Spouts that don't reach far enough forward make you reach further into the sink, potentially leading to aches and pains. If fingerprints and water spots annoy you, you might want to stay away from it and other shiny finishes. Unless you're willing to take the risk of drilling into the deck (or can pay for a pro to do it), you'll need to keep looking. Make a note of the measurements you take. If you treasure the view from the window above your sink (or you really like your tile backsplash), be sure the faucet you want isn't so tall or distracting as to obstruct it. If you're only replacing the faucet, you'll largely have to abide by the existing installation. Reaches the Bottom Area . However, some general rules for a wall-mount faucet do apply. Chrome is indeed the strongest, longest-lasting of all finishes - but won't always fit in with your design scheme. You should also get yourself a tape measure, an adjustable wrench and a basin wrench. You need to make sure that any faucet you buy doesn't reach over any of the sides of the sink but that the spout easily clears the edge of the sink where the faucet will be plumbed in. If you plan to replace existing hardware, your choice of faucet finishes is wide open. It includes assembled faucet, 29-1/2 in. Here’s Rule No. Before we look at how to measure and choose the right size of faucet for your kitchen, let’s take a moment to think about why it is so important to get it right – and why you shouldn’t just go for a faucet because you love the way it looks. Plastic faucets (and most faucets with plastic components) are also less expensive than all-metal models, but far less durable. With most sinks, you can specify the number and location of holes on the sink deck - leaving you free to pick nearly any (deck-mounted) faucet you see. If you're only replacing the faucet, you'll largely have to abide by the existing installation. Sous Pro-Style Single-Handle Pull-Down Sprayer Kitchen Faucet in Vibrant Stainless Inspired by the design of professional kitchens, Inspired by the design of professional kitchens, the Sous pull out kitchen faucet will bring to life your inner chef. Another important aspect of the faucet is the type of cartridge it uses. Faucet spouts vary a lot in height and reach, and most of the time you can just choose the look you like best. The hot water (left handled valve) will also need to be reversed so the outlet is pointing towards the spout, which is far left. For advice on those practical considerations, we talked with faucet designers, manufacturers, retailers and plumbers. 18 inches may seem like a lot. Spout Reach: How far will the faucet spout reach into the tub? Most single handle faucets will require only one hole, while two-handle faucets will require two or three. In efforts to eliminate lead, some manufacturers have started to use PEX inside their faucets - which appears to be the exception to the "avoid plastic" rule. This depends on whether or not the sink is going to be new as well - a new sink gives you more freedom to choose where the faucet goes (especially if it's part of a wider remodel or new build). PEX has proven to be a reliable material, and PEX-infused faucets have received positive reviews. Most of this will be dictated by the size of the sink, but there are significant design choices that can be made. Height is measured from the sink deck to the top of the faucet, and reach is the horizontal distance from the spout to the connection with the sink—i.e. Pay close attention to manufacturer care suggestions (if they've been lost, look up care techniques online that are specific to your manufacturer/finish): using the wrong cleaning chemicals is one of the main causes of finish degradation, and it's very easy to do. Comprised of two ceramic discs (one fixed and one that rotates above it), they operate with a smooth 1/4 turn making them the best option for those who have difficulty operating other faucet types. Looks are important, but you can usually get the look you want without compromising on convenience and long-term dependability. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer) as we strive to provide site experiences for browsers that support new web standards and security practices. Touchless faucets are a dream come true for germaphobes, and another option rising in popularity. Choose Your Kitchen Sink Faucet Mount Measure the distance from the faucet piping line -- where the faucet will be installed -- to the sides of the sink in a straight line. ADA-compliant faucets will be labeled as such, adhering to the various specifications regarding range and ease of operation. The faucet should be fixed high enough so that there is a distance of at least six inches from the bottom of the spout and the bottom of the sink. You'll probably live with your new faucet a long time, so you might as well love it. But the surface is a coating (such as epoxy) rather than metal. First, there are practical matters. 1 of faucet finishes: Choose a finish that matches nearby cabinet hardware, towel bars, etc. Solid brass faucets are renowned for their durability, and are your best bet for a high quality faucet that will last for many years (though stainless steel has an edge in corrosion resistance). Your new faucet may even include one. High-arc (aka "gooseneck") faucets are typically 8 or more inches tall: ideal for those regularly handwashing large pots and pans, or who simply want more space to work with above the rim of the sink. You'll also need 3/8 compression couplings to join the water lines to your existing plumbing and to the plumbing on the faucet. It is important to make sure the faucet’s spout will effectively reach the entire sink and that the size of the spout works with the size of the sink and with the overall kitchen … The height of the faucet is typically the dimension most are concerned with, since it determines the size of cookware that can be easily maneuvered and washed inside the sink basin. Nickel finishes are usually labeled “brushed,” “satin” or “stainless steel” and have a dull shine. Your kitchen faucet should be proportional to the sink. Your basic faucet cartridge is constructed of brass and/or plastic, and is an improvement over compression or ball mechanisms in both durability and ease of use. A pull-down kitchen faucet works like any other except for the extra feature of being able to detach and pull the spray head downwards allowing greater flexibility and reach into your kitchen sink. Refer to the specification … With a three-bowl kitchen sink, a spout with a short reach may not extend to all the bowls. But don't fret: it's not too hard to cut through the noise and find the one! Bronze faucets have a brownish tone and are often called “oiled” or “rubbed” bronze. The undermount sink is built to fit inside a standard 24-inch wide kitchen countertop, like a standard rimmed kitchen sink. If you would like to measure the reach of the faucet, make sure that the water stream hits the sink drain when the faucet is turned on; it should not be hitting the sink. For a better combination, you have to coordinate the reach with the sink size. If you have shelving, low cabinets or a windowsill directly above/behind the sink, make sure to measure the space available so you can find a faucet that fits. Two-handle faucets have a stylish symmetry that suits many bathrooms, especially traditional ones. Water flow: How fast will the faucet fill the tub? For tight installations, look for a faucet whose handles only move forward. Here are some things to consider: The standard reach for many sink faucets is an average measurement of 5.5 inches deep. See Quick Tub Fillers The faucet’s Technical Sheet will give you this information The main reason to consider a floor mounted tub filler is design. If it’s too big, on the oth… The California Faucets Avalon wall faucet with remote single handle extends well into the Maestro Mandala in Brushed Nickel (left), and Maestro Bajo (right). For the longest-lasting finish, look for one applied using PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition). We recommend our users to update the browser. How far should a kitchen faucet reach? As a result, the faucet extends so far over the sink that it … These are often chrome or brass-plated. Now for the exception: You could buy a stainless steel braided hose that will reach - 20" will be plenty long enough. Matte finishes do a good job of masking such things, but beware of water spots on darker options. Forios has managed to create a high flow kitchen faucet that will get half the job done by itself. Our latest shed is also a pavilion—and you can build it, too! This seems like a simple choice until you consider the specialty faucets on the market today. As you might know from experience, these little spaces are nearly impossible to clean effectively. The Bolden faucet has a spring coil around the spout to pull it down. Spouts that come too far forward can also be uncomfortable, and splash water out of the sink - especially if the water comes out at an angle. It will still need to attach to the faucet spout on the left side. 10 Plumbing Services You’ve Probably Wasted Money On, 10 Most Common Plumbing Code Violations DIYers Make, The Best Bathroom and Kitchen Sink Faucets, We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer), 9 Ways to Keep Your Dog Active Inside During the Winter, Do Not Sell My Personal Information – CA Residents. Home House & Components Fixtures Faucets, By the DIY experts of The Family Handyman Magazine. The first thing you'll want to figure out is the mount-type you need (or want): sink deck, countertop, or wall. It should have a long enough tap to reach over the sink — ideally with the spout above the center of the bowl — and the tap should have a minimum of 1-inch clearance above the sink rim. Found in both single and double handle faucets, cartridges are typically easier to repair or replace than their predecessors. Watch out for inferior brass-plated faucets, which as mentioned above will have a lower-grade metal underneath. Ball-type faucets are composed of several parts, each of which are potential points of failure - as evidenced by their reputation for leaking. Most people choose a faucet based on looks alone. This refers to the distance from the center of one hole to the center of the farthest hole on the other side. While metal alloy faucets can be a serviceable - if short lived - option for those on a tight budget, plastic faucets should be avoided. But in practical terms, single-handle faucets have all the advantages. How far do you need the stream of water to reach to hit all points of the sink (and would a pull-out sprayer or side sprayer make up for any shortcoming)? If you select a faucet with a handle that rotates backwards, you may have to check … The ideal length depends on you and the sink. Be aware that some faucets have multiple handle options, and often only one of those options (usually lever or wrist blade handles) will be ADA-compliant - so purchase carefully! Delta’s Leland faucet is … Is there something else you are looking for? Spout height is measured from the sink/countertop surface vertically up to the highest point. Older faucets relied on compression or ball valves to control the flow of water, but manufacturers have moved away from them in favor of the far more reliable cartridge system. Kraus Bolden Single-Handle Kitchen Faucet. Though more expensive, you will not regret the purchase. This is especially so in areas with hard water - mineral deposits will wear plastic components sooner and more severely than metal. We are remodeling our condo and I noticed that the plumber placed the kitchen faucet in the "industry standard" position. Before the work can start in earnest, … Beyond the fun stuff like design, features, and finish is the underlying construction of the faucet - the materials that make it up, and the mechanisms by which it operates. But some are more durable than others. It's typically 4 inches between handles or between the spout and the handle for bathroom faucets and 8 inches for kitchen fixtures. The vast majority of faucets have polished chrome, satin nickel or bronze finishes. However, to me the faucet seems to be positioned too close to the edge of the sink. Few people have the knowledge about the kitchen fixtures. supply lines, soap/lotion dispenser, and deck plate. Additional holes may be needed for things like air gaps, filter faucets, and soap dispensers - so count carefully! The timeless yet fashion-forward design of the Venango pulldown Known as Zamak (or Zamac), these alloys are comprised of zinc, copper, magnesium and aluminum in varying degrees, creating a relatively low-quality metal faucet. Outside of aesthetic considerations, there isn't much to choosing a finish. If the faucet is too small, you may have trouble using it to wash larger items like big pots and pans since they won’t fit comfortably underneath it. Stainless steel has seen an increase in residential use, due to its lack of lead (even "lead-free" brass can legally contain up to 0.25% lead) as well as its superb corrosion resistance. Likewise, faucets being installed in a new countertop should also be decided upon before finalizing the counter installation to make sure holes are drilled where they're needed (some countertops can be difficult to modify on your own). If you need (or are required to have) one, remember that this will require an additional hole on the sink deck or countertop. They’re just plain more convenient; water temperature adjustment is easier and there’s one less handle to clean. If your undermount sink is 20 inches wide or less, it provides plenty of room to mount a faucet. Some widespread kitchen faucets come with flexible water line hoses that allow for some variance in spread. All of our experts told us that “pull-down” sprayers have proven much more reliable than the old side sprayers. Where will your arms (and neck, and back…) be most comfortable for extended periods? Connolly recommends that the faucet should extend out at least seven inches from the back of the sink, so you can wash … As a general rule, you should avoid premade store-bought cleaners (with the exception of specially-formulated products like. Faucet spouts vary a lot in height and reach, and most of the time you can just choose the look you like best. This process uses vacuum pressure and electric charge to create a much stronger bond between faucet and finish. Height and reach are the key measurements here. But in the world of kitchen faucets, 18 inches are considered compact, an ideal size for smaller kitchens. Faucets with ceramic valves cost about the same as other faucets. And in certain circumstances, it is. Once you've figured out what type of mount and installation will best work in your situation, you can move on to the size and reach of the faucet. 6. While these faucets are cheaper than their solid brass or steel counterparts, they're not nearly as durable. You can also browse our complete kitchen faucet selection to find the right faucet for your home. But if you have a shelf above the sink, a tall spout may not fit. Ideally, the faucet extends between a quarter and half of the sink’s width. Some single-handle faucets include a cover plate to hide the extra holes. This depends on whether or not the sink is going to be new as well - a new sink gives you more freedom to choose where the faucet goes (especially if it's part of a wider remodel or new build). With a three-bowl kitchen sink, a spout with a short reach may not extend to all the bowls. Some have a coating that reduces stains and smudges, but that coating isn’t as durable as metal and may chip or wear. They’re durable but prone to fingerprints and water spots, so they’re harder to keep clean. 6 Ways You Can Unclog a Toilet Bowl Without a Plunger, Expert Tips for an Easy Faucet Installation, The Toilet Plunger Has FINALLY Been Redesigned, This Is What People Used Before Toilet Paper Existed, Here’s Why Old Houses Have a Random Toilet in the Basement, 5 Toilet Paper Alternatives That Will Definitely Clog Your Pipes — And 2 Things That Won’t, PEX Supply Pipe: Everything You Need to Know. A too-small faucet won’t dispense water efficiently, and a too-large one will soak you as you clean. Pro Tip: Have a dishwasher? And you might assume you’d have similar (and more expensive) trouble with a faucet-mounted sprayer like the one shown here. If your faucet gets heavy use, it’s your best bet for long-term toughness. Ceramic is an incredibly durable material - so durable that many ceramic disc faucets come with an extended or even lifetime warranty. If you want to avoid having a faucet that drips, get one with ceramic valves. Rather than having to physically manipulate the faucet controls when your hands are covered in raw chicken, a simple wave in front of the sensor (or with some models, a light tap with the wrist/forearm - similar to a touch lamp) turns the faucet on and off. Here are seven things to consider before getting in the checkout line. If the wall behind your sink is an outside wall and you live in a cold winter climate, you should probably go another route: water supply pipes in outside walls can easily freeze when temperatures drop. A faucet that has a shiny chrome finish will look out of place if the rest of the fixtures have a matte brushed nickel finish, for example. Finding a new faucet for an old sink brings compatibility to the fore. And that’s a mistake. Sometimes a little assistance can go far … If your faucet is located in front of a wall, measure the distance from the center of each mounting hole to the wall to find the maximum faucet base depth that your sink area can support. Look for a solid brass or stainless steel faucet with ceramic discs, and you can't go wrong. Watch the spout height and reach. The latter is essentially low-grade brass, and is what "metal construction" usually refers to. Otherwise, the water will hit the side of the bowl and create considerable splash back. Compression faucets utilize rubber washers that degrade fairly quickly, leading to leaks and poor performance. Chrome is the most durable finish and the easiest to keep clean-that’s why it’s always been the favorite for commercial kitchens and public bathrooms. Mismatches look bad. Are you using your vessel sink to wash hands, shave, brush your teeth, and other grooming activities? Tip When measuring the spacing between faucet tailpieces or between holes in the countertop, the correct measurement is always "on-center"— from the center of one tailpiece or hole to the center of another. Low-arc faucets generally go no higher than 8" from the deck and come up at a 45° angle. The problem is you need to adjust the faucet several times. It doesn’t mean that the shorter spout cannot reach the bottom. Just as important as the height is the reach of the faucet - how far the spout extends into the sink. Here’s what we learned. If you have a farmhouse sink, you want a large faucet to match. You'll also need to know how many holes are available on the sink deck or countertop, or if it's possible to drill more should your dream faucet demand it. When you aren't prepared to simply choose the best-looking option within your budget (a strategy that'll likely have you looking for another replacement soon), the many styles and options available can make finding the perfect fit for your kitchen a challenge. If you have more than one sink basin, make sure that the faucet can reach each of them. When looking for a pull spray faucet, take extra care to read listings and reviews carefully. The most common materials used to make faucets are brass, stainless steel, plastic, and zinc alloys. 3. Matching the Faucet to the Sink. You'll need to make sure you have an electrical outlet nearby, or spare batteries on-hand. Just choose your options below and we'll show you our most popular faucet models that meet your criteria! The distance between the faucet body (where the water enters the faucet ) and the areator is usually 8 to 10 inches for a kitchen faucet . Preferring to install the long reach faucet for under mount sink is not a bad either, as long as you find it charming and natural. How Do I Know if I Have Frozen Pipes and How Can I Stop It? To make sure it’s proportional, start with the spout’s reach – how far the spout extends over the sink. Kitchen faucets have one or two handles or levers. View on Amazon. "Faucet" or "spout" height can refer to either the distance between the base and the highest point on the faucet, or the distance between the base and where the water actually exits the faucet outlet - be sure to check the full dimensions of any faucet you're interested in to make sure the height being advertised is the height you're concerned with. But the solution is simple: install a soap dispenser. Kitchen Sink Backsplash: Check Your Measurements. Kitchen faucets have come a long way. “Figure on about eight to ten inches of clearance, measuring from the deck to the faucet head.” How far out should it reach? This coating is tough stuff, but can be chipped or scratched more easily than metal. If you're more interested in a side sprayer, be sure that your new sink will have the correct number of holes, or that you can successfully add a hole to your existing sink. The first thing you'll want to figure out is the mount-type you need (or want): sink deck, countertop, or wall. If you spend much more, you’re paying for extra features or style rather than basic reliability or durability. It is a measurement that will determine how much area the faucet will cover inside the basin of the sink. All of these finishes are durable and keep their good looks for years. Be careful when choosing escutcheons or plates to cover holes: with some installations, a larger cover can bump right up against the wall, creating a tiny space that will soon start collecting water and grime. A high-arc faucet, for example, may measure 12" at its highest point, but only 8" from base to outlet. Reach Reach, to sum it up, refers to how far the faucet extends into your sink. Plan to spend at least $65 for a bath faucet and at least $100 for a kitchen faucet. Air gaps are not required in many places (the "high loop" having been deemed sufficient), but we still think they're your best bet in preventing dirty dish water from making it into your home's clean water supply. This is where the great faucets are separated from the merely "good" ones. What Is a Water Softener and How Does It Work? But some don’t, so check the label. Always shut off the water before replacing a kitchen faucet. When you shop kitchen faucets you will see terms like “8-inch center spread”. However some oversized faucets have a reach of 11 to 16 inch. It can go up to 8 inches. The Premier Online Plumbing Supplier Since 1995, Same day shipping for in-stock orders processed by 7pm EST M-F, click any link below to jump directly to that section, - Lew Wallace (1827-1905) American author. Measuring Spout Height and Reach Spout reach is measured from the center of the spout base horizontally out to the water stream. Buying a new kitchen faucet can be quite the chore if you don't have a clear idea of what you want or what exactly you should be looking for. Most sinks have three holes: one for the hot handle, one for the cold and one under the spout. Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, and has been the most commonly used faucet material for some time. If you want a kitchen faucet with a “pull-down” sprayer mounted in the spout, there will be an empty sprayer hole. Other types of valves are usually drip-free for years, but they can’t match the long-term reliability of ceramic. You'll also need to know how many holes are availabl… The "arc" of a faucet refers to the height and curve of the faucet spout. Because they're handled more than a traditional faucet, the build quality of these faucets has to be superior if they're to hold up to the rigors of a busy kitchen. These faucets do require power, supplied by batteries or an AC power adapter; some models will allow for either. If you want to switch from two handles to one, you have to think about the number of holes in the sink. When one faucet just isn't enough for your busy kitchen, it may be time to add another. Choosing a faucet is tricky. You can find them easily in 12-inch lengths, which should be long enough for your project. A bath faucet with a short reach might cause you to slop water behind the spout when you wash your hands. Great for smaller sinks and spaces, these faucets are best for those that don't often wash large items or don't necessarily want the faucet to be a focal point in the kitchen design. But if you have a shelf above the sink, a tall spout may not fit. The variety of styles, materials and finishes-and prices-can be overwhelming. Purchase the sink too soon, and you're stuck with the configuration originally selected. If you currently have a “wide spread” bathroom faucet with two handles far from the spout, you can’t switch to a single-handle model. A significant number of people use kitchen faucet to their kitchen. If you’ve ever had a “side” sprayer (a spray handle mounted in the sink), you’ve probably had dribbles or leaks. Pro Tip: Whatever the mount type or faucet, make sure there's enough room behind/around the handles to allow their full range of motion. The long and short of it? You might get a great faucet for less, but it’s more likely that you’d get a low-quality faucet. OR - find plumbing supplies starting with: Insulating the pipes can help, as can heat cables. Basically, this unit… Why? Probably not. The kitchen faucet should match the finish of other sink accessories, such as the tiny dishwasher air gap, built-in soap dispenser, and sink-hole covers for unused holes. 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