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Buying a new kitchen faucet can definitely be overwhelming.
There are a hundred different things to figure out: finishes, sizes, brands, etc.
I know that faucets are freaking expensive and whatever you end up buying, you’ll be stuck with for a while.
That’s why we want to help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
In this post we’re going to cover the 10 most popular types of kitchen faucets. These will go into the different shapes, styles, and functions.
Once you know which type of faucet is best suited to your needs, you can read our article on different faucet finishes.
The Different Types of Kitchen Faucets
1. The Pull-Down Faucet
The pull-down kitchen faucet is a popular type of kitchen faucet that features a spray head that can be pulled down into the kitchen sink.
With pull-down kitchen faucets, it’s easy to clean dishes, fill pots with water, and keep the kitchen sink spotless. Pull-down faucets enable you to reach any spot by pulling out the hose, so you can maximize the usability of the faucet.
With added control over the faucet, you can minimize splashing and water wastage. This type of faucet looks stylish and is compatible with all types of sink basins and they typically feature different spray patterns to suit the user’s needs.
Pros:
- Better accessibility for washing dishes and cleaning tough-to-reach spots.
- Helps to prevent splashing.
- Stylish designs to suit any kitchen.
Cons:
- Not the best option for households with low water pressure.
- Can be too tall for some kitchen sinks.
Check out our list of the best pull down kitchen faucets!
2. The Pull-Out Faucet
A pull-out faucet features a spray head that you can pull out from the body for better control. This allows you to access 360-degree spraying potential with the detachable handle. You can remove the spout head to move it wherever you like.
The main difference between a pull-out faucet and a pull-down faucet is that you can pull the spray head towards you, rather than just downwards. This way, you can clean dishes and the countertops easily.
Pros:
- A great option for smaller or hollow sinks.
- Comes in a huge variety of designs to suit all kitchens.
- Flexible hose for complete mobility.
Cons:
- Can cause lots of splashing.
- These faucets typically feature a low-arching design which can make it more difficult to fill large pots.
These are great faucets, but there are some common problems with pull down faucets to be aware of.
3. The Single-Handle Faucet
Single-handle kitchen faucets are simple and straightforward, featuring a single lever that can be moved up and down and from side to side. This gives you complete control over water temperature and pressure.
This faucet style is easy to install as only a single hole is required. Single-handle faucets don’t offer the same flexibility as pull-out or pull-down faucets with dual handles. A single-handle faucet is extremely easy to use, which makes it a great option for families with small children.
Pros:
- Reliable faucets that are easy to repair.
- Easy installation as only one hole is required.
- Available in various designs and finishes.
Cons:
- Can be difficult to achieve the desired temperature.
- Requires practice to find the ideal water flow pressure.
Read out comparison guide on Centerset vs Single hole faucet styles.
4. The Double-Handle Faucet
A double-handle option features two faucet handles for controlling warm and cool water. The handles are placed on either side of the main tap, either attached to the central piece or a short distance away from each other. They require you to install separate connections for hot and cold water, similar to the faucets found in most bathrooms.
Although single-handle faucets offer easier usability than double lever faucets, they don’t offer the same amount of control. For this reason, a dual handle faucet is preferred by people who spend more time in the kitchen.
Pros:
- Features separate controls for hot and cold water.
- Can be used even if one handle is broken.
- Stylish and timeless design.
Cons:
- Can be expensive to repair or find extra parts.
- Difficult installation.
5. The Commercial Style Faucet
A commercial kitchen faucet is differentiated by a longer and more flexible design. Depending on the model, you can find commercial faucets with multiple taps for different needs.
These are commonly found in restaurants or other professional kitchen sinks that depend heavily on faucet functionality. That’s why commercial faucets often have added features like a soap dispenser, adjustable angle and stream, and even a built-in water filter.
These faucets are more reliable than traditional home faucets as they’re made for industry-level operations. Check out our list of the best commercial kitchen faucets.
Pros:
- More robust than regular faucets.
- Offer a range of features for added control and convenience.
- Made to handle heavy-duty washing tasks.
Cons:
- Difficult faucet installation.
- Expensive.
6. The Separate Spray Faucet
If you’re looking for a flexible faucet design, the separate spray faucet is a great option. These faucets feature a completely separate sprayer that allows you to divert the water flow from the primary faucet to the separate spray nozzle. This adds a whole new level of convenience, as you can switch between the primary faucet and the spray head effortlessly to clean around the sink area.
Pros:
- Dual functionality.
- Provide greater flexibility.
- Come with a range of added features.
Cons:
- Sprayer can cause splashing.
- More expensive than a regular faucet.
7. The Pot Filler Faucet
Pot filler faucets are built with an arm extension that moves the sprayer outwards. This allows you to swivel the faucet outwards for filling pots. These are often found in commercial kitchens. Sometimes, a pot filler faucet can be installed over a stove so you don’t need to carry heavy pots across the kitchen. They can be wall-mounted and linked to your plumbing system.
Pros:
- Ideal for deeper sinks.
- No need to carry heavy pots across the kitchen.
Cons:
- More expensive, typically for commercial use.
- Can be difficult to clean if installed above the stove.
8. The Motion Detection Faucet
The most modern types of kitchen faucets are those with motion detection functionality. A motion detection kitchen faucet automatically activates the flow of water when you wave your hand in front of it. Quick and convenient, hands-free faucets are a great option for anyone who considers hygiene a huge priority in the kitchen.
With a touchless kitchen faucet, you don’t even have to touch the faucet when cleaning plates or washing your hands which prevents the spread of germs.
Go deeper: The 12 Best touchless kitchen faucets
Pros:
- Convenient and easy to use, you don’t have to touch the faucet to start the water.
- Touchless faucets prevent contamination and the spread of germs.
- Modern, sleek design to suit any kitchen.
Cons:
- Most expensive type of faucet.
- Difficult to repair if something goes wrong.
9. Kitchen faucet with water filter
Water filtration faucets ensure that the water flowing from the faucet is pure. If you live somewhere where the tap water isn’t that great, this is a great option as you can drink from the faucet without having to rely on separate filtration devices or bottled water.
Pros:
- Spouts clean and drinkable water.
- Your water will taste and smell better.
- A convenient and cost-saving way of getting filtered water.
Cons:
- Can be expensive to install and upkeep.
- The water filter will need to be replaced repeatedly.
10. Wall mount kitchen faucet
A wall mount kitchen faucet is one that’s fixed to the wall behind the sink. Many minimalist kitchen and bathroom designs will feature this type of faucet, as they offer a clutter-free finish.
They require plumbing that runs up through the wall behind the sink as opposed to regular faucets which are installed through the deck plate. This means they can be complicated to install and repair if anything goes wrong.
This is one of the least popular types of kitchen faucets, but it’s a growing trend in small homes or minimalist kitchens.
Pros:
- More hygienic and easier to clean as water doesn’t build up around the base of the fixture.
- Aesthetically pleasing designs.
- Easy to fill large pots.
Cons:
- These faucets feature a complex plumbing system in the walls behind the sink.
- More expensive than deck-mounted faucets.
How Do You Know What Kind of Kitchen Faucet You Need?
It’s not all about the appearance of the faucet! Although it might be tempting to go for a faucet that adds to the overall look and feel of your kitchen, it’s important to consider whether the features and functionalities offered suit your needs.
Things to consider when choosing between different types of kitchen faucets include:
- Your budget.
- Spout height and reach.
- The size of your sink basin (for instance, deep sinks will benefit from a pull-out or pull-down faucet to prevent splashing and increase reach).
- The finish of the faucet.
- How much space you have, and what faucet hole size you need.
- Whether you want a single handle faucet or a double handle faucet.
- Pull-out or pull-down kitchen faucet sprayers and other additional features like motion detection, water filtration, and instant hot water.
The type of faucet you choose all depends on your needs. If you’re buying one for your home you’ll have plenty of options, but if you’re looking for a faucet for a professional kitchen you’ll want to invest in a high-quality faucet that ticks all the boxes.
What is the Most Popular Style of Kitchen Faucet?
The most popular types of kitchen faucet are those that feature a pull-down spray hose. This type of faucet is extremely convenient and provides users with ultimate control.
That being said, touch kitchen faucets are growing in popularity because they offer a hands-free experience that promotes cleanliness and hygiene in the kitchen.
How Long Does a Kitchen Faucet Last?
As a general rule, you can expect a kitchen faucet to last for at least 15 to 20 years. However, this all depends on how well you take care of the faucet to ensure it’s not unnecessarily damaged and requires repair or replacement.
FAQs
Do kitchen faucets come in standard sizes?
There is no standard kitchen faucet size. It all depends on the faucet hole size that’s required for installation, so be sure to check specifications before purchasing.
What materials are kitchen faucets made of?
The most common materials for faucets are brass and stainless steel, but there are also models made from zinc alloy. They usually feature a finish that prevents flaking and tarnishing, like brass, nickel, pewter, or gold.
Can kitchen faucets be repaired?
Yes, they can. However, repairing your kitchen faucet can become costly and complicated depending on the method of installation.
Can faucets come with built in lights?
Some faucets can come with built-in lights, but it’s good to learn how they work first. There are definitely some advantages to having LED lights on a faucet.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to choosing the best kitchen faucet, it all depends on your specific needs. Go back through this list of the different types of kitchen faucets and find the one that’s best for you!
Dual handle faucets provide better control over temperature and pressure, and faucets with a pull-down hose are extremely convenient for cleaning dishes or keeping the sink area tidy.
Look for a faucet that offers features to make your life more convenient, like hands-free motion detection, water filtration, and so on.
It’s always a good idea to do your research and check out kitchen faucet reviews before making a purchase decision.
