13 Types of Kitchen Faucets: Factors, Functions, Sink Types and Maintenance

The kitchen faucet is the water supply equipment to the kitchen. Faucets are different types according to its function, size, features and shape. These are the 13 types of faucets that can be used in the kitchen. Those are single-handle, pull-down, pull-out, double-handle, touch-activated, touchless, side spray, pot filler, bar faucet, faucet with built-in water filter, commercial faucet, bridge faucet and wall-mounted faucet.

Before you choose a faucet you should consider the faucet type and location, mounting type, handle option, style, material and finish, size and reach, flow rate, swivel spouts, temperature memory, filtering capability, durability and warranty. When you consider these things, you can choose the best faucet according to your requirements.

In depth you should know about the specific key functions of the faucet, water flow rate, temperature controlling methods, suitable sink type, service life, cleaning methods, and maintenance of the faucets.

What Should Consider Before Choose a Kitchen Faucet?

1. Type & Location:
   • Pull-Out/Pull-Down Sprayers: The pull-out design is usually shorter and can be pulled out towards you. Pull-down can be pulled down from the spout. Pull-out pulldown options help in filling large pots, cleaning different parts of the sink, and rinsing foods. 
2. Mounting Type:
   • Deck-Mounted: Deck-mounted faucet is the most common type faucet. It doesn’t clutter the wall behind the sink, leaving space for backsplash designs.
   • Wall-Mounted: Wall-mounted faucets are installed on the wall, freeing up counter space and making cleaning easier. It’s especially useful for deep sinks.
3. Handle Options:
   • Single Handle: Using a single handle you can adjust temperature and flow with one hand.
   • Double Handle: Double handle provides precise temperature control since hot and cold have separate handles.
   • Touchless/Hands-free: Minimizes the spread of germs and is convenient when hands are dirty or full. It also helps to save water by turning off when not in use.
4. Style & Design:
   • Choosing a style that complements your kitchen’s design can create a harmonious look. The faucet becomes not just a functional tool but also an aesthetic feature.
5. Material & Finish:
   • Materials like stainless steel or chrome are durable and resist rust. Selecting a finish that matches your kitchen’s hardware creates a cohesive look.
   • Finishes resistant to fingerprints and water spots make maintenance easier.
6. Size & Reach:
   • A faucet with a high arc can accommodate large pots and pans, making filling and cleaning easier.
   • Consider the reach of the faucet to ensure it covers essential areas of the sink without causing splashes.
7. Flow Rate & Water Efficiency:
   • A faucet with a good flow rate ensures tasks like filling pots quickly.
   • Water-efficient faucets (like those with the WaterSense label) can help save on water bills and save water.
8. Swivel Spouts:
   • Allows for easy manoeuvring of the faucet from one basin to another (especially useful for double basin sinks), providing versatility in usage.
9. Temperature Memory:
   • Some faucets remember the previous temperature setting, so you don’t have to adjust it every time, saving time and reducing the risk of sudden hot or cold surges.
10. Filtering Faucets:
    • Integrated water filters provide clean, purified drinking water directly from the tap, eliminating the need for separate filtering systems.
11. Durability & Warranty:
    • A durable faucet reduces the need for replacements and frequent repairs. Consider brands with good warranties to ensure long-term peace of mind.

Read More About – 8 Types of Cooktops: Gas, Electric and Inductions

What are the 13 Types of Kitchen Faucets

1. Single Handle Faucets

Single-handle faucets are excellent for kitchens due to their easy operation and streamlined design.

Key Functions of Single Handle Faucets

1. Convenient Temperature Adjustment: The single-handle faucet design allows you to easily control both the water flow and temperature with one hand.
2. Space-Saving: These faucets often have a sleek and compact design. Hence it can save space around your sink area and give your kitchen a neat look.
3. Efficient Water Flow Control: The single lever lets you quickly adjust the water flow. It helps you to conserve water while washing dishes or rinsing ingredients.

Water Flow and Temperature Control of Single Handle Faucets

Single-handle faucets have a lever to move up and down to adjust the water flow intensity and side to side to control the temperature. Push the lever away from you for hotter water and pull it towards you for colder water. Finding the right balance gives you the desired warm water for washing hands or hot water for cleaning dishes.

Suitable Sink Types for Single Handle Faucets

Single-handle faucets are versatile and can work well with most sink types, including under-mount, top-mount, and farmhouse sinks. However, they’re particularly well-suited for smaller kitchens where space might be limited, as their single lever design takes up less room around the sink area.

Durability, Cleaning, and Maintenance Single Handle Faucets

Single-handle faucets are designed for durability and can withstand everyday use. To keep them looking best, clean the faucet regularly using mild soap and warm water. Avoid abrasive cleaners to prevent damage to the surface. You can use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe away any residue. Periodically check for any leaks and tighten any loose connections to ensure proper function of the single handle faucet.

2. Pull-Down Faucets

Pull-down faucets are a fantastic addition to any kitchen, providing versatility and ease of use for a variety of tasks.

Key Functions of Pull-Down Faucets

Water Flow and Temperature Control of Pull-Down Faucets

Pull-down faucets have a single lever that controls water flow and temperature. Adjusting the lever up and down, regulates the water intensity while moving it side to side controls the temperature. This provides you with the desired water warmth for various kitchen uses.

Suitable Sink Types for Pull-Down Faucets

Pull-down faucets are compatible with a wide range of sink styles, from traditional to modern. They are particularly suitable for deep sinks, as the pull-down feature allows you to easily reach all corners of the sink, making dishwashing and food prep more efficient.

Durability, Cleaning, and Maintenance of Pull-Down Faucets

Pull-down faucets are built as durability, with sturdy materials that withstand daily wear and tear. You should clean the spray head to prevent mineral buildup that might affect water flow. Gently wipe the faucet with a soft cloth and mild soap to maintain its appearance.

3. Pull-Out Faucets

Pull-out faucets are great convenience in the kitchen, making tasks like washing dishes and preparing food much easier and more efficient.

Key Functions of Pull-Out Faucets

1. Flexible Spray Head: Pull-out faucets have a spray head that can be pulled out from the faucet spout. This flexible hose allows you to direct water flow to different areas of the sink, making it simpler to rinse dishes and clean the sink.
2. Dual Spray Modes: Many pull-out faucets have two spray modes – a regular stream for everyday use and a more forceful spray for tasks that require extra water pressure, such as removing tough food residues on the plates.
3. Compact Design: The integrated design of the pull-out spray head conserves space around your sink area, making it suitable for kitchens with limited countertop space.

Water Flow and Temperature Control of Pull-Out Faucets

Controlling the water flow and temperature with a pull-out faucet is similar to other single handle faucets. You can adjust the water flow intensity by moving the lever up and down, and control the temperature by moving it side to side.

Suitable Sink Types of Pull-Out Faucets

Pull-out faucets are versatile and work well with various sink types, including single and double basins. They are especially suitable for kitchens with smaller sinks, as the pull-out feature helps maximize the use of available space.

Durability, Cleaning, and Maintenance of Pull-Out Faucets

Pull-out faucets are used to withstand daily use, and their streamlined design makes cleaning relatively straightforward. You should clean the spray head periodically to prevent mineral buildup. Gently wipe down the faucet with mild soap and a soft cloth to maintain its appearance.

4. Double Handle Faucets

Double-handle faucets are a classic choice for kitchens. It has a separate controls for hot and cold water.

Key Functions of Double Handle Faucets

1. Independent Temperature Control: Double handle faucets have separate handles for hot and cold water. This allows you to precisely adjust the water temperature to your preference.
2. Traditional Aesthetic: These faucets often have a traditional and elegant look, which can add a touch of vintage charm to your kitchen decor.
3. Reliable Durability: The simple design of double handle faucets contributes to their durability, making them a reliable option for long-term use.

Water Flow and Temperature Control of Double Handle Faucets

With double handle faucets, you can control water temperature by adjusting both handles – turning one handle clockwise for hot water and the other counterclockwise for cold water. Finding the right balance between the two handles provides you with the desired warm water temperature.

Suitable Sink Types of Double Handle Faucets

Double-handle faucets complement a variety of sink styles, including traditional and farmhouse sinks. They can be a great fit for kitchens that have a more classic or vintage aesthetic.

Durability, Cleaning, and Maintenance of Double Handle Faucets

Clean the handles and spout regularly with mild soap and a soft cloth to prevent the buildup of grime or water spots on double handle faucet. Check for any leaks around the handles and spout connections, and tighten them if necessary.

5. Touch-Activated Faucets

Touch-activated faucets bring modern convenience to your kitchen, allowing you to turn the water on and off with a simple touch.

Key Functions of Touch-Activated Faucets

1. Touch Control: Touch-activated faucets use advanced technology to enable you to start and stop the water flow with a light touch anywhere on the faucet’s body or handle.
2. Hands-Free Operation: These faucets are particularly useful when your hands are messy or occupied, as you can turn the water on and off without needing to touch the handles.
3. Water Conservation: Many touch-activated faucets come with features like automatic shut-off after a certain duration of inactivity, helping to conserve water and reduce waste.

Water Flow and Temperature Control of Touch-Activated Faucets

While touch-activated faucets allow you to control water flow with a touch. Most touch faucets come with a traditional handle or lever that you use to regulate the water temperature.

Suitable Sink Types of Touch-Activated Faucets

Touch-activated faucets can be compatible with various sink styles, but they are particularly well-suited for busy kitchens. They work well with both modern and traditional kitchen designs.

Durability, Cleaning, and Maintenance of Touch-Activated Faucets

Touch-activated faucets are designed with durability in mind, and their touch technology is built to withstand everyday use. To maintain their functionality, clean the faucet regularly to prevent any residue or buildup around the sensors. Use mild soap and a soft cloth for cleaning, and avoid abrasive materials that could scratch the surface. Keep an eye out for any changes in the touch responsiveness and address them promptly.

6. Touchless (Hands-Free) Faucets

Touchless faucets bring modern innovation to your kitchen, allowing you to control water flow without physically touching the faucet handles.

Key Functions of Touchless Faucets

1. Motion Sensor Technology: Touchless faucets use motion sensors to detect your presence and automatically activate the water flow when you place your hands under the faucet.
2. Hands-Free Operation: With touchless faucets, you can turn the water on and off without needing to touch the faucet handles, making them ideal for tasks when your hands are dirty or full.
3. Water Conservation: Many touchless faucets come with features like automatic shut-off after a set period of inactivity, helping to save water by preventing accidental left-on faucets.

Water Flow and Temperature Control of Touchless Faucet

While touchless faucets provide hands-free water flow control, temperature adjustments are typically made using a handle or lever located on the faucet. This allows you to fine-tune the water temperature according to your needs.

Suitable Sink Types for Touchless Faucets

Touchless faucets work well with various sink styles and kitchen designs. They are especially advantageous in busy households or commercial kitchens, where minimizing the need to touch faucet handles can enhance hygiene and efficiency.

Durability, Cleaning, and Maintenance of Touchless Faucets

Touchless faucets are designed for durability and built to withstand frequent use. To maintain their functionality, clean the faucet regularly to prevent any buildup around the sensors. Mild soap and a soft cloth are recommended for cleaning, while abrasive cleaners should be avoided to prevent damage. Periodically check the sensor’s responsiveness and replace batteries if needed.

7. Side Spray

Side spray faucets offer an additional spray option for various tasks that require targeted water flow.

Key Functions of Faucets with Side Spray

1. Targeted Cleaning: The side spray provides a focused stream of water, making it convenient for tasks such as rinsing dishes, washing produce, or cleaning the sink.
2. Flexible Reach: The side spray can often be pulled out from its holder, allowing you to extend its reach and direct water precisely where you need it.
3. Separate Water Flow: Faucets with side sprays typically have a separate handle or button to control the spray, giving you the option to choose between the main faucet and the side spray.

Water Flow and Temperature Control of Side Spray

Side Spray faucets have a single handle or lever for regulating water flow and temperature.

Suitable Sink Types of Side Spray

Side sprays are compatible with a variety of sink types, including double-basin sinks. They are particularly practical in kitchens where you need a more targeted water flow for specific tasks.

Durability, Cleaning, and Maintenance of Side Spray

These faucets are designed to be durable and reliable, with the added benefit of the side spray’s functionality. Regularly clean the side spray nozzle to prevent mineral buildup and ensure proper water flow. Wipe down the faucet and side spray with mild soap and a soft cloth to maintain their appearance.

8. Pot Filler Faucets

Pot filler faucets are a convenient addition to your kitchen. It has designed to specifically to simplify the process of filling large pots with water.

Key Functions of Pot Filler Faucets

1. Extended Reach: Pot filler faucets are typically installed on the wall near the stove. It has a long, swinging arm that extends over the cooktop. This allows you to fill pots directly on the stove without having to carry them to the sink.
2. Time and Effort Saver: With a pot filler faucet, you can avoid the heavy lifting and potential spills that come with carrying large pots full of water from the sink to the stove.
3. Convenient Cooking: The strategic placement of a pot filler faucet near the cooking area ensures that you always have access to water for boiling, blanching, and other stove-top cooking methods.

Water Flow and Temperature Control of Pot Filler Faucet

Pot filler faucets are usually designed with two separate handles – one for turning the water on and off, and another for adjusting the water temperature. This allows you to regulate the water flow and warmth effectively.

Suitable Installation Areas of Pot Filler Faucet

Pot filler faucets are best installed near the stove, ideally on the wall or backsplash directly above the cooktop. This placement minimizes the distance you need to carry heavy pots filled with water and maximizes their convenience.

Durability, Cleaning, and Maintenance of Pot Filler Faucet

Pot filler faucets are constructed to be durable and able to withstand the demands of a busy kitchen. Regularly clean the faucet and handles to prevent the buildup of grime and mineral deposits. You can use mild soap and a soft cloth for cleaning.

9. Bar Faucets/ Prep Faucets

Bar faucets, also known as prep faucets, are compact and versatile fixtures that are perfect for smaller sinks or secondary work areas in your kitchen.

Key Functions of Bar Faucets

1. Compact Design: Bar faucets are smaller in size compared to regular kitchen faucets, making them suitable for areas like the bar sink or a prep area where a full-sized faucet might be too large.
2. Efficient Task Accomplishment: These faucets are designed to provide efficient water flow for tasks such as rinsing glasses, preparing ingredients, and cleaning smaller items.
3. Space Utilization: Bar faucets can be a great addition to an island or a secondary sink, optimizing the utility of your kitchen space by providing water access in multiple areas.

Water Flow and Temperature Control of Bar Faucets

Bar faucets typically share similar water flow and temperature control mechanisms with regular kitchen faucets. They often feature a single handle or lever that allows you to regulate both water flow and temperature.

Suitable Sink Types of Bar Faucets

Bar faucets are ideal for smaller sinks, such as bar sinks or secondary sinks located in an island. They work well in areas where a larger kitchen faucet might not be practical due to limited space.

Durability, Cleaning, and Maintenance

Bar faucets are constructed to withstand daily use, but like any fixture, they require proper care. Regularly clean the faucet and handle using mild soap and a soft cloth to prevent residue buildup. Inspect for leaks and ensure that the water flow is consistent. Tighten any loose connections as needed.

10. Faucets with Built-In Water Filters

Faucets with built-in water filters offer a convenient and effective solution to ensure the quality and taste of your drinking water right from the tap.

Key Functions of Faucets with Built-In Water Filters

1. Enhanced Water Quality: These faucets come with integrated filters that remove impurities, such as chlorine, sediment, and contaminants, providing you with cleaner and safer drinking water.
2. Convenient Access: With a built-in filter, you can enjoy filtered water directly from the faucet, eliminating the need for separate filter pitchers or countertop systems.
3. Cost and Environment Savings: Using a built-in filter reduces the reliance on bottled water, saving you money and helping to minimize plastic waste.

Water Flow and Temperature Control

You can control water flow and temperature using the faucet’s handles or levers while benefiting from the added filtration.

Suitable Sink Types

These faucets are suitable for various sink types and kitchen styles. They can be particularly useful in kitchens where access to clean drinking water is essential.

Durability, Cleaning, and Maintenance

Faucets with built-in filters require regular maintenance to ensure optimal filtration performance. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for changing the filter cartridge at recommended intervals. This helps maintain water quality and prevents clogs.

11. Commercial Faucets/ Professional Style Faucets

Commercial-style faucets bring the functionality and professional look of commercial kitchens into your home.

Key Functions of Commercial-Style Faucet

1. High-Arc Spout: These faucets has a high-arc spout that provides ample clearance, making it easier to accommodate larger pots and pans in the sink.
2. Flexible Hose or Spray Head: Many commercial-style faucets come with a flexible hose or pull-down spray head that can be maneuvered to reach different areas of the sink, offering enhanced versatility.
3. Sturdy Construction: These faucets are typically built using robust materials, ensuring they can handle the demands of a busy kitchen.

Water Flow and Temperature Control of Commercial-Style Faucet

Commercial-style faucets offer water flow and temperature control similar to other single handle faucets. You can use the lever or handle to adjust both the flow intensity and water temperature.

Suitable Sink Types of Commercial-Style Faucets

These faucets pair well with deep sinks and kitchens that have a modern or industrial design aesthetic. They’re especially beneficial for those who frequently engage in cooking or food preparation.

Durability, Cleaning, and Maintenance of Commercial-Style Faucets

Commercial-style faucets are constructed to be durable, but they need proper maintenance. Clean the faucet, handles, and spray head regularly using mild soap and a soft cloth to prevent dirt and mineral buildup.

12. Bridge Faucets

Bridge faucets offer a classic and elegant design that harks back to a bygone era, while providing modern functionality for your kitchen.

Key Functions of Bridge Faucets

1. Distinctive Design: Bridge faucets feature a unique design with two separate handles connected by a bridge-like structure above the sink. This design adds a touch of vintage charm to your kitchen.
2. Separate Handle Control: The dual-handle setup allows for separate control of hot and cold water, giving you precise temperature adjustments for various kitchen tasks.
3. Focal Point: Bridge faucets often become a focal point in the kitchen due to their distinctive appearance, making them an appealing choice for those who want to enhance their kitchen’s aesthetics.

Water Flow and Temperature Control

Bridge faucets come with two separate handles, one for hot water and one for cold water. You can adjust the handles individually to achieve your desired water temperature before blending the two streams at the spout.

Suitable Sink Types for Bridge Faucets

Bridge faucets complement a variety of sink types, especially farmhouse sinks and traditional or vintage-style kitchens. They can add a sense of nostalgia and sophistication to your space.

Durability, Cleaning, and Maintenance of Bridge Faucets

Bridge faucets are built to last and maintain their elegant appearance. Clean the faucet handles, bridge, and spout regularly with mild soap and a soft cloth to prevent tarnish or grime buildup. Periodically inspect the connections for leaks and address any issues promptly.

13. Wall-Mounted Faucets

Wall-mounted faucets offer a unique and stylish way to bring water into your kitchen, creating a modern and clean look that frees up space on your countertop.

Key Functions of Wall-Mounted Faucets

1. Space-Saving Design: These faucets are mounted on the wall above the sink, eliminating the need for a traditional deck-mounted faucet on the countertop. This design choice creates a more open and uncluttered workspace.
2. Easy Cleaning: The absence of a countertop-mounted faucet means less clutter around the sink area, making it easier to clean the countertop and maintain a tidy kitchen.
3. Versatile Aesthetics: Wall-mounted faucets come in a range of styles.

Water Flow and Temperature Control of Wall-Mounted Faucets

Wall-mounted faucets often feature a single handle or lever for controlling both water flow and temperature. Adjusting the handle allows you to find the right balance of hot and cold water for your needs.

Suitable Sink Types of Wall-Mounted Faucets

Wall-mounted faucets are versatile and can work well with various sink types, including under-mount, top-mount, and vessel sinks. They’re particularly suitable for sinks that lack holes for deck-mounted faucets.

Durability, Cleaning, and Maintenance of Wall-Mounted Faucets

Wall-mounted faucets are designed to be durable and easy to clean. Regularly wipe down the faucet, handle, and wall area around it with mild soap and a soft cloth to maintain their appearance.