Automatic Tap Guide: Infrared Sensor Taps, Battery and Mains Types, Flow Time, Sensor Range, Installation, Troubleshooting and Indicative Rates in Pakistan
An automatic tap, or sensor tap, opens when you put your hands under it and closes when you take them away, which saves water and keeps hands from touching the tap, and it is increasingly used in homes, offices, mosques and shops. Prices run from about PKR 6,000 for a basic battery model to PKR 25,000 for a quality mains model. This page covers infrared sensor taps, battery and mains types, flow time, sensor range, installation, troubleshooting and rates. For other taps see bathroom taps, wash basin taps and hand dryers.
How it works
An infrared sensor in the spout detects a hand and opens a small solenoid valve. When the hand moves away, the valve closes after a short delay. Hot and cold are usually pre-mixed with a manual mixer valve under the basin, since the tap itself only switches flow on and off.
Battery or mains
- Battery models. Easy to fit, use AA or lithium batteries, need replacing every few months or years.
- Mains or adaptor models. Use a low-voltage adaptor and are more reliable for heavy use.
- Hybrid models. Mains with a battery backup.
Indicative rates
These ranges show common retail figures.
| Tap | Indicative range |
|---|---|
| Basic battery sensor tap | PKR 6,000 - 10,000 |
| Brass sensor tap, battery | PKR 9,000 - 16,000 |
| Mains or adaptor sensor tap | PKR 12,000 - 25,000 |
| Mixing valve under basin | PKR 1,500 - 4,000 |
| Batteries, set | PKR 300 - 1,500 |
| Plumber and electrician, fitting | PKR 1,500 - 4,000 |
Prices move with brand, model, size and stock. Use these ranges to judge a quote, then compare the exact model and what is included.
Flow time and sensor range
Look for adjustable sensor range, commonly 5 to 15 centimetres, and flow time, with an automatic shut-off after 30 to 60 seconds. Poor sensors switch on by themselves or fail to detect hands. Choose a model with adjustment screws.
Water saving and hygiene
Automatic taps cut water use by shutting off between hand movements and reduce the spread of germs from touched surfaces. They suit shared bathrooms, mosques, schools and clinics. In homes, they help children avoid leaving taps running.
Installation
Mount the tap, connect the supply through a mixing valve, fit the solenoid and battery box or adaptor under the basin and test sensor range. Avoid water splash on the electronics. Fixed plumbing should be done by a licensed plumber. A licensed electrician should fit mains adaptors safely.
Troubleshooting
- No water. Dead batteries or blocked filter at the valve.
- Runs continuously. Sensor dirt or reflection, clean and adjust.
- Weak flow. Clogged filter or aerator.
- Delayed response. Low battery.
What to check before buying
- Sensor adjustment. Range and time
- Body metal. Brass
- Power type. Battery or adaptor
- Warranty and spares. Solenoid and sensor
Is it worth it
For homes with children or shared use, an automatic tap is a nice convenience, but it costs more and needs batteries and maintenance. For simple home use, a good lever mixer may be enough. Choose by use and budget.
Before you decide
Check the power type, test the sensor range in the shop and make sure spare parts are available. A reliable automatic tap saves water and adds hygiene.
Frequently Asked Questions
A tap with an infrared sensor that opens when hands are under it and closes when they move away. Ask for the specification in writing so you can compare quotes on the same basis. Check the warranty terms and who honours them before you pay.
A basic battery model is about PKR 6,000 to 10,000, a brass battery model about PKR 9,000 to 16,000 and a mains model about PKR 12,000 to 25,000. Check the warranty terms and who honours them before you pay. Measure carefully and confirm sizes with the seller before ordering.
Use a manual mixing valve under the basin to pre-mix hot and cold. Measure carefully and confirm sizes with the seller before ordering. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit. If you are unsure, send a photo and the measurements and we will advise.
Dirt or reflections confuse the sensor. Clean it and adjust the range. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit. If you are unsure, send a photo and the measurements and we will advise. Ask for the specification in writing so you can compare quotes on the same basis.
Battery models do, and mains models use an adaptor. Replace batteries when response slows. If you are unsure, send a photo and the measurements and we will advise. Ask for the specification in writing so you can compare quotes on the same basis.
Send the quantity, the size or rating and a photo of the space. We reply with a written rate that names the model and the warranty, and lists what is and is not included, so the comparison with other sellers is fair.
Choosing an automatic tap?
Send the details and a photo. We reply with a written rate.