Care & Maintenance

Will I have to carry out any maintenance on my Perrin & Rowe taps?

In the past taps were fitted with a tap washer which required frequent replacement. In high quality tapware these have been superseded by ceramic disc valves. (Two ceramic discs rotate over each other to allow water through when their holes align).

Perrin & Rowe, Perrin & Rowe Contemporary or Perrin & Rowe Triflow tapware is fitted with German made ceramic disc units which give a light and precise action with an easy quarter-turn operation. Ceramic disc units require no maintenance but can be damaged by foreign particles coming down the water supply line and lodging in the disc when it is open. For this reason we recommend that in-line filters are fitted to the inlet lines. The ceramic disc valve units in Perrin & Rowe and Triflow taps have a life expectancy of about 15 years, but they can be easily and inexpensively replaced if necessary over the long life of the tapware.

Why has my tap become loose on my bench-top?

The nut securing the tap to the underside of the bench may not have been firmly tightened. Alternatively the plumber may have missed installing the necessary rubber ‘O ring’ which sits between the bottom of the tap and the bench top. This ‘O ring’ compresses when the tap is tightened onto the bench top for a firm fit and to eliminate all movement.

How should I clean my Perrin & Rowe tapware and accessories?

Perrin & Rowe tapware and accessories are made from premium quality brass and then electroplated in a beautiful finish, to a thickness which far exceeds the industry standard. Please follow these cleaning and care instructions in order to maintain the beauty of the product you have selected and to preserve your warranty.

All finishes should only be cleaned with warm water or a non-abrasive liquid soap (a mild dishwashing liquid) that does not contain alcohol and then polished with a clean soft cloth – a microfiber cloth is gentle but effective for cleaning without scratching and may only need to be dampened to clean the product. Under no circumstances should rough, abrasive or acidic cleaners be used.  Do not use harsh abrasives, scouring pads, steel wool or metal cleaners as they may damage the surface.

Chrome is the finish we are all familiar with and may be cleaned with water only or mild soap and water and dried off afterwards.  Although Chrome is a very durable finish, it is always wise to avoid commercial cleaning products which may contain harsh chemicals.

Nickel and Pewter (brushed Nickel) finishes are known as “living finishes” which over time will develop an individual patina, giving it a distinctive classical look.  However nickel finishes do require regular care. It is important to clean nickel finishes after use to prevent tarnishing.  Water should be dried off and prevented from building up and forming hard water spots (which if left can be difficult to remove). Clean Nickel and Pewter with soap and water and a soft cloth as above - the secret is to clean your brassware regularly.  If required, a very light polish with Autosol (available from automotive suppliers) will restore the original sheen.

Gold and English Bronze products should be only cleaned with warm water and washing up liquid.

Bare brass is a natural finish and will age to a rich bronze. It can be cleaned with mild soap and water which will not alter the aging process.  If used in a marine environment the brass may take on verdigris with a greenish tinge for a truly organic look, which will not affect the performance of the product.

Under NO circumstances should a silicone sealant be used when fitting or handling any of our products. If such sealants come into contact with the product, the sealant residue MUST be thoroughly washed immediately.

How can I clean out my spout?

The aeration device fitted to the hot/cold water outlet may need occasional cleaning, especially in hard water areas. This is accomplished by unscrewing the outlet in an anticlockwise direction, dismantling and leaving the inner screen mesh immersed overnight in vinegar or lemon juice. Do NOT use chemical descaling liquids for this purpose.