Pullout Faucet Buying Tips
The core of kitchen operations, the main sink accommodates chores galore. Think about how often you and other family members activate that sink's faucet to prep vegetables, rinse dishes, scrub broiler pans, irrigate windowsill-set houseplants, or fill water glasses, coffee carafes, pasta pots, and vases.
Happily, faucet manufacturers considered your needs when devising pull-down and pullout taps equipped with in-spout sprayers. Though the descriptive terms are often used interchangeably, pull-down usually refers to high-arch or gooseneck faucets suited to cleaning oversize cooking and serving vessels. Pullout versions have lower profiles and are slightly less ergonomic than their pull-down cousins, which operate via a single grab-pull-spray motion while pullout sprayers might require users to switch hand position before operating the spray.
In-spout-sprayer faucets share more similarities than differences. Primarily produced as single-handle models (with only a few double-handle options available), these faucets offer the convenience of a single space-saving spigot serving two functions. Since the spout and sprayer are centrally placed, sprayers are easier to access than side sprayers, can cover a wider area, and direct water exactly where it's needed. Button or toggle switches let you shift from stream to spray and, on some models, to jet spray; a number of sprayers also boast a pause function, which allows you to briefly stop water flow.
Ranging in price from $70 to $1,200, with most styles priced between $200 and $600, there is a quality faucet for every budget and decorating preference. The majority of these faucets are rendered in chrome and stainless-steel finishes, though models also come in nickel, white, black, brass, copper, and bronze. You'll find statuesque arched versions executed in contemporary shimmer, old-world styles with antiqued bronze patinas, and understated forms and brushed finishes that enhance traditional and transitional looks.
When shopping for this type of faucet, consider how many sink-hole cutouts (usually from one to four) are needed for installation. Look for self-docking, magnetic-docking, or spring-loaded systems that efficiently retract hoses and secure sprayer to spout. Opt for models with antiscalding technology that partially opens hot water valves to moderate water temperature. Some mid- to upper-range styles might feature on-off touch technology, mineral-buildup-resistant top coats, stainless-steel hoses, lights that illuminate objects being sprayed, and temperature memories that hold a preferred temperature setting.
Visit kitchen showrooms and home centers to test different models in varying price points to get a feel for what type works best for you. Unlatch sprayers and extend hoses to check ease of operation. Make sure the sprayer hose is flexible, offers a wide range of motion (some models swivel 360 degrees), and is simple to maneuver. Compare your favored models' features to ensure you receive the greatest value for your dollar. As with any kitchen faucet, purchase the best model you can afford.
Faucet Buying Guide
A great faucet is integral to your kitchen's style and function. It's one of the most used items. Hi! I'm Lacey Howard and I'm here to help you sort through the faucet features and find the right tap for your kitchen. When choosing a new faucet, assess your cleanup area and your existing sink. Then evaluate where you might use a second sink and faucet. Your faucet may connect to plumbing below the sink or mount directly to a wall. Pay attention to the number of holes in your sink's back panel, the spacing between the holes, the available space for additional fixtures such as a sprayer or drinking water dispenser. If you have good DIY skills, you can probably replace a countertop faucet. It matches up with your existing plumbing. However changing the configuration, adding holes, running extra waterlines, or mounting a fixture to the wall are all jobs best left to a professional plumber. Although you'll probably get excited about finishes and handles, pay attention to the inside workings. The flow of water is controlled by cartridges inside the faucet. Less expensive cartridges are made of resin. Higher quality are made of ceramic. Spend some time test driving various faucets and see how you prefer to regulate the flow and temperature of water. Common options include single handle or level, or double handle or level. Also pay attention to how the water will flow from the faucet. Gooseneck and arching spouts take water high above the basin. A pullout sprayer doubles the function of your spout. Qualify faucets begin with solid brass fittings. However this doesn't mean you have to choose a brass colored fixture. Look for finishes such as chrome and colored epoxy that are durable. Matte and brushed metals are gaining popularity and come in various use. Designer finishes come in every color of the rainbow or mimic the look of metals like brushed bronze or iron. Faucet options are about more than getting water from one place to another. Options include instant hot water tabs for tea and cooking. Wall mounted hot filler faucets over a range or cooktop. They mean you don't have to love a water filled pot from sink to range. If you had children at home, choose the faucet with anti-scald controls. It keeps water at a set temperature usually about 110 degrees. Safe and stylish, what could be better?
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