water flows when the lever is in the middle position. This avoids unnecessary activation of the boiler or heater with each quick hand rinse.
• Aerators with flexible nodules – they ensure easier maintenance of the faucet.
• Special surfaces – some brands offer special surfaces that are easy to clean.
• Special kitchen faucets with water filtration, heating, or cooling functions

SANITINO tip: If you want your faucet to look like new for years, pay attention to cleaning. Limescale is the enemy of surfaces and aerators. 

Design and colors: plumbing faucets as jewelry

The days of only having silver chrome are long gone. Plumbing faucets have become a prominent design feature that defines the room’s style.

• Black plumbing faucets – the trend of recent years, giving the bathroom a modern and luxurious touch. They contrast beautifully with white ceramics. You can choose matte or glossy.
• White faucets – very clean and minimalist. They are practical to maintain because water droplets are less visible on them.
• Gold and bronze faucets – perfect for fans of art deco, vintage, or glam styles. They add warmth and elegance to the interior.

When choosing a color, we recommend matching all elements in the room – including accessories like hooks, towel holders, or flush buttons.

Installation and maintenance: what to consider after purchase?

The purchase doesn’t end there. Proper installation is key for smooth operation.

What to watch out for during installation:

• Before installation, thoroughly flush the pipes to remove any debris that might damage the cartridge.
• Use quality seals and don’t over-tighten them.
• For deck-mounted faucets, don’t forget the flexible connecting hoses – these are usually included in most packages, but always check their length.

How much does it cost to replace a plumbing faucet?

If you don’t opt for self-installation, expect costs for a professional plumber. The price for replacement typically ranges from 20 to 60 EURO per faucet, depending on the region and the complexity of the work. Additionally, you’ll need to factor in the cost of the plumber’s travel.

Replacing a deck-mounted bathroom faucet is usually faster and cheaper than installing concealed systems, which require intervention in the wall. Even though the price for labor may seem high, professional installation ensures that the connection won’t leak and flood the neighbors or damage bathroom furniture.

Note: When discussing with the plumber, ask in advance whether the price includes removal and eco-friendly disposal of the old faucet. This will prevent any misunderstandings during the final billing.

Popular brands at SANITINO

We work with leading manufacturers who prioritize quality. In our offer, you’ll find high-quality plumbing faucets from brands like GROHE, hansgrohe, kielle, RAVAK, novaservis, HANSA, Duravit, Geberit, JIKA, Keuco, Mereo, Paffoni, RAV Slezák, Sanela, Villeroy & Boch, and more. We also offer luxury models from AXOR and Steinberg.

Why buy plumbing faucets at SANITINO.en?

We know that choosing a plumbing faucet is an investment for many years. That’s why you won’t find just “ordinary faucets” with us, but a complete service. We offer a wide selection of thousands of models directly from manufacturers, which allows us to guarantee 100% originality and top quality.

Most popular models are in stock and ready for immediate dispatch, so you won’t have to wait for your new faucet. For selected models, we also offer free shipping. If you're unsure about your choice, our specialists will provide excellent technical advice and help you find the perfect solution for your bathroom or kitchen.

Shop where sanitary technology truly matters. Choose your new plumbing faucet at SANITINO today and get a reliable solution that will serve you for many years.

Are you planning a bathroom renovation or upgrade and looking for the right taps? You’ll surely find what you’re looking for in our wide range. We offer basin taps, shower taps, bath taps, as well as bidet taps from renowned brands such as GROHE, hansgrohe, Hansa, Kludi, Ideal Standard, Paffoni, and many others. You’ll also find designer models from luxury brands such as AXOR or Keuco. And we must not forget taps from Czech brands like RAVAK, Sanela, or Novaservis, which are very popular with our customers.

How to choose the right tap

We use taps several times a day. They are an integral part of washbasins, kitchen sinks, bathtubs, bidets, and shower enclosures. That’s why you should focus on several important aspects when choosing them.

The most important technical parameter is the tap connection spacing. Most products on the market currently come with a 150 mm spacing, but if you’re renovating an older bathroom, you may need a tap with a 100 mm spacing. In that case, look for taps from Czech manufacturers Novaservis or RAVAK.

When choosing the right tap, don’t forget the installation type. Deck-mounted taps are best suited for basins and sinks. For shower and bath taps, concealed or wall-mounted installation is very popular. In the case of bath taps, you may also encounter installation on the rim of the bath or floor-mounted solutions.

SANITINO TIP: Have you chosen concealed taps? Don’t forget to purchase the concealed bodies from the same brand—otherwise the tap will not function properly.

Also consider the control type. Most commonly you’ll encounter convenient single-lever taps, but push-button controls or traditional two-handle taps are also available. Touchless taps are becoming increasingly popular, as you may know from shopping centres.

Don’t forget about design and innovation. Manufacturers offer a truly wide range of sizes, colours, shapes, and materials. In addition to classic chrome finishes, you can equip your bathroom with gold, white, bronze, or black taps.

SANITINO TIP: Always choose taps from the same series so they match perfectly. Also consider the style of the bathroom you’re designing—take into account the shape of the basin, bath, and mirror, the colour of the tiles, and the type of shower enclosure.

Are you a true art lover? Then you’ll be pleased to know that our range also includes unique designer pieces by leading world designers such as Philippe Starck, Antonio Citterio, Patricia Urquiola, Jean-Marie Massaud, Rodrigo Torres, and others.

With modern taps, you can reduce water consumption and, thanks to innovative technologies, also make maintenance easier.