The 10 Best Kitchen Faucets of 2024

The kitchen faucet is one of the most critical components of a home, and the best kitchen faucets have the best aesthetics and functional designs. Therefore, you must pick a kitchen tap that’ll give style and function to your room while also making your daily tasks easier. For those who have less experience in the faucet market, there is a wide variety of faucets to choose from. Therefore, we’ll discuss in this article the top kitchen faucets in the market and include a guide for picking the right one.

We’ve selected high-quality faucets from generic reliable and reputable brands. Well then take a look at our top products and an ultimate guide for choosing the best kitchen tap. Also, there are answers to some frequently asked questions (FAQS) on faucets.

Related:The 15 Best Water Filters

Best Overall: Moen 7594ESRS Arbour Motionsense Kitchen Faucet

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When it comes to the best hands-free & pulldown faucets, it’s hard to get a faucet in the market that beats Moen’s Arbor 7594E model. This faucet has a sleek, seamless design with a full metal body and visible motion sensors which makes it our most favorite kitchen faucet. And to complete the look, there is a flush-mounted sink and stone counter. This model also gives you three finishing options, from chrome finishing to spot resistant stainless and brushed bronze finishing. The bronze finish is perfect for most kitchens aesthetically but is less effective in dealing with mineral deposits which spot resist stainless does better.

Besides, it features motion sensors that allow for remote activation: this prevents water contamination, especially when your hands are messy. When you activate water flow via the wave sensor, it will run for only 2 minutes, and therefore you won’t face a water wastage disaster when you don’t shut it off. It also comes with batteries for the control box that’ll last you for about one year. Overall, it’s easy to install and is top-rated based on its attention to detail and immense quality.

Related:The 10 Best Kitchen sinks

Best Value:Moen 7185SRS Brantford One-Handle Pulldown Kitchen Faucet

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With the perfect combination of great functionality, flexible design and sleek looks, the Moen 7185SRS kitchen faucet takes the second spot in our review. Moen has been the top modern kitchen and it is easy to recognize that by looking at the design, build and durability of their products. The 7185SRS has a minimalist and clean look with one handle and a drop-down sprinkler head.

Besides, it offers a faster clean and fills pots faster with its exclusive Power Boost technology you can use at the touch of a button. Also, it is easy to install thanks to its duralock quick connect system. You can install it via 1 or 3 holes and have an included escutcheon. The escutcheon gives the faucet a perfect finishing. Looking at this model, Moen built a durable faucet that lasts longer without getting stained or scratched. Also, another important thing is it comes in three different colors and five different styles: traditional, standard, one sensor, two sensors, and voice control.

Best Pick:Delta Faucet Essa Single-Handle Touch Kitchen Faucet

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The Delta Faucet Essa Single-Handle is more of a solid and functional faucet than an elegant one. It is one of the best Delta models in the market and is available in chrome, arctic stainless and Venetian bronze. The docking system for this faucet is called MagnaTite Docking which features a powerful magnet that secures your kitchen sprayer into place. It is strong, and you can dock or undock several times without the sprayer drooping.

Using their popular Diamond seal technology, the manufacturer produces a valve with embedded diamonds to ensure the device operates longer. This alone is one of the best features of kitchen faucets from Delta. And what’s more, you can install the faucet in 2 and 3-hole sinks. And also, the soft rubber spray holes will not allow mineral build up in the faucet which allows it to maintain a refreshed look. The popular downside though is you’ll have to purchase an escutcheon separately to get that perfect finished look. But in place of that, there are InnoFlex PEX supply lines that protect the water from outside contaminants.

Delta Faucet Leland Single-Handle Kitchen Faucet

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If you’re looking for a durable and sturdy kitchen faucet, then you’ll never go wrong with this model. This kitchen faucet comes in a traditional styling and modern functionality which gives it a timeless look. It is leak-resistant and lasts 2X longer than the industry standard faucets. Besides, unlike some kitchen faucets, it doesn’t drop over time due to its strong magnet that snaps the kitchen sprayer in place. Also, you’ll find it easy to install as it comes with all the necessary tools and instructions in a box that even supports DIY installations.

Besides, this model is ideal for those who dread lime or calcium build-ups in their kitchen. This is because it comes with touch-clean spray holes that allow you to wipe away lime and calcium-build ups with a finger easily. Therefore, there’ll be no need to use chemical cleaners.Also, its diamond seal valve and one-piece supply lines eliminate leaks, and the diamond-embedded ceramic disk doesn’t require lubrication and gets rid of wear on the seals. The product is available in elegant chrome, Venetian Bronze and Arctic Stainless.

KOHLER K-596-VS Simplice Kitchen Faucet

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Rated #5 in our review, KOHLER K-596 Faucet combines elegance, functionality and durability at a go. The faucet features a gooseneck spout that offers 360 degrees’ rotation and a pulldown spray head that allows you to control water with one hand. Also, its spray head has 3 functions: boost, stream and sweep spray. The boost enables you to increase the flow rate by up to 30% while the sweep spray contains angled nozzles that form a powerful blade for cleaning your sink and dishes.

This faucet is easy to install and comes with a hose and spray head installed. Installation is easier, and can be done in two options: 1 or 3 installations with an escutcheon included. The escutcheon gives it a perfect final look and you won’t have to worry about your faucet docking down as the docking system is effective and keeps your spray head in place. Also, if you hate seeing corroded faucets in your kitchen, then this is the best choice for you. It has tarnish and corrosion-resistant finishing that are made to last. Also, shop with more confidence with the lifetime warranty offered by the manufacturer.

Kraus KPF-161OSS Bolden 18-inch Commercial Kitchen Faucet

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Rated #6 in our review, the Kraus KPF-161OSS kitchen faucet is ideal both as a home and commercial faucet. It comes in an open coil design that is tailored to suit the needs of the modern home kitchen. With its compact 18-inch height, this faucet will fit in places where even most commercial faucets will not do. It also features a convenient pulldown spray head with a smooth-retract flexible hose of 20 inches which allows you easy movement for complete sink access.

Also, the spray nozzle is easy to clean and has a smart handle that rotates by 90 degrees forward to fill the pots quickly. The high arc spout also swivels to about 180 degrees to the left and right of the sink. Overall, this faucet is beautiful, heavy-duty and easy to clean. You only need to push a button for the spray, and it’ll continue spraying until you turn it off. When you switch it back on, it returns to normal. Also, if you like a hands-free model, then you’ll love this model as you can turn the handle on easily using the handle with the side of your hand or the wrist.

Delta Faucet Leland Single-Handle Kitchen Faucet

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If you’re looking for a model that blends both traditional style and modern features, then this is the best match. Most people think that faucets with traditional looks have less advanced features, but that’s not true for this model. This kitchen faucet has some of the best standard features, such as the touch2O option. You’ll only need to turn the faucet on/off by touching the spot anywhere. Now, you can control the stream mode and temperature via the handle and buttons on the spray head. Also, a LED indicator at the bottom of the spout displays different colors based on the water temperature.

The delta faucet also comes with a 20-inch hose that cleans up the sink and fills the bottles. Though it may seem short, it is pretty versatile and serves its purpose well. Also, there are three different streams on a single-button on the spray head that serves different needs. And finally, you’ll love its traditional design that keeps a reminder of your warm and enjoyable

Aimadi Commercial Pull Down Kitchen Faucet

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Aimadi Commercial Pull Down Kitchen Faucet is one of the most famous elegant, modern and multifunctional kitchen faucets in the market. This faucet comes with mini built-in generating electricity devices that eliminate the need for you to purchase separate batteries. As long as the water flows, the device will continue producing light. The moment you turn off the water, the light will go out. The color of LED lights is also variable as they change based on the temperature of the water. This enables you to protect the sick, children and older adults of your family from extremely hot or cold water.

Besides, the sprayer has a sleek lock bar that allows your hand to be free while you’re using the sprayer. The high pressure from the sprayer also removes leftovers from your dishes easily to leave your dishes and kitchen spotlessly clean. The multi-function spray wand also enables you to switch from spray to stream to powerful water flow easily and ergonomically. It is easy to install, the nickel finish is resistant to both rust and corrosion, and you can DIY the installation in less than 30 minutes.

WEWE Single Handle High Arc Brushed Nickel Pull Out Kitchen Faucet

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Rated #9 in our review, WEWE Single Handle High Arc Brushed Nickel Pull Out Kitchen Faucet comes in a sleek design that makes your kitchen room simple and fresh. It is designed to fit most kitchen sinks and has a multifunctional outlet water effect- 3-way spray setting (spray, steam and pause). The spray is for rinsing, the stream is for filling water, and the pause feature prevents water from splashing when using the multitask modes.

Besides, it is easy to install as the pulldown and water line hose comes preinstalled. This will save you time, and you’ll fully install it in about 30 minutes without the help of a plumber. Also, it is easier to operate, and the larger degree swivel spout gives you full-range washing access. Finally, it is easier to maintain as it’s resistant to both rust and corrosion preventing dirt from sticking to your kitchen faucet. The main body is made of brass; the handle material is from zinc-alloy while the valve is from ceramic disc cartridge.

DELTA FAUCET Peerless 2-Handle Wall Mount Kitchen Faucet

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Well, if you’re looking for an affordable, sturdy and easy-to-clean kitchen faucet, then Peerless P299305LF is your best match. This kitchen faucet is the best replacement for those with 2-handle wall-mount kitchen taps and comes with chrome finish for a more polished look and ease of cleaning. Also, its quarter-turn& dual-lever controls offer a more accurate temperature mix. You’ll also like the spout as it comes with an arcing swan-neck that can swivel 360° to fill tall containers without any difficulty.

Also, the vintage design with a smooth curvature is the perfect design and is ideal for those who love to remember their old childhood memories. There are also beautiful decorations on its neck that evoke images of the past. Finally, two connection adapters are included in the package for extending the configuration options. The adapters are threaded on the inside and outside, making them more compatible with multiple setups for in-wall supply lines. Overall, the features, price and the familiar brand that manufactures this tap makes it favored by many users.

Things to Consider Before Purchasing

Navigating the faucet market can be challenging. There are so many styles, shapes and designs such that choosing the right one can be confusing. However, to make the buying process a little easier, here are the factors to consider to make you decide better on a faucet.

Existing Plumbing

An important detail to keep in your mind when you’re researching on the best kitchen faucets- perhaps the top detail- is the type of plumbing in your house. You may find that your existing faucet is incompatible with some faucet models and sizes. Even when installing a new faucet, find out the amount of faucet-mounting in your sink.

Flow Rate of Water

Kitchen faucets account for up to 30% of the water consumed in your home and is therefore crucial to install them properly to avoid leakages.

If you have a leaky faucet that drips water at the rate of an ounce per second, then each year you’ll be looking at 3000 gallons of wasted water. That is not good for your finances or the environment.

An aerator may help you restrict water flow, and we’ll check them below.

Look for top-quality levers that allow you to regulate the amount of water coming out from the faucet.

Don’t cut corners on installation and avoid using cheap faucets. These measures will likely use low-quality materials which makes them more prone to leaking.

Aerator

Over the years, aerators have undergone many changes, and the once-simple component now has several uses.

Typically, the aerator is at the top of the spout and can help with the following:

• Controlling and shaping the water streams
• Prevent water splashing
• Save water by reducing the flow volume
• Increase pressure in homes suffering from low water pressure

• Helps the faucet to run more quietly
• Specialized aerators can help mitigate problems caused by hard water minerals

While it may appear simple, an aerator is a complex piece of engineering crucial to the performance of a kitchen faucet.

Pull-Down Sprayer

Heads with multiple spray modes have over time become more productive while also utilizing space. The older types of spray heads were add-ons that were positioned on the sides of the faucet. The reach was limited, and the main faucet could also shut off when you activated the spray.

Things have changed.

Integrated sprays with pull-out spray heads save your space while also minimizing the chances of any leaks. Whether you are filling up a pan or washing dishes, a spray attachment can be a worthwhile addition.

Get the Right Faucet for Your Sink

If you’re planning only to update your faucet and not sink, then look closely at the number of mounting holes in your sink. Most sinks come with pre-drilled mounting holes. If your sink has 4 holes, but the facet you want to install has 3 holes, then you’ll likely face a problem. However, some faucets give you the option to change the whole configuration so that you’ll use whatever faucet pick. Just keep your eyes open to check information on that.

Make Sure Your Fixture Fits Your Sink

• Hole Kitchen Faucet:This faucet is the minimum of what you require; a single faucet.
• Hole kitchen faucet:The 2-hole faucet has one hole for the spout and an extra one for accessories such as a spray head or soap dispenser.
• Hole kitchen faucet:A 3-hole kitchen faucet is the most popular faucets in many homes and allows for a spout and two accessories. Also, it comes with an escutcheon or deck pate to cover the holes.

4-hole kitchen faucet

The 4-hole kitchen faucet is the most common in homes and comes with a hole for the spout and two taps. Besides these three, there is an additional installed one for a sprayer or dispenser.

Water Lines

Before you venture into the mission of getting a new kitchen faucet, then you should also investigate the water line size and shut-off valves. It’s best to be conscious of the size of the pipe and the size of the models you’re considering. Make sure you replace the shut-off valves while installing the new faucet.

Spouts

Also, do not underestimate the use and benefits of the spouts. Are you in need of a short, long kitchen spout, or one with a high arc? The possibilities are endless. Faucets with high-arcs (raised 8-10 inches above the sink) are popular with chefs and people who love cooking with more workspace around their sinks (as well as being stylish).

However, the space above your sink could already be occupied with say a window or an in-built cupboard, in which a faucet with a high arc won’t work for you. Another important feature is the sprayer, and there are three types of sprayers: pull-out, pulldown and spray mode head.

A sprayer faucet generally gives room for enhanced reach and maneuverability making the washing of vegetables or dishes easier and more exciting. However, if you have a small sink, then this feature won’t work for you as there will be more splashes on worktops on the floor.

Aesthetic

Improving the overall aesthetics of your home is an everyday inspiration for fitting a new kitchen faucet, and it should complement other details in the kitchen. For instance, your new shiny chrome faucet will not look better if your kitchen is dominantly rust-themed and lack the sparkling chrome detailing.

Choosing the best kitchen faucet is ideal when you are redesigning your entire space so that you can carry out the different tasks altogether.

For instance, if you have a modern home and you want to make it more stylish, then introduce a new theme subtly. For example, begin with the Venetian bronze faucet and then but matching light fixtures, drawer knobs etc.

Little style details go a long way in revamping up your living space such as the kitchen, and a new faucet is a great starting point and also practical.

Do You Need a Secondary Faucet?

Sometimes a single faucet is not ideal if your kitchen is too busy.

Maybe you have a kitchen island or a separate container. If so, then consider adding a bar or prep faucet to make your life easier. Though you may require a little extra plumbing, the auxiliary faucets can be worth their weight in gold.

Also, wall-mounted pot-filler faucets are available in the market and are ideal if you are always cooking a lot in the kitchen. Its articulated spouts have increased flexibility while more basic variants simply extend directly out of the wall.

Installation

While you might be tempted to install the faucet yourself to save on the costs of hiring a plumber, never underestimate the extent of the job. Normally, it’s a more straightforward installation, but depending on your cabinets, that may not be the case.

Also, the quality of instructions varies among brands, but most faucets are easy to set up even if you’re not an expert in DIY.

And if you prefer visual aids, then you should look at the helpful videos on YouTube and other similar platforms to make the process more understandable.

You’ll need some pliers, wrench, gloves and some safety glasses. Also, include a towel or two as they help in case of spillages/leakages during installation.

The most crucial part is to turn off the water at the valve before you start the work. Also, drain any surplus water from the faucet itself.

The tough part now is removing the old faucet. When doing so, look carefully for build-ups of limescale and leaks that may need attending to. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, don’t proceed without fixing it as you’ll jeopardize the installation process.

While it may seem obvious, don’t forget the escutcheon, especially when you plan to cover up the holes with this decorative plate.

As common with most DIY projects, first, get familiar with the instructions rather than just starting unprepared. It is also sensible to lay out everything you need to get organized.

After following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and tightening up everything, turn the water back and monitor for leaks using a towel or hand. But while plumbers are not cheap, you should call one if you feel you are not up to the job.

Leaks

With incorrect installation, there are high chances of leaks. Most households experience leaks in different forms, and even high-end faucets are not exempted from this eventuality.

In some cases, a leak indicates the expiry of your faucet’s shelf life, but that depends on the type of the leak (i.e. a leak around the base of the drip or spout when its switched off), you can just replace parts like the O-rings which don’t last as long as the faucet itself. Rather than installing a new faucet, check the manual and visit your hardware store- you’ll have the problem fixed in a short time and at a small expense.

Loss of Water Pressure

Another common problem most homeowners face with their faucets nowadays is the loss of water pressure. This can be frustrating, especially if you had high expectations for your faucet. However, the problem may not be as serious as you expect it to be. Loss of water pressure can occur as a result of the build-up of limescale and mineral deposits.

Therefore, it can only be a case of taking the faucet apart (most modern faucets can be taken apart easily) and cleaning the inside. You should do this monthly or quarterly to prevent this issue from reoccurring.

If the issue of water pressure loss is not due to limescale build-up, then it could be a wider problem, and you have to call a plumber. However, loss of water pressure is not due to the faucet alone. Instead, improper care and cleaning of the faucet, i.e. if it becomes rusty will make your warranty agreement void.

Finishes

You can utilize a range of finish options to suit any design scheme.

From the oil rubbed bronze to spot resist stainless steel and chrome, you can access most finishes regardless of your budget.

Plastic faucets are cheaper but less durable. You should avoid this primarily if you reside in a hard water area. Mineral deposits will wear down the plastic components rapidly.

Solid brass faucets are built to last longer but take a look at brass-plated taps as they have a cheaper metal underneath.

Stainless steel is also lead-free, which makes it more popular. But look for 304 stainless steel as it contains more nickel and chromium and therefore will last longer.

In case you are tempted to add a finishing to the faucet, you should reconsider that idea. Original finishes are typically rust-resistant, stain-resistant and help to get rid of corrosion. Applying a finishing might look good for the short-term but it’s not best for the long-term.

Kitchen Faucet: Price and Value

If you base your search for the best kitchen faucet based on the cheapest model, then you’ll likely run into problems.

Remember the adage,” buy cheap; buy twice.”

The good news is that even the costly faucets might not be too expensive as some appliances and components you need in the kitchen.

You should focus more on the overall value rather than the bottom line and also consider the warranty factor.

None of this suggests that you should purchase an expensive faucet you cannot afford but rather buy what you can manage without pressuring yourself financially.

The Benefits of Getting a New Faucet

A kitchen faucet is the central point of your kitchen- where your family cooks, cleans, rinses and gets water from every day- and your kitchen is also the hub of your home. So we can argue that the kitchen faucet is the most crucial feature in your entire home. Not convinced? Here are the top 3 reasons your faucet is important and why, if you haven’t invested in one, it’s time to do so.

It’s the Most Important Feature

As mentioned before, a kitchen faucet is a most-used feature by the people in your home, and therefore it’s crucial in that it is in perfect working condition. If not, you can experience multiple issues that can cost you time and money. If yours is too old, has numerous faults then it’s best to buy a new faucet.

A New Faucet Will Transform Your Kitchen

If you feel your kitchen deserves a renovation, then it’ll be good to start with a kitchen faucet. Want to renovate your home with a new theme? It begins with the faucet. Want to recreate your kitchen to be high-tech and more intelligent? An advanced kitchen faucet should be on top of your list.

It will Improve Your Life

That may sound dramatic, but facets with a sleek design and innovative features bring more ease to your life. Are you sick and tired of washing stubborn stains from big pans and pots in a kitchen with a small faucet and weak pressure? Or are you fed up with dirtying the faucet handles each time you wash your hands? A fancy kitchen faucet will solve all these problems and make your kitchen stay more enjoyable than ever.

The Benefits of Getting a Smart Faucet

Using a touchless faucet may not be everyone’s taste, but if you choose one of the five smart taps, then you’ll enjoy a myriad of benefits:

Hands-free operation

You should never underestimate the convenience of hands-free operation. If you’re cooking food and your hands are soiled with grease, then the last thing you’ll want is touching the faucet and smearing grease on it everywhere. Instead, pop your hands near these sensor-driven faucets, and the water will flow automatically.

Environmentally-friendly

Water is an invaluable resource though we waste considerable amounts daily. A good-faucet with water-conserving functionalities shuts off water to minimize wastage. With most of these faucets having temperature adjustment capabilities, you won’t have to wait for the water to warm up while it goes down the sink.

Helps to reduce germs

It goes without saying that if you avoid touching the handle, you’ll limit your exposure to germs. Food may contain bacteria, and your hands can harbor any type of bacteria.

Great for children

Children often struggle to access regular faucets which can make them skip washing hands. With small touchless taps, they’ll have no excuse while making it fun at the same time.

The Right Way to Choose a Water-Conserving Faucet

Water conservation is a hot topic, and you can handle your part in the kitchen by choosing a faucet with a lower flow rate. Rather than the standard 2.2-2.5 gallons per minute standard for regular kitchen faucets, check out water-conserving fixtures with rates between 1.5-1.75 GPM. With a drop in performance, you’ll use less water in the year. Also, another method of utilizing water is using a touchless faucet.

With the MotionSense tech in place of levers and hands, you’ll enjoy the benefits above and use fewer water thanks to the auto shut-off functionality.

What About Faucet Water Filters?

If you’re interested in improving the quality of the drinking water in your house, but you want to avoid the hassles or expenses of whole-house filtration, then get a water filter. Though purifying and filtering are often confused, a filter does not clean your water. Purifiers featuring reverse osmosis can even purify untreated water.

The type of common filtration faucets should be used to make treated water more palatable. These faucets use a filter cartridge that requires replacement every 2 to 3 months. They work as follows:

Initial Screening of larger debris

The first stage of filtration helps in removing larger and bulkier particles from the water supply. This non-woven screen is wrapped around the cartridge and screens sand, dust and rust.

Activated Carbon Lock

The next step of filtration involves an activated carbon block. As water flows through this block, more contaminants are trapped. As the filter clogs over time, you should regularly check it and replace it when necessary

Removal of Chemicals

At the final stage of filtration, chemicals are removed. While the stage removes chlorine, similar elements and unpleasant odor, it is not effective in getting rid of metals, calcium or magnesium.

Why You Might Consider Using a Faucet Water Filter

By filtering your water, you’ll enjoy numerous health benefits making it a worthwhile investment. They’ll help to give you:

Healthier Water

As mentioned before, a filter does not purify water but it makes your drinking water healthier. With the removal of most contaminants and waterborne pollutants, you’ll save on the cost of ongoing plastic water bottles without compromising your health.

Chlorine-free water

Besides, chlorine having an unpleasant taste and smell, it has been linked to numerous health issues. With a water filter, you’ll eliminate most of the chemicals from the water you drink.

No harmful microorganisms

Microorganisms such as giardia and cryptosporidium are blocked with efficient and effective filtration. Both of them may lead to severe symptoms that can for weeks if you consume them in your drinking water.

Water without heavy metals

Heavy metals can leak to your water supply via contaminated soil. They may also be present in distribution pipes. Get rid of the heavy damaging metals with a water faucet filter.

An eco-friendly solution

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much will it cost to replace my kitchen faucet?
A: The overall cost of a kitchen faucet is dependent on the price of the fixture, the installation system and plumbing costs. As a benchmark, expect to pay between $100 and $500 or more. This depends on the style, finish and other features. If you’re looking for a tap with hands-free operation, this will run you more money.

If you can remove the existing faucet and install the replacement, then you’ll save the money meant for the plumber. If you’re not practically-inclined, you’ll need to budget for $150 to $300, so factor this into the equation.

Q: What exactly is a ceramic disc, and it is worth the extra money?
A: Either a valve or a cartridge controls the temperature and flow of water coming from the faucet. As cartridge seal technology has evolved, the rubber seal is no longer needed. These rubber seals were one of the top causes of leaky faucets. Cartridges are designed to last much longer, but not all cartridges are created equal.

A ceramic disc cartridge is remarkably hard and rugged. The discs rotate briskly against each other to control the flow of water from the faucet. You should expect many years of use before it experiences any adverse wear and tear. Though more expensive, they are a smarter investment.

Q: What constitutes a reasonable flow rate for top-rated kitchen faucets?
A: Most of the highest-rated kitchen faucets have a flow rate of roughly 2.2 gallons per minute (GPM).

The flow rate is regulated to limit the amount of water able to come out of the faucet. Some areas impose water bans or encourage conservation at all times. You can choose faucets with much lower rates accordingly. Standard flow rates include 1 GPM and 1.5 GPM although they can drop as low as 0.5 GPM.

The lower the flow, the less water you’ll use. And this means you’ll save more while also reducing your eco-footprint.

Q: What is an escutcheon, and do you need one?
A: An escutcheon is a decorative plate used to mask any ugly holes that occur when you mount a single-handle faucet on the counter or sink. If you leave behind many holes during installation, then it’s sensible to maintain the clean kitchen look by buying one of the escutcheons.

Some faucets bundle a decorative plate, but this is by no means always the case. If you want to buy an escutcheon separately, check that it’s compatible with your faucet size and model or the finish might not match.

Q: I’ve chosen the right kitchen faucet, but what’s the best way to keep it clean?
A: Use warm water mixed with a little dish soap regularly to clean your faucet. Make sure you dry the fixture thoroughly afterward.

If you have any caked-on grime, use a solution of hot water mixed with white vinegar in roughly equal parts. It’s best to carry out a spot test to make sure your faucet responds well to the solution. Although, it’s highly unlikely any damage will occur while using this natural method of cleaning.

Q: How long do the best-rated kitchen faucets last?
A: Since most kitchen taps are made from extremely durable materials like stainless steel and brass, their lifespan is lengthy. You can expect anywhere up to 15 years of use or more from a faucet which gives them excellent overall value, even if you get yourself a more upscale model.

Q: What is a center-set faucet?
A: A center-set faucet comes with two handles and, therefore, you’ll need two holes to install it.

There is a dedicated handle for hot and cold water that is set on each side of the spout. The spout,along with the controls, is placed into a metal plate mounted onto the center of your counter or the sink itself.

You should use center-set faucets if you have kids and you want to protect them from falling to mix the water properly and burn their hands.

Q: What is the difference between pull-out and pulldown faucets?
A: Pull-out faucets have detachable heads on a hose of a particular length. You can pull the head forward as the hose extends outward. If you frequently need a jet of water angled into awkward spots, these faucets are entirely flexible.

angled into awkward spots, these faucets are entirely flexible. A pulldown kitchen faucet has the same purpose, but it operates differently. While you can pull the head downward, it doesn’t allow you the freedom of movement since you don’t get the hose. On the right side, less versatility means you’ll get more control, and you’ll less likely make a mistake in your kitchen.

Q: How many holes are required for mounting a kitchen faucet?
A: There’s no definite answer as it varies with different faucet configurations. You may need anywhere from 1 to 4 holes in the counter. If you want to save time and money, get a new faucet with the same mounting arrangement as the old one already in place.

If an escutcheon covers the holes in your counter (see above), you can check underneath to see how many holes were drilled.

Q: What’s the standard size for holes intended for kitchen faucets?
A: A regular faucet needs a hole that is 1 3/8 inches in diameter. The manufacturer should list this information, and it could vary slightly.

In some cases, your kitchen counter might already have pre-drilled holes. In this case, measure them carefully and ensure any faucet you’re considering will fit with these holes.

Q: What type of faucet works best with hard water in your home?
A: Hard water has a high content of mineral deposits known as limescale that can lead to residue caking up your pipes and the surfaces of appliances. While water-softening filtration systems can be sufficient; they don’t stop these mineral deposits completely. The most reliable kitchen faucet for your use is the one designed to deal with the mineral residue and keep them at bay. Luckily, there are several on the market that does this.Ceramic seal technology in the innards prevents the accumulation of minerals in your pipes and faucet.

Q: How can I remove limescale if it’s already formed?
A: The mixture of magnesium and calcium compound we mentioned above leaves a chalky white deposit known as limescale and forms water spots. These can leave unsightly marks on your faucets. The limescale generally accumulates at the base of the spout and along the body of the faucet.

Mix up a solution of water and white vinegar for regular cleaning. Use a toothbrush or a soft cloth to work to clean any tight spots. After cleansing, rinse it thoroughly and then dry it completely.

Avoid the temptation of scraping the limescale off with a hard object, and you should leave out commercial limescale cleaners. Both approaches can potentially damage your faucet and also invalidate your guarantee.

Q: What’s an aerator, and what does it do?
A: Anti-splash aerators suck air into the water flow to give it a kind of bubbled effect. The effect of this is a slight reduction in the flow rate.

You can remove an aerator by unscrewing the casing found at the end of the spout. Before using a faucet with an aerator in place, you need to flush the system thoroughly first.

Q: How do single-flow and dual-flow faucets differ?
A: With single-flow faucets, the water mixes in the body of the faucet and spout. Therefore, they have an increased flow rate as they have a broader outlet diameter. The temperature usually becomes more even as it exits the spout. If you have an unbalanced system, then you’ll need a no-return valve.

The older dual-flow faucets were once standard. Hot water is fed through the center of the spout separately from cold water. The spout remains cool to the touch, and you won’t need a non-return valve.

Q: What should you do if your kitchen faucet starts to drip?
A: If the tap drips for a short time after you shut off the water, there is no need for concern. However, if the faucet drips continuously, then it’s likely that you must replace the valve.

Q: What should you do if your tap is splashing too much?
A: There are high chances that the water pressure is too high. You can deal with this by using an isolation valve or a pressure-reducing valve. If the faucet is turned on full with no water in the bowl, then you’ll get a great deal of slash back, so start gently to avoid this.

Perhaps the faucet has a flow straightener rather than an aerated diffuser. Swap out the existing flow straightener with a diffuser aerator to deliver a lower flow rate.

Q: Why is the mixed water supply coming out too cold?
A: This might be due to the temperature of the hot water being too low. Check the setting on your boiler or water heater and make sure it’s warm enough.

If the water is not hot enough, there could be an imbalance between the low-pressure hot supply and the high-pressure cold supply. A booster pump can help to increase hot water pressure while an isolation valve or pressure-reducing valve can help cut back the flow rate of cold water.

Q: Why is the hot water coming out so slowly?
A:This one has three leading causes and solutions. If you have a gravity-fed hot water system and mistakenly opt for a high-pressure faucet, you might need to consider a booster pump. Aerators with higher flow rates can also help.

If the system was not properly flushed, the aerator might be blocked. Unscrew the aerator and determine if the flow is still poor without the aerator in place. Wash it thoroughly and then replace it. Using the wrong type of tailpipe can also impede flow, so always use the piping provided.

Q: What should you do if a quick connect is leaking at the fitting?
A: Push the fitting up over the nipple more firmly. You’ll hear a click, which tells you it’s in place. You should see the leaking stop.

It is said that the sink area is one of the essential parts of the modern kitchen, and the faucet plays a significant role in its style and functionality. Getting the best kitchen faucet can be a daunting task at times due to the multiple shapes, models and sizes on the market. But you can get your desired one by checking our top products as well as reading our product buying guide that’ll guide you to make a wise buying decision.