More Australians want filtered water straight from the tap, but the choices can be confusing. Should you add a small filtered water faucet beside your mixer or switch to a sleek 3 way mixer tap that does it all? This guide simplifies your decision. We’ll explain how each option works, what to consider before buying, and why stainless steel is the safest, longest lasting material for any water filter tap in Aussie kitchens.
Why Choose a Filtered Water Tap?
A water filter tap routes drinking water through an under-sink system so it tastes clean and fresh, without chlorine odour. Depending on the filter you pair it with, it can also reduce heavy metals, microplastics and PFAS. The result: pure water for drinking, cooking and hot beverages, on demand.
You’ll also save money and cut plastic waste. A tap water filter faucet lets you ditch pricey bottled water and the clutter of filter jugs. And because the tap is built in, the solution looks purposeful, not like an add on.
Types of Filtered Water Taps in Australia
Separate Filtered Water Faucet
A compact, secondary filtered faucet installed beside your main mixer. It connects directly to the under-sink filter and dispenses filtered cold water from its own spout.
Pros
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Affordable: Lower upfront cost than replacing your main mixer.
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Keep your mixer: Your existing tap stays untouched.
Cons
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Extra hole: Requires a spare sink/counter hole (or drilling), which isn’t ideal for renters.
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Less sleek: Two taps can look busier.
Best for
Budget conscious homeowners or anyone with an unused hole (e.g., previous sprayer/soap). Consider a Stainless Steel Water Filter Tap to keep water pathways lead free and durable.
3 Way Mixer Tap (Tri-Flow Tap)
A single faucet that delivers hot, cold and filtered water through separate internal channels. Usually has two handles/levers: one for regular hot/cold, one for filtered.
Pros
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Sleek & space saving: One tap, clutter-free sink, no extra drilling.
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Convenient: Fill glasses, bottles or pots with filtered water from the main spout.
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Renter friendly: Uses the existing hole; easy to swap back at end of lease.
Cons
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Higher upfront cost: Premium, integrated hardware.
Variants
Standard dual lever styles, premium stainless steel builds for maximum safety and longevity, and the versatile 3 Way Mixer Tap with Pull Out for extra reach and rinsing convenience.
Best for
Renters and homeowners who want an all-in-one, design-led solution. See the full range in the 3-Way Mixer Taps Collection.
Key Factors to Consider Before Buying
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Material (Stainless vs Brass): Stainless steel is lead free, corrosion resistant and hygienic. Brass can be “low lead,” but stainless avoids the issue altogether.
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Certification (WaterMark): Mandatory in Australia to ensure plumbing compliance.
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Space & Kitchen Layout: Spare hole available? A separate faucet works. No spare hole? A 3 way tap keeps things sleek.
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Budget: Separate faucets = lower upfront cost. 3 way taps = premium investment.
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Installation: Handy DIYers can fit separate faucets and 3 way taps, tough a plumber is recommended.
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Style & Finish: Stainless taps with PVD finishes (brushed, black, brass tone) give design flexibility.
Renters vs Homeowners: What Works Best?
Renters
A 3 way mixer tap is usually the better option: it uses the existing hole, avoids permanent changes and can be swapped back when you move.
Homeowners
If you’re cost sensitive or love your current mixer, add a separate filtered faucet. If you’re renovating, want a cleaner look, or value ultimate convenience, invest in a 3 way tap.
Why Stainless Steel Wins Every Time
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Lead-free safety: No risk of leaching heavy metals.
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Durability & hygiene: Corrosion resistant, easy to clean, built to last decades.
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Style flexibility: Available in brushed, black, or brass tone finishes.
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Sustainability: Long lifespan and fully recyclable.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Factor | Separate Filtered Water Faucet | 3-Way Mixer Tap (All-in-One) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lower upfront | Higher upfront |
| Space & Aesthetics | Needs extra hole; adds a second tap | Sleek single tap; no clutter |
| Convenience | Two taps to manage | One tap for hot/cold/filtered |
| Renter Friendly | Rarely (requires drilling) | Yes; easy swap, portable |
| Homeowner Friendly | Budget-friendly add-on | Premium, long term upgrade |
FAQs
Do I need a plumber to install a water filter tap?
For a simple faucet add on, skilled DIYers may manage. For a 3 way mixer tap, a licensed plumber is recommended for safety and compliance.
Can renters install a 3 way tap and remove it later?
Yes. With landlord approval, you can install one, then re fit the original tap when moving.
Is a 3 way mixer tap worth the higher price?
If you value convenience and design, most say yes. If budget is the main factor, a separate faucet still delivers safe, filtered water.
What’s the safest material for a water filter tap?
Stainless steel is lead free, durable, and resistant to corrosion.
Conclusion
Both options deliver the big win: clean, great tasting water straight from your sink. Choose a filtered water faucet if you want a budget-friendly add on. Choose a 3 way kitchen mixer tap if you prefer a minimalist, all in one fixture, especially smart for renters and renovators.
👉 Ready to upgrade? Explore our Filtered Water Taps Collection or browse the 3 Way Mixer Taps Collection to find the perfect stainless steel tap for your kitchen.
Upgrade your home with a fixture that’s stylish, safe, and built for Aussie living.
