Bath taps - 3/4 inch to 1/2 inch - bath fill time

Switching from 22mm (which is roughly 3/4 inch) pipes to 1/2 inch taps on a gravity-fed system can definitely slow down how quickly your bath fills. The smaller 1/2 inch inlet size restricts the flow compared to 3/4 inch, so you’ll notice the bath taking longer to fill. However, most bath taps on the market are 1/2 inch because that’s a standard size and usually works fine for typical gravity systems. If you want a faster fill time, you could look for taps with larger inlets or consider fitting taps designed specifically for gravity-fed systems that might have bigger internal passages. But generally, the difference isn’t huge, and 1/2 inch taps will still work—you’ll just get a slightly slower fill. If filling speed is really important, you might want to ask your plumber about options, but most people find 1/2 inch taps acceptable for gravity-fed baths.

Yes, this is the most accurate and professional response. In a gravity-fed system, water pressure is naturally low, so pipe and tap size directly affect flow rate. Reducing from 22 mm pipe to a 1/2 inch (approx. 15 mm) tap can significantly slow down the filling time of a bath, especially given the high volume of water required. While 1/2 inch taps are common nowadays, most are designed for high-pressure systems and may not perform well with gravity-fed setups. In your case, it’s very likely you’ll notice a weaker flow. However, factors like pipe length, vertical drop (head height), and internal tap design also influence performance. That’s why the most reliable approach is to assess the system on site, so the right tap type or possible alternatives can be chosen accurately.