A kitchen without faucets is just a keyboard without backspace! Can you imagine a cooking space without kitchen faucets?
Most of the water we use every day goes through our kitchen sink. The faucets are the unsung heroes behind every delicious dish you prepare.
No matter what you do, wherever you go, you can’t ignore its blessings. You will need to wash your hands, clean the veggies, use water while cooking, and do the dishes for the rest of your life. After every few years, you may need to change its parts, fix leaks, replace, or install a new one. The interaction with the kitchen faucet is unavoidable.
As you will be using it every day multiple times, even a simple feature of a kitchen faucet will make your life a lot easier.
The knowledge of different types of faucets, their parts, benefits, and DIY guides can come in handy anytime!
We are the content team of Litrohub, a group of professionals on home appliances. We will be sharing guides about kitchen faucets in this article.
Sit tight and keep reading!
Kitchen faucet and where it came from
Kitchen faucets have been around since ancient times. In 1700 BC, spring water was used to supply water to private houses. Romans used the river and spring water to provide a continuous water supply in thousands of homes and bathrooms.
The modern faucets were invented in the eighteen centuries. Faucets of that time had two handles for warm and cold water.
During the Industrial Revolution, the necessity and availability of various materials led to the invention of different types of faucets. From the early 20th century to the present time, brass has been one of the most popular materials for faucets.
Parts of kitchen faucet
What if a part of your kitchen faucet gets broken but you do not know its name? You could have easily bought the part online and fixed it DIY. But when you don’t know, you are more likely to hire a plumber, which is costly.
To stop that, let’s go through the common parts of kitchen faucets.
Aerator: If you unscrew your faucet head, you will see a disk with tiny holes in it. It’s called the aerator. The aerator mixes air with water and creates a consistently desirable flow of water. It can also work as a filter. The aerator also minimizes the waste of water.
Faucet handles: Faucet handles are the liver that is used to turn on, off, and control the faucet.
Spray hose: Spray hose is an extended part of the kitchen faucet. It provides moderately pressured water for easy cleaning.
Valve: A valve is a cartridge-like part of a faucet that controls the water temperature and flow. If you notice issues in water flow or temperature. It may indicate a bad valve.
Deck plate: A deck plate is the plate on which the faucet is mounted. It also works to cover the extra holes of a sink. Not all the faucets have a deck plate.
Body: The faucet body is the main functional part of a faucet. You can pull out the body for convenience for some types of faucets.
Gasket: Gaskets are the parts that make your faucet leak proof in the joints. It can be made of rubber or metal.
Washer: It is a ring-like part that also works to make the system waterproof in some joints. It’s made of rubber, metal, or both. The aerator usually contains a washer.
Materials of Kitchen Faucet
There are several different types of faucets based on the material. The material of a kitchen faucet makes the biggest difference in price and quality. Let’s learn about them.
Brass kitchen faucet: Brass kitchen faucet is the most common and convenient. Brass is made of copper and zinc, which makes it water-resistant and long-lasting. Brass kitchen faucets are stylish and often coated with modern color. It’s also cheaper than some other popular options.
Chrome Kitchen faucet: The chrome kitchen faucet is made of metal which is coated with chromium. Chrome faucets have a rich metallic color. It’s convenient and easy to clean and maintain. It is a bit more prone to scratches and watermarks.
Stainless steel faucet: Among all types of faucets, stainless steel faucets are the most durable and long-lasting. It’s resistant to scratch but prone to getting a watermark if not wiped out. Stainless steel kitchen faucets are a bit pricey.
Bronze: Bronze faucets are quite aesthetic and have an antique-like character. It will sync perfectly with the proper kitchen design. Bronze kitchen sink faucets are expensive and they require extra maintenance.
Coated: Kitchen faucets of different materials can be coated for colors, longevity, and style. Paint, plastic, and rubber can be used to cover the faucet body.
Types of Kitchen faucets
There are about a dozen types of faucets in the market with different styles and features. But we assure you that choosing one will not be hard. ( we promise) Before jumping into the types let’s finish some necessary discussions.
Firstly, there are 2 types of kitchen faucets based on the mounting place. If the faucet is built to mount in the sink, it is a sink mounting faucet.
If the faucet is designed to be mounted on a wall, it will be a wall-mounting faucet. We can easily expect most of our readers to be looking for sink mounting sink information. Because that’s a lot more common than the wall-mount faucets.
Secondly, there can be faucet types based on the number of holes. There can be one to three required holes for different types of faucets. However, if you want an extra soap dispenser and water sprayer, the number of holes can increase.
If you choose the easy way, buy the faucet that matches your sinkhole. However, if you have 3 holes in your sink and choose a hole faucet, that is also possible with a plate that covers the extra holes. You may also get a deck plate with single-hole faucets.
Now let’s dive into the main kitchen sink type you were waiting for.
Pull down faucet
Pull-down faucets are the most common. As the name suggests, you can pull down the faucet head and wash things with more ease. When done washing, just leave the head, it will fit in the place itself.
2. Pull out faucet
Pull-out and pull-down of the faucet may create some confusion. But they do exactly as their names. Pull down only comes down, while pull out can be pulled out and moved 360 degrees. They add flexibility and easy cleaning features to your kitchen sink.
3. Single handle faucet
Single-handle faucets have only one handle to control the water flow and the temperature of the water. By pulling the handle up and down you can turn off and on the faucet. The amount of up and down controls the water pressure.
Turning the handle left and right will help you control the water temperature. You may experience a bit of difficulty getting your desired temperature.
4. Double handle faucet
Double-handle faucets have two handles. One for cold water and the other for hot water. Most times the handles stay a few inches away from the faucet. But some faucets may have both handles attached to the faucet body.
5. Commercial faucets
Commercial kitchen faucets are quite higher than regular kitchen faucets. This is because commercial spaces may require washing and filling larger appliances. Commercial kitchen faucets are also very powerful to enhance the ease of working with large dishes.
6. Separate spray kitchen faucet
You may sometimes need both a stable water source and a moveable water source. This is where separate spray kitchen faucets will come in handy. But for this, you will need one extra hole in your sink.
7. Pot filler faucet
Pot filler faucets are wall-mounted faucets without any sink. The faucet is used to fill up the pot easily while cooking. Some of the pot filler faucets are moveable.
8. Motion detection faucet
Motion detection faucets are a really smart and modern kitchen solution. It is also called touchless kitchen faucet. If you are among the people who do not feel right to touch the handle after washing hands, motion detection faucets were made just for you. Touch faucets also minimize the wastage of water.
Popular color of kitchen faucet
There is no shortage of color variations when choosing kitchen faucets. Just look at the variations of brass colors– shiny brass, matt brass, antique brass, golden brass, polished brass, it goes on and on. Brands have many color options to choose from.
But in 2024, people are getting a bit lazy to choose from all those! That’s why black is the most trendy color of kitchen faucets today. Chrome and satin are also the standard and popular colors for kitchen faucets.
But when it comes to choosing a color, just trust your taste and consider the surroundings of your kitchen. ( Kitchen interior)
Choosing the best kitchen faucet for you
Now you know all the colors, types, and materials of kitchen faucets. It’s time to find the best kitchen faucet for you.
To choose the one that fits you, you need to consider three things. Style, features, and installation type.
Installation type should be considered first when you are looking for a kitchen faucet. Count the number of holes you have in your sink. If there are 3 holes, you should look for a three-hole faucet. You can reduce the number of holes with a deck plate. It helps reduce the hole number. If you want to increase the hole number, contact a plumber for the job.
Now features. The feature of your kitchen sink depends more on you. The feature you feel is the right one for you (can’t go wrong). The second factor that will help you choose a faucet is your need.
If you do a lot of washing, pull-down or pull-out faucets will work best. Need a more accurate temperature? Get a good branded double-handle faucet. A separate spray faucet will come in handy when you need multiple water sources. There are other factors you may need to consider. If you have pets and babies, you should keep that fact in mind.
The third factor in choosing the kitchen faucet is style and color. Your new faucet should match your kitchen’s current style. If it is modern, get a modern-looking faucet. For a classic, commercial, and antique-looking kitchen, choose accordingly. There should be no shortage of style in the market.
How to remove an old kitchen faucet
Removing old kitchen faucets may seem quite hard. But with the help of some basic tools and guidance, anyone can do it. We have dedicated content for removing and installing kitchen faucets. I’m sure that guide will be enough to solve any issue with replacing your kitchen faucet.
How to install a kitchen faucet? Should you DIY?
Installing a kitchen faucet yourself can help you save some money. But doing it wrong may lead to unwanted consequences. However, by following a step-by-step process, you can do it flawlessly. Check our ultimate guide about installing kitchen faucets.
How to unclog a kitchen faucet
You and I can take a day off or two, but a kitchen faucet can not. It has to work 365. Continuous usage can create clogs and jams inside the kitchen faucet. Sometimes removing the parts and scrubbing with a brush can solve the issue.
Other times, you may need to use some homemade cleaners to unclog and clean your kitchen faucet. Check out our detailed guide explaining all the cleaning solutions for kitchen faucets.
General problems and fixes
Check out the common problems of kitchen faucets and their fixes-
Loud Faucet
If you hear loud noises from your kitchen faucet, the washer may be displaced or damaged. Changing the washer can solve the issue.
Lack of water pressure
Water pressure problems are common. Especially if the supply of water is not that good in quality. Dirt and debris can easily accumulate in the aerator and cause such problems. Cleaning the aerator is an easy fix for the problem.
Leaking faucet
What can be more irritating than having a leaking faucet? It wastes water and increases your bills for no reason. A bad washer or gasket can cause the problem.
No water
If the water is not coming from your faucet, the valve may be broken. Get a new valve and replace it to fix it.
Tight handle
Dirt, rust, and debris can make your faucet handle tight. Cleaning and applying silicone-based oil can solve the problem.
Care and maintenance of kitchen faucet
Care and maintenance of kitchen faucets can vary slightly depending on the material. In general, it does not require much effort. There are three basic steps for maintaining your faucet
Clean the faucet with a damp cloth and keep it dry every day.
Cleaning the inside parts of the faucet once or twice a year (especially if you have hard water)
Cleaning and replacing the aerator when needed.
If you are more interested in the maintenance of kitchen faucets, check out our kitchen faucet maintenance guide.
Litrohubs kitchen faucet
Looking for a modern kitchen faucet in Ontario? Litrohub presents North American Standard kitchen faucets for smart home spaces. We have 3 options– Chrome, Matt black, and satin with minimalist designs and elegant style.
Our black kitchen faucet can fit in any kitchen space seamlessly. While chrome and satin may require a bit of matching with the surroundings. For buying kitchen faucets in Canada, check out Litrohub’s premium kitchen faucet collection.
Conclusion
Until something gets wrong, we don’t really understand the importance of kitchen faucets. Just a bit of maintenance is enough to keep your kitchen faucet in good shape. Plus, most issues with faucets are not that complex and DIYable. Upgrading your kitchen faucet can improve comfort a lot with a little effort.
Are you looking for a new bathroom faucet? But don’t know much about bathroom sink faucets? Well, nothing to worry about.
In this article, we’re telling you all about bathroom faucets, their types, builds, materials, etc. The intention of writing all this info together is to let you have proper knowledge about bathroom faucets. So that you can buy a new one on your own rather than relying on the seller.
Let’s start.
What is a Bathroom Faucet?
A bathroom faucet is a hardware or device that controls water from the main line to the basin or tub. The main job of a bathroom sink faucet is to regulate the speed, flow, temperature, etc. of water. Some faucets can even filtrate water.
Some local people also call faucets taps as the function seems almost the same.
Bathroom faucets are mounted on floors, walls, and tubs. But the wall-mounted faucets generally work as a part of the shower head-tub combo. So, some people put this type in the shower faucet category.
We can say that any faucet working well with bathroom sinks or tubs is called a bathroom faucet. They can have different shapes, handles, sizes, and materials.
Bathroom sink faucets aren’t only essentials anymore. They work to enhance the interior of a bathroom. There are several options in the market only for bathroom styling. These are considered very rich and premium models. A faucet with the proper shape, color, and finish can change the total outlook.
Classifications of Modern Faucets
Depending on where you are using it, there are three types of faucets or spouts.
Shower Faucet
Shower faucets are mounted on walls. Just below the showerheads. Shower faucets sometimes control the water flow from the showerhead. These are actually a part of shower head systems. Most of the time, shower sets are sold with faucets.
These days, shower faucets can have two handles, one for cold water and another for hot. There can also be a third handle if the showerhead and bathtub are connected with a single water line. The third handle will help to change the flow direction from the tub to the showerhead and vice versa.
Kitchen Faucet
Kitchen faucets are suitable for cleaning jobs in the kitchen or dining space. This type of faucet comes in different heights and shapes.
Nowadays, the kitchen faucets have taller spouts. The style helps in convenient washing and cleaning. The handles of tall kitchen faucets are mounted at the bottom mostly.
Another interesting thing is some faucet spouts are removable. It lets you clean every corner of the vessel or sink.
Bathroom Sink Faucet
By the name, you might’ve already understood what it is and how it works. Bathroom faucets are installed with bathtubs, sinks, and basins in the bathroom. You’d find several mounting options in bathroom faucets.
Moreover, bathroom faucets have more varieties than any other types of faucets in the matter of size, color, and number of handles. You’ll know more about this stuff later on in this discussion.
Basic Construction of Bathroom Faucets
A bathroom faucet construction is almost the same as other kitchen and sink faucets. Yet, to help you understand every single word we say further, here’s a short note.
Aerator
The aerator is the net you will find at the tip of your faucet. The net can be either metal or plastic. An aerator’s job is to create fine dramas with the water. But some aerators are capable of blocking debris coming out with water.
Valve
There are two types of valves. One is a washer compression faucet and the other is a non-washer. Washer compression ones have cores known as stems that rely on water pressure solely to work. But non-compression ones like cartridge, ball, and disk valves move sideways to make a path for the flow.
Mounting
Wall mount, floor mount, and deck mount are the three major types. Among them, deck mount faucets are more suitable and common.
Handles
Every year, new types of faucet handles are innovated. Till now,we’ve found these ones to be common in every place:
Bar handle
Knob
Cross
Joystick
Lever
Push button
Lever, bar, and knob handles are often seen in usual bathrooms. But the cross, joystick, push button, etc. are good for modern-style bathrooms.
Spout
By spouts, we mean the main pipe or body. Spout and knob are the two main things that create the outlook of a faucet. The curve, angle, and height of the spouts also determine how well the water will come out. There are 4-5 types of spouts. We’ve talked about them below.
Other Parts
There are also other parts like O-ring, baseplate, etc. You can easily understand what their jobs are by seeing them once.
16 Different Bathroom Faucet Types
Now, let’s tell you about the primary types of faucets for bathrooms or laundry. We have categorized them based on the mounting style mainly. Because most shops also classify them in this way.
We will talk about other types right after finishing this part.
Deck Mount Faucet
The faucets you need to install on the top of the basin or tub are deck-mount faucets. Almost every other faucet you see is deck mounts.
Single Handle Faucet
Among deck mount faucets, the ones with only one handle or lever fall in this category. Nowadays, most single-handle faucets have cartridge valve construction.
Center Fit Faucet
Basins or tubs with three holes for faucet mount require center fit faucets. A center fit faucet set comes with one spout and two handles. After mounting, the distance between two handles remains 4-6 inches.
Widespread Faucet
It is a sub-type of center fit. The only difference is the distance between two handles is more than 8 inches. Widespread faucets are good for larger tubs and sinks.
Vessel Faucet
Vessel faucets are totally a different type. Both the vessel and the faucet are installed separately on the countertop. You can see vessel faucets and basins in high-class hotels and restaurants. The aesthetics of this faucet is on trend.
Wall Mount
Wall mounted faucets almost look like shower faucets. They are mounted on walls right behind the sink. Users think using wall mount faucets is convenient. It keeps the top of the sink spacey to clean. But installing a set of wall mounted faucets can be tricky.
You can also categorize bathroom faucets depending on the valve constructions. Plumbers, DIYers, and other experts differentiate by valve or inner construction.
Ball Faucet
The valve inside here is a hollowed ball with a required number of holes. It’s an old-style construction. But still, it’s on demand due to its cost-effectiveness. Ball faucets only have a single handle mounted on top of the spout. As the model is old-fashioned, there are many flaws in the construction. Such as leakage, corrosion, etc.
Cartridge Faucet
Currently, cartridge faucets are not hype. The main reason is easy installation. Inside the cartridge valve faucet, there’s barely any complex components. Cartridge has a simple housing. It controls water flow and mixes water for regulating temperature. Cartridge faucets are also single handle constructions. Double-handle faucets can have two separate cartridges.
Stem Faucet
Many say stem and cartridge are the same. But stem works differently. The vertical tension or compression created while moving the knob makes a stem active. While cartridge rotates and aligned water holes for waterflow. Another name of the stem faucet is the compression faucet. Because the stem relies on water pressure to be active.
Disc Faucet
Disk valve faucets are more common in places where several people gather. For example, office restrooms, restaurant toilets, etc. The two disks inside the valve area move to mix and direct water from the spout. This type is a long-lasting option. But it also costs you extra money.
Not just valves, the shape and length of faucets also create some famous types of bathroom faucets. Here are some of them:
Standard Low Spout Faucet
Here, the spout remains at 90-degree angle with the mounting. The spout stays very close to the basin. It’s good for congested areas.
Gooseneck Faucet
Gooseneck faucets are curved like the neck of swans. It’s a good choice for styling bathrooms and sinks. Gooseneck spouts give you enough space in the vessel.
Arch Faucet
Arch faucet is also like gooseneck. But it has an U-shaped curve with two 90-degree folds in the spout body. Arch or U spouts pout water right at the middle of the basin.
Waterfall Faucet
Waterfall faucets don’t have any aerators installed. They create drama similar to real waterfalls. This type of faucet is very expensive.
Swivel Faucet
The swivel faucet is also a low-profile style. But the spout is straight and angled. The top of the soap rises higher here.
Pullout Faucet
This type of spout is extendable. You can detach the mouth from the main body and reach every corner of the vessel with the mouth.
Apart from all those, you can also find some other types of bathroom faucets. Such as:
Bridge faucet
Touchless faucet
What are the Best Materials for Bathroom Faucets?
Here’s a list of top materials used to make bathroom and shower faucets.
Stainless Steel
Brass
Plastic
Zinc
Nickel
Stainless steel is a very popular option. SS faucets can last more than 3 decades if used properly. But the material is a bit costly.
Brass is the most expensive and durable material for making bathroom items. Some brass products can even last longer than SS. However, they require high maintenance.
Plastic is the latest material. It is very cheap and easy to mount. However, their construction breaks easily.
People go for zinc or zinc alloy when the budget is tight but the requirement is metal faucets. Zinc often comes with corrosion issues.
Nickel, on the other hand, is a great deal. It comes with various finishes. The price is okay. It can also last a couple of decades.
Bathroom Sink Faucet Finishes & Colors
The bathroom is where you refresh your body and mind. So, the outlook of bathroom accessories must be nice and catchy.
Let’s tell you about the colors and finishes you need to focus on while buying a bathroom faucet.
Popular Faucet Colors
Black
Silver
Bronze
Gold
Brass
Gold
Elegant Faucet Finishes
Chrome
Polished
Brushed
Matte
Satin
Oil rubbed
Bathroom Faucet Buying Guide
If you’re in a situation where replacing your old bathroom faucet becomes a must. Consider these things first.
Things to Consider Before Buying
Observe the interior of your bathroom well. The new faucet should match properly.
See the size and number of holes in your sink.
Measure the space of the countertop of your sink or tub. It will help to determine the right height for the faucet.
Consider how much the faucet will be used daily.
Things to Consider While Buying
Go for the cartridge faucets. But if you intend to use the faucet heavily, the disc valve will work better.
Check for the WaterSense Label.
Match the color and finish with existing components in the bathroom. If you’re still confused, go for a silver or chrome finish, it’s universal.
The best choice is to buy a stainless steel build. But go for plastic if you don’t have the budget and tend to use the faucet less.
Check for accessories like brass plates, sink drainage caps, etc.
Choose the handle according to your hand’s comfort.
When to Buy a New Bathroom Faucet?
If you’re facing any issues with your old faucet, that doesn’t mean you have to change it immediately. You can repair or troubleshoot them to use for a few more years. However, there are some times when replacing your old faucet becomes mandatory. Those moments are:
When the valve is totally worn out or damaged
The handle is constantly coming loose
The faucet is leaking even after repair
Inner components are corroded
The faucet has lost its color and finish completely
Can I Change the Bathroom Faucet on My Own?
It depends. If you’re experienced enough, you can even install complex devices like disc valve faucets. But for an amateur, plumbing work can be a hefty job.
The interesting thing is you can install a cartridge faucet by yourself quite easily. This type of faucet has fewer components and a very simple housing.
Things to Consider
If you know where the main valve of your home’s water line is, you can easily turn it off and start replacing old faucets
You need to know the compatibility of your main water lines. Depending on that, you need to make a blueprint of your work
Some replacement work requires more than one person. So, you should seek help from someone skilled if you can’t do it yourself.
Tools Requires
Plumbers’ tape
Wrenches of different sizes
Screwdriver
Allen keys
Hand saw
Sealant
How to Replace a Bathroom Faucet?
Replacing bathroom faucets is done in two steps. First, you need to remove the old faucet without leaving anything. Second, you need to install the new one accordingly.
Now, remove the nuts and separate the lines of water from the faucet
Next, unscrew the bolts holding the faucet
Finally, remove the old faucet carefully without damaging the sink
How to Install Faucet Bathroom
After removing the old faucet, clean the mounting area
Place the new faucet precisely
Tighten the nuts at the bottom
Now, connect the lines with the faucet
Use tapes to tighten if necessary
At last, turn on the main line and check if there’s any leak
Key Notes
Make sure you don’t put any scratches while using wrenches
Before installing the new faucet, you can clean the debris and deposits inside the faucet line
How to Fix a Leaking Bathroom Faucet?
Leakage is a common problem among older faucets. Worn-out cartridge or valve can’t handle the water pressure properly.
Apart, if you install the new faucet the wrong way, it will start leaking. You also need to check the water pressure in your home. If it’s more than 50-60 PSI, any water outlets might leak. You can learn more about all the troubleshoots of faulty bathroom faucets in another article.
We cant hold ourselves to introduce LitroHub bathroom faucet. Why is it unique? In a sentence, It is Efficient, Eco-Friendly, & Elegant!
FAQ
Can you put a kitchen faucet in the bathroom?
You can put a kitchen faucet in the bathroom if the mounting option matches. But you should try to use bathroom faucets with your bathroom sink or vessel.
Do bathroom faucets come with drain assembly?
Some bathroom faucets come with drain assembly. They are actually bathroom sink or tub sets. They price more than bare faucets.
How high should the faucet be above the bathroom sink?
The height of the bathroom faucet shouldn’t be more than 6 inches. Too high or low can spill water outside the sink.
Why does my bathroom faucet smell like rotten eggs?
Your bathroom faucet can smell like rotten eggs if bacteria is growing rapidly. You need to clean the pipes and drains to remove the smell.
Can I paint my bathroom faucet?
You can paint your bathroom faucets using paints for metallic surfaces. Read the label of the paint before applying.
Summary
Bathroom faucets don’t come with any extra noticeable features. They are built to comply with the bathroom interiors and other components.
Long story short, there are tons of different types of bathroom faucets out there. To find the best ones, you need to know the requirements and compatibility of your sink or tub first.
We hope this article was able to guide you to the best bathroom faucet you were looking for.
