When it comes to equipping a commercial kitchen, every detail matters—and that includes your choice of kitchen taps. Whether you’re designing a restaurant, hotel, hospital, or large-scale food facility, the right commercial kitchen tap not only ensures smooth daily operations but also enhances hygiene, water efficiency, and long-term reliability.
Unlike residential faucets, commercial kitchen taps must withstand constant use, meet health and safety standards, and provide functional features like pull-down sprayers, touchless activation, and durable construction. With so many styles, finishes, and technologies available, selecting the right tap can be challenging—but it doesn’t have to be.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: from tap styles and materials to sensor systems and fitting types. We’ll also highlight some of the world’s top commercial tap manufacturers and explain how Sunvin supports builders and wholesalers worldwide with high-quality, customisable tap solutions.
When designing or upgrading a commercial kitchen, choosing the right tap is just as critical as selecting cooking equipment. Kitchen taps in commercial environments must combine durability, hygiene, flexibility, and ease of use. This guide breaks down the most common types of commercial kitchen taps, their key features, and where they’re best used.
Mixer taps are the most commonly used type in both residential and commercial kitchens. They combine hot and cold water through a single spout, allowing easy temperature control.
Best for: General commercial kitchens, cafés, food prep stations.
Pillar taps are traditional twin-tap systems — one for hot and one for cold — each mounted separately.
Best for: Traditional kitchens or utility areas with basic water needs.
Equipped with a flexible hose and retractable spray head, these taps offer extended reach and better control.
Best for: Restaurants, commercial food prep, bakeries, large sinks.
These taps feature a visible, coiled spring neck and a flexible pull-out spray.
Best for: Commercial kitchens, bakeries, hotel kitchens.
Deliver near-instant boiling water, reducing the need for kettles and speeding up prep tasks.
Best for: Cafés, restaurants, canteens, tea/coffee stations.
These taps include a built-in filtration system that removes limescale, chlorine, and other impurities.
Best for: Hospitality kitchens, regions with hard water, eco-conscious venues.
Equipped with motion sensors or infrared, these taps operate without physical contact.
Best for: Commercial kitchens, hospitals, public restrooms, food service counters.
These taps are operated by a foot pedal, leaving both hands free.
Best for: Industrial kitchens, medical food prep, butchery operations.
A popular residential-style design also suitable for light commercial use.
Best for: Small cafés, staff kitchens, or hospitality suites.
Each handle controls hot or cold water independently, allowing precise temperature control.
Best for: Traditional kitchens, bars, or facilities with existing two-hole sinks.
Installed directly on the wall above the sink, freeing up countertop space.
Best for: Commercial kitchens, schools, canteens, institutional settings.
These taps are typically wall-mounted on the side of the sink or basin.
Best for: Modern kitchen designs and places with limited sink deck space.
Choosing the right commercial kitchen tap is vital for operational efficiency, hygiene, safety, and cost savings in busy kitchens such as restaurants, cafes, or catering facilities. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the most important features to consider when selecting a tap for your commercial kitchen:
1. Durability and Build Quality Commercial kitchen taps must withstand heavy daily use. Look for models made from high-quality materials like solid brass, stainless steel, or chrome-plated brass. These materials resist corrosion, heat, and chemical exposure, reducing the likelihood of leaks or mechanical failures. Long-lasting taps reduce maintenance costs and downtime.
2. Ease of Cleaning A tap with a smooth, seamless surface and minimal grooves makes cleaning easier and more hygienic. Stainless steel and chrome finishes are ideal because they resist fingerprints and grime. Select models with detachable spray heads or modular parts that can be disassembled for deep cleaning.
3. Water Flow and Pressure Control Efficient water delivery is essential. Choose taps with adjustable flow rates, aerators, or flow restrictors that allow you to maintain strong water pressure while conserving water. Consistent pressure ensures quicker washing and better rinse cycles, improving kitchen productivity.
4. Swivel Spout Design A 360-degree swivel spout provides flexibility, especially with double or triple sink setups. This allows kitchen staff to direct the water flow precisely, improving access to all areas of the sink and reducing spillage. High-arc spouts also create space for filling large pots.
5. Pre-Rinse Spray Head Pre-rinse units with high-pressure spray nozzles help remove food residue before dishwashing, reducing manual scrubbing. Ideal for commercial kitchens with high dish turnover, these taps often come with flexible hoses and wall-mount options.
6. Temperature Control Look for taps that allow independent hot and cold water adjustments. Some premium models feature thermostatic mixing valves to keep temperatures consistent, which helps prevent burns and ensures safety during food prep and cleaning.
7. Hands-Free or Sensor Operation Sensor-activated taps promote hygiene by reducing contact with dirty hands. Motion-activated or foot-pedal operated taps reduce cross-contamination and are compliant with food safety standards. These models are ideal in environments focused on cleanliness and infection control.
8. Adjustable Height and Reach Choose taps with adjustable spouts or extendable arms that can accommodate different tasks such as filling tall containers or cleaning oversized cookware. Telescoping and pull-down designs offer versatility in height and reach.
9. Anti-Splash Design Taps equipped with aerators or angled spouts help reduce splashback, keeping the workspace clean and safe. Aerated flow also saves water by mixing air with the stream, reducing overall consumption without compromising performance.
10. Plumbing Compatibility Always check whether the tap fits your existing plumbing configuration (e.g., wall-mounted vs. deck-mounted, number of fixture holes). Verifying pipe size and water pressure compatibility ensures easy installation and avoids costly modifications.
11. Ergonomic Handles Taps with lever-style or wrist-blade handles are easier to operate, especially in fast-paced kitchens. These handles require less force, are easy to use with wet or greasy hands, and reduce fatigue during long shifts.
12. Backflow Prevention Built-in backflow preventers safeguard the potable water supply from contamination. This feature is essential for complying with commercial plumbing and health regulations.
13. Water-Efficient Design Eco-conscious designs include low-flow aerators, smart shut-off valves, and timed flow settings. These features reduce water consumption, lower utility bills, and support green building initiatives.
14. High-Quality Valves Look for ceramic disc valves that provide smooth, leak-free operation. These valves are durable, easy to maintain, and less prone to wear and tear compared to rubber washers.
15. Flexible Hose Attachments Many commercial taps come with pull-out or pull-down sprayers and flexible hose systems, improving reach and mobility for washing oversized items or cleaning sink corners. Hoses should be easy to retract and constructed from kink-resistant materials.
16. Insulated Handles Taps used in high-temperature environments should have insulated handles that prevent heat transfer. This reduces the risk of burns and improves safety during hot water tasks.
17. Quick Installation and Easy Maintenance Opt for models with quick-connect fittings and modular components for faster installation and simpler maintenance. Easy-to-access cartridges and washers minimize downtime during repairs.
18. Warranty and Customer Support A long-term warranty (5 to lifetime years) and responsive customer support are signs of a quality brand. A strong after-sales service ensures you get assistance when replacements or troubleshooting are needed.
19. Easy Replacement Parts Choose a brand that offers easily accessible spare parts like cartridges, hoses, nozzles, and washers. This ensures timely repairs and minimal kitchen disruption.
20. Customisable Options Select taps that allow customisation in spout length, height, handle design, and finish. Matching taps to your kitchen’s workflow, aesthetics, or brand identity enhances both function and form.
21. Durable Finishes Finishes such as brushed nickel, matte black, or polished chrome should be abrasion-resistant and easy to maintain. In high-traffic kitchens, finishes that withstand accidental knocks and cleaning chemicals are preferred.
22. Consider Water Type In hard water regions, consider a tap that integrates a water filtration system or is compatible with a water softener to prevent limescale buildup and prolong the faucet's life.
23. Choose the Right Spout Height Match the spout height to your sink size and usage. High spouts offer more clearance for pots, while low spouts reduce splash in compact areas. Assess vertical space and sink depth before purchasing.
24. Pull-Down vs. Pull-Out Taps Pull-down taps are ideal for deep sinks and offer vertical flexibility, while pull-out taps suit smaller spaces and provide more horizontal reach. Choose based on sink size and typical washing tasks.
25. Single-Lever vs. Dual-Lever Controls Single-lever taps are easier to operate and save space, while dual-lever models provide more precise temperature control. Choose based on the skill level of staff and need for quick adjustments.
26. Hygienic Design Features Look for taps with minimal seams, sealed joints, and non-porous surfaces that are easier to sanitise. NSF-certified models or those meeting local health codes are recommended for food-safe environments.
27. Appearance and Visual Design While functionality is the priority, a visually appealing tap can enhance the professional look of a visible kitchen area. Sleek modern lines or industrial finishes can reflect your brand’s identity.
28. Budget and Lifecycle Cost Factor in not just the purchase price but installation, water use, maintenance, and replacement parts over time. Higher-quality taps may have a higher upfront cost but save more in long-term operation.
29. Foot Pedal Operation (Optional Feature) Some setups benefit from foot-operated valves, allowing staff to turn the tap on and off without using their hands. This promotes hygiene and efficiency during food handling.
30. Compliance with Local Regulations Always verify that the faucet complies with local plumbing codes, food safety standards, and green building certifications where applicable.
A well-chosen commercial kitchen tap isn’t just a convenience—it’s an investment in your kitchen’s productivity, hygiene, and long-term sustainability. By understanding the key features and evaluating your kitchen’s unique needs, you can select a faucet that enhances operations and reduces future issues.
Once you’ve selected the most suitable type of commercial kitchen tap—such as a pull-out spray tap for high-pressure cleaning, a sensor-activated model for hygiene, or a boiling water tap for speed—your next step is to match the design, spout, handle, and finish to the kitchen’s functional needs and brand identity.
In commercial settings, aesthetics, ergonomics, and durability must go hand-in-hand.
Different commercial kitchens require different spout designs to optimise workflow, hygiene, and cleaning efficiency:
Commercial taps must be easy to operate—even when users wear gloves or their hands are soiled. Choose from:
In addition to function, colour selection supports visual identity, especially in open kitchens, hotel bars, and customer-facing areas.
Common colour options for commercial kitchen taps include:
Finish affects both aesthetics and ease of maintenance. For commercial use, durability is just as critical as visual appeal:
When specifying taps for a commercial project, make sure the style and finish align with the venue’s brand image (e.g. minimalist for tech-startup cafés, classic brass for boutique hotels) while also addressing practical installation, maintenance, and hygiene needs.
When installing commercial kitchen taps, choosing the right fitting is critical to ensure leak-free performance, ease of maintenance, and compliance with plumbing regulations. Below are the most common types of tap fittings used in commercial kitchen environments:
Use Case: When water supply pipes rise vertically from the floor
Ideal For: Open kitchens, traditional layouts, or mobile catering setups
Advantages:
Consideration: Best used when pipework is not concealed and runs vertically under sinks or benches.
Use Case: When water pipes run from the wall and require a 90° turn to reach the tap
Ideal For: Built-in wall plumbing, concealed installations
Advantages:
Consideration: Angled fittings enhance aesthetics and reduce risk of damage from foot traffic or equipment movement.
Use Case: Where pipes must turn horizontally to reach the tap
Ideal For: Compact commercial kitchens, food trucks, or awkward cabinet layouts
Advantages:
Consideration: Ideal when straight or angled fittings cannot physically fit behind sinks or dish stations.
Use Case: Secure, watertight connection between mixed material pipes
Ideal For: Long-term commercial installations and heavy-use kitchens
Advantages:
Consideration: Must be precisely tightened to avoid leaks; best handled by a licensed plumber in high-traffic commercial setups.
Use Case: Fast tap connections without special tools or soldering
Ideal For: Quick repairs, temporary setups, or new restaurant openings
Advantages:
Consideration: While convenient, push-fits are best used in non-critical areas or backed by regular inspections.
Use Case: Where pipes or space configurations require flexibility
Ideal For: Under-sink commercial tap installations or high-movement zones
Advantages:
Consideration: Ensure hoses are WRAS/NSF certified and rated for commercial use to avoid wear or burst risk over time.
In commercial kitchens—where durability, hygiene, and appearance all matter—the finish of your kitchen tap plays a key role not just in aesthetics, but also in ease of maintenance and long-term performance. Here’s a breakdown of the most common finishes suitable for commercial kitchen taps, and how they support both design and function in high-traffic environments:
Chrome remains a top choice for commercial kitchen taps due to its mirror-like shine, easy-to-clean surface, and affordable price point.
Why it’s great for commercial use:
Sunvin Tip: Use chrome finishes in customer-facing kitchens where visual appeal and cleanliness are equally important.
Brushed or polished stainless steel is ideal for heavy-duty commercial use, offering unmatched resistance to corrosion, rust, and chemical cleaners.
Why it’s ideal:
Sunvin Recommendation: Our stainless steel commercial kitchen taps are built for long-term performance and high sanitation standards, ideal for restaurants, hotels, and cafeterias.
Brushed nickel offers a soft matte sheen and is preferred in upscale commercial kitchens or hospitality spaces where design meets function.
Commercial benefits:
Best Used In: Places where aesthetics are just as important as hygiene—such as open kitchens or semi-private commercial spaces.
Matte black finishes provide a contemporary edge and are increasingly seen in stylish commercial kitchens, especially where the tap is part of the customer’s visual experience.
Commercial advantages:
Use Case: Ideal for cafes, bistros, or culinary show kitchens that want to project modernity and style.
These high-end finishes aren’t just for homes—they’re growing in popularity in luxury commercial environments like hotel suites, boutique restaurants, and concept cafés.
Why professionals choose them:
Note: While they require more upkeep than stainless or chrome, the visual impact is undeniable for premium venues.
Whether you're outfitting a high-volume restaurant kitchen or designing a customer-facing culinary space, selecting the right tap finish ensures not only functionality but also a refined, cohesive brand image. All of Sunvin’s commercial kitchen taps are available in a variety of industry-standard finishes—each tested for performance, resistance, and long-term durability in demanding commercial environments.
When outfitting a commercial kitchen, you might be tempted to cut costs by choosing the cheapest tap available. But is the short-term saving worth the long-term risk? Here's a breakdown of what truly separates cheap taps from premium ones in commercial environments:
Commercial Insight: In high-traffic kitchens, low-quality materials lead to premature failure, downtime, and potential health code violations.
Why it matters: Leaking taps in commercial kitchens not only waste water but can create slip hazards and higher utility bills.
Result: Premium features streamline operations, improve hygiene, and reduce cross-contamination—essential in foodservice settings.
Brand Impact: A sleek, professional-looking tap reinforces your commercial kitchen’s image—especially in open-kitchen restaurants or food courts.
While cheap commercial taps may save you upfront, they often require more maintenance, earlier replacements, and can impact hygiene standards. On the other hand, investing in a higher-quality tap ensures smoother operation, longer lifespan, and better compliance with commercial kitchen demands.
When sourcing commercial kitchen taps, choose models that are:
Need help choosing the right tap for your business?
Contact the Sunvin team today for expert advice and bulk pricing on reliable, long-lasting commercial kitchen tap solutions.
Sunvin stands out as a reliable OEM/ODM partner for commercial kitchen tap buyers worldwide. Based in Foshan—China’s hub for sanitary ware and ceramics—Sunvin combines precision manufacturing, certified materials, and global export experience to serve wholesalers, developers, and builders. With customisable tap designs, lead-free brass construction, and bundled sink-faucet packages, Sunvin supports high-volume commercial projects with flexibility and speed.
Key Features:
VOLA has set the benchmark in minimalist tapware for over five decades. Known for its timeless Scandinavian aesthetics, the brand produces high-performance commercial kitchen taps ideal for upscale restaurants, hotels, and public kitchens. Each faucet is engineered with precision, using corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel and solid brass to ensure long-term durability under heavy use.
Key Features:
GROHE is synonymous with cutting-edge German engineering, making it a trusted choice for commercial kitchen tap applications in restaurants, corporate cafeterias, and institutional kitchens. Their proprietary SilkMove® cartridges provide effortless control, while EcoJoy™ technology reduces water consumption—making them ideal for businesses looking to cut operational costs without compromising performance.
Key Features:
Kohler delivers commercial tapware that balances form and function. Known for their Purist™ collection, Kohler offers sensor-based touchless commercial kitchen taps that improve hygiene and workflow in busy foodservice settings. Their heavy-duty build and contemporary aesthetics make them a preferred choice for chefs and contractors alike.
Key Features:
Hansgrohe stands out in the commercial kitchen tap market for combining sustainability with sophistication. Their AirPower technology infuses air into the water stream, reducing splashes while maintaining powerful flow—ideal for restaurant prep zones, hotel kitchens, and healthcare environments. Their products are WaterSense-certified, making them an excellent fit for green building projects.
Key Features:
Dornbracht is renowned for crafting luxury-grade commercial kitchen taps that double as architectural showpieces. Their Tara Ultra series is built for high-end commercial interiors—from open-concept kitchens in co-working spaces to boutique hotel bars. With ergonomic pull-down sprayers and corrosion-resistant finishes, these taps elevate both usability and aesthetics.
Key Features:
Zucchetti brings iconic Italian design to the commercial kitchen tap market. Known for its ergonomic curves and sculptural aesthetics, Zucchetti’s single-lever mixers—such as the Pan S collection—add a statement element to luxury restaurants and open-concept kitchen environments. Their taps combine beauty and performance, making them ideal for high-traffic, visually driven spaces.
Key Features:
BLANCO is a go-to name in commercial kitchen faucets, especially in the food service and hospitality industry. Their CULINA™ semi-professional series is engineered for durability and cleaning efficiency, featuring powerful pull-down sprays and high-arc spouts—ideal for busy prep zones and culinary workspaces.
Key Features:
AXOR, the luxury arm of Hansgrohe, delivers commercial kitchen taps that double as design features. The Citterio line balances functionality and bold geometry, suited for premium commercial settings like hotel kitchens, coworking cafés, and executive lounges. Customisable configurations allow brands to align their tap aesthetics with interior design themes.
Key Features:
Gessi’s 316 series exemplifies cutting-edge, eco-conscious commercial tap design. Their sensor-activated kitchen faucets promote hygiene in foodservice environments, healthcare kitchens, and shared commercial facilities. Known for sleek profiles and sustainability, Gessi is a perfect match for forward-thinking commercial architects and developers.
Key Features:
1. What should I consider when choosing a commercial kitchen tap?
Prioritise durability, water efficiency, and easy operation. Look for taps made from brass or stainless steel, with features like pull-down sprayers, touch or sensor activation, and lead-free certifications for safety and longevity.
2. Why are touch or sensor taps better for commercial kitchens?
Touch or touchless kitchen taps reduce cross-contamination, improve hygiene, and help conserve water. They’re ideal for busy commercial kitchens, restaurants, and food prep areas where hands-free operation enhances workflow.
3. What’s the best material for a commercial kitchen tap?
Stainless steel and lead-free brass are the top choices. They offer corrosion resistance, are easy to clean, and withstand frequent use in demanding environments.
4. Do commercial kitchen taps come with warranties?
Yes. Most reputable manufacturers provide warranties ranging from 5 years to lifetime coverage, depending on the brand and product line. Always confirm warranty terms before purchasing.
5. How do I maintain a commercial kitchen tap?
Wipe down surfaces regularly with a mild soap solution, avoid abrasive cleaners, and check for loose fittings or leaks. For sensor taps, clean the sensor area and check battery or power connections periodically.
