It would seem like a funny question about how to choose a faucet for the kitchen. You go to the store and buy what you like most; fortunately, the range of these products is very wide. But the catch is that such diversity can easily lead to a dead end. Focusing solely on external data is an amateurish approach. When choosing a kitchen faucet, you need to carefully evaluate a number of criteria, each of which is important in its own way. Let's try to figure out what you need to pay special attention to.
Criterias of choice
Any internal sanitary device with the help of which the flow of water or gaseous media is selected and regulated is called fittings and is divided into shut-off and control. Stop valves include stopcocks. Valves and mixers are shut-off and control valves. The latter are used exclusively on water. They not only regulate, but also mix two streams of different temperatures to average them.
Spout shape and design. The closest attention is always paid to the spout - it is this detail of the mixer that immediately catches the eye and determines the appearance of the entire product. However, appearance is appearance, but the spout must also meet the requirements of ease of use in the kitchen.
- The spout must be rotary. This is especially important where sinks with two (and sometimes even more) containers are installed. The turning sector must ensure free movement of the spout in any direction.
- The spout should have an optimal height so that it does not interfere with washing large dishes or drawing water into them. At the same time, an excessively high “gander” can lead to splashing of water from the sink bowl on the sides. It is difficult to give advice here, since much will depend on the depth and geometric shape of the sink itself. Conventionally, spouts are divided into low (up to 190 mm in height), medium (up to 240 mm) and high (over 240 mm). The optimal size probably seems to be a medium size, but when choosing, you still need to take into account the design features of the existing sink if the mixer is not purchased complete with it.
- Pay attention to the overall design of the mixer and spout. It can be solid cast - such models are distinguished by increased strength, and the absence of joints and connections will reduce the likelihood of leaks. However, prefabricated models are more often purchased - the lights are much more convenient to use, although caring for them will be more difficult.
Original articulated movable spout design. Often the spout is even a complex hinged structure consisting of several parts. This significantly expands the range of its capabilities. Such models are usually produced by trusted manufacturers, and in this case there is no need to worry about the reliability of such an assembly.
- Spouts can be very diverse in their shape - in this matter aesthetics probably comes to the fore. Some people like straight or rectangular, others will prefer S- or U-shaped or others
The spout configuration can be very different. There are also flexible spouts, the shape and length of which can be changed within a certain range.
Flexible spout. It is very convenient if the spout at the end is equipped with a water flow aerator. Some models provide the ability to choose a jet configuration - from regular or aerated to a shower splitter with a change in the angle of the created water cone. Many housewives may find it convenient to have a spout that can be turned into a flexible shower with a pull-out shower head. Worthy of attention are faucets in which the spout turns into a pull-out shower with a hose. In this case, a pull-out hose is hidden in the mixer body with or without a metal corrugation (usually a high-strength and very elastic PE-X polymer is used). It is connected to the shower head, which in normal position is the spout head. Mixer tap with two spouts. There are original faucets that have several spouts. So, if necessary, you can use the lower, short one, and when there are large dishes in the sink, you can switch to the high one.
Choice by material. The durability of the device is greatly influenced by the material from which the body and spout are made. Today there is quite a large amount of materials. Only the ceramic models differ in appearance; all the others “look” exactly the same. However, you need to know what the mixer is made of.
- Stainless steel. The most durable, but also the most expensive option. But the service life is long.
- Brass. A very good choice, but only if the alloy is of good quality, suitable for use in the food industry. Brass taps last a very long time, even hard water does not harm them.
- Bronze. Also a good option, but most often bronze taps are made in a retro style. In this case, they are not covered with any protective coatings. Ordinary models from bronze cases are made quite rarely.
- Silumin is an alloy of aluminum and silicon. A light alloy, similar in appearance to aluminum, but very unreliable. The bodies of the cheapest faucets are made from this alloy. Their service life is no more than a year.
- Plastic. Not a bad material, but not for taps - the protective coating wears off quickly from constant contact with water. Plastic faucets also belong to the budget category.
- Ceramics. Ceramic sink faucets look very impressive, but they are expensive and require careful handling in operation. They cannot withstand shock loads at all. You must be very careful when washing dishes. Ceramic ones are still more exotic in our country, but everything else is available in large quantities. Normal in quality and not the most expensive in price. But brass is also different.
In cheap faucets, brass contains large amounts of lead. It increases the fluidity of the alloy, which means thinner walls can be obtained. The casting quality will be better - without cavities and other flaws. But the high content of lead in the water tap is harmful to the body. Lead dissolves in water, making it unsuitable for food use. How to choose a good brass faucet? By weight. Brass with a high lead content has thin walls, which means the tap itself is much lighter. Other features include color. Sometimes it is possible to look into the inside of some mixers to evaluate the alloy on this basis. In low-quality brass it is reddish in color, in normal brass it is yellow.
External coating of the mixer. This criterion determines both the neat appearance of the product and the ease of care for it. The classic option is a shiny chrome or stainless steel surface. It looks very advantageous, is quite resistant to scratches, but stains are clearly visible on it, including from dried water. Brushed metal makes stains and small scratches less noticeable. To a lesser extent, this drawback is inherent in faucets made of brushed metal - they also look very original and suit any interior style. Mixer coated with colored enamel. Faucets can be coated with colored durable enamel. It is possible to match it to the overall design of the kitchen, but it is worth remembering that, despite all its strength, the enamel can still chip or be scratched with an accentuated blow. Bronze, copper or brass faucets will always look advantageous. Ageless, covered with a noble patina, bronze is an excellent choice, both in terms of quality and as an interior decoration. A faucet with a “stone look” coating is usually purchased for the corresponding sink. For currently fashionable and very practical kitchen sinks made of artificial granite or marble, you can purchase a matching faucet with the same outer covering. Special enamel very accurately conveys the “natural” texture of the stone. Faucets with gilding - for particularly “vintage” interiors. Anyone who wants to create a special chic in their kitchen has the opportunity to purchase a gold-plated faucet. As a rule, these are expensive exclusive models, usually supplied to order. However, there are also faucets with a shiny gold finish and at a reasonable price, but they are not particularly in demand - they are too shocking.
Differences in type of fastening. In addition to design features, there is a division of types of kitchen faucets according to installation method. The location and method of installation of the faucet influences which model to choose for a particular kitchen. Mixer wall mount. The models are laconic and easy to use, but there are a number of difficulties with their installation: a special water supply and subsequent wall repair are required. The unit can be secured in three ways:
- In the sink hole is the most common and easiest installation method, which you can do yourself. Any designs are suitable.
- You can also install valve, lever or touch models with swivel spouts in the countertop. But before that, a hole corresponding to the diameter of the devices is drilled in the table.
- Fastening directly to the wall - only special models are suitable. The housing for such installation must be massive, and the connection with the pipes hidden in the wall must be rigid.
Fixing in a horizontal position is carried out when lever mixers are installed with pins threaded into threaded holes on the body, onto which a shaped half-washer is tightened with a nut. When installing crane-axlebox structures, a split threaded bushing is secured to the surface of the base with a nut. A faucet mounted into a sink is the most common mounting option. The most acceptable method of connection to the water supply system is through flexible hoses. In cases where it is necessary to connect to pipes coming out of the wall, eccentrics are used to ensure correct positioning, and the fasteners are hidden with decorative conical covers.
Mounting types
All mixers are divided into the following mounting locations:
- Bath. Involves mounting the device on the wall or directly in the bathtub. In the first case, the control handles and spout will be visible on the surface. Mounting directly into the bathtub helps save space in small rooms and save on the purchase of multiple faucets. They are considered not entirely reliable, since leaks form in several places at once.
- Sink. Most often, mounting is used on the sink itself rather than on the wall.
- Shower. It uses models that do not have a spout. They have a special hose and adjustment knobs. Mounting is carried out only on the wall and is masked with a reflector, giving a more aesthetic appearance.
The best foreign and Russian manufacturers
It is clear that a good product cannot be cheap, but the cost of the best kitchen faucets is not always beyond the realm of possibility. When choosing, you should focus not only on the price, but also on the brand. Well-known manufacturers produce both budget and luxury models. At the same time, their established reputation means much more to them than petty savings, therefore, regardless of the price, faucets from such brands are always of high quality. The quality, durability and convenience of your plumbing fixtures depends on the manufacturer’s brand. If we look at the rating of kitchen faucets by country and specific manufacturers, we will see that the first places are distributed as follows:
- Germany – SIEMENS ag, Grohe, Dornbracht, Viega, Kaldewei, Hansa, Schock, Axor, Ideal Standard, Hansgrohe, Franke, Blanco;
- Italy – Jacuzzi, Rifra, Piados, Duka, Zucchetti, Roca, Webert, Bonomini, Carlo Frattini, Webert;
- France – Jacob Delafon;
- Finland – Oras;
- Sweden – Alfa Laval;
- Bulgaria – Vidima;
- Switzerland – Gustavsberg;
- Spain – Roca;
- Denmark – Damixa.
Among Russian companies producing plumbing fixtures, the products worthy of attention are Sunmix and Santekhpribor. Products from these manufacturers guarantee long-term and convenient operation, are reliable and can work for a long time without breakdowns.
Hansgrohe - German quality and sophisticated style
Hansgrohe is a German manufacturer of faucets and other sanitary equipment for the kitchen and bathroom. The founder of the company focused on producing high-quality faucets. Since 1901, the company has developed and offered customers new models that constantly kept up with the times. The first batches of products were sent to German and Czech buyers. Today, Hansgrohe mixers are known in more than 10 countries around the world. In 1936, the middle son of the Hansgrohe founder founded his own company, Grohe.
Grohe and Hansgrohe are currently the largest competitors and successful manufacturers of sanitary equipment.
Hansgrohe has founded 4 brands:
Hansgrohe – accessories, faucets, showers in a modern style;
Pharo – bath and shower systems;
Pontos - economical products designed to save water;
Axor – exclusive models of faucets for bathrooms and toilets.
Collections:
- PuraVida;
- Metris;
- Classic;
- Metris E;
- Talis;
- Classic;
- Talis E²;
- Talis Select S;
- Select E;
- Focus;
- Focus E;
- Focus S;
- Logis;
- Logis Classic;
- Metropol;
- Ecostat.
The manufacturer's catalog presents classic and ultra-modern faucet models with glossy, matte, and colored finishes made from durable and long-lasting materials.
Advantages of Hansgrohe products: cost-effectiveness, innovation, wide selection of high-quality and stylish products. Mixers are presented in high and medium price ranges. Unique models allow you to highlight the individual design of your bathroom or kitchen. In the ranking of the quality of kitchen faucets, the product is a leader.
Store offers:
The best inexpensive kitchen faucets
Rossinka Silvermix Z35-28
Single lever unit from the Russian company Rossinka. The design is quite traditional, with a swivel spout and a cartridge with ceramic plates. There is a separate spout from the filter, for which a special switch is located on the left, opposite the main lever. Taking care of the health of customers, the manufacturer used brass with a low lead content. The chrome coating gives the product an attractive appearance and protects it from scratches.
Advantages
- stylish design
- high quality finish
- double spout
Flaws
- inconvenient lever placement
Grohe Euroeco 32752000
Single-lever kitchen faucet from a German manufacturer, with a swivel spout, high enough and convenient for washing dishes or filling containers with water.
The device delivers a powerful stream of water, but there is significantly less splashing than in previous versions. The spout rotates 150/360 degrees, it is possible to lock it in the desired position, and therefore this faucet is suitable for a kitchen with two sinks. The 4.6 cm cartridge is wear-resistant and makes it easy to adjust the temperature and jet pressure. Despite the absence of a thermostat, there are practically no temperature changes. The faucet has a chrome finish that is scratch-resistant; with proper care, it will not fade for several years. To install the product, you will need to purchase an extension hose and adapters. Specifications:
Mixer type: single lever;
Thermostat: no;
Number of mounting holes: 1;
The faucet is finished in chrome.
Advantages
- powerful stream of water
- swivel spout
- long service life without leakage
- little splash
Flaws
- poor maintainability, expensive
VIDIMA Orion BA365AA
A modern Bulgarian sanitary fixture with a durable brass body, coated with nickel-chrome, with a rotary bend, an aerating part and a practical water supply handle.
Advantages
- indicator for the type of water supply
- StrongFix system (reinforced fixation)
- aerator PERLATOR
- cast type spout
Flaws
- difficulty of repair
- external simplicity
Haiba HB 4304
A Chinese-developed product, single lever, in a chrome-plated brass body. The mixer is equipped with an aerator and two spouts. One is used for washing dishes, the other supplies water passed through a filter. Switching from direct supply to the filter is done by turning the handle at the base of the device. The watering can is not included in the kit and must be purchased separately.
Advantages
- stylish design
- double spout
- Decent quality of materials and workmanship
Flaws
- lack of spare parts for sale
- poorly organized service
IDDIS Alborg K56001C
A classic version with a low swivel spout and one control lever, as well as an aerator, a reliable cartridge and flexible hoses included.
Advantages
- pretty smooth ride
- easy turn of the spout
- quite decent design
- affordable price
Flaws
- insufficient height
- standard appearance
Where can I buy
The easiest way is to use the services of specialized stores. There are now no fewer of them than grocery stores. If you are interested in a special option or brand that is not on sale, visit the manufacturers’ websites or online stores. Listen to the advice and recommendations of friends, neighbors or acquaintances who have already purchased the unit you are interested in. Study the description, ask how much it costs, how to install and connect it yourself, and how to replace the cartridge. Having collected all the necessary information, it is easier to make the right choice.
The best premium kitchen faucets
Teka FO 985
Many designers, when planning the arrangement of equipment in the kitchen, place the sink near the window. In this case, the faucet spout becomes an obstacle that prevents the window sashes from opening. In this case, the Teka FO 985 model, with a recessed spout, is simply a godsend for implementing such options. By pressing your hand, the structure lowers down so that the spout rests on the sink, and just as easily returns to its working position. However, the installation of this device is associated with some difficulties. The cartridge is installed on a sink or countertop separately from the device. Water is supplied to it by two flexible hoses, and the lift-and-swivel spout is supplied from the cartridge by one common flexible supply of larger diameter. An interesting technical solution that allows you to install a cartridge with a control lever in any place convenient for the user.
Advantages
- stylish, unusual design
- adjustable spout height
- high-quality assembly
- trouble-free operation
Flaws
- There are comments about the strength of the coating
- high price
Franke Atlas
The Swiss company Franke is represented by the Atlas model. This high-quality product with a brass body can be mounted on a sink or countertop. The stainless steel coating provides protection against accidental scratches. The rotating spout and switching the direct water supply from the pipeline to filtered water create additional convenience for the user.
Advantages
- Convenient location of cartridge handles and filter switch
- smooth flow control
- good build
- Stylish design and durable finish
Flaws
- increased noise with increasing pressure
- non-standard hoses
OMOIKIRI Yamada-BN
An elite Japanese sanitary product, distinguished by a very elegant body and the highest level of reliability of all assembly elements.
Advantages
- classic simple design
- practical and convenient size
- no splashing
- well thought out connection
Flaws
- practically absent
Ideal Standard Retta B8989AA
The device is equipped with a retractable flexible hose, very convenient to use. It can be used to fill containers located next to the sink with water. Washing vegetables and dishes is done more thoroughly if the spout is brought close to the object. There is practically no splashing. The water supply adjustment is very smooth. Works without noise. The original design and high build quality will delight the most picky user. The product is not cheap. But you have to pay for quality, and the Ideal Standart Retta B8989AA is worth the money.
Advantages
- stylish design
- high-quality coating
- presence of a retractable hose
Flaws
- high price
ZorG Grantis SZR-1339F-A
The delivery set of this brand is adapted for modern kitchen sinks of the Zorg Inox and Glass series, and also successfully complements stainless steel sinks from other manufacturers.
Specifications:
Installation: vertical;
Housing: steel;
Covering: stainless steel;
Spout: swivel type.
Advantages
- elegant and classic design
- very high quality build
- simplicity and ease of installation
- convenient spout shape
Flaws
- almost completely absent
What to pay attention to
Sink size
This parameter is important when choosing a faucet based on spout height. For a shallow bowl, choose low and medium spouts; for a deep bowl, high spouts are more suitable. Many European companies produce mixer-sink sets. This is perhaps the best option, although not the cheapest.
Built-in mixer
This version of the unit is mounted on a vertical surface and is more often used in bathrooms. The product is built into the wall. Similar options for the kitchen are less common, but they also have their place. It looks interesting, decorative, compact. Some problems arise during installation, repair or replacement of the cartridge. As a rule, such devices are installed during the period of major renovation of an apartment or when construction of a country house begins.
Switch to filter
Some samples have not one, but two spouts in one body. What the first one is for is clear. The second is intended for drinking water that has been purified using a filter installed under the sink. The tap with two spouts is equipped with a switch - translator. There are units with a flow cleaning function with a built-in mesh or carbon filter, equipped with a double spout. This option is good because it does not require the installation of an additional tap for filtered water.
Recessed faucets
The spouts of some devices, in addition to the ability to rotate at a certain angle, can be “recessed” to the level of the sink or lie on it. This is necessary if the sink is installed near a window with hinged sashes. Turn off the faucet and open the window sashes to ventilate the kitchen.
The best kitchen faucets in terms of price/quality ratio
Blanco Fontas II
The German company is represented in our review by the Blanco Fontas II model. The body of Blanco Fontas II is coated with light granite. The cost of the device is low, while maintaining excellent quality and standard diameters of flexible hoses.
Advantages
- stylish design
- original coating
- strength and durability
- ease of use
Flaws
- not identified
Grohe Minta 32168000
The popular German manufacturer will not disappoint this time either - the faucet turned out to be stylish and convenient, with a pull-out spout of a single-lever type.
The lever is equipped with proprietary technology that ensures smooth operation and ease of adjustment of both pressure and temperature. There is a built-in aerator nozzle, thanks to which air bubbles mix with water droplets and the stream becomes softer, with reduced consumption. The surface of the mixer is chrome-plated, there is a protective layer on top that does not allow micropores to absorb dirt. Therefore, to maintain it, it is enough to wipe it with a soft cloth that does not leave scratches or streaks. The color will not fade even after a couple of years of active use. There is a quick installation system, thanks to which the installation of the mixer can be completed in a few minutes. Additionally, the manufacturer offers a five-year official warranty. Specifications:
Mixer type: single lever;
Thermostat: no;
Number of mounting holes: 1;
Faucet finish: chrome.
Advantages
- heavy and reliable
- easy to install
- withstands pressure changes and does not leak for a long time
Flaws
- a lot of splashes
- quickly becomes covered with fingerprints
Oras Saga 3930F
The Finnish company Oras is famous for the high quality and wide functionality of its products. The Oras Saga 3930F is a simple design with a standard set of features. The buyer receives a high-quality product with a stylish design, with a ceramic cartridge, durable brass body and aerator. The watering can is purchased separately. Excellent value for money and quality.
Advantages
- quality materials, finishing and assembly
- no problems during installation and operation
Flaws
- limited functionality
Ledeme L4055В-3
The products of the Chinese manufacturer are characterized by the absence of a pull-out spout, the presence of a convenient and practical aerator, and a filter switch.
Advantages
- moderate cost
- excellent price-quality ratio
- availability in stores
- durability and strength
Flaws
- not fashionable enough design
Frap H52 F4352
A reliable and very aesthetic model for a deep sink, combining a traditional kitchen faucet and a filtered water tap.
Advantages
- stylish and modern
- convenient and smooth activation
- no splashes during operation
- affordable price
Flaws
- hoses are not long enough
- difficulty of self-repair
Types of designs
Today, on the modern market of various plumbing fixtures there is a rich variety of mixers. They differ from each other by many criteria, the main one of which is their type:
- Valve. They are classic appliances because they can be seen in any home. They are divided into devices with a rubber gasket and with a ceramic valve. They differ from each other in the number of turns of the handle made.
- Single lever. In devices of this type, cold and hot water is passed through and regulated by means of a special lever that slowly opens the cartridge. They are considered the most convenient and reliable to use, since they do not allow leaks.
- Contactless. They are touch-sensitive kitchen faucets that can be controlled remotely. There is an infrared sensor inside the device that quickly responds to any objects. Most of the control is carried out using a special panel. It allows you to set the exact response time of the sensor, the required water temperature, shutdown time and water flow power.
The best faucets for the mid-range kitchen
Hansgrohe Focus E 2 31820000
Single lever kitchen faucet with durable chrome plated, made of high quality brass that effectively resists corrosion.
The ingress of small particles and impurities from tap water into the mechanism is prevented due to the cartridge, which means the mixer will serve for a long time without breakdowns or leaks. The spout rotates 110, 150 and 360 degrees, so this model can be used on two sinks at once. The mixer handle can be placed on either the left or right side. The distance between the spout and the sink is 26 cm, this space is enough to comfortably wash large dishes. The model has a built-in aerator that mixes air with water, making the powerful jet softer, while reducing liquid consumption. One hole is provided for installation; the kit includes flexible hoses. Specifications:
Mixer type: single lever;
Thermostat: no;
Number of mounting holes: 1;
Faucet finish: chrome.
Advantages
- simple and reliable fastening
- swivel spout
- smooth lever movement
- high-quality coating that will last the entire period of use
Flaws
- not detected
AM.PM Like F8013000
A relatively young German brand that has won recognition from European consumers, winning awards and prestigious awards for its signature design style and functionality.
Specifications:
Installation: on a horizontal surface;
Body: brass;
Coating: two-color;
Spout: swivel type.
Advantages
- custom corporate design
- unique functional solution
- ease of use
- high level of reliability
Flaws
- side arm too thin
- quite high cost
Bravat Palace F729261CP
The product, manufactured under a well-known German brand, is made in a classic design, which allows installation to suit any stylistic orientation.
Specifications:
Type: single lever;
Installation: vertical;
Finish: chrome plated;
Spout: swivel type.
Advantages
- strict classic lines of the body
- quality components
- convenient location of handles
- no water splashing
Flaws
- almost completely absent
Lemark Comfort LM3070C
A kitchen faucet that will please the buyer with absolutely everything.
Supplied in a box that protects the device from mechanical damage, the kit contains everything you need for quick and reliable installation. The model has a separate channel to which you can connect a fine filter used to supply drinking water. The product is characterized by high build quality and long service life. This is a single-lever mixer equipped with an aerator to soften the stream and save water consumption. It is made of brass, is not afraid of corrosion and the effects of impurities, has a two-color coating and a flexible spout, which greatly simplifies the process of washing dishes. The mixer is installed on a horizontal surface; one hole is provided for installation. There is no quick installation system, but even without it the process does not take much time, according to user reviews. Specifications:
Mixer type: single lever;
Thermostat: no;
Number of mounting holes: 1;
Faucet finish: chrome.
Advantages
- there is a separate channel for switching to a drinking water filter
- flexible spout
- high-quality assembly and modern design
- The package includes everything needed for installation
Flaws
- not detected
Rossinka Silvermix Z40-24
The development of the Russian Institute of Plumbing Research Institute with a beautiful chrome plating and a high-strength ceramic cartridge is distinguished by its medium size, flexible hose option and aerator.
Specifications:
Type: single lever;
Installation: vertical;
Body: brass;
Covering: chrome;
Spout: swivel type.
Advantages
- presence of an international ISO certificate
- Consistently high quality of the device
- aerator with easy cleaning function
Flaws
- practically absent
