Rating of the best kitchen faucets

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.

Designs by water supply method

Any mixer belongs to one of three types and can be:

axle-box crane (two-valve);
single lever;
contactless.

Each type has features that are relevant when choosing and purchasing.

Mixers with two valves

These are simple classic designs in which a separate faucet box is opened to supply hot or cold water.

Two-valve mixers are the most common design, gradually disappearing from the market. Popular models include budget options and retro-style devices.

The design of the mechanism can be:

worm;
ceramic.

If it is built into the housing, it is impossible to distinguish its type by external signs, but you can understand which of the systems provides water supply by the number of valve revolutions. In worm-type valves, you will need to turn the valve at least three or four times; in ceramic ones, half a turn is enough.

Worm mechanism . The principle of operation is very simple - the flow of water is blocked by a retractable rod, which presses the shutter valve with a rubber sealing gasket attached to its bottom. The main advantage of the design is ease of repair.

Typically, a leak in such a faucet is caused by wear of the gasket, and the repair consists of replacing the rubber, which you can even cut out yourself. But rubber gaskets are very short-lived, so they have to be changed very often.

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Bronze valve mixer

Varieties of valve options for the kitchen

"Herringbone" with limited rotation valve

Mixer with reciprocating valve

Ceramic faucet . The name “ceramic” does not mean that all parts are made of ceramic. The role of locking elements in the faucet box is performed by two round ceramic plates.

There are holes in the ceramic disks, one of which is fixedly fixed to the body, and the second rotates relative to it. The force of water pressure is regulated by the coincidence of these slots.

The valve can be rotated 90° (quarter turn) or 180° (half turn). The design is more reliable, but short-lived - in the event of a breakdown, the crane box is completely replaced.

Ceramic faucet axle boxes fail due to exposure to solid particles in the water, so a filter must be installed to use them

The advantages of such models include low cost, simplicity of design and maintainability - failed parts can be replaced independently.

Flaws:

excessive water consumption - when adjusting pressure and temperature, part of the water is wasted;
inconvenient control - you have to adjust two valves;
The difficulty of replacement is not just choosing a suitable ceramic faucet axle box.

There are “slotted” and “square” models, with different stem lengths, 120 or 24 splines for valve attachment, etc.

In order not to make a mistake, you need to take both the valve and the failed valve axle with you to the store.

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Step 1: Disassemble the faucet to replace the gasket

Step 2: Removing the valve head from the socket

Step 3: Removing the Cracked Gasket

Step 4: Assembling the valve head and mixer

Devices with one lever

Easy to use modern models, which can also be called joystick, mono-command or single-lever mixers. Most of those who decide which faucet is best for the kitchen choose these designs.

Single-lever faucets are easy to use, attractive in appearance and allow you to save money by quickly adjusting the water temperature

A single knob adjusts both temperature and pressure. To do this, just turn the handle left or right and adjust the height of its position.

Despite the similarity of controls, they differ in the method of mixing water - ball and cartridge. According to the body design, there are fixed and rotary models.

Devices with a ball mechanism

Water is supplied through a ball with several holes. The movements of the handle turn it and regulate the flow of hot and cold water, setting the required pressure and flow temperature.

The ball mechanism is the simplest design that provides supply and adjustment of water pressure by turning a ball with three holes located in the sleeve. One of them is intended for supplying hot water, the second for cold water, the third for mixed water in the required proportions

Structural simplicity reduces the number of ball valve breakdowns to a minimum. Leaks most often occur due to the penetration of sand grains and similar inclusions into the gap between the elastic seats holding the ball and the ball itself.

Therefore, it is highly desirable that a coarse mesh filter be installed in front of the mixer. You can choose a filter for the sink that will not only retain small particles, but also soften and deferrize the water.

The presence of debris is indicated by the need to exert great effort when making turns. However, most often in ball devices the pressure and volume of supplied water simply decreases due to a clogged aerator.

You can clean both of them yourself, however, there is a difference in the algorithm of work. To remove grains of sand from under the seat, you will have to disassemble the mixer. To remove dirt from the aerator, you only need to unscrew it, rinse it and free it of unnecessary deposits.

Ball mechanisms are convenient and economical, but require additional water filtration. If the cartridge, which is a ball sleeve with a movable hollow ball, fails, it must be replaced with a new one, similar in design and material

Design features of disk devices

The disk device operates on the same operating principle as ceramic faucet axle boxes: there are holes in two ceramic plates (movable and fixed), and the water pressure and temperature are set by the area where they combine.

Serious failures of disk devices can be eliminated by replacing cartridges. The simplest flaws in work, such as a simple leak, can be eliminated with your own hands. They begin to leak when a speck gets stuck between the discs.

The use of such designs, in the same way as in ball models, requires the mandatory installation of coarse filters, which increases the service life.

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Step 1: Buying cartridges for disc mixers

Step 2: Disassembling the Single Lever Disc Mixer

Step 3: Removing the cartridge from the faucet body

Step 4: Assembling the faucet after replacing the cartridge

Types of model cases

The type of housing does not depend on the mixing mechanism, it can be:

cast - motionless;
rotary.

The fixed structure of the cast device body is equipped with a side or top control lever.

Molded faucets look impressive, but are not very convenient. Typically have a short spout, and due to their monolithic design, are used only in bathrooms where mobility is not required

The advantages of fixed single-lever cranes include maintainability and high reliability. At the same time, it is not as convenient to control and use as a joystick, and the jet is more powerful, which can cause water to splash.

If you choose such a mechanism, it is advisable that the faucet spout be retractable. Among the most common breakdowns: loosening of the fastening ring and the spout itself, wear of the gaskets.

Rotary models. The flow is turned on and controlled by a handle, most often installed on the right side or above the spout.

The main advantages include water saving - the handle is initially installed in a position in which the flow of hot and cold water flows evenly, and ease of control

The spout moves smoothly to the sides, is securely fastened, but cannot be located at a great height. The disadvantages include wear and tear on the seals installed in the rotating part, but they can be replaced without any problems.

Advantages of single lever mixers:

efficiency;
ease of use;
functional design.

Disadvantages include: rapid wear of the seal and high price. Another disadvantage is the fact that the complexity of the design requires qualified repairs.

Contactless (electronic) models

Touch and thermostatic faucets appeared not so long ago and differ significantly from mechanical options. The main function that such a faucet performs is to supply water at a predetermined temperature.

To turn it on, you don’t need to turn or press any parts - you just need to bring your hands to the spout, and the contactless infrared sensor will start the mechanism. The distance to the sensor is determined by its parameters, and the start and stop of water supply occurs with a slight delay

Volatile and autonomous models are available. The former operate from the mains via a 12 V adapter, while the latter require batteries to operate. When purchasing, it is better to choose a device that has the ability to duplicate manual control.

The main advantage is significant water savings, another positive detail is that there are no hand marks left on the plumbing. The main disadvantage is the high cost.

We can separately note the budget option - special attachments that allow you to modernize a regular mixer. This device is attached to the spout of the spout, runs on a battery and, according to manufacturers, saves water consumption by up to 20%.

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.

Ledeme

The case when Made in China does not mean bad. The millennial brand produces inexpensive sanitary fittings that are not inferior in quality to European manufacturers. Yes, in some places the design copies popular brands, however, here it is more appropriate to talk about rethinking it into a more practical point. For example, flexible spouts here are less bulky and look neater.

As for materials, not only brass is found here, but also silumin. Apparently, this material here is of good density, so the products last quite a long time - we speak from personal experience.

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

What else should you pay attention to?

When purchasing a mixer, in addition to parameters related to the design of the device itself, it is necessary to take into account other factors, the first of which is the size of the sink.

As already mentioned, faucet spouts have different heights. A deep sink is suitable for a low nozzle position; otherwise, filling tall, large-volume dishes with water will be problematic.

And if the tap is too high in combination with a shallow sink, the surrounding surface will always be covered with splashes. Therefore, the ratio of these sizes should be taken into account.

The problem can be solved by purchasing a kit that includes a faucet along with a sink - in this case, you won’t have to think about the ratio of parameters, they are calculated by the manufacturer.

It is advisable that the stream from the tap falls exactly on the center of the sink (the location of the drain does not matter), otherwise it will be inconvenient to use the mixer

The ability to rotate the spout - most often the tap can be rotated 120-140° and 180° for expensive models. But if the sink is located in a corner or against a wall, this indicator is not so important. And vice versa - when choosing equipment for a sink installed on an island, it is best if the spout can rotate around its axis.

Additional features need to be taken into account. For example, in some models of single-lever devices, the manufacturer pre-installs a coarse filter. This protects the mechanism from small particles, and frees owners from having to install it themselves.

There are devices equipped with carbon filters for drinking water. Such devices come either with one spout, in which tap and filtered water do not mix, or with two spouts: the first is drinking, the second is “technical”.

On the body of some models, switches are installed to supply water to the washing machine and dishwasher.

There are models that not only turn to the sides, but can also completely fall down and “lie” on the sink.

Models with a bayonet mount allow you to install the sink directly in front of the window. To open the frame inside, just remove the tap on the flexible hose from the base and simply put it aside

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

Features of the shape of the kitchen faucet

The shapes and sizes of spouts are very diverse.

Mixers with spouts are distinguished by shape:

L-shaped;
R-shaped;
S-shaped;
J-shaped;
C-shaped.

Regardless of the shape of the spout, the nozzles can be not only round, but also flattened or even square - the type of flow depends on this.

Spouts are classified by location relative to the sink:

low - 15.5 cm -18.4 cm;
medium - 23.5 cm, 21.6 cm, 20 cm;
high - 28 cm.

It is believed that faucets with a high bend and nozzles are intended for shallow sinks. But when a stream falls from a great height, it will definitely splash, and if the sink is shallow, all the splashes will scatter throughout the kitchen. The use of a low spout is associated with difficulties when filling high-volume dishes.

The problem can be solved by purchasing a spout with variable geometry, for example, a telescopic one. But a large number of connections, in the places where gaskets and hinges are installed, leads to a fairly rapid appearance of leaks.

The telescopic mixer combines ease of use and an original look. Its design consists of several interconnected tubes that can move independently of each other

Pull-out faucets are more reliable and convenient. There is a flexible hose inside the faucet through which water flows. Most often, the hose is completely recessed into the mixer, so in appearance it looks like a regular one.

If necessary, the flexible hose extends to a length of up to one and a half meters, so you can fill, for example, pots directly on the hob, and not in the sink. Convenient to fill buckets or other containers placed on the floor

In addition to the option with the hose located in the faucet itself, there are other models in which the faucet operates separately, and the shower head is hidden in the sink or fixed next to the faucet on a special holder.

This is a universal type of mixer, and some models can be equipped with additional control of the retractable element, which allows you to save water consumption.

The choice of device should be based on the material used in the manufacture of the decorative faucet in which the hose is placed. It may be plastic, fragile and therefore break at the point of extension.

Another, but inexpensive model is a faucet, the spout of which is movable and enclosed in an elastic holder. This option is both reliable and convenient, but its design is not suitable for every interior.

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 spout nozzle

Let's consider a small but important detail on which water savings, the ease of use of the tap, and the type of flow depend. The most popular ones include faucet aerators and retractable watering cans.

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Standard faucet aerator

Rotary aerator with increased cross-section

Mixer with aerator in the form of a shower head

Aerator for household faucet with light

In such devices, water is mixed with air, resulting in significant savings - up to 8 liters per minute.

The gratings on the nozzle can be static or adjustable with variable hole sizes. Some models are equipped with nozzles that can change the direction of the jet.

Faucet attachments are available that help regulate the shape and intensity of the flow. You can select a part suitable for a specific nozzle shape

There are also add-ons that are optional, but very convenient. For example, LED backlighting, which not only becomes an additional light source, but also illuminates the dishes when washing.

An electronic thermometer allows you to obtain the necessary heating, while saving water, and it does not require additional sources of energy, because it receives it from water pressure.

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Cleaning the kitchen faucet aerator

Unscrewing the aerator from the device body

Washing the aerator with running water

Removing mineral deposits

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

Modern manufacturing materials

The design of the mixer is quite complex, so various materials are used to produce parts. The body is made of alloys, the most common of which are steel and brass - these metals guarantee high reliability. Devices made of bronze and copper are even better, but they are much more expensive.

In addition, the body can be made of plastic, ceramics and granite. The most reliable faucets are those with a metal body and ceramic internal parts.

In the production of budget faucets, silumin or zinc-copper-aluminum alloys are used. But such devices, despite their low cost, are characterized by fragility and low strength. Sample - a product made of silumin from the Chinese manufacturer Ledeme

There are enough offers for plumbing fixtures made of ceramics or heat-resistant high-strength plastic. They are durable, but they can withstand mechanical shocks worse than metal ones.

You should also pay attention to the coating of the metal. Chrome-plated surfaces are durable, but they do not allow you to choose the color scheme, and they also very quickly become covered with visible dirt.

Enameled ones do not have problems with shades, but the enamel is not as durable and over time it will flake off or lose its original color. An excellent choice is a surface decorated in bronze. The stains on it are not so visible, and care is not difficult.

And one more factor that you can pay attention to is the weight of the product. A high-quality, reliable and durable faucet cannot be easy.

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.

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.