What is a Kitchen Faucet?

The kitchen is a unique space in every home. So much of life happens around the dinner table, and food and culinary art make up foundational aspects of culture the world over. Whether you are cooking food in your home for your family, or even using the office kitchen to heat up your food-prepped meals, kitchens are an essential part of any structure. There are a lot of factors that make up a kitchen, from the stove to the counter space and cabinets. One aspect of a kitchen that is incredibly important and may be somewhat overlooked - is the kitchen faucet.

While the first things that come to mind for many people when it comes to the concept of  a kitchen area are appliances, refrigerators, storage space, and ovens, a kitchen faucet plays an important role.

While a home will typically have several faucets, a kitchen faucet in particular is unique in that it is the primary faucet directly related to food prep. If you are building a new home or remodeling your kitchen, then the faucet and faucet features you choose are important to think through. Here is everything you need to know about why a kitchen faucet is important, what faucet features you should be thinking about, and how to choose the perfect kitchen faucet for you and your family!

Why Choosing the Right Kitchen Faucet Matters

So let's get down to the real question, is it important that you choose the right kitchen faucet? After all, a faucet itself is an appliance that plays a role in your kitchen but how important of a role? The answer is, yes it is very important!

Not only will choosing the option that has the best faucet features make your life easier in the future, but it will also ensure you get the most bang for your buck on the investment.

For some families, the kitchen is a high-traffic area that is constantly in use week in and week out. These kitchens can benefit from wide, open counter spaces, sturdy cabinets with a good amount of capacity, and a kitchen sink faucet that helps make preparing meals a breeze.

For other families or individuals, the kitchen may not be as much of a hot topic. The occasional meal may be cooked from time to time, but a busy schedule and a lack of interest in culinary skills could mean less use. In these cases, the kitchen can reflect that, and the list of useful faucet features may simply be smaller.

The good news is that when it comes to replacing your faucet or building out a kitchen for the first time, there's a good option for any lifestyle. Here are some of the different types of kitchen faucets that you can look into purchasing for your kitchen!

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Types of Kitchen Faucets

There are several factors that go into finding the best kitchen faucets. From the number of holes in your deck plate to the style and finish of your final choice. Some pull-down faucets are optimal for daily use, while others may not serve that strong of a purpose.

A faucet is a high-use appliance that comes in a rich variety of styles and finishes. Each kind of faucet build has advantages and disadvantages from water temperature to water flow, to price point, and general aesthetics and style.

For example, a smart kitchen faucet may have motion sensors for touchless kitchen faucets; pull-out kitchen faucets can use a water line hose to extend the spray head and they all come in a wide range of finishes from oil-rubbed bronze to nickel. Picking the best kitchen faucet for your family is important, and here are some of the most popular ones to consider!

Traditional Kitchen Faucet

The traditional kitchen faucet is perhaps one of the most easily recognizable builds. These faucets typically come in a stainless steel finish, have a stationary spout, and use two knobs located on either side to control hot and cold water temperature. They are typically two-handle faucets, however, they can be found as single-handle faucets as well.

The advantage to a traditional style kitchen faucet is that they can take quite a bit of wear and tear. These faucets don't sport any kind of features like a pull-down spray head, or precise temperature control, however, they are effective and typically affordable. If an individual or family is looking for a dependable, cost-effective kitchen faucet that will stand the test of time, a traditional style is definitely the way to go. These are also good for kitchens that are not heavily used for cooking. These styles are often paired with a side sprayer.

Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet

A pull-down faucet is typically considered one of the more modern faucets on the market, however, it can still be very basic. The pull-down faucet style manually allows for the nozzle to be moved. These can be very effective for getting high-pressure water into tight, or hard-to-reach areas. For example, if you find that you do a lot of cooking with pots and pans, a pull-down kitchen faucet model could be very advantageous. Sometimes a pot or pan can be larger than the sink deck plate may allow. In these cases, having a pull-down kitchen faucet allows you to extend the reach of your cleaning capabilities.

These can also be very handy for cleaning out the sink itself especially if you have built-in soap dispensers. These faucet models are typically very affordable, and bring some strong advantages to the traditional faucet type.

Touchless Kitchen Faucet

A touchless kitchen faucet is much more of a modern faucet style and uses motion sensor technology to both turn on and turn off water pressure. These kitchen faucets can also have a pull-down sprayer or a fixed spout. The most important advantage of a touchless faucet is the ability to operate the faucet while having messy hands.

If you are baking cookies with your kids and they have dough covering their fingers, you don't have to worry about cleaning up the handle because it can be activated by a simple wave of the hand. This can also be very good for cooks who deal with a lot of raw meat. Chicken in particular is a common protein for most households, and if you have had your hands on raw poultry, you know how paranoid the mind can be about any surface you touch before you properly wash them.

Single-Handle Faucet

A single-handle faucet, often seen in the popular delta faucet leland style, is a faucet style that is non-traditional and can include many features such as a pull-down sprayer, or touchless activation. These faucets simply utilize a single handle to operate the temperature control of the water. The delta faucet leland utilizes a high arc spout that makes it easy to rinse dishes or clean. Also, a single-handle faucet is able to regulate water temperature precisely and accurately without the added space of a second handle.

These faucets do not tend to have as much of a practical impact, but they do have a very clear and minimal aesthetic. When it comes to the difference between a single-handle faucet, and a two-handle faucet, it really is up to the style and preference of the owner.

Double-Handle Faucet

A double-handle faucet can also still have a variety of features from touchless technology, to a pull-down sprayer, or a simple traditional model. The most notable thing about these styles of faucets is that both hot and cold temperatures are given their own handle. For some people who prefer specific temperature control, this can be the perfect fit.

Wall-Mounted Faucet

A wall-mounted faucet is simply a style of faucet that is not directly mounted onto the sink deck or even the countertop. These faucets can sport a variety of styles, and features and have a unique aesthetic that makes them desirable for certain families and individuals.

Pot Filler Faucet

The last general type of kitchen faucet is the pot filler faucet. These are unique, hinged faucets that provide two things - a wide range of movement, and plenty of space between the kitchen sink and the faucet head.

As the name implies, these faucets are typically designed for helping people clean out large pots and pans that may not fit under any other faucet style. Aesthetically these faucets can come in a variety of finishes and can be either mounted on the sink, countertop, or even wall. If you or your family plan on cooking or meal-prepping often, then a pot filler faucet could be the best kitchen faucet for you.

These faucet types can also come with a wide range of features from touchless motion sensors to a pull-down sprayer. The aesthetic value of these faucet types is also important as they are easily recognizable in any kitchen and will be a prominent aspect of the overall aesthetic itself.

Top Features to Consider When Choosing a Kitchen Faucet

Okay, so we have the basics down about some of the most valuable styles of faucets, but let's take a closer dive into the features that you should be considering. Most faucet features can be applied to a variety of faucet types, so it's good to understand what options you do have. These features have unique advantages that can make day-to-day life easier, and knowing what will actually serve you can help increase the value of your investment.

Style And Design

The first feature that you probably will consider when looking to build out a kitchen for the first time or remodel, is going to be the design and style. While this is not necessarily the most important factor for a faucet when it comes to operational use, it is incredibly important to consider as it will affect your kitchen. Being able to create the best environment in your kitchen is important, and you should not shy away from taking the style and design of your faucet seriously.

From brushed stainless finish to copper, nickel, and matte black there is a vast amount of options when it comes to style and design. Remember, this part of your kitchen will be something that you use every single day, and it's something that will be easily visible within that space. While some people may be tempted to only focus on the practical application of a kitchen faucet, paying attention to style and design will help enrich your investment and give you something you love to both use and look at.

Traditional Vs. Modern Vs. Transitional

When it comes to style and design typically you will be choosing from three categories, traditional, modern, and transitional. As long as people have been purchasing kitchen faucets, manufacturers have been creating unique designs that can impact any kitchen. Let's break down those three styles so you can see which one is right for you.

A traditional style kitchen faucet will typically have a stainless steel finish, although they can also have a rustic visual quality as well. These styled faucets can be purchased in a variety of color types from polished nickel to stainless steel. A traditional style still can have spout swivels, however, they can also be stationary.

Modern faucets represent a minimalistic design style, and can typically be found in solid, non-distracting visual styles. Matte black, solid brass construction and even a brushed nickel or polished chrome finish may be common with modern faucet styles.

Transitional faucets are simply a fusion of both traditional and modern styles. For example, a rustic, black iron faucet with touch-clean spray holes, or precise temperature control features could be an example of a transitional faucet.

Handle Type

If you are an avid cook, then you already know how important the handle type of any kitchen faucet is. For die-hard enthusiasts to casual cooks who know enough to get by, the handle type actually does matter. This particular style usually consisted of single or double-handled faucets.

Knob handles verse lever handles are also an important distinction. If you don't have touchless motion sensors, then the chances are you would want a lever handle type. This way, you could activate your faucet without having to place your full hand on a knob. Having this feature can be useful for people who may cook quite often and find themselves needing to constantly re-wash their hands for sanitary purposed while cooking.

Pull-Down Vs. Pull-Out Options

A pull-down sprayer and a pull-out sprayer may seem like the same kind of thing - however, they are very different. Typically a pull-out sprayer is able to extend the nozzle head via an enclosed hose. If your kitchen sink faucet isn't particularly high, this can be a great way to get your spray head where it needs to be. If you have a double basin sink configuration, then having a pull-out spray head can be optimal, especially if the faucet is not placed in the direct center of the double sinks.

A pull-down sprayer does not have any kind of detachable spray head however it typically has a long, high neck with a flexible section that allows the spray head to be pulled closer to a given surface. These faucets are great for large pots or a deep sink configuration.

Sprayer Function

Here is a biggy that you definitely want to spend some time contemplating when it comes to finding the best kitchen faucets for your home. The sprayer function of a faucet is incredibly important as it dictates the water pressure of the faucet itself.

For more traditional faucets with less modern features, a spray head may only have one default setting. This means that the water pressure itself is dictated by the state of the handle. If the handle, or handles, are open fully then the water pressure will be high and it can be titrated down or up accordingly.

For more modern faucets, a spray head can not only be removable from the spout but can have the pressure adjusted. Some faucets allow for several pressure configurations which can be handy when you need a higher pressure to remove food or other debris from dishes.

Touch Vs. Manual Operation

The difference between touch vs. manual operation of a kitchen faucet is truly a luxury. A touchless faucet uses motion detectors to turn it on and off. A touch faucet is a little different. While it is still a luxury item, a touch faucet is simply turned on by tapping its surface in a specific area. This can have some obvious benefits for the home cook whose hands are dirty.

While a touchless can activate the faucet without ever making contact, the touch model of kitchen faucets can still be advantageous for good hygiene. Instead of using your fingers that are covered in dough, or were just recently exposed to raw meat, you can use the back of your hand, or even your wrist to activate the water.

Manually operated kitchen faucets are models that require you to turn either a handle or a knob in order to activate. These are still very effective and great options for many people. One factor to consider between both touch and manually-operated kitchen faucets is going to be the price point. With the touch feature being a more premium item, these kitchen faucets may be more expensive.

Spout Height And Reach

There are several factors that can play into spout height and reach. For example, a detachable or extendable spray head, spout swivels, and sink configuration will all play a role in deciding this factor. If you find that you regularly are washing large pots or pans, then a faucet with a large spout height may be advantageous. The same goes for a shallow sink configuration. Even if you do not often find yourself washing cooking sheets in your sink if the sink itself is shallow a higher spout will still be best.

Water Flow Rate And Pressure

Water flow is an incredibly important part of any sink. Depending on the kind of spray head that you use, you can have a water flow rate that could help make your life easier. For some more traditional-styled kitchen faucets, an open-mouth spout may be the only option. For other more modern and advanced kitchen faucets, the spray head could come equipped with multiple pressure levels that can be switched between.

Side Sprayer

So what if you have a kitchen faucet that does not have a built-in sprayer head but you want to acquire a higher pressure? In this case, a side sprayer could be your best bet. these side sprayers are incredibly useful and are a common feature in a kitchen sink. While pull-out faucets are incredibly convenient, a side sprayer kitchen faucet can give you the exact same benefit.

These are typically located near the kitchen sink faucet and can extend and detract.

Installation

Okay, so once you've chosen the perfect brushed stainless steel kitchen faucet that you know you will love - the next thing is to make sure you can install it. Installing a kitchen faucet is not hard, however, it does pay to make sure it is done correctly. A proper installation will depend on the number of mounting holes available, and the space provided around the kitchen sink.

Materials And Finishes

Once you've found the correct style of kitchen faucet, and ensured that you can in fact install it in your kitchen, the last choice will be over the finished aesthetic. This choice is completely subjective and something that you should make sure you are happy with. Maybe you like the brushed nickel, but the polished nickel is a bit more in line with the rest of your aesthetic.

Whatever choice you make, be sure that you are happy with your selection, and follow your gut!

How to Find the Best Kitchen Faucet?

It can't be stressed enough, that the best decision you will make when it comes to purchasing the best kitchen faucet, is going to be based on your needs. Before you get overwhelmed by the incredible amount of options on the market, take some time to think through how you use your kitchen faucet, how often you use it, and what you have liked or disliked about previous kitchen faucets.

This kind of introspection can help guide your shopping experience in meaningful ways.

Selecting the Optimal Location for Your Kitchen Faucet

If you are building your kitchen or completely remodeling it, you may have the opportunity to make a decision about where the kitchen sink faucet will be. This is an important decision as the natural flow of your kitchen will be impacted by the placement of the faucet. Some kitchens have the faucet centrally located on a bar or island, other have mounting holes in the walls where it can be on the outskirts of the room.

Understanding Your Sink and Its Requirements

If you are simply replacing an old faucet, it's important to understand the dimensions and requirements of your existing sink configuration. The number of holes available for mounting will play an important part as well. While you can increase the number of holes, starting here is typically a good place to help narrow down your options.

Finding the Right Arc for Your Kitchen Faucet

Every faucet from single-handle faucets to a pull-down sprayer will have a specific arc. The best kitchen faucets will have the perfect amount of height and arc for your needs. If you find yourself doing dishes by hand a lot, then don't settle for a low arc, instead, look at taller faucets that can offer more room.

Choosing the Best Sprayer for Your Needs

Your current and future needs are also important when taken into consideration. For example, if you are currently in a very busy season of your life - working full-time but also returning to school, you may not use your kitchen faucet all too often. However, if you plan on returning to your love of cooking once your education is over and you have more time, then invest in the faucet that will make life better. At the exact same time, if you simply do not use your kitchen often, then don't be afraid of a more minimal faucet setup.

Inquiring About Valves

Another important factor in getting the best kitchen faucet is that you have the proper valves. If you don't know how to find this out, ask a professional as most retailers that specialize in home repairs will be more than happy to help you.

The Style Factor

The style factor is something that can't be stated enough. Yes it's a kitchen faucet, and yes it has a very practical use - but you also deserve to have something that you love to look at. Remember, the kitchen is an important part of your home so make sure that it 'feels' the way that it should.

The Finish

A big part of this process is making sure that you not only love the style that you choose, and that it practically meets your needs, but that you also enjoy the finish. The finish is the most easily recognizable feature of the faucet and they can vary drastically.

Matte black, brushed nickel finish, brushed brass, and arctic stainless are just some of the many options that you have to choose from. No, these won't make your choice any easier or more difficult, if you rinse dishes with a stainless steel faucet or bronze faucet, the result will be the same. But it's important you choose the style and finishes you absolutely love.