Appliances are becoming more advanced by the day. One appliance we take advantage of every day are our faucets. They are a household’s main provision of water. Without a faucet, where would you clean your hands, wash your dishes, or even get drinking water?
Our kitchens and bathrooms are dependent on faucets, so it’s best to have the best you can possibly get. One way to do this is by investing in a touchless faucet, one that doesn’t require levers and knobs for control. In order to select the perfect faucet for your kitchen, you’ll need to understand some basics about touchless faucets.
Our Top 3 Best Touchless Kitchen Faucets
Types of Faucets
Getting lost in the grand scheme of faucets is perfectly understandable, as choosing the one that’s right for you means first understanding what are the different types out there and determining which of the following features are most important to you. When it comes to labeling kitchen faucets, the main categories that you’re going to encounter include:
- The pull-down faucet – This type of faucet uses a spray that you can pull down so that you get more flexibility and less splashes while you’re doing the dishes.
- The pull-out faucet – While some people confuse it with the aforementioned type, the pull-out faucet has a body that works in a straight line as opposed to the pull-down model, which has a curve and can be pulled downwards alone.
- The single-handle faucet – This model has one lever that can be moved to the left or right for hot and cold water, but it can also be moved up and down to control the water pressure. One of the reasons why this faucet is so frowned upon is because it takes a bit of time to get the water to the desired temperature.
- The dual-handle faucet – This model comes with separate faucets for cold and hot water, and they are usually placed on the left and right side of the tap.
- The commercial-style faucet – This is a design suitable for those who want flexibility. It makes the kitchen look more modern, and it is called a commercial faucet because it’s commonly found in professional kitchens.
- The touchless faucet – This is also known as the motion detection faucet because it uses a sensor that detects the movement of your hand to turn on the water. Good models will also work by detecting something that you place right underneath the tap, which could also be a pot or a pan. These units usually have a lever located at the base to help you adjust the temperature. The sensors on these types of faucets are usually placed somewhere near the base and should be pretty visible.
- The separate spray faucet – This is basically a faucet made up of two parts: the actual faucet and a separate spray faucet that you can pull out and use to your liking. There is a trigger that redirects the water flow from the primary faucet to the secondary one.
- The pot-filler faucet – These faucets have a special extension arm that can move outwards and makes it really easy for you to clean or fill your pots.
Best Touchless Kitchen Faucet
NOVEL Kitchen Faucet
The NOVEL kitchen faucet is a product worth admiring, offering touchless technology so that you can proceed to doing sink-related stuff without even touching the faucet. This pull-down spray model operates at a maximum flow rate of 1.8 GPM and is made from gold-finish stainless steel. The 360-degree pull-out sprayer makes it easy to change the direction and angle of the spout to make cleaning dishes a lot easier. You also have the possibility to choose between spay and stream modes.
Pros:
- 2 modes of operation.
- 360-degrees sprayer.
- 3 finish options.
Cons:
- The faucet sprayer is made from plastic.
Delta 9659T-AR-DST Trinsic Kitchen Faucet
With a fancy name that looks to shove all the features of this faucet down your face, it’s safe to say that Delta knows how to sell a product, but is this kitchen faucet living up to the hype? It uses touch-activated technology which means that you can turn the water on with a short pat anywhere on the handle or spout.
It has a battery life indicator to tell you how much juice you have left. The LED feature is here to indicate the water temperature but the feature that we really love is the automatic water flow shut-off, which basically turns the water off after a few minutes if it’s left running. This can save up- a lot of water if you’re the forgetful type.
Pros:
- LED temperature indication.
- Battery power indicator.
- Automatic water flow shut-off feature.
Cons:
- Questionable long-term durability.
Delta 9197T-RB-DST Cassidy Faucet
Delta is back at it again, with a model that uses technology similar to the one we’ve reviewed before, but with a few details that might make it a more suitable choice for some buyers. The unit is designed with a MagnaTite docking that makes it easy to hold the spray wand in place because of the powerful magnet used in its construction. It uses the same Touch2O® technology found in similar Delta faucets, meaning you can use a single tap anywhere in the handle or spout to turn on the water. There are multiple finish options to choose from, such as Venetian bronze or polished nickel.
Pros:
- Multiple battery choices.
- Uses Delta’s Touch2O® technology.
- Strong magnet for easy docking.
Cons:
- Complaints about unreliable touch technology.
Delta 9693T-DST Pivotal Faucet
Part of the Pivotal collection, this faucet developed by Delta has a different design, but sports the same quality as the other models we’ve seen today. It’s clear that the company uses the same technology across a variety of different faucet collections, and the Pivotal is no exception. The pull-down spray faucet is equipped with a LED light that emits different colors based on the activation of touch mode and the battery level. There is also a LED light to indicate the water temperature, which is pretty cool.
Pros:
- Useful light notifications for various features.
- Swivel hose for easier maneuvering.
- Technology to reduce leakage points.
Cons:
- Batteries drain very fast.
VIGO Parsons Kitchen Faucet – Not Touchless
With a simple and sleek design, the Parsons kitchen faucet comes with a reliable construction that blends different layers for a solid and smooth finish. The pull-down spray faucet is made primarily out of brass and is available in three finish options: stainless steel, matte black, and matte brushed gold. You can also choose whether or not you want a soap dispenser included with your purchase. It operates at 1.8 GPM and has a single-handle design to occupy less space, making it the perfect choice for modern kitchens.
Pros:
- Soap dispenser available.
- 3 finish options.
- Leak-free design.
Cons:
- Misleading description, does not come with touchless feature.
Kraus KPF-1674SFS Kitchen Faucet – Not Touchless
What appears to be a very basic design is actually a very elegant faucet brought to you by Kraus. This model comes with a pull-down design and a dual-function sprayer that will help you scrub and rinse your pots and pans with no water troubles at all. It comes with soft rubber nozzles that are easy to wipe clean, which is a pretty important feature in a kitchen faucet. The easy-retract hose is a breeze to use. It has a solid brass construction and is installation-ready (it comes with a quick-connect sprayer hose and water lines that have been pre-attached).
Pros:
- Easy to install.
- Easy to clean.
- Dual spraying modes.
Cons:
- Misleading description, does not come with touchless feature.
Kohler K-72218-VS Sensate Touchless Kitchen Faucet
For easy installation, this Kohler model has a magnetic docking system that helps keep every component of the faucet in place. Comfort is heavily considered with this faucet since it is lighter and more ergonomically designed to properly fit in your hand while you’re using the retractable feature. There is less resistance in the hose when you pull at it and use it as well.
To make cleaning easier, the finish over this faucet is mineral buildup resistant. You can turn the faucet on and off with the sensitive sensor located on the body of the faucet.
Who Should Buy This?
Some people enjoy avoiding hassle at as many corners as they can cut. If you’re one of these people, don’t feel guilty. This product is an ideal choice. It has an easy installation and a seamless activation which is hard to not adjust to. The finish is easy to clean and keep that way, so you don’t have to worry too much over bacteria buildup near your sink.
Pros:
- Speedy activation
- Sensor accuracy
- Anti-mineral finish
- Lightweight and ergonomic
- Magnetic docking system
Cons:
- Pricey item
- Solenoid fails easily
Specs:
- Colors: Polished Chrome, Polished Chrome with Black Accents, Vibrant Stainless, Vibrant Stainless with Black Accents
- Styles: One sensor
- Warranty: Information not provided
- Retractable faucet system
Moen 7594EWC Arbor Motionsense Wave Touchless One-Handle Pulldown Kitchen Faucet
This Moen model is one of many that you will come across on this list, but is the best overall touchless faucet to come across. It has an extremely versatile design that allows it to be matched with any decoration scheme your kitchen may or may not have. There are four colors to choose from; chrome, matte black, oil-rubbed bronze, and stainless. The styles you can choose are 1 sensor, 2 sensors, and standard.
The model with one sensor turns on and off with the wave of your hand. The two-sensor model is better for the kitchen if you have something under the running water like fruits or vegetables you need to clean. The standard style is controlled with the push of a button.
This tap comes with a power clean feature, higher pressure than other faucet types. The spray is more powerful and can get the job done quicker and more efficiently.
Who Should Buy This?
This model is a fanciful faucet that you should only purchase if you’re looking for a more decorative change in the kitchen. With the more advanced styles, you get a more convenient model that works to your liking, plus you get a variety of pleasant colors to mix and match with your kitchen.
Pros:
- Multiple colors and styles
- Lifetime warranty
- The flexible design allows it to be installed in 1 or 3 holes
Cons:
- Leaking issues at the base
Specs:
- Colors: Chrome, Matte Black, Oil-Rubbed Bronze, Stainless
- Styles: 1 sensor, 2 sensors, standard
- Warranty: Lifetime Limited
- Retractable faucet system
Moen 7185ESRS Brantford Motionsense Two-Sensor Touchless One-Handle High Arc Pulldown Kitchen Faucet
If you know you are prone to spills and stains, then look for a durable finish over your faucet. The Moen 7185ESRS has a spot resistant finish which prevents fingerprints and water stains from developing on the faucet.
Like the previous Moen model, this one comes with different colors and styles. The colors are chrome, oil-rubbed bronze, and the spot resistant stainless finish. The styles are two-sensors and traditional, which uses a button for controls.
This model is also retractable so there is easier maneuverability around large objects and oddly shaped dishes. The power clean feature makes sure you get the strongest water pressure to clean better. The installation process is quick and easy using a Duralock quick connect system.
Who Should Buy This?
There will always be people more conscious of cleanliness than others. This doesn’t mean lesser regard makes you a bad person. There are simple ways you can make sure you don’t have to clean everything all the time. This faucet comes with a spot resistant finish which means you won’t have to clean it as often, keeping your kitchen’s appearance clean.
Pros:
- Protective finish from watermarks, spots, and stains
- Multiple colors and styles
- Lifetime warranty
- Duralock installation system
Cons:
- Sprayer tends to stay on too high of a setting which splashes
Specs:
- Colors: Chrome, Oil-Rubbed Bronze, Spot Resist Stainless
- Styles: Traditional, 2 sensors
- Warranty: Lifetime Limited
- Retractable faucet system
BioBidet FLOW Motion Sensor Kitchen Faucet
This faucet from BioBidet is entirely battery-powered, so there are no worries when it comes to hardwiring the system. With 4 simple AA batteries, you can avoid the expense of having the hardwiring installed. You can also enjoy the benefits of a retractable hose which can automatically fit back into place once you are done using it. Cleaning pots and pans won’t be as cumbersome of a chore anymore.
You can switch between the spray modes with the button located on the top of your spray head. To avoid any contact with the faucet, you can use the hands-free motion sensor by waving your hand in front of it. This keeps all the fingerprints and bacteria off of the faucet and your kitchen much cleaner.
Who Should Buy This?
The focus on this faucet is more towards convenience than it is appearance. The batteries help make installation much easier. The retractable head ensures bigger dishes, pots, and pans aren’t an issue to clean and rinse. You can even clean the space around the sink with ease.
Pros:
- Battery-powered operation
- Retractable head
- Swap between spray modes with control button
Cons:
- Limited sensor range
- Hot and cold can sometimes blend
Specs:
- Colors: Brushed Nickel, Chrome, Oil-Rubbed Bronze
- Styles: one sensor
- Warranty: Information not provided
- Retractable faucet system
Kraus KPF-2631CH Oletto Kitchen Faucet
This faucet from Kraus is capable of matching the standards of cuisines and restaurants in need of a powerful and convenient faucet. The aesthetic is not the only aspect that shouts professional, the 14-inch ranged retractable hose and dual-functioning spray head are also two impressive features. You can swap from a jet stream of pressure to a voluminous spray that covers a wider surface area.
To get the most out of your sink, the faucet can spin around 360 degrees. If you’re short on space, then there’s nothing better than a slim faucet design with a singular handle design.
The construction of this faucet is not mediocre. It has an all-metal, lead-free construction with a ceramic cartridge finish that provides a long lifetime of standard performance and minimal to no leakage.
Who Should Buy This?
If you’re in search of a faucet that will serve your kitchen at a cuisine level, then this is the right hands-off appliance you need. It is extremely versatile and sturdy, made to last you years with concise efficiency.
Pros:
- Dual-function spray head
- Commercial grade faucet
- Slim design for tight spaces
- Heavy-duty construction
Cons:
- The spray head is plastic which is a cause for concern with consistent rigorous usage
Specs:
- Colors: Chrome, Spot Free Stainless Steel
- Styles: One sensor
- Warranty: Limited lifetime
- Retractable faucet system
How to Install a Faucet
Installing a new kitchen faucet isn’t complicated, but the actual process may vary depending on the type of faucet you’re looking to install. Part of putting in a new model implies removing the old one, so we’re going to include that part as well in this step-by-step guide that teaches you the general process of installing a new kitchen faucet:
- Before removing your old faucet, you are going to have to turn off the water supply. The valves are usually located underneath the sink. You also want to turn off the power to the garbage disposal and turn on the faucet to release the pressure in the lines.
- It’s always a good idea to take a picture of the plumbing configuration so that you can use it later on for reference.
- Prior to disconnecting the supply lines, you want to place a small bucket or some other recipient that catches water under the connections. This will prevent uncontrollable drips and makes it easier to clean everything up afterwards.
- To remove the faucet, you might need the help of another person. Ask them to hold them down in place while you make your way underneath the sink to remove the nuts holding the faucet with the help of a basic wrench.
- You can now remove the faucet, but also make sure that you clean the grime and (potential) sealant from the surface of your sink.
The next will show you how to install the new faucet, but take note that it is always best to consult the installation instructions that usually come in the form of a leaflet available in the box of your new faucet. Alternatively, you can consult these installation manuals online (they might be posted on the manufacturer’s website):
- To set the deck plate, you need to place the plastic or rubber gasket above the existing holes in the sink and put the deck plate in place. In the instructions manual, you should find information related to the use of caulk/plumbers putty.
- Next up, feed the faucet lines in the designated holes.
- Proceed underneath the sink to install the nuts and washers. If you use plumbers putty or caulk during the first step, remove the excess from underneath the sink.
- To install a pull-down faucet, connect the supply pipe and the quick-connect hose. Attach the weight by pulling down on the hose.
- Connect the water supply lines (note that you might have to use plumbers tape in some situations).
- Turn the faucet on without turning it to maximum pressure and check to see if there are any leaks. In case you notice any, turn the water off and tighten the connections some more.
- Take the aerator out of the faucet and let the water run for a bit (slowly). This will help clear the lines. After those few minutes have passed, turn the water off and replace the aerator.
Touchless Faucet Buying Guide
Benefits of Using a Touchless Faucet
The biggest benefit behind using a touchless faucet would be its convenience factor. It’s simply easier to run your hands under the water and then have your sink turn itself off once you’re done. It saves water, time, and keeps your sink cleaner.
Your water consumption is preserved since the sink will only turn on when it detects movement in front of the sensor. Most motion-sensing sinks also have a timer that will automatically shut off the sink, so you don’t have to worry about accidentally leaving the sink running.
This is an excellent time-saving feature since you don’t have to stand there trying to find the right temperature and pressure as most people do when they use a sink with knobs. As it shuts off automatically, you won’t have to worry about the water running for too long, which means you can dash to and from the sink in any situation you’re in.
Once the main issue that most people have with a sink is that bacteria tend to develop quickly around the faucet knobs. Constantly having to turn the knobs on and off with your hands spreads all of the bacteria you were trying to wash away in the first place. There is no contact required when you have a touchless faucet with a sensor. These faucets are also a great option for people who are limited in movement or cannot reach the sink’s knobs (yes, this does apply to kids who already have such a hard time remembering to clean their hands).
Drawbacks of Using a Touchless Faucet
As many benefits as there are to a touchless faucet, there are also some drawbacks that counteract them. For instance, touchless faucets aren’t very convenient when you need to keep the water running for a longer period of time.
Say you were washing a stain off of a shirt, or cleaning fruits. In these situations, you’d need the water to run for longer, but the faucet turns off after a period of time. You’d have to keep running your hand over the sensor every time you need the water to run, which can become bothersome.
These faucet models can also be on the expensive side when it comes to installing more than one touchless faucet at once to replace your old faucets.
Sensory System and Accuracy
These are two very important factors to consider before you purchase a touchless faucet. There are two main types of sensory systems you can encounter. Though they are both motion sensors, there are two types that each uses a different technique to turn themselves off.
The first sensor will detect your hand movement and then turn on the sink for a certain period of time. This style is ideal for a bathroom sink since you only need a certain amount of time to thoroughly clean out your hands.
The second style faucet turns off once the sensor cannot detect anything in front of it. This is better for a kitchen sink since there will be times you need the sink to run for longer.
It can become inconvenient, however, since you’d need to keep your hand hovering over the sensor the whole time you need the water to run. You want your sink’s sensor to be as accurate as possible since you don’t want your sink to run unnecessarily or not at all.
Batteries
All touchless faucets will use a power source and, in most cases, it’s a battery. The situation here isn’t necessarily the batteries, but how long the batteries last. Better quality faucets will last one or two whole years on only one set of AA batteries. (this set can include 4 AAs, or 6 AAs) To make your faucet as convenient as possible, it’s better to get a faucet that will last longer (not a couple of months) so you don’t have to change the batteries every so often.
FAQ
Do you have any kids?
If your answer is yes, then you may want to take a step back and seriously consider this choice. Kids can be very curious and clever sometimes. If they figure out how the faucet works, the likeliest chance is they are going to play with it. To make sure your faucet isn’t meddled with, try buying one that has a less sensitive sensor, or one that has to be touched to turn on and off.
How often do you clean your sink?
If you’re punctual with your cleaning, then there’s not much to worry about. If you’re someone who does not have the habit of cleaning your sink, then finishes might be a bigger issue for you. Try to find yourself a finish that won’t stain or rust easily and avoid a faucet that needs to be touched when turned on/off. This leads to fingerprints and bacteria bundling up on the faucet.
Conclusion
A touchless faucet can really make your life much easier. There is no worry behind the issue of bacteria buildup from your hands. You can keep your fingerprints and germs off of the sink so it remains a clean terrain as it should. Turning the tap on and off is less of a hassle and the pressure and temperature are already automatically set to your comfort. You can control your water consumption better this way and prevent kids and pets from playing with water.
The post How To Choose The Best Touchless Kitchen Faucet For A Modern Look appeared first on Home Decorating Trends - Homedit.
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