EU EN Standards: Flow Rate and Rating
[2025-10-26] | By Xiamen Smart Water Technology Co., Ltd. Allen Huang
Menu:
- Introduction: Why Flow Rate Standards Matter
- Understanding EN Flow Rate Testing
- Key EN Standards Explained
EN200 (Single Lever & Combination Tap)
EN1111 (Thermostatic Mixer Tap)
5. How EU Standards Affect 5 in 1 Kitchen Tap Design
6. FAQ: Common Questions About Flow Rate & Standards
7. Partner with Xiamen Smart Water Technology
When you turn on a tap, you expect a steady, reliable flow of water-neither too weak nor wasteful. That's where EU EN standards come in. These standards define how water flow and pressure are tested to ensure safety, comfort, and efficiency.
For manufacturers like Xiamen Smart Water Technology Co., Ltd., compliance with EN standards isn't just about ticking boxes-it's about delivering high-performance 5 in 1 kitchen taps that meet European quality expectations.
The flow rate represents how much water passes through a faucet or system in a specific time (usually measured in liters per minute at a set pressure).
EU EN standards require tests under controlled pressures-typically 0.3 MPa (3 bar)-to simulate real household conditions. Different tap types (bath, basin, shower, or kitchen) have unique flow rate expectations based on their function.
Below is a simplified breakdown of major EN standards used for testing water flow and performance:
EN817: Mechanical Mixer Tap (PN10)
Applies to mechanical mixing taps for bathrooms and kitchens.
Testing includes measuring flow under 3 bar pressure, alternating between cold and hot water.
| Application | Type | Flow Rate (L/min) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basin, sink, bidet | Water-saving | 4.0–9.0 | Balanced efficiency |
| Basin, sink, bidet, shower | Non-saving | 12.0 | High flow use |
| Bathtub | Non-saving | 19.0 | Full pressure |
| Cold/Hot water | - | 20.0 | Max output |
| Pull-out spray | - | ≥9.0 | Minimum standard |
EN200: Single Lever and Combination Tap (PN10)
Covers single-handle and combination taps used in bathrooms and kitchens.
| Application | Type 1 (3 bar) | Type 2 (0.1 bar) |
|---|---|---|
| Basin/Bidet | 4.0 | 2.0 |
| Bath | 19.0 | 15.0 |
| Kitchen sink | 9.0 | 6.0 |
| Shower | 9.0 | 6.0 |
EN1111: Thermostatic Mixer Tap (PN10)
Tests thermostatic taps between 34°C–44°C, ensuring stable temperature and efficient flow.
| Application | Water-Saving | Non-Saving |
|---|---|---|
| Basin, sink, bidet | 4.0–9.0 | 9.0 |
| Shower | 4.0–12.0 | 12.0 |
| Bathtub | - | 20.0 |
EN1112: Shower Heads
Determines flow classification for showers under different pressures.
| Class | Flow (L/s) | Flow (L/min) | Pressure |
|---|---|---|---|
| ZZ | 0.025–0.12 | 1.5–7.2 | 3 bar |
| Z | 0.12–0.20 | 7.2–12 | 3 bar |
| A | 0.20–0.25 | 12–15 | 3 bar |
| S | 0.25–0.33 | 15–20 | 3 bar |
| B | 0.33–0.42 | 20–25 | 3 bar |
EN1113: Shower Hoses
Measures hose water flow at 30°C under standard pressure.
| Class | Flow Rate (L/min) | Pressure |
|---|---|---|
| Class 1 | ≥25.2 | 3 bar |
| Class 2 | 12–25.2 | 3 bar |
| Class E | 3.6–10.8 | 0.1 bar |
| Class H | ≥10.8 | 0.1 bar |
EN246: Aerators
Specifies flow limits for aerators at 0.3 MPa (3 bar).
| Class | Flow (L/min) |
|---|---|
| Z | 7.5–9.0 |
| A | 13.5–15.0 |
| S | 18.0–19.8 |
| B | 22.8–25.2 |
| C | 27.0–30.0 |
| D | 34.8–37.8 |
Here's a quick summary comparing flow rate expectations across various EN standards:
| Component | Standard | Pressure (bar) | Flow Range (L/min) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mixer Tap | EN817 | 3 | 4–20 |
| Single Lever | EN200 | 3 / 0.1 | 2–19 |
| Thermostatic Tap | EN1111 | 3 | 4–20 |
| Shower Head | EN1112 | 3 / 0.1 | 1.5–25 |
| Shower Hose | EN1113 | 3 / 0.1 | 3.6–25 |
| Aerator | EN246 | 3 | 7.5–37.8 |
At Xiamen Smart Water Technology Co., Ltd., every 5 in 1 kitchen tap is designed and tested to comply with EU EN flow rate standards. These regulations ensure:
- Efficient water use without compromising performance.
- Stable flow across all five water modes (hot, cold, boiling, chilled, and filtered).
- Durability and safety under long-term use.
- Compatibility with European plumbing systems and sustainability policies.
By aligning with EN817, EN200, and EN1111, our taps deliver a balance of comfort, performance, and eco-friendly efficiency-ideal for modern European kitchens.
Q1: Why do flow rate standards matter for kitchen taps?
They guarantee consistent water pressure and help reduce water waste while ensuring your tap meets European safety and performance requirements.
Q2: Are all 5 in 1 kitchen taps required to follow EN standards?
Yes. For markets within the EU, compliance with EN standards like EN817 and EN200 is essential for safety certification and product approval.
Q3: What's the ideal flow rate for a kitchen tap?
Typically between 7–9 L/min for everyday kitchen use. Water-saving designs may go as low as 4 L/min without sacrificing comfort.
Q4: How does flow rate affect performance?
A higher flow rate means faster filling and cleaning, while optimized rates reduce splashing and water waste-important for both homes and hospitality settings.
Looking for a reliable ODM manufacturer for your branded 5 in 1 kitchen tap or under-sink drinking water system?
Xiamen Smart Water Technology Co., Ltd. supplies top international brands with EN-compliant, high-performance kitchen taps and complete water solutions.
👉 Contact us today to discuss ODM partnerships, distribution opportunities, or bulk orders.
Visit: www.kitchenwatertap.com