Skip to main content

Frequently Asked Questions

Got a question about Franke sinks, taps or accessories? Looking to learn more about waste disposal, water filtration or one of our many kitchen products? Search by category or keyword to find your answer below. Can't find what you need? Contact us and we'll be happy to help.

Sinks

Most Franke sinks are reversible and can be installed as right-hand or left-hand drainer.

Where a sink not reversible, for e.g. the NEX621 – the sink will be offered in two models – left and right hand drainer. This will be indicated in the product specification in our brochure. 

The gauge is the thickness of the stainless steel. An easy rule of thumb is, the lower the number of the gauge, the thicker and better the stainless steel. Therefore, 18 gauge is better than 20 gauge. The thicker the steel, the less susceptible it is to denting, bowing and noise transmission from pots and pans hitting the metal surface.

Franke uses nothing but the best when it comes to top quality stainless steel. Franke Sinks vary anywhere from 18 to 20-gauge sinks.

Generally, you will need to purchase a Spazi Plumbing Kit I, II or II with Conversion kit (depending on the number of sink bowls) when ordering your sink with your retailer. 

Yes. Any sink that has a 90mm waste can have a waste disposal unit connected. If your sink has an overflow you may need to purchase a Franke Overflow Connector Hose (Product code: 1330215) available from Franke Customer Support. For assistance on where to purchase these replacement spares - call 031 001 5000 (Option 2 for Warranty, then option 2 again).

You can view more on our Franke Waste Disposal Unit on our YouTube/ channel: https://youtu.be/-4aq3DJs60A

Many Franke sinks come with a Hygienic Overflow, which offers versatility for cleaning. Simple removal of the logo plate reveals the overflow aperture for easy, hygienic cleaning. Most Franke sinks have rigid overflow pipes and can be cleaned by pouring boiling water into them. 

This is often done by utilising one of the cut-out points for the clips along the length of the clip rail. In the case of sliding clips Franke make a hole at the end of the clip rail length where the bond can be accommodated.

An inset sink has a lip that folds over the countertop and is therefore resting on top of the countertop cut out.

Fasteners securely mount an undermount sink underneath the countertop so that a polished edge of granite, marble, etc. is exposed above the sink. An undermount sink cut out requires more polishing and installation labour than an inset sink cut out and is therefore a more expensive option.

Bowl configuration really is a personal preference. If you tend to use a lot of large platters, roasters or pots, a combination bowl sink might be a good choice. An equal sized double bowl is a good wash and rinse model.

Yes. In fact, some stainless-steel sinks look bright and shiny at first, but rust or corrode in time. All stainless-steel sinks are not equal in quality and material content. Look for the best combination of chromium and nickel for superior corrosion resistance and durability.

Look for a rich, deep, satin-smooth finish rather than a surface gloss. The luster comes from machine and hand-finishing operations, which enable the sink to keep its beauty for years - without cracks, chips, rust or stains. Many feel that the look improves with age, taking on a soft patina glow.

The undercoating on your sink absorbs sound, protects against condensation, and helps maintain sink water temperature.

This depends on the worktop, but we would recommend that you seek professional advice. A template and fixing clips are provided in the box. Some circumstances may allow for fitting a bowl directly to the worktop. Alternatively, a plywood template can be made to the size of the sink, which will effectively 'sandwich' the sink flange, when addressed to the underside of the material. We would recommend the use of a sealant between the flange of the sink and the worktop to avoid any water ingress. In all cases you are advised to consult a professional installer.

Most Franke stainless sinks come with a 25-year warranty against manufacturing defects, while Fragranite and Tectonite carry a 5-year warranty. 
For more information on Franke Warranties visit www.franke.com/za/en/home-solutions/support/warranty.html. 

To enable us to process a warranty claim, please ensure you provide us with the following information to avoid any unnecessary delay:

  • Full Contact Name, Address and Telephone Number
  • Proof of Purchase (please attach to email)
  • Photographs showing full product and detail shots showing problem

Please complete the relevant form with this information here.

We would always recommend that you avoid the use of a plastic washing up bowl as this will over time cause the development of regular abrasion marks over the sink's surface.   

No. They trap water causing iron deposits and surface discolouration.

Sample products and swatches are usually on display at your local retailer.

Stainless steel stands up to high, hot, or cold temperatures, along with sudden temperature changes. That means you can drain hot boiling pasta in your sink, followed with a rinse of ice-cold water, without causing any damage to your sink's surface.

If water is left standing anywhere on your stainless-steel sink, it will evaporate and leave a film (spots) on the surface of the steel. This film can be removed with regular dish soap and water and a soft cloth. For removing heavier residue, you may use a mild solution of vinegar and water. Be sure to rinse thoroughly and towel dry.

Sink tip: Regularly rinse and towel dry your sink after use to keep its surface exposed to oxygen. (Oxygen reacts with chromium in the steel to form a strong, highly protective chrome oxide film on the surface of your sink. It is this film that makes stainless resistant to corrosion and gives it a remarkably long life.)

No. Stainless Steel will always scratch (whether it be of Franke's manufacture or competitor) and because of the directional polishing marks on many Franke models the scratching will show up quite dramatically initially. However, with use and cleaning using a proprietary cleaner such as Franke Inox Cream Stainless Steel Cleaner) the stainless steel will eventually build up a patina over the years and the scratching marks will not be as evident. For more information on cleaning Stainless Steel sinks please click here.

Your sink is made from high quality 18/10 chrome nickel steel. That means it’s metallurgically incapable of rusting or corroding in normal household conditions. If rust and corrosion problems do occur, tiny iron particles deposited on the surface will be the culprit. These either come from the water supply or are left behind by wire scouring pads or utensils. It’s essential to clean off these filings and dry the sink thoroughly afterwards. If you let them stick around, they’ll cause rust.  

If you want to remove any rust stains from your products, we recommend using a cleaning agent containing oxalic acid (e.g., Chemico®). Always use mild, non-abrasive cleaning agents such as Franke Stainless Steel Inox Cream Sink Cleaner to remove stubborn stains from your stainless steel and make sure you thoroughly rinse away any cleaning liquids once finished. Oh, one more thing, when cleaning your stainless steel, NEVER USE STEEL WOOL PADS. We, and our stainless steel, thank you in advance.

We would point out that unless the particles are completely removed, they will return. It is therefore very important that after cleaning the sink, it is dried thoroughly - a microfiber cloth is ideal. This process needs to continue until the problem disappears. The problem is sometimes particularly obstinate to remove, and it may take several attempts to restore the sink to its pristine condition.

Discoloration and most marks on stainless steel are caused by water-borne deposits clinging to its surface. One of the best ways to keep your stainless-steel sink in pristine condition is to clean it with a product such as Franke Inox Cream Stainless Steel Cleaner. For more information on cleaning Stainless Steel sinks click here.

You can view a video of how to clean your Franke stainless steel sink on our Franke SA YouTube channel.

Franke Inox Cream Stainless Steel Cleaner is recommended for regular maintenance of stainless-steel sinks. This cleaner is easy to apply; just spread a small amount on a damp cloth and distribute it throughout the sink with minor circular motions. Leave to work for a few moments and rinse with clean water. Afterwards, polish with a dry cloth – a microfiber cloth is ideal.

You can view a video of how to clean your Franke stainless steel sink on our Franke SA YouTube channel.

Do not ever use steel wool, scouring pads, steel brushes, etc. Their particles may become embedded in the sink surface and cause a rusty discolouration.

As a general guide, cut inside the overall frame dimension (by inverting the sink on the worktop) by 8mm all round and always use a 20mm (important!) radius at the corners. Cut out sizes are shown on the specification for each sink. If a template is provided, please use that.

We recommend using a Chasis Punch rather than Hole Saw. Using a hole saw may result in small metal particles being deposited on the sink which can cause discoulouration on the sink surface.  For further info click here.

The 3 basic measurements for comparing sink sizes are:

  • Depth – distance from the top of the rim to the bottom of the sink next to the waste
  • Taper – inward slope of each side of the sink from rim to bottom
  • Radius – measure of the bowl’s corners & bottoms where the sides and bottom meet

The deeper the bowl, the straighter the slope and the tighter (smaller) the radius, the more capacity there is in the sink.

Advanced materials technology makes Fragranite a very tough and resilient self-colour silica resin.

By following our simple care and maintenance guidelines , your sink will bring lasting colour to your kitchen throughout a lifetime of normal usage.

You can view a video of how to clean your Franke Fragranite sink on our Franke SA YouTube channel.

Use a 35mm Diamond Hole Saw Drill Bit (Product Code:1120140)  to drill the pre-drilled taphole from the back of the Fragranite sink.

Please view this video which illustrates the above: https://youtu.be/tUjnin4Hs0o

Tectonite is a combination of three elements: 

  • SMC (Sheet Moulding Compound) 
  • a glass fibre, polyester based carrier material
  • and chemically fused 3rd generation PiMC (Powder In Mould Coating) which gives the sink its colour, heat-, scratch- and wear and tear resistance and a unique granite look texture.

The sink is made by hot compression moulding with hydraulic presses.

Due to its unique coating, Tectonite sinks are resistant to all common liquids etc that are used in the kitchen (tomato sauce, vinegar, red wine etc.). The sink can be cleaned using normal soap and water for daily cleaning. For more throughout cleaning, we recommend Franke Inox Cream cleaner. 

Tectonite can withstand temperatures of up to 300°C for up to 10 seconds. Even though Tectonite is very heat resistant we always advise to use a coaster when putting a hot pan on the sink.

No, Franke sinks are available in the finest stainless steel and granite, and Tectonite, all of which are non-porous.

Taps

Not all spares are available for discontinued Sink Mixers. For more information contact our service agents  at HydroCare for more information:  

Occasionally a heavy tap can 'flex' on some large stainless steel sinks. This can be rectified by your tap being braced, and it is not unusual for people to have this kind of problem with a stainless steel sink is not a problem emanating from the sink or tap being defective in any way.

To brace the tap, you either need a piece of wood or chipboard which can be screwed across the underside of the worktop cut-out and the existing tap can be fixed through a hole in this, or you can utilise a tap brace.

You can purchase a Franke Tap Brace which will provide a solution to the problem of 'flexing' of heavy taps on some stainless steel sink models. Fitting directly to the worktop, the tap brace has a variable collar which fits most models of taps.

Refer to the installation instructions enclosed with your tap. If unavailable:

  • Clean using hot soapy water.
  • Use only a soft cloth and mild detergent.
  • Avoid using scourers or abrasive materials, abrasive detergents, disinfectants, or products containing alcohol, hydrochloric acid or phosphoric acid.

For more information on cleaning your tap click here.

Flow rate can be affected particularly on the hot side of traditional vented plumbing systems.

We do not recommend Franke Mixers in low pressure applications. Franke Mixers require a balanced water system to operate normally.

Check the specification sheet for your particular tap. Generally, they are between 10mm and 15mm.

Normally this is 10 years on the body of the tap and 2 years on the cartridge of the tap. Click here  for detailed information on tap warranties. Warranty valid only on products placed and used in normal domestic situations.

To enable us to process a warranty claim, please ensure you provide us with the following information to avoid any unnecessary delay:

  • Full Contact Name, Address and Telephone Number
  • Proof of Purchase (please attach to email)
  • Photographs showing full product and detail shots showing problem

Please complete the relevant form with this information here.

Franke taps are designed to complement Franke sinks, and not necessarily match exactly.

Powder Coated Coloured Mixers will complement the Franke Fragranit+ and Tectonite sinks, while Stainless Steel taps such as the Atlas Neo Sensor, Saturn Arc & Cube, will complement brushed finish sinks and appliances.

Finishes are durable if cared for correctly – do not use abrasive and damaging cleansers. Warm water and a soft cloth should be all that is needed. 

Accessories

You can easily obtain additional or replacement accessories for your Franke sink from most leading plumbing merchants and retailers, or through HydroCare on 031 001 5000.

Wood is a natural product it is therefore subject to absorbing moisture, and if the quantities of moisture are not equal on both sides it can bow especially so when the product is first used.

However, this can be corrected by wetting the board on both sides and leaving it to dry overnight on a flat surface with the convex side uppermost. This is most conveniently done with the board placed over the bowl, which enables the warp to drop out and as the board gets more use it will eventually stop warping. We also recommend occasional oiling of the board with a good quality vegetable oil, to make the surface more water-resistant. Do not put the board near a heat source and do not put it in direct sunlight to dry.

You may wish to add water to thicker concentrated liquid soaps, in a 1/3 water to 2/ratio to reduce the possibility of clogging. Regular cleaning of the soap dispenser is also recommended.

All of the holes for Franke sink mixers and soap dispensers are 22mm in diameter.

You should avoid anti-bacterial soaps, as these can cause corrosion of your dispenser over time

Please contact HydroCare on 031 001 5000 for assistance on where to purchase these replacement spares.

Franke FilterFlow

Your Franke FilterFlow system will remove and reduce a wide range of possible contaminants from tap water. These include –

  • Chlorine
  • Harmful bacteria and cysts eg Cryptosporidium, Giardia
  • Heavy metals eg lead
  • Other chemicals eg pesticides, herbicides
  • Dirt, sediment, rust and other debris 

Absolutely! Everyone’s water is different, but most people can taste the difference between tap and water filtered using a Franke FilterFlow system immediately. Odours and unpleasant tastes will be gone, sediment, rust or other kinds of dirt will have been trapped by the ceramic in the filter system’s cartridge and you will have protection against harmful bacteria and cysts. It is likely that you will find tea, coffee and other hot drinks much more pleasant. But most importantly, you will enjoy the peace of mind that comes from drinking water that is refreshing and just as nature intended it.

Whatever style of tap you choose, your Franke FilterFlow system will have a stainless steel or durable ABS cartridge housing, which is fitted in the cupboard underneath your kitchen sink. Inside the housing is the unique Franke FilterFlow 03* filter cartridge, which is made from ceramic and carbon. When you use your tap, cold water is diverted through the filter cartridge, removing a wide range of possible contaminants. The filtered water is then ready to be dispensed via your tap.

The cartridge’s ceramic outer shell works to trap dirt, sediment and some types of harmful bacteria – some so microscopic that they are invisible to the human eye. Meanwhile, the cartridge’s inner core of carbon tackles unpleasant odours and tastes – for instance, chlorine.

Ceramic and carbon are proven filtration media and have been used safely for many, many years to effectively filter and cleanse water. By combining high quality micro porous ceramic and solid carbon together into one filter cartridge, the Franke FilterFlow system delivers an enhanced, comprehensive filtration performance that is far superior to many of the domestic filter taps and systems available today.

* Please note, the standard Franke FilterFlow filter cartridge is the Franke 03, which is comprised from both ceramic and carbon. However, due to localised water type, Franke FilterFlow systems supplied to Northern Ireland are likely to use the Franke 04 cartridge, which is made purely from carbon. Depending upon water quality, further alternative Franke FilterFlow cartridges are also available – please contact Franke FilterFlow for details. 

For more information on the Franke FilterFlow system please click here

The Franke FilterFlow system is simple to install – it’s an easy, straightforward job for any plumber. Following installation, all you need to do is maintain the performance of your system is to replace the filter cartridge every 6 months. This is a simple procedure that – thanks to the Franke FilterFlow’s ‘easy-open’ housing and quick-fit cartridge are well within the scope of the average householder. 

The Franke FilterFlow system is remarkably compact. The stainless steel housing measures 29cm high x 7cm wide x 9cm deep, and is usually fitted in the cupboard underneath the kitchen sink. The system’s hoses are similarly neat and unobtrusive – leaving plenty of storage space for all the usual undersink necessities! 

We recommend that filter cartridges should be replaced every 6 months. When you purchase your Franke FilterFlow system, please ensure you register it immediately. Registration can be completed online or by filling in and returning the registration card that is included with every Franke FilterFlow system. Registration will enrol you on the Franke FilterFlow replacement cartridge reminder scheme and extended parts guarantee.

Genuine replacement cartridges for your Franke FilterFlow system can be purchased online at www.frankefilterflow.co.uk, by emailing info@frankefilterflow.com or by calling 01603 875 468. Using official Franke FilterFlow cartridges will ensure both your peace of mind and that your flow of filtered water remains uncompromised. Authentic Franke FilterFlow cartridges are instantly recognisable by their use of patented red caps that are exclusive to Franke. 

It is not possible to use the new Franke FilterFlow cartridges in Franke Triflow systems. However, it is possible to purchase an upgrade kit to replace the plastic or stainless steel housing of an existing Triflow tap with the latest Franke FilterFlow stainless steel housing. This is a complete kit that comprises of the latest stainless steel Franke FilterFlow undersink cartridge housing, stainless steel braided hoses and all connectors. Upgrading your Franke Triflow housing (whether stainless steel or plastic) is simple and straightforward – and will allow you to use quick-change Franke FilterFlow cartridges. 

The Franke FilterFlow 03 filter cartridge supplied as standard with your Franke FilterFlow system will not resolve what are essentially cosmetic concerns relating to water hardness – namely limescale and surface residues on hot drinks. In fact, the standard Franke 03 filter cartridge was designed primarily with health and security in mind and as such, actually retains calcium and magnesium. Both elements are regarded as beneficial for health, not to mention vital contributory factors to pleasant tasting water.

However, we do recognise that for some at least, hard water and limescale can be unpleasant. If you wish to address this, we would suggest changing your Franke FilterFlow system’s cartridge to an Franke 06 ‘Carbon De Alk’ cartridge at your first cartridge change. In addition, please note that the material used to make teabags can contribute to surface ‘scum’ on hot drinks. We recommend using traditional tea leaves and/or teabags that have been especially formulated for hard water areas, such as ‘Tetley’s’. 

Your Franke FilterFlow system relies upon water pressure to push water through the filter cartridge. However, there is no requirement for higher-than-average pressure. A minimum pressure of 1.5 bar / 23 psi is required. On no account should water pressure exceed 6 bar / 90psi.

If you are unsure of your water pressure, a qualified plumber will be able to measure it for you. If it is too low, your plumber will be able to advise you about fitting a small booster pump – or conversely, a suitable pressure reducing pump if the pressure is too high. 

Based on pressure of 3 bar/45 psi, your Franke FilterFlow system should deliver 1 litre of water / per 25 seconds. For optimum performance, we recommend adjusting the stop valve on your system to allow a delivery of 1 litre of water/per 30 seconds. 

Yes – the housing system and components of your Franke FilterFlow are guaranteed for 5 years from the date of purchase. 
Guarantees valid only on products placed and used in normal domestic situations.
For full guarantee details, please contact –

Customer Services
Franke FilterFlow
3 Old Winery Business Park
Chapel Street
Cawston
Norfolk NR10 4FE

Telephone: 01603 875 468
Email: info@frankefilterflow.com
Website: http://www.frankefilterflow.co.uk/
 

Waste Disposers

One of the advantages that the Franke Turbo Elite Permanent Magnet Motor disposers have over standard Induction Motor WDUs is the starting torque - Franke Turbo Elite WDUs are up to full speed within the first revolution.

Most jams occur at start-up because food waste will be stuffed into the disposer until it is full (this is not the correct way to use the disposer but is more reality).

The Franke Turbo's initial high starting torque gives it the advantage to break through the waste already put into the disposer. Under similar conditions an induction motor disposer can jam as it tries to push the waste around while it builds up speed. When the induction type motor cannot push any more and becomes jammed the "Auto Reverse" feature gives the ability for the unit to run in the opposite direction to break away from the jam condition.

You can view videos of Franke Waste Disposal Units our YouTube/UKFranke channel.

As the overflow would normally connect to the Basket Strainer Waste, you need to purchase either a WDU Connector for a single bowl sink, or a WDU Converter for a bowl and a half sink. These can be purchased from our service agents here.

A Franke Turbo Elite Waste Disposal unit consumes roughly the same power in one month to lighting a 100 watt light bulb for one hour, therefore operating costs are relatively low. The high torque fast grinding Franke Turbo units use very little water.

A Batch Feed model is activated by loading the chamber and rotating the WDU plug. Continous Feed models are operated by an Air Switch (or alternative) and waste is fed through the open neck of the unit. In both cases, a continuous supply of water is necessary whilst the WDU is in use. 

Franke Turbo Elite Waste Disposal Units featured on this website carry a 10 year guarantee. This excludes the TE-45 model which carries a 3 year guarantee. For further information see our Guarantee page. 

To enable us to process a guarantee claim, please ensure you provide us with the following information to avoid any unnecessary delay:

  • Full Contact Name, Address and Telephone Number
  • Proof of Purchase (please attach to email)
  • Photographs showing full product and detail shots showing problem

Please complete the relevant form with this information here

The procedure is as follows:

  1. With the disposer mounted on the sink and line cord connected to a wall outlet receptacle, turn "ON" the wall mounted switch.
  2. If the disposer is "OFF", depress air switch actuator to turn the disposer "ON".
  3. With the disposer " ON " pull air switch hose from disposer connectionn and discard air switch actuator and hose.
  4. Turn the disposer "OFF" by turning off the switch, usually controlled by a wall mounted switch.
  5. Operation of disposer is now controlled in a typical manner by the wall mounted switch. 

The Franke air activated control switch button operates continuous feed waste disposal units from a point determined by the consumer, eg on the worktop or possibly even within the sink perimeter.

Air switches are safer than electric switches because they keep the electricity away from the users' hands. The air switch control mechanism usually mounts under the sink (or is incorporated into the Waste Disposal Unit itself), where it remains dry. From the activated control switch button, an air tube connects with the switch controller, which in turn operates the unit.

The benefit is that the operational switch avoids the necessity to have a wall mounted toggle switch (which itself is electrical), and is therefore neater and safer to operate .

Disconnect the tube from the air switch button, then blow down the tube which should engage the waste disposal unit. Reconnect the air switch button.

General FAQs

Please contact our office by email HS-enquiry-fsa.za@franke.com or by telephone on 031 001 5000.

Go to the Brochure page on this site.

Contact our service agents at HydroCare for more information more information.

Please contact us directly using our Contact Form.