How to choose a faucet for the kitchen: types, specifications, an overview of the best options

The kitchen faucet holds huge loads - it is opened dozens of times a day. Therefore, the device must be durable, reliable, easy to maintain. It is also important that the kitchen faucet has an attractive appearance, because, despite its small size, it plays an important role in the interior. Do you agree?

We will tell you how to choose the ideal model of a sanitary fixture for you personally. In the article we presented, the criteria that influence the choice are described in detail, valuable recommendations are given. To facilitate the solution of a difficult task, we have listed the TOP market leading offers.

Types of Kitchen Faucets

In plumbing stores you can find a wide selection of all kinds of taps, which vary both in design and in design. When getting acquainted with the assortment, it is recommended first of all to pay attention to the principle of action and the internal mechanism. Based on these parameters, products can be classified.

Two-valve plumbing devices

This type includes traditional appliances with two valves for adjusting hot / cold water. The operating mechanism of such mixers can be worm or ceramic crane boxes.

In the first case, the action is based on the shut-off valve closing the seat complementary to it, which leads to the cessation of the flow of water. The valve is equipped with a replaceable plastic or paranitic gasket, which during operation is flattened, thinned, or simply torn.

Due to the multiple opening / closing cycles, the sealing elements of the worm device quickly begin to leak. At the same time, they are easily repairable: in most cases, it is enough to replace the gasket on its own.

To facilitate the selection of plumbing accessories, manufacturers often offer kits consisting of a sink and a kitchen faucet that matches perfectly with it

The locking mechanism of the ceramic crankboxes is composed of two slots made of the corresponding material. One of them - the input one - is fixedly mounted in the plumbing housing, while the second adjustment component rotates relative to it.

Due to the difficulties in use and repair, as well as due to the uneconomical consumption of water, double-lever models are quite rare in recent years. Usually they are used for decorative purposes in the design of premises in a traditional or retro style

Water enters only if the holes match; the larger the total gap, the more intense the flow of fluid. Such a mechanism is reliable and comfortable to use, but has a limited life, since it can hardly be restored.

Even with a small breakdown, you will have to change the crankbox, and if it is impossible to find the model of the desired configuration, the mixer itself.

Single lever kitchen appliances

About 80% of modern cranes presented on the profile market belong to the single-lever type, which is also called the joystick, cartridge or single-command. Such devices are distinguished by aesthetic appearance, functionality, ease of use.

According to the internal mechanism, two types of mixers are distinguished:

• ball;
• disk.

As the name suggests, the fundamental detail of the first type of structure is a ball with a number of holes. By turning the handle, this part is set in motion, which allows you to control both the intensity of the pouring stream and the ratio of hot / cold water.

Ball devices have several weak points. After a while, abrasion of gaskets, cuffs, as well as loosening of the spring support, can be observed, due to which a leak forms. With prolonged downtime, the mixer may seize up.

Single lever mixers with a cartridge are very comfortable to use. With light movements, you can adjust the temperature of the water and its pressure

Devices with a disk cartridge in their design and principle of operation resemble ceramic options for cranbucks. The operating mechanism also consists of two parts: a lower fixed plate with a drain hole for hot / cold water, as well as an upper movable component.

Repair of both types of devices with one lever consists in replacing the cartridge: in the first case it is a sleeve with a hollow ball, in the second case it is a sleeve with two ceramic disks.

Contactless (touch) models

The most convenient and economical kind of kitchen faucets are taps, the design of which involves the presence of an infrared sensor. For their inclusion it is enough to bring palms to the nose; if you move your hands, the flow automatically stops.

Modern touch mixers have an extremely spectacular appearance. Such devices are very functional and economical, because they automatically control the flow of water.

The disadvantage of contactless devices is the extremely high cost, in addition, in the event of a sensor failure, there may be problems with their inclusion.

To avoid this, manufacturers often offer electronic-mechanical devices, the operation of which can be adjusted both sensory and using the handle.

Characteristics of Kitchen Faucets

For weighted choosing a kitchen faucet should also consider a number of factors that affect the appearance of the product and ease of use.

Spout shape and height

It is necessary to pay attention to the peculiarities of the spout, which may have an S-, G-, J- or R-configuration, be flattened, expanded or thickened at the end.

The spout should be above the center of the container.If it goes to the inner wall, water can get into the sink, which will negatively affect the state of the kitchen furniture. When the faucet is at the edge of the countertop, the spray will fly to the floor

In terms of height, the following types of spouts are distinguished:

• shortened - less than 18.5 cm;
• medium - 19-23.4 cm;
• high - 24 cm or more.

When choosing, you should focus on the depth of the sink. With a bowl of 17-19 cm, it is better to use a tap with a medium or moderately high spout; with a larger indicator, it is desirable to use shortened models.

Various spout designs

According to this criterion, the following categories of mixers can be distinguished:

• motionless (cast);
• rotary;
• with retractable spouts;
• telescopic.

A traditional option is a fixed crane, the mechanism of which is in a molded case, the disassembly of which is not possible. The lever is installed sideways at an angle of 45-90 degrees.

Such designs are reliable and maintainable, since the most common malfunction is the abrasion of the gaskets and the spilling of the spout, which can be easily eliminated.

However, their drawback is obvious: in this case it is practically impossible to direct a stream of water, moreover, the stream is prone to splashing. A crane with a rotatable housing provides for smooth movement of a securely connected spout, usually having a small height.

Comfortable adjustment of such devices helps to save water, because the current mechanism ensures an uniform flow of hot / cold liquid for mixing.

Models with a rotatable housing are especially recommended for sinks with several sections, as they provide easy access to each of them.

The main disadvantage is the rapid abrasion of the gaskets located on the rotary part of the device, which requires regular replacement.

Widespread and devices with a retractable spout or shower. In the design of such models, a hose is provided, which in the closed state is inside the tube, and in the open it extends from it by 1-1.5 meters. It allows you to change the height of the water supply, and also extends the radius of the flow.

The moving part is usually made of high quality polymer or rubber; often it has a metal or textile braid. For ease of use, an aerator can be installed at the end - a device that saturates water with air, or a shower head.

Modern faucets of this type are often equipped with a switch button that locks the drawer to the desired height.

Using a pull-out spout, it is easy to fill the container outside the sink, handle a large number of dishes, including large ones, rinse vegetables or fruits

The telescopic spouts of the faucets consist of several tubular parts connected by fasteners, providing unhindered change in length and shape. Components can be tilted at different angles, changing the direction and radius of action of the flows.

Despite the original appearance and good functionality, such modifications are not widely used due to insufficient structural strength.

Material of kitchen faucets

The reliability of operation and the period of operation are directly affected by the material of which the crane is made.

Most commonly used:

• metals / alloys;
• stone / ceramic;
• plastics.

Various types of alloys are widely used to produce products. The most budget option is considered products from silumin, which includes aluminum and silicon.

However, experts do not too trust such devices, which quickly fail and have an unsightly appearance. Significantly better characteristics are possessed by devices made of a TsAM alloy consisting of zinc, aluminum, and copper.

The most popular brass faucets, for the production of which they use a combination of copper, zinc, and sometimes tin. At affordable prices, they are of good quality, durability, excellent resistance to moisture.

Bronze devices also demonstrate remarkable characteristics, but their cost is too high. The same can be said of taps made of stainless steel. Products from this metal are reliable, durable, but quite expensive.

More recently, cranes made of stone or ceramic have appeared on sale. Among their advantages include a spectacular appearance and high resistance to water and chemicals.

The negative side of these materials is fragility; products must be protected from mechanical influences that can cause chips or complete destruction.

When buying a brass tap, you should pay attention to the material from which the internal parts are made. Sometimes they are made from silumin, which affects the strength and durability of the mechanism. Light weight and / or relatively low price may be a suspicious factor.

For the manufacture of sanitary products, modern types of polymers are also used. Inexpensive products made of them are notable for their low weight and resistance to water, but they do not look aesthetically pleasing and have low strength. As a rule, they are used for country houses or as a temporary option.

Plumbing Coatings

The appearance of the mixers, and partly the performance, is influenced by the type of coating that is usually applied to the brass base. The most popular finish combining excellent looks and durability is chrome. The minuses include soiling: on a shiny surface, fingerprints, water droplets easily remain.

Nickel can be used for applying various types of finishes - matte, satin, "stainless steel". Such coatings look very beautiful; they are durable, versatile and easy to care for, but in rare cases they can cause an allergic reaction.

The spectacular appearance of bronze-like products is usually given using epoxy resin or enamel of the corresponding color. The coating requires careful operation, since scratches and chips may appear on the top layer under mechanical stress.

The advantages of faucets with ceramic or stone coating include ease of maintenance, because the matte texture hides stains and dirt. Among the minuses can be mentioned fragility and relatively high price

To simulate ceramic or stone, a layer of synthetic or natural material is applied to the metal base. Such mixers are usually used for sinks and countertops made of ceramic compositions, granite, marble.

Types of fastening products

When choosing kitchen mixer you need to think about its location in advance.

As a rule, three options are relevant:

• countertop;
• washing;
• wall.

In the crane box mixers, a collet is used for installation - a split sleeve with a thread. It is used to screw on the nut that connects the mixer to the surface.

At single lever device at the base of the case there are up to two threaded holes for screwing in studs. A half washer is installed on them, which is fixed with a nut.

For vertical connection usually used flexible hoses. If the mixer is supposed to be connected directly to pipes exiting the wall, it is recommended to use eccentrics. To mask the place of fasteners, you can use the decorative nozzles included in the package.

Additional instrument features

Modern cranes are often equipped with a number of options. Special nozzles can be attached to them, allowing you to saturate the water with air or to form a stream of water of the desired shape.

A useful and beautiful feature is the usual or LED backlight on the mixer. On some models, the color of the lamps changes as the water temperature changes.

Products with a thermostat can be mechanically or electronically controlled. In the latter case, the mixer has a liquid crystal display, push-button or touch control

Devices equipped with a thermometer are popular. With their help, you can set the required temperature of the jet in advance so as not to burn yourself when you turn on the tap. For economical water consumption, you can use special nozzles that allow you to keep track of the fluid used.

When choosing kitchen fixtures, it is better to give preference to products of well-known manufacturers with good reputations. Although such models are more expensive, the costs are offset by a long service life.

Top 5 kitchen faucet models

We will name only a few products that have earned high user reviews.

Jacob Delafon Carafe E18865

An elite model from a well-known French manufacturer has a stylish design. The single lever mixer operates on the basis of a ceramic cartridge. The design involves two separate channels, one of which is designed for tap water, and the second for filtered water.

Among the shortcomings of the model, users name the high price and insufficient quality of the filter. In addition, due to the high spout, this tap is more suitable for shallow sinks

A filter designed for processing 7,500 liters of liquid, as well as an aerator, which operates in two modes, is supplied with the mixer. An impeccable chrome-plated coating of the device gives a company guarantee of 25 years.

Grohe concetto 32663001

A single-lever model of a premium class from a well-known German company. A retractable spout is provided to increase the functionality of the device. Thanks to the rotary mechanism, which provides 360-degree rotation, the crane is perfect for equipping kitchen islands.

To connect the mixer, horizontal installation is used on board the plumbing. This installation method can cause certain difficulties, therefore it is better to entrust the work to professionals

The fixture has a brass base coated with a layer of chrome using the patented StarLight technology, which preserves gloss for a long time.

For the internal device, a durable and corrosion-resistant ceramic cartridge is used. Among the advantages of the mixer, users note the smooth movement of the handle, the quiet operation of the aerator.

IDDIS Alborg K56001C

Economy class model from a Russian manufacturer. The reliable one-lever crane has a worthy design. The mechanism operates on the basis of a 40-mm cartridge, which demonstrates long-term stable operation.

The model comes with a special plastic stand. It facilitates the installation of the faucet and ensures its tight fixation on the surface of the sink. The connection is made on two studs, which simplifies the installation process and guarantees reliable fasteners

The faucet has a swivel spout, but due to the low rise it is more suitable for sinks with deep bowls. The aerator device has a special gasket that eliminates noise. The disadvantages include a rather thin chrome coating, which begins to wear out after 2-3 years.

ZorG ZR 312YF-50 BR

The “bronze” faucet, manufactured by a Czech manufacturer, has an elegant retro design. The unusual appearance goes well with high technical characteristics: the model provides for the supply of filtered water, which is controlled by a special lever.

The “bronze” coating applied to the product is of excellent quality. It does not fade over time and is not prone to scratching.

The disadvantages include the lack of an aerator and other functions. In addition, some users complain about the difficulty of acquiring spare parts.

Lemark Comfort LM3061C

The single lever device has an optimal height, making it suitable for almost any bowl. Both regular and filtered water are provided for which a separate faucet is intended.

The budget model has a concise design; a rather dense layer of chrome coating is applied to the brass base, which does not wear off for many years.

The faucet is equipped with an aerator, which works for both tap and purified water. Due to this, the fluid flow rate is reduced and its softness is increased.

The crane kit includes all the necessary accessories and parts for installation, so the installation will not take much time. Among the shortcomings, users noted traces of spray that remain on the device during operation.

In addition to these models, other high-quality products related to various price segments are also presented on the market. As an example, we can name the products of Hansa and Kaiser (Germany), Vidima (Bulgaria), Damixa (Denmark), Gustavsberg (Sweden).

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

In the video below, you can hear a competent opinion about the factors that need to be considered when choosing a faucet for a kitchen room:

When selecting a mixer, it is important to consider both technical specifications and its design. The convenient model greatly facilitates the performance of routine kitchen manipulations, which allows the hostess to save time.

No less important is the appearance of the product, which should be combined not only with the sink, but also with the decoration of the room as a whole. A correctly selected faucet can become an important detail of the interior, emphasizing its style and placing accents.

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