The workhorse kitchen faucet is often taken for granted - until it breaks. Just think of how frequently you and other household members use it to wash your hands, get a drink, scrub vegetables, rinse dishes, wet sponges, and more. Ideally, you want one that stands up to everyday use.
Choosing a kitchen faucet may seem like a mundane task, but it's actually important. You want the right kind to fit your needs and your kitchen's decor, and you don't want to simply opt for the cheapest model.
There is also a myriad of faucet styles to choose from:
So before you shop for a new kitchen faucet, think about where (the existing space, pre-existing hardware) and how you plan to use it. Consider each model's specs:
No matter which kitchen faucet you pick, choose a model that helps save water. A faucet aerator efficiently reduces the flow rate while still maintaining water pressure, thus conserving water and saving you money. Also, fix (or replace if necessary) the faucet when you notice any leaking. According to the Alliance for Water Efficiency, "A faucet leaking 60 drops per minute will waste 192 gallons (726.8 liters) per month … 2,304 gallons (8.7 m3) per year." To calculate your household's potential water waste from a leaky kitchen faucet, visit the U.S. Geological Survey's Drip Calculator.
Finally, turn off the faucet when you're not using it. For example, when handwashing dishes, turn off the tap while soaping up dishes or fill the sink with water to wet and soak them instead of continually running the tap.
Here are our top picks for the best kitchen faucets:
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