From swivel spouts to pot fillers, learn the differences between the 12 primary types of kitchen faucets available. A single-handle faucet uses one handle that can be turned side to side and up and down to control both the temperature and the water flow with one motion. This is great for turning on water with one hand, making it easy to access water quickly. The single handle design also cuts down on the number of holes that need to be present on the sink itself, making these types of faucets great for tight spaces. The downside to single-handle faucets is that it can be difficult to get a precise temperature or water flow. A double-handle faucet has a separate handle for cold and hot water flow. This makes controlling temperature and water pressure much more precise. The larger design of this kitchen faucet requires at least three holes in the sink, and possibly more if you wish to add a sprayer or other accessories. Pot filler faucets are usually mounted to the wall and have jointed arms that allow them to be pushed back out of the way or pulled forward to fill a large pot. These often do not accompany a sink basin, though they can. A pot filler can be used in conjunction with an extra utility sink or to create easy access to a separate water supply, such as over the stove. Bridge faucets have a separate handle designated for the hot and cold water that are connected to the spout with a horizontal bar, or bridge. This gives these faucets their unique look and name. These are perfect for larger sinks since they require at least two and often three or more holes in the sink basin. They also add a focal point to the room with their unique design. Gooseneck faucets are known for their high arch, very similar to the shape of a real goose’s neck. These faucets are vertical to the sink, reaching up and then curving back down into the sink. Their tall height makes them perfect for cleaning large objects. However, these faucets require an open sink area, as their height may not work if the sink is located under cabinetry or window sills. Straight spout faucets are designed to reach out horizontally over the sink, remaining a straight line. They are available in a variety of sizes, making them compatible with large and small sinks. Because of their low profile, these faucets are great for sinks that do not have much height clearance, such as sinks tucked under cabinetry. A pull-out spout faucet is designed to double both as a stationary faucet and as a handheld sprayer and hose. Simply grasp the faucet and pull it out to reveal the hose and easily move the water wherever it needs to go. Pull-out faucets often have a spray feature built into the faucet handle. These are great for wide sinks, as you can pull out the faucet to reach the edges. They are also ideal for thoroughly rinsing and washing items. A pull-down spout faucet also acts as a stationary faucet with a built-in sprayer and hose, although pull-down spout faucets extend down into the sink, rather than out as a handle. These faucets do not have a large handle to grip but still provide easy maneuverability. Pull-down spout faucets are ideal for deep sink basins since they can reach deep into them. This also makes it easier to thoroughly rinse and wash large items. Touchless faucets can be turned on with motion and only have one handle to control the temperature of the water. These faucets are perfect for keeping your sink clean and simple. They reduce messes since you do not need to touch the faucet when your hands are dirty. And their streamlined design keeps the sink simple. Some models are smart kitchen faucets that can also be controlled using a voice assistant. However, these high-tech faucets are usually more costly. Touch-activated faucets are turned on by simply tapping the faucet spout while the temperature is controlled by a small handle on the side of the faucet. Similar to the touchless faucet in design, these faucets are great for keeping sinks simple and streamlined. Because they can be turned on with a simple tap, touch-activated faucets are great for accessing water easily and quickly and can be great for children who may have a hard time reaching the handles of other sinks. However, similar to touchless faucets, touch-activated faucets are usually more expensive than other styles. Stationary faucets do not move, swivel, or have extra features. They are stationary and offer the simplest form of faucet available. These are great for small sink basins that do not require long-reaching or movable spouts. Swivel spout faucets can swivel back and forth, enabling the water flow to be moved. This feature is ideal for wide or double sink basins, as the spout can be moved to either basin depending on where it is needed. Besides this, it is important to keep in mind the configuration of your sink basin. Whether you are purchasing a new sink basin or installing your faucet into a sink you already own, make sure the faucet is compatible with the number of holes the sink basin has. Some simple faucets, like the single-handle faucet, may only need one to two holes. On the other hand, double handle faucets need at least three holes in the sink basin. It is not advised to drill another hole if your sink basin does not have enough predrilled, so it is important to be sure the faucet and sink are compatible before purchasing. If there are too many holes, deck plates or covers can be used to cover them up. And lastly, keep in mind the style of your kitchen and existing appliance finishes. Matching the finishes of your other appliances will help keep the room harmonious. Some styles mix and match finishes, though it is best to keep to two different finishes in one room to avoid a disjointed feeling, according to Allison.
