Frequently Asked Questions - Faucets

What are the different types of kitchen faucets called?

The most common kitchen faucet is the "8-inch deck model" which mounts onto the top of the sink, with threaded shanks or bolts passing down through mating holes. The terms "8-inch" or "8-inch centers" refer to a model which mounts to a sink which has mounting holes positioned eight inches apart, center-to-center. A "center mount" (also called the "post-type") requires just one sink hole for passage of the water supplies and for mounting means. A style that was once more popular is the "concealed" design, which routes the water from the mechanisms to the spout underneath the deck of the sink, resulting in just the handles and spout protruding above. Though it makes for a clean and uncluttered appearance, it is more difficult to install. It is found only in two-handle lines for kitchen use. Another style which is no longer common in most areas is the "wall-mount". Rather than mounting onto the sink deck, this type installs into the backsplash of a sink, or into the wall itself above the sink. A very popular style today is a faucet with a spray attachment. Relating this to the fixture on which the faucet is mounted, the difference between a spray and non-spray design is often defined in terms of "four-hole" and "three-hole" drillings. In the case of spray model faucets, the extra mounting hole accommodates the nozzle nesting. There are center mount models equipped with spray which require just two drillings, as well as a special deck type in which the spray nozzle nests in the base of the faucet itself, thus requiring just three fixture drillings.

What do I use to clean my fixtures?

Do not, under any circumstances, use scouring agents, abrasive sponges, hydrochloric acid, i.e. so-called lime-scale removers, vinegar (acetic acid)-based cleaners, ammonia or metal silicates. Such cleaners are likely to damage the finish. You can prevent lime deposits from forming by always wiping your faucets dry immediately after use. The best way to clean your faucets is to wipe them with a wet, soapy cloth, rinse off and wipe dry. There are cleaning agents available that are designed specifically for the type of finish you have on your fixture.

What is a center set?

A center set is a Lavatory set that is 4" center to center from handle to handle.

 

What is a escutcheon plate?

An escutcheon plate is used to cover holes on a sink in order to install a different style faucet. They come in 6" for a bathroom faucet and 10" for a kitchen faucet. For example, you would use a 6" plate to cover a 4" center-to-center (cc) hole and put a one-hole faucet in the center. A 10" plate would be used if you had an old style 8" cc kitchen faucet and wanted to replace it with a single hole kitchen faucet or pull-out type and did not want to use the extra holes for an air gap, soap dispenser, instant hot or water purifier.

 

What is a mini-widespread?

Like a widespread but with a 4-inch center to center instead of 8 or 12 inches.

 

What is a wide spread set?

A wide spread is a Lavatory set that has three separate parts that can measure from 8" to 20" from center to center.

 

What is the difference between a ceramic cartridge versus compression, or O-ring seal?

Ceramic cartridges are two ceramic disks that sit on top of each, allowing the handles to open and close at precisely the same spot every time. A compression valve uses washers which continually wear out forcing you to adjust the handle position until the washers wear down completely and then must be replaced. O-rings get very stiff and the faucet handles become hard to turn off and on.

 

What types of faucets are available for the bathroom (lavatory)?

Two popular styles are the "4-inch centerset" and the "widespread". Both of these are described in this FAQ.

 

Who carries pull-out kitchen faucets?

KWC, Grohe, Hansgrohe, Hansa, and Gemini are just a few. See the product listing for the complete list.