The best kitchen sink faucets for easy dish washing and functional yet sleek design

Kitchen faucet FAQs

How long should my faucet last?

According to Horton, a kitchen faucet should typically last between 15 and 20 years, depending on factors such as hard water, the manufacturer, installation, and use of the fixture. Choosing an option with a ceramic cartridge valve will be a primary factor in ensuring a long lifespan.

Can I increase my flow rate?

Yes. According to Horton, you can increase the flow rate of your faucet. You can either choose an entirely new faucet with a higher flow rate, or if your aerator is the culprit, you can replace it with a higher GPM version. Your current aerator may be clogged with mineral deposits or it could simply be a low-flow version.  

How much should I spend on a kitchen faucet?

That all depends on your expectation level. “You can get a basic model that will get the job done for $50 or a $1,250 faucet that is not on the shelf at Lowe’s or Home Depot,” Horton explains. If you’re looking for a good place to start, Horton says that a good rule of thumb is anything $250 and under is where most homeowners dwell on a replacement basis. 

What should homeowners look for in a new kitchen faucet?

According to Lee, it’s essential to match your potential faucet to the way you cook. Otherwise, you can end up with an inconvenient faucet that lacks the functionality you need. Landers explains that it’s also important to choose a finish that is consistent with your home’s style and how much maintenance you want to do. Some finishes will show water spots more than others, like polished nickel, chrome, and black. Others that are considered “living finishes,” like oil-rubbed bronze, will patina over time.

What are some common mistakes homeowners make when choosing a kitchen faucet?

The biggest mistake homeowners make when considering a faucet is not taking into consideration how they use their space, according to Lee. A common issue is that the faucet is too low and doesn’t have enough clearance for big pots and pans. “We recommend finding something that is going to give you enough space to work in the sink,” she said. Another issue homeowners have is matching a new faucet’s finish with their existing kitchen. According to Landers, stainless steel and polished nickel are classic finishes. “These finishes pair nicely with an array of different styles in the home, making them both versatile options,” she said.

What type of spout do I need?

You’ll need to choose from revolving or stationary, regular (steady stream) or two-mode (regular and spray), and low-arc (3 to 8 inches above the top of the sink) or high-arc (also known as gooseneck, which is more than 8 inches above the top of the sink) models.

How do you measure for a kitchen faucet?

When measuring for a new faucet, the first thing you should do is figure out how tall your potential faucet can be without impeding any cabinets or windows. This is easily done with tape measure. To determine spout depth, measure from the mounting hole (where the faucet base will sit) to the center of your sink. This will help eliminate any faucet options that could end up spraying too far out. Landers explained that the sinks she usually purchases for clients’ kitchens are 33 inches wide and any regular pull-down faucet will work for something of that size.

What is a faucet valve?

This is the mechanism that turns your faucet on and off and adjusts the water temperature. Single-handle designs use one lever to control both temperature and flow, while double handles have two controlling the hot and cold supply. Double-handle styles are less common and are generally bought for their aesthetics over practicality, which is why we don’t have any featured here. That said, dual handles tend to be sturdier than single handles.

Do I need a touchless or touch-sensitive faucet?

Touchless faucets, which activate by waving your hands in front of a sensor, and touch-sensitive models, which turn on and off when you touch any part of the handle or neck, are both convenient and practical choices for many users. Landers explained that both types of these faucets are becoming more prevalent in the kitchen and stressed their food-safety benefits. Since you no longer need to use your fingers to turn a handle, these faucets can dramatically reduce the chances of cross-contaminating your kitchen when handling raw meats or seafood.

How do I install a faucet myself?

Installing a kitchen faucet is probably easier than you think. You will need a few common tools, like a basin wrench, and a partner to provide an extra set of hands. Most popular faucet models, including the ones we featured on our list, will have multiple installation videos from both the manufacturer and customers. It’s worth noting that installing a touchless or touch-sensitive faucet will be more intensive, and unless you’re comfortable working around electrical wiring, you may need to hire a professional.

Which brand has the best faucets overall?

While there are several well-respected kitchen faucet brands, we consider Delta faucets to have the best models overall. They’re made to last with quality components and their no-leak guarantee, combined with timely customer service, gives you the confidence that you won’t be left high and dry if any issues come up. We also appreciate Delta’s focus on hassle-free installation, including easily accessible manuals and videos that are well-suited for the average DIY-er. Plus, since they offer such a wide range of faucet styles — both classic and modern — and price points, you should be able to easily find an option that suits your needs.