How to choose a kitchen faucet: tips for choosing, the best options, manufacturer rating

Which companies can be trusted

There will be no surprises in this matter. Market leaders in quality are European brands - German, Swedish, Danish. In the middle price range - Bulgaria, Slovenia and firms that have transferred production facilities to China.

Expensive and high quality

Most heard mixers GROHE (Groye). They have proven themselves excellently. There are only two disadvantages - the high price and a large number of fakes.

Moreover, "Groye" has two firms - two brothers. The firm of one is simply called GROHE. The company produces various plumbing fixtures.The second brother has a specialized company, which was named after him - HANS GROHE. This is how they label their products. This company produces only faucets and faucets, its products are even better, but also more expensive.

One of the novelties of Grohe - on and off with a touch

The next branded company is the Danish Damixa (Damixa). It is worth considering that the guarantee is given only if there are filters on the water supply. The products themselves are of high quality, they give a 10-year guarantee for the coating (previously it was 5 years) and several years for the mechanism itself. If your Damixa kitchen faucet starts to drip, chances are limescale has built up somewhere. If the warranty is no longer valid, the tap is disassembled, the plaque is removed (you can wipe it with vinegar) and everything is put back together. Cartridges may leak in Damix single-lever faucets, but this is a consumable item and must be replaced.

Kitchen faucet Damixa Arc 29000

Faucets Oras and Hansa. These trademarks are owned by one European company - Oras Group. Its production facilities are located in continental Europe. There are very few complaints about the quality of products, if there are any problems, then with cartridges. In Oras mixers they are ceramic, and they are demanding on water quality. So if you want the taps to last for a long time, install an after-treatment system.

Oras Ventura - spout on two levels

The range of the campaign includes touchless and "smart" faucets - the latest achievements in the world of plumbing. There are models for switching water to a dishwasher. Some faucets can change the angle of the spout. In general, you can choose an Oras kitchen faucet.Their style is peculiar, which pleases - you usually want to put something interesting and new, and not a dull ordinary tap.

Already only from these companies it is not easy to choose a faucet for the kitchen - there are many interesting offers. The price is about the same, as is the quality. But just do not forget that this equipment is designed for clean water, therefore, filters for post-treatment are simply necessary for normal and long-term operation.

Average price range

Not bad people speak about Vidima taps and faucets. This is a Bulgarian company whose products have been working stably for many years. This manufacturer has expensive and budget lines. Cases - brass, high quality finishes, ceramic cartridges - all this is about mixers of this brand. There are single-lever and two-valve mixers with different lengths and spout heights.

Remember the spelling of the logo so as not to buy a fake

The Russian company IDDIS has been producing sanitary equipment since 2004. The entire process, from development to production, takes place in Russia. At least that's what it says on the campaign website. There is a standard design, there is a very unusual one - with flat, arched, straight spouts. A variety of handle designs add charm to the products. The bodies are cast from high-quality brass (composition according to GOST). In general, if you need to choose a kitchen faucet from the category of high quality, but not very expensive, look at the company's products.

Iddis Kitchen D KD1SBL0i05

Good reviews about the products of the Zorg campaign. There are many questions about the country in which the production is located, but no one disputes the quality of plumbing. The cases are brass, the design is varied, there are black, white, gray, brass (yellow) and bronze.The price range is also wide - from $45 to $350.

Zorg Inox - unusual design

Inexpensive Options

If you are satisfied that the kitchen faucet will require repair or replacement in 2-2.5 years, pay attention to the products of Lemark (Lemark) and Kaizer (Kaiser). Both manufacturers are Chinese, but the quality is quite good. They won’t work for many years, but a couple of years is quite

If you still know how to change cartridges and gaskets, it can last longer

They will not work for many years, but for a couple of years - quite. If you still know how to change cartridges and gaskets, it may last longer.

Mixer selection options

Technical and consumer characteristics

You can choose a mixer according to several, especially important, criteria. But it would be more correct to take into account, if not all, then at least a maximum of subtleties and nuances. Even before going to the store, manufacturing companies that can be trusted are determined; the purpose of the device is for a bidet, sink, sink, bath or shower; model type - 1-lever, 2-valve, thermostatic or non-contact. And also: the style that should fit into the design of the room, and the maximum amount of money corresponding to the expected quality of the product.

When buying a washing device, attention is paid to the technical parameters of the spout: the length must be such that the jet hits the center of the bowl; the height is selected according to the size of the dishes; the angle of rotation must ensure the operation of additional compartments. Based on expediency, additional options can be included in the kit: a retractable watering can, a filtration system, adapters for machines - washing and dishwasher

If the bathtub and the sink are located nearby, a rational choice is a universal model with a “gander” about 30 cm long.As a shut-off valve, it is better to purchase a ceramic cartridge - it is the most practical. There should be an aerator at the ends of the spout - thanks to it, water is mixed with air, as a result, consumption becomes more economical.

Manufacturing materials and installation methods

The most popular and most practical material is stainless steel, which is characterized by reliability, durability, inexpensive price and design versatility. No less running - brass and bronze with a stylish look, durability and reasonable cost.

Ceramics has specific properties - external attractiveness and interesting shapes, as opposed to brittleness and high price. The cheapest, but also short-lived, is silumin, which can be plated with nickel and chromium.

It is not enough to buy a mixer - it still needs to be installed, so the installation option is chosen, which can be vertical and horizontal, as well as wall, built-in, mortise and floor. At the final stage, the completeness is checked, a visual inspection is carried out, a passport for the product and other accompanying documents are obtained.

Top 10 reliable manufacturing companies: rating of the best in quality

The list includes both foreign and Russian manufacturers of sanitary ware.

Grohe

Over the years, the company has shown itself from the best side. Their products are famous for "German quality", other companies are equal to them, trying to keep up with the global brand.

Pros:

• chrome as a coating: it will not be erased in six months and will please the eye for a long time;
• reliability;
• convenience of the device.

They have the only minus, but extremely significant - the high cost.

Varion

Faucets are considered Russian because they are assembled in St. Petersburg, but it is worth noting that the parts are exclusively imported.

The main consumers are public institutions, but installation is also possible in private homes.

Pros:

• Water saving.
• High quality.
• Adaptation to hard water in Russia.

Minus - high price.

Important! It is worth noting that the watering can is made of plastic, this does not add reliability to it.

Hansgrohe

The company puts in the first place the saving of resources and the manufacturability of the goods produced. Very often, innovations in plumbing are presented on the market on their behalf.

Photo 1. The laconic design of the Hansgrohe faucet will appeal to connoisseurs of hi-tech and minimalism.

Pros:

• saving water;
• reliability;
• a guarantee of 5 years is provided;
• comfortable water supply.

Minuses:

• cost of goods;
• rapid wear of individual parts.

Vidima

The company does not focus on advanced technology, but on ease of use and quality.

Bulgaria is known for its meticulousness, Vidima is no exception. The management of the company monitors the quality of the goods produced.

Pros:

• A guarantee of 5 years is provided.
• Improved quality and reliability.
• Relatively low cost (from 4 thousand rubles).

The only thing that repels the buyer is a simple design, devoid of innovative solutions.

Important! Most Vidima models require the installation of an additional filter

Kaiser

The German firm appeared on the market recently. Products are created in Asia, but under the strict guidance of European creators. During its existence, the company has received a large number of reviews, some of which are unflattering.

Photo 2.The stylish model of the German company Kaiser will look especially good in interiors decorated in retro style.

Pros:

• Interesting design.
• Low cost (from 6 thousand rubles).
• Availability of parts.

The negative aspect is the quality of the mixer, which does not satisfy all buyers. Quick breakdown and lack of ease of use make Kaiser faucets not the best on the market.

frap

Focuses on the design of its products. The buyer has the opportunity to choose a model suitable for his bathroom. The quality does not suffer so much from this.

Pros:

• Design solutions.
• Relatively low cost (from 4 thousand rubles).

Faucets cannot be called durable or reliable, but the products are suitable for those who want beautiful and inexpensive appliances.

Iddis

The brand originated and thrives in Russia. He has established himself as a reliable company that provides inexpensive plumbing that meets the requirements of GOST.

Photo 3. Iddis rotary single-lever faucet installed in the kitchen for two sinks.

Pros:

• High level of functionality.
• Low cost (from 5 thousand rubles).
• Designed for Russian water.

Of the shortcomings, it is noted that it is impossible to make independent repairs, since the parts are not sold separately. The quality is not at a high level, but it can satisfy basic needs.

Rubineta

The company is located in Lithuania. It successfully holds its position in the global plumbing arena, creating competition with Western counterparts.

Pros:

• does not require repair for several months;
• design.

Minuses:

price.

Ledeme

The Chinese company provides some of the best faucets in the affordable price segment. The quality corresponds to the presented value.

Pros:

• Guarantee from 5 years.
• Comfort in use.
• The cost is from 3 thousand rubles.

Ledeme products are reliable and will appeal to an inexperienced buyer. There is no need to be afraid of the country of origin, not only bad things are done in China.

Lemark

Products of this brand are created in the Czech Republic. The quality justifies the low cost. Plumbing is suitable as an economical option.

Pros:

• interesting design solutions;
• low cost (from 3500 rubles);
• reliability;
• quality that meets standards.

The products do not have serious drawbacks, customer reviews are positive.

2 Grohe

The manufacturer relies on new technologies, so users are primarily interested in the functionality of the model line. Equipped with a spout of different heights, radius of rotation, single-lever and two-valve products are suitable for the operation of plumbing equipment in any mode. For maintenance of large pots and vases, retractable watering cans are additionally provided, which can also be used when washing dishes or products simultaneously in two sinks. Smooth adjustment of water flow allows not only saving it, but also extending the life of components, according to plumbers. A number of devices have a built-in temperature limiter, backflow protection or touch control thanks to a lithium battery.

Certain product groups are equipped with Blue or Red systems.In the first case, the water can be additionally filtered, cooled and carbonated, in the second case it can be brought to a boiling state, and the automatic blocking mode will not allow the child to get burned. True, such mixer models are additionally equipped with filters, consumables, carbon dioxide cylinders or boilers, depending on the system chosen.

The design of the cranes on the device

Manufacturers produce models of mixer taps of three designs: single-lever, two-valve and non-contact.

• Contactless are not equipped with a handle to open the water. They react to infrared radiation from hands or an object. Expensive, but cost-effective device. It will be especially appreciated by people who have water meters or those who save natural resources. Not one extra drop of water will be spilled in vain. In addition, such a mixer is always hygienically clean. No need to grease the valves to rinse your hands while cooking.
• Two-valve. Built-in two taps that are responsible for supplying hot and cold water. They are realized in interesting design solutions. Inconvenient due to the long adjustment of water to the desired temperature.
• Single lever. With it, it is easy to adjust the water supply (pressure, temperature). It has an easy move, so you can turn off or adjust the water with one finger.

Single-lever mixers are sold with a different location of the tap relative to the spout. Basically, their location depends on the height of the structure. If the spout is extended, then the lever is installed on the side. With a low spout, it is mounted on top.

An example of a single-lever mixer model

Criteria for choosing a kitchen faucet

How to choose the right option so as not to experience problems with its installation, operation and not spend extra money? We offer you to familiarize yourself with several important criteria that will help you cope with this task.

Mounting method

Three methods are used to install the unit in the kitchen:

1. Mounting on a horizontal surface, in the finished sink hole. Used more often than others. An easy process. It can be done on your own. Suitable for valve, lever and sensor designs.
2. Into the table. A special case of the first option. It differs in that it is mounted in a hole in the countertop, which will have to be drilled with your own hands. Since the thickness of the countertop plate is much greater than that of the sink, you should make sure that the selected unit does not cause trouble with the connection of flexible hoses and is securely fixed to the supporting surface.
3. Wall mount. This is how the faucets in the bathroom are attached. In some cases, it can also be used in the kitchen. To do this, the pipes must be brought out above the countertop and recessed into the walls. Eccentric adapters are used for horizontal adjustment. The joints are "masked" with decorative overlays.

Design

Single lever devices are preferred. One hand is enough to operate the crane. The designs are quite reliable, the temperature and pressure control is smooth and accurate.

Fans of antiquity may prefer two-valve faucets. You will have to manage them with two hands, which is not so convenient. But you can choose a stylish option with the same surface finish of the tap and sink.

Lovers of innovation can opt for touch devices, despite some of the inconveniences associated with their use in the kitchen, which have already been mentioned above.

Spout shape, height and design

The best option for the kitchen is a swivel spout. The sink can have a large volume, two bowls, or be located on an island. In the latter case, a faucet with a 360° spout should be selected.

The height of the spout determines whether it will be convenient to fill a large pot or even a bucket with water. In addition, the amount of splashes that will form when the jet falls to the bottom of the sink depends on this parameter. It is better to have a deep bowl and a high spout. An excellent option is a retractable spout with a flexible hose.

Today, designers offer different spout profiles: classic round, square, rectangular or even flattened. Very convenient devices with a flexible spout. The choice depends on the wishes of the customer.

Aerators and watering cans

A special nozzle is placed on the spout cut, with the help of which the jet is broken and saturated with air. This is an aerator, a device that reduces water consumption and splashing. They consist of a body with a fine metal mesh at the outlet. A plastic flow swirling device is installed on top of the mesh, which ensures the saturation of the jet with air. The whole structure is screwed onto the thread at the end of the spout. From time to time, the mesh and the aerator itself should be cleaned of contaminants. The aerator can be replaced with a watering can, with which you can form a different jet, increasing or decreasing the flow strength. There are no pads included and must be purchased separately.

materials

The best are considered mixers made of bronze and copper. However, this pleasure is very expensive.Somewhat cheaper are high-quality structures made of brass and stainless steel. Products made of silumin (an alloy of aluminum with silicon) do not differ in strength and durability. But they are inexpensive. Most often, silumin crafts are produced by Chinese companies specializing in the production of budget samples.
To give the product a decorative look, various coatings are applied to the base material:

Chromium. Strong and durable coating. Its only drawback is the limited choice of colors.
Bronze. Gives the product an attractive look. A bronze faucet looks great with a sink that has the same finish.
Copper. Faucets finished with this material can have different shades, look very decorative, especially those made in the retro style.
Ceramics. Ceramic parts have an original and attractive appearance, do not retain traces of limescale

Requires careful handling. Possible cracks and chips.
Granite

Relatively new finish. Decorative, durable, holds mechanical loads well.
Enamel. Gives products an original and elegant appearance, well protects the product from corrosion. It may darken over time. There may also be cracks and chips.

Good budget firms

1

Schaub Lorenz

1880

Schaub Lorenz was founded in 1880 in Berlin. It all started with the creation of an ordinary telegraphic company, and now it is one of the best manufacturers of household appliances in the world. Embedded appliances appeared only in 2015, and now this is the main direction - it is it that is the center of production.

Now official equipment from the manufacturer can be purchased on the territory of the Russian Federation.The range of the brand includes hobs, ovens, dishwashers, freezers, refrigerators, hoods and microwave ovens.

9.9 /10

rating

pros

• Lots of positive feedback
• Wide range of products
• Good quality
• Acceptable cost
• beautiful appearance
• There is smart technology

Minuses

Go to website

2

Samsung

1938

Samsung is a South Korean company that has taken the world by storm with its technology. It is she who is an example for many, and even some well-known manufacturers copy the goods, which helps the company to develop even better and faster.

Samsung home appliances have always been popular, but after the manufacturer released a line of built-in appliances, the popularity has increased even more. The range of the brand is quite wide: microwave ovens, ovens and hobs, hoods and much more.

9.8 /10

rating

pros

• Affordable price
• Wide range and variety of equipment
• Beautiful design
• Reliable and proven manufacturer
• Ease of handling

Minuses

• Some household appliances are poorly assembled
• Poor performance of service centers

Go to website

3

LG

1958

There is hardly a person who has never heard of such a giant manufacturer as LG. It is LG that comes to mind first of all when it comes to household appliances for the kitchen. The manufacturer introduced to the market a whole line of household appliances that are connected to the "smart home" system.

The manufacturer not only supplies high-quality goods to the market, but also regularly arranges various promotions. You can win a prize even for registering on the manufacturer's website. But due to the popularity of the product and the rather high demand for it, buyers often face problems with the service center.

9.7 /10

rating

pros

• Quite a lot of good products
• Excellent value for money
• Beautiful design
• Reliable and user-friendly technology

Minuses

• Poor service center
• Some products have a lot of negative reviews
• Difficult to get repair under warranty

Go to website

4

Maunfeld

1998

Maunfeld is one of the largest manufacturers of built-in appliances. Its assortment is quite diverse, so everyone can find something suitable for their kitchen. For example, many users note the high-quality performance of ovens. The manufacturer is not yet very popular in Russia, and you can find a lot of negative reviews about it on the Internet. And the main drawback that users note is the high cost of production.

9.6 /10

rating

pros

• excellent quality
• The price is fully consistent with the quality
• High discounts from the manufacturer
• The company has a large number of certificates and awards
• Wide range of household appliances

Minuses

• High price
• Some technology doesn't work well enough
• Some models often fail
• There are many negative reviews

Go to website

Varieties of designs

Today in the modern market of various plumbing fixtures there is a rich variety of faucets. They differ from each other in many criteria, the main of which is their appearance:

1. Valve. They belong to classic appliances, as they can be seen in any home. In their own way, they are divided into devices with a rubber gasket and with a ceramic valve. They differ from each other in the number of turns of the handle made.
2. Single lever.In devices of this type, cold and hot water is passed and regulated by means of a special lever that slowly opens the cartridge. They are considered the most convenient and reliable to use, as they do not allow leaks.
3. Contactless. They are touch-sensitive kitchen faucets that can be controlled from a distance. Inside the device is an infrared sensor that quickly responds to any objects. Most of the control is carried out using a special panel. It allows you to set the exact response time of the sensor, the required water temperature, the shutdown time and the power of the water flow.

Structure Comparison Table

Products are classified into:

• Valve - equipped with two handles, practical and durable.
• Ball - are a ball with several holes. They have the functions of turning in different directions, raising and lowering.

Replacing gaskets in a ball mixer is more expensive than in a valve device.

According to the type of construction, the products are divided into:

1. Single lever.

2. Two-valve.

3. Thermostatic.

4. Touch.

This table shows the most important pros and cons of modern devices.

Construction type	pros	Minuses
Single lever	Convenient to manage Quick adjustment of water flow and temperature Easy installation Long service life low price
Two-valve	Simple design Valve feed adjustment water
thermostatic	Maintain a constant water temperature and a given pressure Safe economical	High price Consume electricity
Contactless	Do not have valves, levers Reduce water consumption Temperature setting available	Work on lithium battery Are expensive The appliance is inconvenient to use in the kitchen

Touchless faucets are not a suitable option for the kitchen, because:

• When cooking, you will need a different temperature regime. However, non-contact devices supply either hot, or cold, or summer water. That is, the hostess will have to constantly adjust the pressure and temperature of the water, losing her time.
• In order to fill a large pot, vase, kettle, you will need to hold your hands over the container for several minutes. And this, you see, is not very convenient.

Which plumbing company is better to choose

Each manufacturer that produces sanitary ware offers customers standard and unique models. Therefore, it is easy to get confused in the variety available on the market. Products often experience significant stress, which is why the emphasis is on quality and strength indicators. There are a number of developers who have proven themselves from the best side, and are also in demand among buyers. Their technique is of high quality, and the probability of buying defective sanitary ware is small. The most famous among them:

• Grohe. Brand from Germany, known and popular in many countries. In the manufacture of products, the manufacturer focuses on quality and reliability. Users also appreciate the products of this brand for their convenient use.
• Ideal standard. Products from a developer from Germany are produced directly only in Europe. The company offers plumbing for all users. Buyers note the convenience during use.
• Roca. The developer from Spain produces products in collections. The company guarantees good quality, which will allow the equipment to serve for a long time. The technique is distinguished by the convenience of forms that make their placement comfortable.
• blanco.Equipment from a company from Germany is of excellent quality, as well as long periods of use. Users highlight the bright design and reliability of products.
• Cersanit. Polish developer producing sanitary ware and bathroom furniture. Users note good quality, service life. The company constantly controls the process of manufacturing sanitary ware.
• Sanita Luxe. One of the leading brands of domestic plumbing. It offers customers reliable products that, in terms of their technical and stylistic parameters, will correspond to foreign counterparts.
• Santek. A Russian developer producing high-quality and environmentally friendly equipment that meets international standards. Consumers highlight the ease of maintenance and reliability of the devices.
• Triton. The main direction of production is the manufacture of acrylic bathtubs and shower cabins. In production, only domestic raw materials are used, which will significantly affect the cost.
• arcus. Manufacturer from China, which manufactures reliable showers, sinks and toilets. For a long time, the company has been in a leading position in its segment due to the use of the latest technologies.
• eago. Recognized as China's largest developer of sanitary products. The main profile is the production of shower boxes, acrylic bathtubs. To produce products, Eago uses modern German technology, which will achieve high quality.
• grand home. The company focuses directly on the production of premium shower cabins and accessories for them. The products are distinguished by a bright design, which is designed for the European market.

Each of the manufacturers is considered a prominent representative in its segment and produces high quality plumbing. Given that the firms reviewed have positive feedback, the user can easily select reliable plumbing products.

The choice of material and coating of the kitchen faucet

No matter how expensive, practical and beautiful a mixer is purchased, its service life depends on the materials from which it is made. Modern kitchen faucets are made of an alloy of metals, plastics, ceramics.

Advice. Of the budget options, you can select mixers made of aluminum alloy with silicon and plastic. Steel and ceramics will cost more, but will also last longer.

Metal - bronze-brass kitchen units for water supply, have proven themselves on the positive side. They are durable and strong.

Kitchen faucet with pull-out shower

The plastic faucet is not expensive. It's lightweight, durable and doesn't get hot. A significant drawback - such a mixer quickly fails, breaks down.

There is an opinion that the ceramic mixer is the best. In fact, it is inferior to those made of a metal alloy. Ceramic is brittle. The faucet can be easily damaged during an awkward movement or when a kitchen appliance is dropped on it. However, such models look stylish.

When buying a kitchen faucet, you should pay attention to its coating. It can be chrome-plated, enameled, made of stainless steel

The chrome faucet looks very nice and impressive. The enamel looks decent, but such a crane will not be beautiful for long. The coating is easily beaten off with an awkward movement.