Faucets come in all shapes and sizes. Here's a few things to consider when finding the faucet that's right for you.
Things To Consider
Handles
The choice of a one or two-handled faucet is purely personal. With one handle, you enjoy convenient, single-handed control of water temperature and volume. Two-handled faucets offer more handle styles and spout designs.
Style
Avoid a tiny faucet on a big, bold sink, and vice-versa. Look for a faucet that directs water into the center of the bowl. Maybe a tall gooseneck or one with a Pull-Out Spray. Too short may not reach far enough. Also, make sure your new faucet can match the correct hole drillings in your sink, 4" centers, 8" centers, or single hole. (see Will It Fit My Sink below)
Finish
Look for a long-lasting, low maintenance finish to complement your decor. Many manufacturers over a variety of finishes to match any interor decor.
Dripless Faucets
Consider how a new faucet will last. Or, more importantly, how long it will last without dripping. Faucets should offer long-term performance and be drip-free for life. Ceramic Disc Valving utilizes discs made of hardened ceramic, a durable material that won't wear out and won't leak
Scald Protection.
Finally, check into anti-scald features. American Standard offers three solutions:
- Hot-Limit Safety Stops offer adjustable settings that restrict how far the handle can be pushed toward hot. Our Safety Stops are simple and easy to adjust. This feature is particularily useful in households with small children.
- Pressure-Balancing Valves protect users from drastic temperature changes should someone operate a washing machine or flush a toilet while someone is showering.
- Thermostatic Valves allow users to select a favorite shower temperature on an easy-to-read dial.The valve responds automatically and maintains the selected temperature even if the water supply temperature changes.
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Will It Fit My Sink?
To find a faucet that works with your kitchen sink, you need to:
Determine the number of holes in your sink.
- If your sink has 3 or 4 holes, determine the space between the holes.
- If your sink has 3 holes, determine the spacing of the holes.
IMPORTANT NOTE
Sinks generally come in one of two configurations shown below. You will need to measure the width between the outer holes or estimate by measuring the width of the deck plate.
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Faucets
A 1-hole sink only has a single hole faucet. Escutcheons or deck plates are usually optional. Newer technology, such as electronic faucets, require 1-hole installation.
A 2-hole sink usually accomodates a 4" centerset faucet.
A 3-hole sink is very common. Depending on the spacing of holes you can choose a centerset, mini-widespread, or widespread faucet.
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