Developed and made in Switzerland by Franke, the water filter system features pioneering and patented technology. It is the first ever filter system to combine activated carbon with a high-tech membrane filtering water through 0.3 micrometer pore holes, almost 100 times finer than a human hair, setting the new standard for filtered drinking water.
The tiny 35 x 70mm filter cartridge is housed in an ergonomically designed metal capsule that is integral to the tap. Unlike all other models on the market, there is no filter system under the sink, saving valuable cupboard space and offering super- easy cartridge replacement by twisting the capsule open and popping in a new one.
Cold mains water is filtered as it runs through the capsule which is operated by turning a dedicated control lever. 500 litres of filtered water will be dispensed before a discreet LED light indicates the filter cartridge needs changing.
The sophisticated triple filter process removes 99.9% of bacteria and viruses, together with rust, pesticides, hormones, chlorine and even microplastics, while retaining all beneficial minerals such as calcium, magnesium and fluoride. The filter is also self-disinfecting thanks to embedded anti-microbial properties.
Premium design matches the premium technology with the Vital Capsule filter tap range available in a choice of three styles: a compact dedicated single dispense; a 3-in-1 J-Spout and a 3-in-1 Semi-Pro with a flexible hose and spray function. Reflecting the vogue for metal finishes, all models are available in two tactile combinations of Chrome with a Gunmetal capsule or Matt Black with a SilkSteel capsule.
The tap is installed with the same ease as any standard tap with hot and cold mains plumbing. An optional Chiller Unit can be connected for 5-12⁰C filtered water. Replacement filters cost £75 for a set of three and can be purchased online via Franke’s website, www.franke.co.uk. Tap prices range from £349 for the single dispense model, £449 for a dual lever model to £749 for the premium Semi-Pro option in the Chrome and Gunmetal finish.
The Vital Filter tap has recently won a prestigious Red Dot Design Award in the Kitchen Sinks and Taps category in the 2019 ceremony that recognises products which display a combination of outstanding design, functionality, quality and innovation.
Says Neil Clark, managing director of Franke UK: “Innovation and design is at the heart of everything we do at Franke so that our products are a pleasure to use in everyday life. Through its meticulous development and patented technology, we can genuinely say that our Vital Capsule taps are a world-first and will dispense the purest filtered drinking water compared to any other product on the market. With the rising awareness to eliminate single-use plastic bottles, and the growing wellbeing trend to stay healthy and hydrated, we see enormous potential for filtered taps.”