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1. What is a kitchen faucet?
It is a plumbing fixture installed in the kitchen sink or countertop to provide access to hot or cold water for cooking and other activities in the kitchen.
Kitchen faucets come in diverse styles, designs, features, and functions. It’s typically designed with a spout, handle, and other internal components that regulate water flow and temperature.
More than the functionality of a kitchen faucet, there are new faucet designs that now contribute to the overall aesthetics of the kitchen.
2. What are the different types of kitchen faucets?
2.1 Single handle faucets
As the name implies, a single-handle faucet has one handle or lever controlling the water flow rate and temperature. They are one of the most common types of kitchen faucets and are easy to install.
There are different designs of the single-handle faucet. Some require pulling up and down, while some require turning left and right. However, they are both efficient; choose your best design.
The single-handle faucet is a top choice because of its simplicity and effectiveness for small spaces.
2.2 Double handle faucets
The double-handle faucet has two distinct handles separating cold and hot water precisely. The two handles can be attached to the same centerpiece or positioned a few inches apart.
This double handle is best for preventing home accidents, especially when you have children. The single handle can become confusing and create home hazards. However, the double-handle faucet requires more space and is not ideal for a small kitchen.
2.3 Pull out faucets
The pull-out faucet is one of the standard faucets in modern kitchens today. It is famous for the flexibility and convenience it provides. It has a spray head or hose you can extend or pull to regulate water movement. They are fantastic for rinsing dishes, filling pots, or even watering a nearby plant.
2.4 Pull down faucets
The pull-down faucet has a thin difference from the pull-out faucet. It can be pulled down, especially in a deep sink used in commercial restaurants. The pull-down faucet allows you to pull this faucet downward.
2.5 Pot filler faucet
Pot filler faucets are rare in Nigerian homes. They are wall-mounted faucets designed for filling large pots directly on the stove. They are usually placed high above to accommodate the pot size. They are best for families that cook with heavy pots.
2.6 Sensor/ touchless faucets
The sensor or touchless faucet is typical in many big public restrooms, but its now also used as a home kitchen faucet. They are designed with sensors that detect hand movement, enabling the turning on and off of water without touching the physical handle. The innovation promotes hygiene and convenience while cooking or cleaning in the kitchen.
2.7 Smart faucets
With more technological advancement, smart home technology has now introduced features like the smart faucet. This enables you to use your phone app or voice command to control your faucet temperature when turning it on and off.
3. Types of kitchen faucet finishes
3.1 Polished chrome
Polished chrome is one of the top kitchen faucets finishes in Nigeria. It has a mirror-like, timeless, elegant, and sleek appearance. Faucets with polished chrome finishing are corrosion-resistant and durable. It is one of the most uncomplicated faucets to clean.
3.2 Stainless steel
The stainless-steel faucet finish has a neutral appearance and is famous for its durability and resistance to rust and corrosion. Its easy to maintain and resistant to stains.
3.3 Nickel
The nickel finish is like stainless steel but less shiny than the stainless steel. It has a neutral look that matches other kitchen utensils and colors.
3.4 Copper
Copper faucets work best in a rustic or traditional kitchen design. It requires frequent polishing to maintain its shiny appearance.
3.5 Bronze
There are many types of bronze finishing, such as oil-rubbed bronze and classic bronze. They are ideal for kitchens with traditional designs because of their antique appearance.
4. Things to consider before buying a kitchen faucet?
Here are some things to consider when choosing a faucet, especially the kitchen faucet.
4.1 Spout
Faucets come in different spouts. Consider the spouts design and height. You dont want it to be too high or too low.
High-arc spouts make enough room for filling large pots; having a low-arc spout when you use large pots would create a mess and vice versa.
4.2 Basin/sinkhole
Whether you are replacing your faucet or buying a new faucet and sink, ensure that they align in configuration.
4.3 Faucet handle
Choose the handle that you prefer. There is a single, double, and touchless handle. The double handle is best for precise control over water temperature, while the single handle is excellent for maximizing small kitchen space.
4.4 Faucet finish
Standard faucet finishes are polished chrome, stainless steel, brass, bronze, copper, gold, and matte black.
Choose the faucet finish that compliments your kitchen style and is also durable.
4.5 Built-in filter
Most faucets have a built-in filter to filtrate water. Installing a faucet without a filter is dangerous. Choose a faucet with a built-in filter. Its also best if the filter can be removed and cleaned occasionally.
4.6 Modern features
If you want something stylish and minimalist, consider facets with additional features like soap dispenser, LED light, etc.
4.7 Budget
This should come first in your selection. Determine your budget before you start choosing. This will enable you to go for the best faucet within your budget.
5. How to maintain your faucet
Here are a few tips on maintaining your faucet to enhance its efficiency and durability.
5.1 Clean daily
Start to see your kitchen faucet as part of the dishes. Just as you do the dishes daily, use a soft cloth or sponge with mild dish soap to clean your faucet. Ensure to dry it with a clean, dry cloth or paper towel.
5.2 Avoid hard water buildup
If you have hard water in your home, you must do extra work to retain your faucets shine. Vinegar is your best bet. Occasionally, soak a cloth in vinegar water mixture, then wrap the cloth around your faucet. After an hour, rinse and wash off with a mild soap.
Remember to share this trick with your friends.
5.3 Inspect for leaks
Once you notice any leak, call your plumber. Dont hesitate till the faucet is completely spoiled before fixing it.
5.4 Clean your filter
The filter is a small screen at the tip of the spout. It can be blocked with debris and affect the water flow. Remove it and clean it appropriately. However, ensure that your faucet has a filter that is also detachable.
5.6 Call for professional maintenance
Aside from inspecting the faucet, tightening screws, and replacing any damaged part, its best to consult a professional plumber.
6. Price of kitchen faucet in Nigeria
The price of kitchen faucets in Nigeria depends on the model, features, finishing, and quality. One of the cheapest kitchen faucets in Nigeria is the plastic faucet, which is available in the market for about NGN4,000 to NGN15,000, depending on the quality.
If you want to install new kitchen faucets or change your old ones, there is something for you.
At Daibau.ng, we have experienced plumbers everywhere in Nigeria. They will walk you through the entire stage, from selection to installation.
Click on the link below to find out more.
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