Dimensions and connections of Schütte taps – what you need to know before buying

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Dimensions and connections of Schütte taps – what you need to know before purchasing

One of the most common mistakes customers make when ordering a tap is focusing exclusively on design and price – and completely overlooking the technical connection parameters. Result? The tap arrives, the plumber comes, and it turns out that the distance between the connections does not match, the thread is wrong, or the mounting hole in the sink has a different diameter. We repeatedly encounter such situations, and in most cases they could have been avoided by reading a few parameters in the product sheet.

This article is precisely for that – to thoroughly explain what dimensions and types of connections are used in Schütte taps, what each value means in practice, and how to verify compatibility before you click „Add to cart“. If you are also interested in which type of Schütte tap is suitable for your bathroom space, we recommend the article Which type of Schütte tap is suitable for your bathroom space, where we focus on space planning and selection according to specific applications.

Thread connection to the water supply – basics you must know

Every tap connects to the plumbing system via threaded connections. In European countries, including Slovakia, the standard is the so-called BSP thread (British Standard Pipe), also marked as G thread or Whitworth pipe thread. This thread has a specific 55° profile angle, distinguishing it from the metric thread M and from the NPT thread used in the USA.

In practice, you will encounter only two sizes of this thread in Schütte bathroom and kitchen taps:

G 1/2" (inch) – external thread (AG): This is by far the most widespread standard. Water inlets for basin, bath, shower, and kitchen taps are almost always G 1/2" AG. The external thread diameter is 20.955 mm, with a pitch of 14 threads per inch.
G 3/4" – external thread: Less common, used in bath taps with higher flow or in some external outlets. The external thread diameter is 26.441 mm.

Corner valves (so-called eckventiles), to which the tap is connected, have the corresponding internal thread (IG). If your plumbing is routed through G 1/2" IG corner valves and the tap has G 1/2" AG inlets, the connection is direct and trouble-free. Problems arise when someone previously installed a supply with a different thread or when the old plumbing still uses a different standard.

Center distance between connections – key dimension when replacing

If you are buying a tap for a new sink or bath without an existing plumbing system, you have more freedom – the plumber will adjust the connections to the selected model. However, if you are replacing an existing tap and the plumbing (corner valves) is already built into the wall or under the sink, you must respect the fixed center distance between the connections.

The center distance between connections is the distance (in millimeters) between the centers of the cold and hot water inlets. In Europe, the following values are de facto standard:

150 mm: European standard for basin taps, sinks, and kitchen taps. Practically all Schütte basin taps are designed for a 150 mm center distance. Sometimes it is listed as „100–150 mm“ – in this case, it refers to taps with flexible inlets that allow some tolerance.
150 mm or 200 mm: Wall-mounted bath taps. It depends on the specific model and the year of installation. Older installations in Slovakia may have 200 mm, while newer buildings standardly use 150 mm.
Variable / flexible inlets: Many modern Schütte taps are supplied with flexible steel braided hoses 300–500 mm long, which allow compensation of deviations of ±20–30 mm from the nominal value.

From practice: when replacing a tap in a panel apartment from the 80s, we often encounter a 200 mm center distance, which is larger than today's standard. The solution is either to use a bath tap with a 200 mm center distance (available) or to use an extension coupling. Never cut or bend existing copper pipes by force – a pipe break behind the wall is very unpleasant and expensive.

Mounting hole in the sink – diameter and type of fastening

Another dimension that is often overlooked: the diameter of the mounting hole in the sink, basin, or bath. The tap is usually installed directly through a hole in the ceramic or stainless steel basin, and it is fastened with a mounting washer from below. Standard values:

32–35 mm hole diameter: Typical for single-hole bathroom faucets (single-lever and double-lever in square design). The faucet has a "foot" with a diameter of 30–33 mm, which is inserted into the hole and fixed by a compression nut.
52–58 mm hole diameter: Sometimes found in older bathtub faucets with a larger base or in special designs.
Tromot (triple-hole installation) – 3× hole 32–35 mm: For sinks with three holes (one for the faucet, two for separate hot and cold water levers or for decorative covers). Schütte faucets in this configuration are less common, but they do exist.

If you are buying a faucet for a new sink, we recommend choosing them together – the sink to the faucet or vice versa – and verifying that the holes match. Buying a faucet for a sink without checking the hole spacing is an unnecessary risk.

Length of the mounting thread (faucet neck)

The faucet neck is the part of the faucet body with an external thread, onto which a rubber washer, a support washer, and a compression nut are mounted. Its length determines the maximum thickness of the countertop (ceramic + possible filling compound) that the faucet can span. Common values:

Neck 40–60 mm: Standard for classic ceramic sinks with a wall thickness of 10–20 mm.
Neck 80–100 mm: For thicker countertop slabs or granite basins with a wall thickness of 30–50 mm.
Extended neck / extension nut: If the faucet neck is not long enough, there are plastic or brass extension nuts that can increase the length by 10–30 mm. This solution is fully functional, but it is important to ensure proper sealing.

Types of connection according to the faucet location

Schütte offers faucets for various installation locations, each with its own connection design. It is important to distinguish whether it is a wall-mounted, sink-mounted, bathtub, or shower tray faucet.

Sink faucets (single-hole)

The most common type. The faucet is installed from above into a single hole in the sink. The water connection is solved by flexible supply lines (stainless steel braided with an internal EPDM or rubber hose), which end directly at the supply and compression nut under the sink. The supply thread is G 1/2" AG, the angle valve is G 1/2" IG. The spacing of the flexible supply lines is usually 150 mm, but the flexibility of the hoses compensates for deviations of ±20–25 mm.

Wall-mounted faucets (two-connection)

The faucet body is hidden or mounted directly on the wall, and the connections lead directly into the wall or into angle valves in the wall. The spacing is fixed (150 or 200 mm) and there is no room for compensation with flexible hoses – it must fit exactly. Therefore, checking the spacing is absolutely critical for wall-mounted faucets. Schütte wall-mounted faucets usually have cover plates that hide minor deviations from the wall grid, but this solution only addresses aesthetics, not functional dimensions.

Bathtub faucets

They can be either wall-mounted (described above) or mounted on the so-called bathtub rim (rim-mounted). Bathtub faucets also have an outlet for a hand shower – a hose outlet with a G 1/2" thread for the shower hose. The length of the bathtub faucet outlet (from the body to the end of the outlet) is important: for freestanding bathtubs, the outlet must safely reach over the edge of the tub, which in some models means an outlet length of 200–250 mm.

Shower faucets and thermostatic faucets

Schütte shower faucets are mounted on the wall and are supplied in the same way through the wall distribution. The hose outlet has a G 1/2" thread. Thermostatic faucets may also have an outlet for a fixed overhead rain shower (G 1/2" or G 3/4") and a separate outlet for a hand shower. The spacing of the connections is again 150 mm (European standard). Some Schütte thermostatic faucets are designed for a pressure of 0.5–5 bar and a maximum inlet water temperature of 75 °C.

Water pressure and flow – parameters that influence selection

Dimensions and threads are a necessary condition for functionality, but not the only one. Schütte taps are designed for specific pressure ranges, and not adhering to them can lead to either water leakage or weak flow.

Minimum and maximum working pressure

Standard Schütte taps are certified for a working pressure of 0.5 to 10 bar. In most Slovak apartments and houses, the working pressure ranges between 2.5–4.5 bar, which is optimal. In detached houses connected directly to a well with a pressure pump, the pressure may be lower (1.5–2.5 bar) – in such cases, it is necessary to verify whether the tap reliably flows at low pressure. Thermostatic taps usually have a minimum pressure of 1 bar or higher.

Problems also arise at excessively high pressure (over 6–7 bar), which exists in some panel buildings without a pressure-reducing valve. Such pressure shortens the lifespan of seals and cartridges. If you suspect high pressure, install a pressure-reducing valve before the taps.

Flow rate (l/min)

Flow rate depends on pressure and the internal construction of the cartridge. Standard Schütte basin taps achieve a flow rate of 8–12 l/min at 3 bar pressure. Kitchen taps with higher comfort achieve 10–15 l/min. Bathtub taps achieve 15–20 l/min. If you want to learn more about different types of cartridges and their influence on flow rate, we recommend the article Replacing seals and cartridges in Schütte taps – procedure and tips.

Material and surface finish – how they influence dimensional tolerances

Schütte taps are made of brass (a copper and zinc alloy) with a surface finish. The most common finish is electroplated chrome. The brass body ensures precise thread dimensions and long service life without internal corrosion. It is important to realize that the G 1/2" thread on a brass tap is a different category from a cheap thread on a plastic body – brass holds tolerances much more precisely and does not tear when tightened.

Alternative surface finishes offered by some Schütte series include matte chrome, black matte (PVD coating), and gold surface finish. These finishes do not change functional dimensions, but they can affect the thickness of the tap body – in installation in very tight spaces (cabinets under the sink without legs), this can be relevant.

Flexible supply hoses – length, diameter, and material

Most Schütte taps are supplied with flexible supply hoses (so-called flexi). These hoses connect the angle valve (G 1/2" IG) with the tap inlet (G 1/2" AG or G 1/2" IG depending on the design). The decisive parameters are:

Hose length: Standard is 300 mm or 450 mm. For high basin taps or distant angle valves, 600 mm and 900 mm hoses are available. Choose the length so that the hose does not form a sharp bend – a bend under 90° shortens the lifespan.
Outer braid: Stainless steel (AISI 304 or 316). Protects the inner EPDM or rubber hose from mechanical damage and UV light. Stainless steel braid is standard for Schütte.
Working pressure of the hose: At least the same as the working pressure of the tap – that is 10 bar. Quality hoses are tested at 25 bar (safety factor).
Temperature: Standard flexible hoses are certified for a medium temperature up to 90 °C. For connection to a hot water storage tank (60–80 °C), this is sufficient.

If the tap is not supplied with hoses or if you need a longer variant, it is good to know that hoses G 1/2" × G 1/2" (IG × IG) or G 1/2" × G 3/8" (depending on the angle valve) are available as accessories. Note: some angle valves in older apartments have G 3/8" IG, which requires an adapter or a matching hose.

Traps, drains, and other dimensions of related fixtures

When selecting a tap, it is practical to also consider related components, as their dimensions can influence overall functionality.

Outlet height and trap

The tap outlet (also called a spout or spout arm) must be long and high enough so that water falls into the center of the sink or basin and does not splash on the sides. The height of the outlet above the rim of the basin depends on the depth of the basin and the user's comfort. For standard 40–50 cm wide basins, an outlet height of 90–120 mm above the rim is comfortable. For deep sinks or in restaurant kitchens, outlets with a higher lift of 180–250 mm are suitable.

The trap is not directly related to the tap, but if you are replacing the tap and the basin at the same time, check the position of the basin's drain hole in relation to the position of the waste pipe in the wall or floor. The tap should not hinder access to the trap.

Length of shower hoses

For Schütte bathtub taps equipped with a handheld shower, the hose is part of the package. The standard length is 150 cm. For more comfortable use (combined bathtub and shower) or for larger shower areas, hoses of 200 and 250 cm are available. The hose thread is G 1/2" IG on both ends – this is the European standard and fits all Schütte taps.

How to correctly measure an existing installation before ordering

The most reliable way to avoid compatibility issues is to directly measure the existing installation before ordering. The procedure we recommend to customers:

Measure the distance between the angle valves: Use a sliding caliper or ruler. Measure from the center axis of one angle valve to the center axis of the other. Record the value in millimeters (typically 150 or 200 mm).
Verify the thread of the angle valve: By sight, or by test threading. Most angle valves in apartment buildings are G 1/2" IG. If you are unsure, note the outer diameter of the visible part of the valve outlet (approx. 21 mm = G 1/2", approx. 27 mm = G 3/4").
Measure the sink hole: Use a sliding caliper to measure the diameter of the hole (should be 32–35 mm for standard sinks).
Measure the thickness of the countertop surface: Ceramic + any gasket or sealing material. This value determines the required length of the spout.
Measure the available height under the sink: Important for flexible hoses – there must be space for manipulation.

These measurements take 5 minutes and will save hours of complications. When a customer comes with these numbers, we can clearly recommend the correct model. If you are unsure how to interpret the measured values, our article How to choose Schütte taps – what to pay attention to will help you, where we go through the selection criteria step by step.

Compatibility with pressure and storage water heaters

A special section deserves the topic of connecting taps to pressure or non-pressure storage water heaters. The difference is fundamental and is often confused by customers.

Pressure storage tank (closed system)

Most modern hot water storage heaters (boilers) operate as a pressure-closed system – this means the pressure in the tank is the same as the pressure in the water supply (typically 2.5–4.5 bar). Any standard Schütte tap can be connected to such a tank without special modifications. The spacing and threads are the same as in a standard plumbing system.

Non-pressure storage tank (open system)

Non-pressure tanks (some smaller flow heaters, older types of "boiler under the sink") operate at atmospheric pressure and supply water only by gravity. A standard mixing tap cannot be connected directly to such a system – a special tap for non-pressure tanks (marked as "Einhebelmischer für drucklose Speicher" or equivalent) is required. These taps have a different outlet construction, which is open and prevents water from being pushed back into the tank.

If you are unsure what type of tank you have, check its type plate – look for the terms "Druckfest" (pressure) or "drucklos" (non-pressure). Connecting a standard tap to a non-pressure tank can cause the tank to burst or improper operation of the temperature regulation.

Standards and certifications – what they guarantee

Schütte taps are certified according to European standards, which guarantee a minimum level of quality and safety for the customer. For the technical part, the following standards are particularly relevant:

EN 200: Standard for single and double lever taps for cold and hot water at static pressures up to 1 MPa (10 bar). Includes requirements for flow, pressure, thread tightness, and durability.
EN 1111 and EN 1287: For thermostatic taps.
DIN EN ISO 228-1: Standard describing the G thread system (BSP), used in all Schütte taps.
WRAS (UK) / KTW (DE): Certifications for the hygienic safety of materials in contact with drinking water. Schütte brass body and EPDM seals meet these criteria.

From the customer's point of view, it is important that certified taps have guaranteed dimensional tolerances of the threads – G 1/2" means G 1/2" according to the standard, not some exotic variant. This is the difference compared to low-quality products from unknown sources, where the threads may differ and the sealing never fits properly.

Practical scenarios from practice – what really happens

Scenario 1: Replacing a sink tap in a panel building from the 90s

The customer wants to replace an old double lever tap with a modern single lever Schütte tap. The distance between the angle valves under the sink is 150 mm – that is fine, the standard fits. Problem: the old installation has angle valves with G 3/8" IG (older installation with a smaller thread). Solution: purchase a G 3/8" IG → G 1/2" AG adapter or replace the angle valves (better flexibility). Adapters are available for a few euros and an plumber can replace them in a few minutes. The tap then fits perfectly.

Scenario 2: Bathtub tap in an old house with 200 mm spacing

House from 1975, wall-mounted bathtub tap, 200 mm spacing of the connections. The customer chooses a modern bathtub tap Schütte with 150 mm spacing. The tap arrives, the connections are 25 mm closer to each other on each side – the hoses are not long enough. Solution: either find a bathtub tap with 200 mm spacing (available on the market, but the selection is limited), or have the plumber move the plumbing (larger intervention). Conclusion: always measure before ordering.

Scenario 3: Kitchen tap with an extended spout for a granite sink

The customer has a granite sink with a wall thickness of 45 mm. A standard kitchen tap has a spout length of 40 mm – it is not enough. Solution: either buy a tap with an extended spout of 60–80 mm (some models), or use an extended brass coupling that increases the functional length of the spout by 20–30 mm. Both are functional solutions. Important: the gasket under the base of the tap must be properly sealed, otherwise water will drip under the tap onto the sink surface.

Scenario 4: Thermostatic tap and cold floor pipe

During the installation of a thermostat for a shower, the customer found out that the cold water supply runs along the outside wall and in winter the water is significantly cold (6–8 °C). The thermostatic tap compensates for this automatically – it maintains the set temperature regardless of fluctuations in the input. It is important, however, that both inputs (hot and cold) have a similar pressure – the difference should not be more than 20–30 % of the nominal pressure. If the difference is higher, the installation of a balancing valve is recommended. More about complications related to pressure and temperature can be found in the article Common Schütte tap problems – dripping, stiff lever, weak pressure.

Table – overview of key dimensions by type of Schütte tap

Type of tap	Supply thread	Connection spacing	Ø mounting hole	Type of connection
Single lever sink tap	G 1/2" AG	150 mm (flex ±20)	32–35 mm	flexible hoses from below
Double lever sink tap	G 1/2" AG	150 mm	32–35 mm (×2 al. ×3)	flexible hoses from below
Wall-mounted bathtub tap	G 1/2" AG	150 or 200 mm	–	directly into the wall
Standing kitchen tap	G 1/2" AG	150 mm (flex)	32–35 mm	flexible hoses from below
Wall-mounted shower tap	G 1/2" AG	150 mm	–	directly into the wall
Thermostatic shower tap	G 1/2" AG	150 mm	–	directly into the wall

Most common mistakes when choosing by dimensions – quick summary

Not measuring the distance between the connections – the most common mistake, leads to the need to return the product or improvised solutions.
Mixing up G 3/8" and G 1/2" – older plumbing may have a smaller thread; without an adapter, the faucet won't fit.
Ignoring the length of the tailpiece – with thick granite or stone countertop slabs, a standard tailpiece is not sufficient.
Selecting a faucet with a fixed distance for a plumbing system with a different distance – this applies especially to wall and tub faucets.
Mixing up pressure and non-pressure faucets – when connecting to a non-pressure tank, this is a functional, not just a dimensional issue.
Purchasing too short hoses – when replacing with a model with a longer tailpiece or in deeper space under the sink.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between G 1/2" and G 3/8" thread and how can I tell them apart?

G 1/2" has an external thread diameter of 20.95 mm and is today's European standard for bathroom and kitchen faucets. G 3/8" has an external thread diameter of 16.66 mm and can be found on some angle valves in older installations. You can tell them apart by sight or by measuring the external diameter of the visible part of the thread. If in doubt, use a millimeter ruler. If the angle valve has G 3/8" and the faucet has G 1/2", you will need a G 3/8" AG to G 1/2" IG adapter (commonly available in any plumbing store).

Can I connect a Schütte faucet to a plumbing system with a 200 mm spacing if the faucet has a 150 mm spacing?

Not directly – rigid connections would not fit. If you have flexible hoses of sufficient length (at least 400–500 mm) with the faucet, you can compensate for the difference by bending the hoses, although a 50 mm difference is on the edge of what a standard hose can handle without a sharp bend. A safer solution is to look for a tub faucet with a 200 mm spacing or have a plumber move the plumbing.

What does the "faucet tailpiece" mean and how can I determine if it is long enough for my sink?

The faucet tailpiece is the lower cylindrical part of the faucet body that passes through the hole in the sink and has an external thread for the mounting nut. Its functional length must be at least equal to the thickness of the sink material (ceramic + possible gasket and washer). Measure the thickness of the edge of the hole in the sink with a caliper. If the thickness is 15 mm, a 40 mm tailpiece is sufficient. If the thickness is 45 mm (granite countertop), you need a 60 mm tailpiece or an extension nut.

What length of flexible supply hoses should I choose?

Standard 300 mm is sufficient if the angle valves are directly under the faucet at a distance of 20–30 cm. For deeper cabinet sink units, rim-mounted sinks, or when the angle valves are distant, choose 450 mm, or even 600 mm hoses. Hoses should not be unnecessarily long (folding and "snake-like" arrangement under the sink is undesirable) or too short (a taut hose is under pressure and can burst).

Do I need to replace the angle valves when replacing an old faucet with a Schütte faucet?

Do you have a question about this topic?

Having trouble deciding or dealing with a specific situation in your home? Write to us – we are happy to help.