The faucet is one of the most-used kitchen fixtures. It enables you to rinse off fresh produce, fill the teakettle, and wash your hands. If you want to get to know the parts of kitchen faucet, you have come to the right place.
Currently, there is a wide array of kitchen faucets to choose from. No matter how simple or luxurious the faucets are, they comprise the same elements. Here is the diagram showing the anatomy of a kitchen faucet.
1. Kitchen Faucet Aerator
This part can be found at the tip of the kitchen faucet. Aerator consists of small mesh screens positioned on the faucet end. They help regulate water flow into multiple small streams, making the aerator environmentally positive.
Moreover, the aerator reduces the water volume flowing from the kitchen faucet. It lowers the chance of splashing in the sink too.
2. Spout Assembly
As the name implies, spout assembly is specifically designed to control the faucet spout. It typically includes spout body, cap, and handles.
You could buy faucet spout assembly with a polished chrome finish. It will instantly brighten your culinary space.
3. Faucet Body
This part is utilized to transport water from the plumbing system. Moreover, it is the place where the cold and hot water are mixed before going through the faucet spout.
In the bridge design, there is a pipe joining two valves. It blends hot and cold water before they reach the spout. The bridge model is the hallmark of the French country kitchen.
Furthermore, the single-hole body mixes hot and cold water in a casting that accommodates the valves. Lastly, the widespread design features three holes. It combines hot and cold water like bridge one, but the pipe is under the counter.
4. Faucet Lever
This device is also known as the lever handle. It allows the user to turn the tap on and off. Besides, it opens as well as closes the valves.
The faucet lever requires a separate hole. You can install it on top of the spout, next to it, or on the front. The single lever is convenient for all people, while two handles offer timeless appeal.
5. Adjusting Ring
Adjusting ring is also called O-ring or gasket. This part works as a seal. It can be constructed out of metal, rubber, brass or the other materials.
Moreover, the O-ring makes sure the joints of faucet are watertight. On single-handle faucets, it adjusts the pressure on the spout assembly.
6. Faucet Spout
It may be the most noticeable part of the faucet. It enables water to flow out from the faucet body to the sink.
There are various spouts on the market. Straight spout gives a long reach. The articulating spout has multiple joints. Meanwhile, the shepherd’s crook spout provides extra clearance and the gooseneck design looks so elegant.
Besides those spouts, the pull-out and pull-down versions are also available. The hands-free ones will turn on with the help of motion sensor. They keep contamination at bay.
7. Mounting Nut
This nut typically comes in large. It is designed to secure the kitchen faucet to the sink.
As long as there is enough clearance between the wall and the sink, you can install the mounting nut with ease. You need to prepare the mounting holes in the sink before tightening it.
8. Washer
Essentially, washer is a small flat ring. It can be made of rubber, plastic, or metal. Moreover, it connects the aerator to the faucet stems.
Do washers not only offer kitchen faucet positive shutoff but also prevent leaking and allow full water flow. Just be sure you purchase the washers that are compatible with your faucet.
9. Escutcheon
Escutcheon is a flat metal piece installed under the faucet. It covers the hole for the valve or pipe. Moreover, it doubles as a decorative feature.
Additionally, escutcheons are available in different shapes, finishes, and sizes. Choose the best one that suits your project.
10. Shut-out Valves
These devices are used to control the temperature and flow of water. Most faucets employ cartridge valves. They enclose all working parts in a single unit.
You can choose either plastic or metal valves for your faucet. The best models come with ceramic discs. Hard-water deposits do not damage them. Just make sure you flush the supply lines before the faucet installation.
11. Hose Guide
As the name sounds, this item helps guide the hose. It offers scraping protection and allows for easy watering. Not to mention, it keeps the hose from being caught. Lastly, it mounts the faucet side-spray head.
12. Spray Hose
Spray hose connects the hot and cold water supply to the faucet. It also allows you to rotate the spray head 360 degrees while washing produce and dishes.
In case you have a double-bowl sink in your kitchen, use the extendable spray hose. That way, you can wash things on both basins.
13. Sprayer
As the name indicates, the sprayer is utilized to spray water. It enables you to wash assorted objects such as fruits and vegetables in different ways. Because those things need water, at any time.
Your sprayer must be strong enough to rinse fresh produce. The sprayer can be constructed of plastic, zinc alloy, or stainless steel.
14. Compression Couplings
Compression fittings help users to link two pipes or plumbing lines to a fixture without soldering. They create a clean connection in a tight space. Generally, they boast compression ring, female-threaded cap, and male-threaded seat.
15. Hot Water Supply
The plumbing system that allows hot water to be supplied from the water source to the faucet. Moreover, the hot water line typically comes from a water heater. You can set the temperature on the water heater as well.
16. Cold Water Supply
This system gives you cold water directly coming from cold water line. Sometimes, the water can be very cold. According to building code regulations, the cold water supply is installed on the right side under the sink.
Whether you replace your leaky faucet or buy the new one, knowing parts of kitchen faucet both below and above the counter is a big help. Lastly, you should take faucet material, your budget, and family needs into account too.
