The design of the kitchen faucet and its function go hand in hand. Remember to consider both together when adding one to the kitchen design. The styles of kitchen faucets on the market today are innumerable, making the choices even more so. Will a single handle kitchen faucet or a widespread design work better in a small space? Is a side spray faucet better than a pull-out faucet? Should a pot filler, filter faucet, or soap dispenser be added to the design? These questions and others can be answered by taking a look at the needs of the user and the design of the kitchen.
The Function of The Faucet
Of course, the true function of any kitchen faucet is to deliver water to the sink; it’s the user’s needs that truly need to be taken into consideration. Homeowners who do a great deal of cooking, as well as washing up of large size pans, may want to consider a professional, gantry style faucet, as well as a pot filler over the stove to help make their tasks easier.
Small kitchens, with “D” bowl sinks, will work better with a single handle faucet, with a built-in spray, which can be mounted on one side of the sink. The other side of the sink can be used for a built-in soap or lotion dispenser, helping to save counter space.
For kitchens with extremely large sinks or multiple cooks, a faucet with a side spray may be a better option, leaving room on one side of the sink for prep, while the other side is used for clean up.
Filter faucets and instant hot water taps are great choices for homes with poor quality water, or for homeowners who enjoy having fresh drinking water always at the ready.
The Style of The Faucet
Faucet styles are as numerous as kitchen styles and can be purchased in a variety of sizes and finishes. Traditional kitchens, with farmer sinks, will be well complemented by bridge kitchen faucets, while modern kitchens will work well with stainless steel faucets with pull-down sprays and clean lines.
Many faucets are available in specialty finishes, such as brass or copper, as well as traditional white, black, and stainless steel, making it possible to complement any material kitchen sink.
For kitchens that have a second sink, prep faucets are available in a slightly smaller size, and bar faucets, in a smaller size still. Often these faucets can be suited together to complete the design of the kitchen. Consider a prep faucet with a side spray or a bar faucet with a built-in filter for extra use.
Be sure to check on the quality of the faucet before purchasing. Look for true metal finishes, and solid stainless steel faucets, as well as ceramic disc valves, to avoid tarnish and drips. If a faucet with a pull-out spray is being considered, make sure that the hose is easily replaced without needing to remove the entire faucet from the counter in the event of a leak.
If unsure if a side spray will be wanted or needed in the future, look for faucets that have the ability to add a spray at any time, rather than those that must have a spray hooked up at the beginning.
When choosing the kitchen faucet, combining the needs of the user with the design of the space will ensure a useful appliance for years to come.