Your kitchen faucet is one of the most frequently used fixtures in your home and one of the key focal points in your kitchen. Once simply a tool for food preparation and washing dishes, today’s kitchen faucets offer exciting new features and enhanced functionality designed to provide ease-of-use and years of trouble-free operation.

Tip: Take note of the number of holes in your sink to ensure you shop for a compatible faucet.

• One hole – Sinks with one hole typically fit single-handle faucets. Some double-handle units can accommodate sinks with a single hole.

• Two holes – Two-hole sink configurations are typically suited to single-handle faucets and an accessory such as a sprayer or soap dispenser.

• Three holes – Double-handle faucets require three holes, one for each handle and one for the spout. You can install units with or without deck plates in three hole sinks.

Tip: If you’ve found a faucet that requires fewer holes than are available in your sink, use sink hole covers to conceal any unused spaces. 

For apron or undermount sinks with no pre-dilled faucet holes, look for wall-mount faucets. These faucets connect to the wall above the kitchen sink and make it easier to clean the sink and countertops while allowing more height for larger vessels.

Handles

Single-handle faucets can be attached to the faucet base or stand alone and require one or two sink holes. 

Double-handle faucets have separate handles for hot and cold water and require three sink holes. The handles may be integrated with a deck plate or mounted separately. The sprayer is typically separate from the faucet head.

Finishes

Your faucet’s finish is the surface coating on the spout and handles. Consider a finish that complements your kitchen’s decor and coordinates with your lighting and appliances. Many manufacturers have special processes that make their finishes highly durable and resistant to abrasion and discoloration. Some of the more popular finishes are chrome, brushed nickel and so on. 

• Chrome faucets may have a polished, brushed or matte finish. Durable, economical and easy to clean, they resist oxidation but does show water marks more than some other finishes.
• Nickel faucets may have a brushed or satin look and is stylish, durable and easy to clean. Look for units with a titanium finish to better resist scratching and tarnish.
• Mixed colors and metallic tones can be matched to your kitchen’s color scheme. Striking combinations include satin nickel and polished brass, brushed nickel and polished chrome, satin nickel and white, and more.