An imperfect or dysfunctional kitchen faucet can be aggravating, so if it’s time for a different faucet, how do you know what factors are most important when choosing your new one? We’ve got that information, so we can share with you how to choose a kitchen faucet.
A good quality kitchen faucet will typically last fifteen years or more. You know a kitchen faucet is nearing the end of its usefulness if it needs constant repairs like having repeated leaks occurring, or if it has significant sediment or rust buildup. In these cases, you will be better off replacing your faucet.
What Should I Look For When Buying A Kitchen Faucet?
If you’re looking to replace a faucet, the first thing you need to know is what type of sink you have. Unless you have a rare wall-mounted faucet, sinks come with between one and four holes for the faucet and potential add ons. Single-hole kitchen sinks will mean you need either a single-handle faucet or one with a base-wide enough to cover any unused holes. You also need to consider the “arc” of the faucet based on the size of your sink. A smaller sink needs a smaller “arc” no matter how tall the faucet is so that the water goes where you want it to inside the sink.
You are probably going to want to consider form, function, and quality when making your choice.
As far as form goes, there are many styles and finishes. There are different metals like chrome, bronze, stainless steel, copper, or gold, and they each come with options for brushed, matte, or shiny metal, or even plastic options in color. You will be able to select the right finish and style for your kitchen style from almost every brand and type. There are some big categories for style to help you find your perfect faucet.
- Traditional
- Modern
- Transitional – a mix of contemporary and traditional
Function refers to the type of faucet you need in your kitchen. Do you need a tall faucet for filling large pots? Do you want a sprayer option? What type of handle (or handles) is best for the way you use your sink, or would you prefer a touchless faucet?
And finally, quality is always a worthy consideration. Well-known name brands provide excellent quality and are accessible.
Here are the 6 primary types of faucets you can choose from.
- Pull Down Faucet – great flexibility to maneuver
- Single Handle Faucet
- Double Handle Faucet
- Gooseneck Residential Faucet
- Commercial Faucet
- Hands-Free or One Touch Faucet (motion sensing or one tap turn on & off)
Are Touchless Faucets Worth It?
If you are willing to maintain the batteries on these faucets, or if you have a transformer, a touchless faucet or one-touch faucet may be a great choice for the convenience, sanitary element, and modern look. Others complain that they don’t have as much control over the flow, some family members have trouble using it, and that they don’t last as long. If that isn’t a concern for you, a touchless or one-touch faucet may be a nice addition to your kitchen.
Learn more about Touchless Faucets.
If your kitchen is ready for a new faucet, but you’d like some help installing or getting it fixed up properly just give us a call at 480-388-6093.