In many homes and businesses across Perth, the traditional twist handle tap is becoming a thing of the past. As we focus more on water conservation and hygiene, electronic and sensor taps have moved from luxury hotels straight into our local master suites.

If you are planning a renovation or simply want to update your fixtures, understanding how these modern taps work is the best place to start.

What Exactly Is a Sensor Tap?

At its simplest, an electronic or sensor tap is a faucet that does not require you to touch a handle to start the water flow. Instead of a manual valve, these taps use a small infrared sensor to detect movement.

When you place your hands under the spout, the sensor sends a signal to a solenoid valve. This valve opens up, allowing water to flow instantly. Once you move your hands away, the signal stops and the valve closes.

How They Get Power

You might wonder how a tap "thinks" without being plugged into a wall. In most Perth residential bathrooms, these taps run on standard lithium batteries. They are easy to replace and usually last a year or two. For commercial buildings with heavy traffic, plumbers often hardwire them into the building’s main electrical system.

Why Perth Homeowners Are Making the Switch

Living in Western Australia means we are always conscious of our water use. The benefits of sensor taps go far beyond just looking modern.

• Significant Water Savings: Traditional taps often stay running while we reach for a towel or scrub our hands. A sensor tap stops the water the second you move. This can reduce water waste by up to 70%.

• Superior Hygiene: Think about how many germs live on a bathroom handle. By removing the need to touch the fixture, you stop the spread of bacteria. This is a huge plus for families during flu season.

• Accessibility: For children or elderly family members who might struggle with stiff handles or reaching across a deep vanity, a motion-activated tap is much easier to use.

• Flood Prevention: We have all had that moment of worry: "Did I leave the tap running?" Sensor taps have automatic shut-off timers, so a sink can never accidentally overflow.
  
  

Common Myths vs. Reality

"They are too hard to maintain." Actually, they have fewer moving parts than a standard mixer. Because you aren't constantly twisting and pulling on a handle, the internal seals often last longer. You simply need to keep the small sensor window clean so it can "see" your hands clearly.

"The water temperature is hard to control." Most residential sensor taps allow you to set the temperature via a small lever on the side of the base or a mixing valve hidden under the sink. You set your preferred temperature once, and it stays that way every time the water turns on.

What to Consider Before Buying

Before you head to a showroom in Osborne Park or Subiaco, keep these three points in mind:

1. Sensor Range: Look for a tap with an adjustable sensor. You don't want the water triggering every time you walk past the sink to brush your hair.

2. Finish and Style: From brushed gold to matte black, these taps come in every finish imaginable. Ensure the style matches your existing towel rails and shower frames.

3. The "Manual Override": Some people prefer a "touch" tap rather than a "sensor" tap. A touch tap starts when you tap the spout with your wrist or forearm a great middle ground if you want more control.

Integrating smart technology into your bathroom doesn't have to be complicated. By switching to a sensor tap, you’re choosing a more sustainable, cleaner, and more convenient way to manage your home.