by Trevor Woods |
Last Updated: March 16, 2020 If you are about to remodel or do some upgrades in your kitchen, changing the kitchen faucet might be an excellent idea. It doesn’t help the aesthetic or value of your home if you have a corroded or leaky kitchen faucet. But with all of the different faucet makes and models out there, how do you know which kitchen faucet is best for you?
Before you purchase your next kitchen faucet we will show you everything you need to know to make the best buying decision. Most faucets these days come with lifetime warranties, so now is a great time to invest in a quality fixture and improve your kitchen for years to come.
The Importance Of The Kitchen Faucet
Many people do not realize how pivotal a kitchen faucet is to your home. Think about it. You spend hours at the kitchen sink over the course of a week. Preparing food, cleaning dishes, and washing hands to name a few chores. If your kitchen faucet breaks or is out of commission for even a day, the dishes stack up and dinner doesn’t get made!
This is not all. A leaking faucet wastes water and increases your bills. Therefore, you will find it worth the effort to find the best kitchen faucet for your place. Not only to be more water-efficient but it will also add to the aesthetic of your beautiful home.
This is especially true if you have spent an excessive amount of money on home improvements and redoing the interiors of your house. You paid exquisite attention to every nook and corner. However, if you end up neglecting to upgrade your kitchen faucet it will be quite noticeable.
The faucet is the eye-catching centerpiece of your kitchen and when someone visits your house it’s the first thing they will see. If they spot a corroded, out of shape, and leaking faucet, they will get quite a bad impression of your home, and all your effort goes down the drain.
What Makes For A Quality Kitchen Faucet?
A lot of people are confused about what elements make for a quality kitchen faucet. Many factors need to be considered if you want to ensure that you get the right kitchen sink faucet for your home and lifestyle. Let us take a look at the most important features when selecting a new faucet.
Water Flow Rate
When it comes to the kitchen faucet, the flow rate is something that cannot be overlooked. It also needs to be ensured that the flow rate of your kitchen faucet is matched with that of your water lines. The flow rate of most kitchen faucets is 1.5 gallons per minute or more. That’s over a 20% increase in flow than your typical bathroom faucet.
This water power is used to rinse off dishes and fill cooking pots faster than an ordinary faucet. Kitchen faucets are also designed to be optimally efficient compared to other faucets in the house so that water wastage can be minimized.
Spray Heads
Another feature of a good kitchen faucet is its versatility. The faucet should have a suitable spray head, which would offer you more options in terms of usage. Things will become a whole lot more convenient if you can switch between multiple sprays and power options as you blast crud off dishes or gently rinse vegetables.
Design
Sometimes, you are drawn to a particular look of a kitchen faucet. But make certain that it is suitable for your kitchen setup and decore. Perhaps the design clashes with your kitchen interior, or it has some functional issues within the available counter space.
For example, consider how an ultra-modern faucet on a vintage farmhouse sink will look out of place. Or a small featureless faucet would function on a triple compartment stainless steel sink made for serious gourmet chefs.
Therefore, while selecting the kitchen faucet, make sure that you balance the appearance with functionality and opt for something that would not only complement your kitchen but would also provide you with optimal utility.
You can opt for a traditional kitchen faucet that would give your kitchen a classic and vintage look. These faucets are quite simple and yet highly convenient.
Clean styling and simple lines define the Classic series.
Practical and hardworking, this series withstands the test of time.
Transitional kitchen faucets are the other option that you have. They have modern touches to increase efficiency and have a relaxed look to them.
Traditional styling and modern functionality come together in dramatic fashion for a timeless look with the Leland Kitchen Collection.
Lastly, you can get contemporary faucets that are quite modern in terms of design and features and will draw maximum attention.
Who says stylish, high-performance faucets have to break the bank?
Step forward Concetto dual spray pull-down which offers a high-style design and high-tech features in one great value product.
Faucet Cartridges
Faucet cartridges regulate the flow of water while controlling the temperature. New single handle faucets will come equipped with cartridges designed to balance water pressure and prevent scalding.
It is easy to maintain cartridges to make sure that your kitchen faucet continues to function optimally for a long time. And most manufacturers offer free replacement parts for their faucets as part of their lifetime warranty.
The Delta Single-Handle Valve Cartridge features Diamond seal technology.
This cartridge is ideal for single-handle kitchen and lavatory faucets.
Finish
One quality that is crucial when it comes to kitchen faucet’s finish. You will find ample options and the one suitable for you depends on the design and look of your kitchen. No finish appearance works for every home. For instance, a black kitchen faucet might look ravishing in one kitchen but bland in another one.
A lot of people opt for chrome faucets. However, chrome faucets work well only when understated. Stainless or brushed finish faucets are not overly shiny and manage to give quite a sophisticated look to your kitchen. If you are looking to make a statement, opt for an oil rubbed bronze or brass finish for some added pop!
The graceful curves of the Addison Collection provide a delicate beauty that adds a romantic touch to the kitchen.
Whatever color you choose, make sure it is easy to clean. If you have poor water quality, hard water spots will show more on a dark finish like black or bronze as opposed to a chrome or nickel finished faucet.
Features Of Kitchen Faucets
Choosing the perfect kitchen faucet comes down to the features you need and what properly fits your kitchen sink. Let’s take a look at some of the key features you need to consider and why they are important.
Mount
The most important consideration when choosing a new kitchen faucet is where you want to install it. Deciding how the faucet will be mounted will determine the layout of your kitchen sink and the faucet styles available to you. If you are replacing an existing faucet you may be limited to your current sink configuration.
In some cases, like in drop-in sinks, the faucets are mounted on the sink itself. If you have an under-mount sink, you can get a deck mount faucet that is mounted on the countertop.
Another option is wall mount kitchen faucets, which are as the name implies, mounted on the wall directly. They do not need any countertop holes and are stunning on vintage apron front sinks or serve as versatile pot fillers.
This 2-Handle Wall-Mounted Kitchen Faucet in Chrome is an easy and affordable way to update the look of your kitchen.
Its simple design complements a variety of design styles.
While deciding on the faucet, you will need to give attention to projection, height, and clearance. How far the faucet extends over the sink is called projection. To measure this, you need to measure the distance from the base to spout. It needs to be ensured that the faucet extends past the sink wall and adequate enough that every part of the sink can be covered for cleaning and functional purposes.
A lot of kitchen sinks do not have upper cabinets. However, if your faucet is going to be mounted under a cabinet, the clearance has to be measured to ensure that the cabinet does not impede the faucet through its full range of motion. Height is crucial to make certain that you have adequate space to use the faucet to its full potential.
Most new kitchen faucet buyers are not aware that many faucets can be mounted in various configurations. If you are about to add a faucet to a sink, you should first check out the number of holes that the sink has. The faucet will need to match up to these holes.
Designed for drop-in installation to make the sink a focal point of your room.
If you want to opt for a sleek and minimalist look, single-hole faucets are a great option. These have a handle that is mounted on the faucet body directly and allow for one-hand operation.
Clean, soft lines for contemporary kitchens.
This one-handle pull-down faucet is part of our colony soft collection and complements casual-styled kitchens.
If your countertop or sink has multiple holes, you can go for a faucet with separate handles. Usually, three or more holes are required for such faucets, and they have a traditional and elegant look to them.
The eye-catching bridge faucet is acclaimed for its unique architecture that features a two-hole hot and cold intake with a center bridge that connects the inlets with the faucet spout.
If you are considering other options for your sink layout, there are accessories that can increase the functionality and appearance of your kitchen. Soap dispensers are very popular and allow you to always have your favorite detergent on hand without cluttering up your countertop.
Sometimes accessories make all the difference!
Upgrade your kitchen with the convenience and style of a countertop soap dispenser.
Separate hand sprayers, garbage disposal buttons, drinking spigots, and many other extra features can be added or used to fill existing mounting holes. If you have an extra sink hole and don’t know what you want to install right now or simply want to cover it up, you can fill it with a plug cover. You can get covers in a multitude of colors like this one from DANCO:
Discreetly cover sink holes.
Cover up unsightly holes in the sink when the spray head or soap dispenser is not in use.
Faucet configuration can be a tad bit tricky at times. Especially if you consider all the mounting requirements of any extra accessories you want to include in your kitchen. Plan ahead in your design and make sure to check the new kitchen faucet description to avoid any confusion.
Many faucets offer trim options that allow for mounting in a single or three-hole configuration. An additional “deck plate” is included allowing for installing the faucet on either sink layout providing the most mounting versatility.
Number Of Handles
You will also need to decide how you want to turn on your kitchen faucet. Many manufactures create faucet collections that offer the same style of faucet with either two handles or single handle varieties to suit your needs.
Two-handle models provide levers for both hot and cold water which allows for accurate temperature selection. Along with fine-tuned temperature control, two-handle faucets are also quite appealing to look at with their classic and symmetrical profile.
Single-handle faucets are the most popular choice today. The single lever for water control means you do not have to touch the handle excessively to turn the faucet on. This makes for a clean and sleek looking faucet as well as allowing for single-hand operation. You can even use your forearms to turn on the faucet with these if your hands are especially messy!
Both two and single-handle faucets are available in ADA compliant models but single handle faucets are the better choice for those with limited ability or require temperature limits to prevent scalding.
Along with being more accessible, single-handle faucets offer more convenient options than their two handle counterparts. Touch, hands-free, and even voice-activated models are only available in single-handle faucets. The best faucet that we have found that strikes a balance between style and technology is this kitchen faucet from Moen:
Exceptional hands-free convenience!
Arbor's smooth profile is tailored to perfection.
The slight flare of the handle and the curve of the spout make this a transitional look that works with a variety of decorating styles.
Type Of Spray
You can also add a sprayer to the faucet to make it easier to wash dishes and keep the sink clean. A lot of faucets are now provided with a sprayer in the head. However, you can also get a multi-piece set in which a sprayer is available separately. A faucet with a pull-down spray head is quite a convenient option and will make doing the dishes much easier.
While selecting the integrated spray head, there are certain things you need to consider. Quality is of immense value. If the quality of the sprayer is subpar, it will break easily. You also need to make sure that the spray button is ergonomic and easily accessible so that you can change the flow type whenever required. The sprayer should also reach the entire sink for ease of use and maintaining a clean sink.
Components
While it is true that you need to pay attention to the outside of the faucet, the innermost parts warrant consideration as well. You want your kitchen faucet to be highly durable and will last for years to come. You are investing in your kitchen and the center hub of your home.
You will also want to make sure that the faucet has replaceable parts so that the entire faucet does not have to be exchanged if a piece is damaged or broken. Serviceability is a very important factor for those with busy kitchens or large families.
One key part of the faucet is the valve that regulates and controls the flow of water. Metal and ceramic disk valves are quite expensive but are very durable and last longer. These cartridges have two disks inside, which lock together to make sure that no water leaks out when the faucet is turned off.
Cartridge valves and compression valves are another option for kitchen faucet construction. While they offer the same function as their costly counterparts their life expectancy is much less and will cause leaks and require replacement more often.
Durable, reliable, quality engineering and construction.
American Standard products are designed for your busy lifestyle. Parts, hardware and components are engineered to enhance the usage of your American Standard products.
Style
You have a plethora of options when it comes to faucet style. From traditional to contemporary, and everything in between! You will find that we are spoiled when it comes to choosing a stylish kitchen sink faucet.
Traditional faucets have a classical touch to them as they are provided with a great deal of detailing and curves. Contemporary ones are minimalist with a sleek design and do not feature much styling flair.
Taste is subjective but we recommend selecting a faucet that complements the design of your kitchen. An arched cabinet door with ornate pulls lends itself to a traditionally styled faucet, while sleek slab cabinets with minimalist handles would best accompany a modern faucet.
Type Of Faucet
Apart from the standard kinds of kitchen faucets one finds in most homes, you can also consider other options like a culinary faucet, prep faucet, or bar faucet depending on the type of kitchen and layout you have.
From intimate galley kitchens to large gourmet workstations, Align faucets bring a refreshed, modern look to your home.
Our Picks For Best Kitchen Faucet
Finding the best kitchen faucet can be tough, but remember that it’s an investment in your kitchen and your home. The right faucet can save you time, money, and frustration. We have selected the finest faucets based on price, features, and reliability.
Best Budget Kitchen Faucet
The sleek design makes your kitchen room simple and fresh!
This faucet has the most features for the best price. It’s not a big brand name fixture, so it won’t break the bank. Its sleek design will complement the look of most kitchens and its corrosion-resistant finish will stand up to the daily use of a busy home.
The single handle control allows for easy operation and a multi-setting spray lets you pause between stream and spray modes to avoid splashing.
Skip the hassle of calling a plumber, this faucet boasts a 30 minute install time thanks to its easy to connect fittings. It also comes with an escutcheon plate that allows it to be mounted on a single or three-hole sink.
Best Overall Kitchen Faucet
Traditional styling and modern functionality come together in dramatic fashion for a timeless look with the Leland Kitchen Collection.
Lasting twice as long as most kitchen faucets thanks to its Diamond Seal Technology, this faucet will provide you with years of leak-free operation. And backed a Lifetime Limited Warranty you can install this faucet with confidence in your kitchen.
Multiple color and finish options allow you to match your kitchen decor. And this faucet is also available in a touch model if you want to spend a little more.
Everything you need to install this faucet comes in the box and it can be mounted in single or three-hole configurations. Integrated water supply lines make for easy installation and less chance of leaks.
More than just a pretty face, this faucet is a workhorse! The powerful spray will cut through stubborn messes and snap into its magnetic dock after the job is done. The Touch-Clean Spray Holes allow you to easily wipe away hard water deposits making clean up and maintenance a snap.
The features, options, lifespan, and warranty of this Delta faucet make it our best overall choice.
Best Touchless Kitchen Faucet
Exceptional hands-free convenience!
Arbor's smooth profile is tailored to perfection.
The slight flare of the handle and the curve of the spout make this a transitional look that works with a variety of decorating styles.
If you are looking for a high-tech touchless kitchen faucet, this model from Moen provides the simplistic style of a single handle faucet and the convenience of hands-free use. Two motion sensors allow the flow of water to be triggered by a simple hand movement.
Moen’s Power Clean spray technology provides 50% more spray power compared to their standard models. And after you are finished cleaning with the spray head, it securely docks into place thanks to the retractable spray hose.
This tech-savvy faucet is built to last with its outstanding spot resistant finish and backed by a limited lifetime warranty.
Best Pullout Kitchen Faucet
Sophisticated yet refreshingly modern, the Moen Arbor Pullout Kitchen Faucet adds beauty functionality to your space.
The Moen Arbor faucet is perfect for those that want the elegance of a high arched kitchen facet but don’t have the room to accommodate the additional height. Cozy kitchens can have the features of a pullout faucet with sacrificing any extra space.
This faucet is versatile with the option to mount on single or three-hole sinks and countertops. Installation is very easy to complete with integrated hot and cold water lines and a Duralock quick connect spray hose.
A smooth and flexible retractable hose is attached to a powerful spray head. And the stainless finish resists fingerprints and water spots, leaving your faucet always looking its best. Also backed by Moen’s limited lifetime warranty this faucet is an excellent choice for any kitchen.
Taking Care Of Your Kitchen Faucet
Kitchen faucets require regular maintenance if you want to make sure that they last for a long time and do not lose their attractive appearance.
Daily Maintenance
Faucets do not require much in regards to daily care. All that you need is to clean the faucet regularly with soap and damp cloth, then dry it with a soft cloth, and your work is done!
This minor exercise will make sure that the shine of your kitchen faucet is retained for years to come. Refrain from using harsh and abrasive cleaners as this can be damaging to the finish of the faucet.
It might be a good idea to read the usage directions and warnings of the cleaning products before you apply them. For instance, faucets that have a matte finish might need liquid furniture polish when you are cleaning them. If you are testing out a new cleaner, try it in an inconspicuous spot first before applying to the entire faucet.
Lime-A-Way cleaner with Turbo Power destroys Lime, Calcium & Rust.
Removes the toughest limescale in seconds without scrubbing!
Get Rid Of Deposits
A lot of houses have hard water which can be problematic for your kitchen faucet. Hard water leaves unsightly mineral and lime deposits on the faucet and spray head. It is vital that you remove these deposits before they clog faucet sprayers or tarnish the finish.
However, do not use coarse sponges for scrubbing them off, this can damage the finish of the faucet. Sometimes, a specialized cleaner might be needed to get rid of accumulated or hard to remove deposits. Just be cautious that the cleaner is not too caustic causing corrosion to your faucet.
When in doubt, you can always try a
The all-natural alternative!
Derived naturally from corn grown in the USA. Use all-natural vinegar for cleaning, deodorizing, gardening, laundry, chrome polishing, grease removal, and more!
Faucet Maintenance
If you invest in a quality kitchen faucet, there is little you will need to do for maintenance and repairs. And high-quality brands usually provide you with a list of precautions that you should adhere to if you want the faucet to flow for a long time with optimal functionality.
Tiny components in the faucet experience wear and tear over time and will need to be replaced after a given period of use. This will become apparent when your faucet starts to drip or leak from the spout. But most brands offer a lifetime warranty of their faucets, including parts, so you do not have to worry if a part of the faucet is gets damaged.
Many homeowners usually prefer entrusting the job of faucet maintenance to plumbers, but these are things you can manage yourself. Simply contact the faucet company’s customer care department with your faucet’s model and serial number and they will be happy to send you replacement parts for free!
Conclusion
The best kitchen faucet for you depends on the interior of your kitchen, it’s layout, and the available space you have to work with. Your budget will also play a crucial role in making your decision. Try not to compromise quality to save some money on something your household requires every day. Good isn’t always cheap and cheap isn’t always good.
If you follow our guide and invest money on a high-quality and durable faucet, you will be rewarded with years for worry-free use for years!
Happy Plumbing!
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