The 10 Best Bathroom Faucets For Hard Water That Won’t Drain Your Wallet

Updated: December 20, 2018

If you have hard water you know how badly it can leave stains in your bathroom tubs and sink. It can be unsightly and hard to clean. However, having the right type of faucet for your water type can solve this problem. There are so many out there though that it can be hard to know which are the best bathroom faucets for hard water. So we spent several days researching hard water faucets for bathrooms, speaking to buyers who use them and going through reviews of a number of bathroom faucets for hard water. We've compiled a review of the top 10 best bathroom faucets for hard water that are out this year to help you choose one that is perfect for your needs.

Contents

Our Top Pick Product

Second Pick Product

Third Pick Product

Budget Pick

Frequently Asked Question

How We Evaluated and Assessed Bathroom Faucets For Hard Water

We began our assessment of the best bathroom faucets for hard water by looking at the products that are available on the market this year. After many hours of research, we were able to come up with a top 10 of these products. We looked at what was important to buyers when looking for a hard water faucet and had our team test these faucets to see how easy they were to install and use. We also looked at customer review and the experiences of our test users. Here's what we have found.

Top 10 Bathroom Faucets For Hard Water

ProductWeightSizeRatingPrice
KOHLER Devonshire K-394-4 2-Handle Widespread7.69 lb6.4 x 8 x 4.8 in
4.7
$$
ENZO RODI LEAD-FREE Brass Widespread Bathroom Faucet5.7 lb6.2 x 4.2 x 5.3 in
4.8
$
KOHLER K-12177 Fairfax Single Control Kitchen Sink Faucet6 lb24.2 x 14 x 3 in
4.2
$$$
ENZO RODI Classical Widespread Bathroom Faucet5.3 lb16.9 x 13.2 x 5.2 in
4.7
$
Phoenix S1265-I Bathroom Faucet1.45 lb6.2 x 2 x 6.8 in
5.0
$
Moen 4507BN Wynford Vessel Bathroom Faucet4.7 lb20.9 x 9.4 x 3 in
4.8
$$$$
Symmons Duro Bathroom Faucet SLS-36125 lb5.5 x 2 x 7 in
4.0
$
Enzo Rodi Full-metal Center-set Bathroom Faucet2.6 lb9.8 x 8.2 x 8 in
4.5
$
Brushed Nickel Bathroom Sink Faucet3.94 lb12.9 x 9.2 x 3.2 in
3.7
$
Phoenix S1205-I Chrome Single Lever Bathroom Faucet1.75 lb9.2 x 7.1 x 6.2 in
5.0
$

Top Recommendation

1. KOHLER Devonshire K-394-4-CP Widespread Lavatory Faucet

1. KOHLER Devonshire K-394-4-CP 2-Handle Widespread

Coming in as our top recommended bathroom faucet for hard water is the Kohler Devonshire. This brass constructed faucet has an elegant finish and design to it. It's a two handle faucet, has ceramic disk valves made by Kohler, which last twice as long as the industry standard, and looks very sturdy. It's part of a suite of products for the Devonshire line, so you can get matching pieces for a fully rounded look in your bathroom. It also has a pop-up drain that is tarnish, scratch, and corrosion resistant.

Installation is fairly easy with its top mounting system and the flexible stainless steel parts included in the kit. All you need is a wrench, screwdriver, some plumber's putty, and sealant tape. This faucet is for 8 or 16 inch centers.

Features

  • Two Levers
  • Pop-Up Drain with Tailpiece and Lift Rod
  • Easy Installation
  • Stationary Spout With a 6 3/8 Inch Reach
  • Maximum Flow Rate of 1.5 gpm
  • Optional Low Flow Aerator
  • Lifetime limited warranty

Pros

Easy to install

In the low to mid-price range

Cons

The stop in the handles seems to be made of plastic, which was an issue for some because it broke too easily.

Cartridge cannot be removed topside, making changing them a hassle.

Final Verdict 

This model of Kohler faucet looks great and is a good option for DIY enthusiasts due to its easy installation. It comes with its Lifetime Warranty and Kohler tends to be a good quality faucet. Some of the issues people had with it may be down to packing and shipping, and if you aren't bothered with having to replace the cartridges from under the sink, you may want to give this one a try.

Second Pick

2. Enzo Rodi Low-arc Brass Widespread Bathroom Faucet

2. ENZO RODI Two-handle Low-arc LEAD-FREE

The Enzo Rodi ERF2212254CP-10 was our second pick for best bathroom faucets for hard water. The faucet itself is made of low lead brass and it comes with a full lift-up drain assembly. Its made as a 3 hole installation with the center handle holes having 6-16 inches between them. The distance is also adjustable.

This bathroom faucet has a nice contemporary design and the ceramic cartridges allow for a smooth rotation that won't drip or leak over time. The easy clean rubber nozzles on the faucet help prevent hard water build up.

Features

  • Drip Free Ceramic Cartridges
  • Built-in Neoperl Aerator with easy to clean rubber nozzles
  • Maximum Flow Rate of 1.2 gpm
  • Lift Pop-up Drain System
  • Widespread design that provides for a 6-16 inch installation
  • 5 Year Limited Warranty

 

Pros

Easy installation

Lower price range

Adjustable 3 hole installation

Cons

Not standard plumbing size for the US

No written installation instructions provided

Final Verdict

The Enzo Rodi model seems to be a good, low-cost option that most found easy to install and long lasting. However, the lack of written instructions, blurry looking diagram and having some parts in the box that were not shown in the pamphlet put some people off, making them feel it was not so easy to install.

Third Pick

3. KOHLER K-12177-CP Fairfax Single Control Kitchen Sink Faucet

3. KOHLER K-12177-CP Fairfax Single

The Kohler K-12177 Fairfax was our third pick on the list of top 10 best bathroom faucets for hard water homes. It's listed as a kitchen sink faucet but fits in just as well in the bathroom. It's a single control faucet that makes for ease of handling. It's a classic design that would fit in a traditional or contemporary bathroom setting.

One of its big features is that the faucets swivel spray head that actually pulls out and can be used as a sprayer, which can be switched from an aerated spray to a stronger and more targeted stream. The hose is made of a durable braided nylon that won't tangle. Another unique feature is its temperature memory and the high-temperature limit stop that prevents you from being scalded.

Features

  • Flexible Supply Lines For Simple Installation
  • 1.8 gpm Maximum Flow Rate
  • Ceramic Disk Valves
  • High Spout
  • Masterclean Spray Face

Pros

Easy to install

Low to mid price range

Minimal tools required for installation

Temperature memory and high temperature shut off

Lifetime warranty

Cons

Some felt the stream was not as strong as it could be and that the difference between the stream and spray was not well matched

Customers said it felt cheap because of its lightweight

Final Verdict

This is a faucet that looks good in the bathroom and gives you the addition of having that pull out spray feature. A lot of people like the safety of the high temperature shut off. However, they felt the stream function was quite low. When turning up the pressure to get a stronger stream function, it caused the spray function to be too strong.

Budget Pick

4. Enzo Rodi Classical Widespread Faucet

4. ENZO RODI Classical Two-handle LEAD-FREE

The Enzo Rodi Classical is on our list as the best bathroom faucet for your budget. It feels and looks like a high-quality faucet with its classical design and dual handles. The body of the faucet is made of brass and comes with ceramic cartridges built-in that are drip-free, giving the handles smooth rotation. The high-quality finish protects against tarnishing and corrosion. The spray head is also equipped with a Neoperl aerator that has rubber nozzles that clean easily, which also prevent the build-up of hard water.

Another of its features is the lift pop-up drain assembly that hygienically lets you drain your sink via a lift rod. It has a widespread 3 hole design that is adjustable, making for an easier installation experience.

Features

  • 3 Hole Widespread Mounting
  • 102 gpm Maximum Flow Rate
  • Dual Handle
  • Neoperl Aerator
  • Built-in Ceramic Cartridges

Pros

Very affordable

Durable, high-quality faucet

Fairly easy to install

Cons

Low-quality pop-up drain

Drain puller hard to connect

Final Verdict

For its price, this is a good quality bathroom faucet for your hard water needs. It has all of the features you would expect for this type of bathroom faucet, and the adjustable widespread mounting makes installation pretty easy. Some were not happy that the drain assembly was not as high quality as the faucet body, and there were issues with the installation instructions being hard to understand, Overall, its good value for the money.

Also Good

5. Phoenix S1265-I Brushed Nickel Single Lever Bathroom Faucet

5. Phoenix S1265-I Brushed Nickel Single Lever Bathroom Faucet

Phoenix brings us the best of both worlds in this hybrid model bathroom faucet. Its made with a blend of metal powder and plastic resin to create a poly-metal material that is tough. The plastic makes it resistant to corrosion from hard water and harsh chemicals, and the metal powder in the mix give high performance, durable parts. Because it is molded as a single piece, it ensures that there will be no leaking points. The shanks are encased in brass.

This faucet has a tall and flowing appearance to it, and its smooth rounded surface area means it will be easy to clean. It comes with a ceramic disc cartridge, and come with mounting for a 3 hole or single hole mount all in one box.

Features

  • High Strength Poly-Metal Material
  • Made From Eco-friendly Lead-Free Materials
  • Underbody Molded As A Single Piece To Ensure No Leaks
  • EPA WaterSense Certified
  • Come With Ceramic Disc Cartridge

Pros

Easy to install

Allows for 3 hole or single hole installation

Very functional

Allows for 3 hole or single hole installation

Cons

Temperature adjustment isn't as precise as you would get with a 2 handle faucet

Final Verdict

This hybrid faucet is very simple in design and gets the job done. It also makes it the perfect size and height for installing in RV's and campers. The only downside we could find for this one is that temperature regulation isn't as precise as you tend to get with a two handle faucet.

Also Good

6. Moen 4507BN Wynford One-Handle High Arc Vessel Bathroom Faucet

6. Moen 4507BN Wynford One-Handle High Arc Vessel Bathroom Faucet

The Moen High Arc Vessel faucet has a refined contemporary look to it. Its made for a single hole mount installation, giving it a cleaner look against countertops that have been custom made. The handle design itself makes for easy temperature adjusting and has an aerated water flow, perfect for your day to day bathroom tasks. The spout has a reach of 5.25 inches and comes with a flexible supply line. It's also part of a collection, so you can match other aspects of your bathroom with the faucet.

It's made of solid brass construction, which will hold up well over time. This model uses a new proprietary cartridge called Duralast, which combines high-quality materials with innovative engineering, making it a highly durable cartridge.

Features

  • Deck Mounted Installation
  • Comes with 24" flexible supply lines and 3/8" compression fittings
  • Arc Handle Has 100-degree Travel
  • Maximum Flow Rate of 1.2 gpm
  • Uses new 1255 Duralast Cartridges

Pros

Easy to install

Easy to clean

Cons

On the expensive side

Final Verdict

The Moen Wynford is definitely a high-quality bathroom faucet for hard water. Easy to install, easy to use and clean. The only downside is that its in the higher end price range. Many felt that it was well worth the cost though for a faucet that will last for some time.

Also Good

7. Symmons Duro One-Handle Single Hole Bathroom Faucet

7. Symmons Duro One-Handle Single Hole Bathroom Faucet

The Symmons Duro has a really contemporary look with its sharp rectangular lines and minimalist look. The single lever swivels and has hot and cold indicators. It also comes with a pop-up drain and lift assembly. Faucets use quarter turn ceramic components and its made as a single mount installation. Its constructed of durable brass with a polished chrome finish.

Features

  • Uses Ceramic Components
  • Pop-up Metal Drain and Lift Rod Assembly
  • Single Post Round Faucet
  • Single Swivel Lever Handle with Hot and Cold Markings
  • Single Hole Mount
  • Braided Hose Connections
  • Maximum Flow Rate of 2.2 gpm

Pros

Feels very sturdy

Easy to install

Strong Water Flow

Low to mid-price range

Cons

Seems to be higher maintenance where cleaning is concerned for hard water

Because of the size should your hole be close to a wall it may be hard to access the pop-up drain lever

Final Verdict

The Symmons Duro looks to be a high quality faucet for a fairly decent price. Its not for everyone though, with its rectangular sharp lines. Its taller than your standard faucets and the main complaint people had about this one was maintenance/cleaning. Water spots tend to show up right away and you have to constantly keep it wiped down. If that isn't an issue for you, this is a lovely faucet to use in your bathroom setup.

Also Good

8. Enzo Rodi Full-metal Single-handle 4 inch Center-set Bathroom Sink Faucet

8. Enzo Rodi Full-metal Single-handle 4 inch Center-set Bathroom Sink Faucet

Like it's 2 handled cousin, the Enzo Rodi single handle bathroom faucet comes at a great price with good quality. The entire body of the faucet is made of brass. The centerset design is for a 3 hole mount, and gives a distance of 4 inches between the center of the handle. It comes with built-in ceramic cartridges and a Neoperl Aerator.

Also included are 2 waterlines that are 23 inches long and come with 9/16” connectors for easy installation.

Features

  • Centerset 4 Inch Mounting
  • Fully Metal Construction
  • High Quality Surface Finish
  • Drip Free Ceramic Cartridges
  • Maximum Flow Rate Of 1.2 gpm
  • Removable Aerator Attachment

Pros

Easy installation

Low price but good quality

Nice long hoses

Cons

Requires plumber's putty and Teflon tape

Does not come with a drain kit

Final Verdict

Another low cost faucet that seems to work rather well for most. Many people likes that the hoses they come with are quite long and the whole setup is easy to install. One thing there was a complaint about was that listings didn't mention that a drain kit was not included with the package, so you need to buy that separately.

Also Good

9. Brushed Nickel Bathroom Sink Faucet Single Handle Mixer Tap for Bathroom

9. Beeelee Brushed Nickel Bathroom Sink Faucet Single Handle Mixer Tap for Bathroom

This faucet is sold by Beelee and made for a 1 hole installation. The single handle faucet has a total height of 6.5 inches and a spout height of 4.13 inches. The valve is made of ceramic for durability and the faucet itself is made of high purity, low lead brass. There is also a built-in Neoperl aerator for comfort when using, and the rubber nozzles are easy to clean and prevent the build-up of hard water. The premium finish protects against tarnishing and corrosion for long life.

Features

  • Low Lead Brass Construction
  • Comes With All Necessary Hardware
  • Drip Free, High Sealing Ceramic Cartridges
  • Built-in Neoperl Aerator

Pros

All parts needed are included

Easy to install

Feels heavy and good quality

Low range price

Cons

Directions that come with the kit are not easy to understand

Water tends to sit on faucet rather than roll off

Final Verdict

Taller and wider than average faucet and with a contemporary look, this is another lower priced but high quality bathroom faucet for hard water that many like. The only real issues that buyers had were that the directions that come with the kit are not easy to understand, but this can be sorted by watching the installation on YouTube. Some people felt that the design could be better if the faucet was slightly tilted forward so the water didn't sit on the faucet top after use.

Also Good

10. Phoenix S1205-I Chrome Single Lever Bathroom Faucet

10. Phoenix S1205-I Chrome Single Lever Bathroom Faucet

This is the chrome version of the Phoenix S1265. It is also a hybrid that is made from a blend of metal powder and plastic resin, creating a tough poly-metal material that is resistant to corrosion and durable. Because it is molded as a single piece, it ensures that there will be no leaking points and the shanks are encased in brass.

This faucet has a tall and flowing appearance to it, and its smooth rounded surface area means it will be easy to clean. It comes with a ceramic disc cartridge, and come with mounting for a 3 hole or single hole mount all in one box.

Features

  • High Strength Poly-Metal Material
  • Made From Eco-friendly Lead Free Materials
  • Underbody Molded As A Single Piece To Ensure No Leaks
  • EPA WaterSense Certified
  • Come With Ceramic Disc Cartridge

Pros

Easy to install

Great for areas where you don't have a lot of space

Very functional

Allows for 3 hole or single hole installation

Cons

Temperature adjustment isn't as precise as you would get with a 2 handle faucet

Final Verdict

This hybrid faucet is very simple in design and gets the job done. It also makes it the perfect size and height for installing in RV's and campers. The only downside we could find for this one is that temperature regulation isn't as precise as you tend to get with a two handle faucet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1 . Effects of hard water on hair

Ans: Due to the minerals present in hard water, it can make it hard to thoroughly rinse your hair, which can cause it to buildup, leaving behind residue. This can leave your hair feeling limp, dull, filmy dry, and straw-like, as well as make your scalp feel dry and itchy. Washing it more won't fix the problem though. It can also cause color-treated hair to lose its color quicker, meaning more frequent coloring treatments, which can further damage your hair. Some may notice hair that is thinner and breaks more easily.

Q2 . Effects of hard water on skin

Ans: The minerals found in hard water absorb away your skins natural moisture. Dry skin is the most common effect of hard water, for the same reasons it affects your hair. Its harder to rinse soap away from the skins surface, which can leave it feeling dry irritated. This can be exacerbated by skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, and sensitive skin.

Q3. How to protect skin from hard water?

Ans: You can protect your skin and hair from the effects of hard water damage by using filters and water conditioners that can help limit the effect of hard water on the skin. Other things that you can do are:

  • Take shorter baths or showers, reducing your exposure to hard water minerals.
  • Use warm water to wash yourself, especially your face, because hot water opens up the pores, which in turn raises the chance of them clogging up.
  • Moisturize your skin regularly to combat the effects of dryness.

Q4. Can hard water cause acne?

Ans: Yes it can! Hard water can dry out the skin, causing inflammation and acne breakouts. It can also cause skin that is already acne prone to worsen. One option is to use distilled water to clean your face.

Q5. What do hard water stains look like?

Ans: Hard water stains can appear as a chalky white residue, or as yellowish and brownish rings, streaks, and spots in your toilet, bath, and sinks.

Q6. Does hard water damage pipes?

Ans: Hard water deposits can buildup in your plumbing system, reducing the flow of water coming through your pipes. While copper and PVC pipes are not as susceptible, steel pipes can be damaged over time. The chemicals can eat through the coating on some pipes and fixtures, damaging rubber washers and seals. Over time the water pressure in your home can degrade, making water flow slower, which in turn makes the mineral buildup intensify until water pipes become blocked completely. Once this happens you will need to have those pipes replaced.

Q7. Is hard water acidic?

Ans: No, its actually alkaline in nature. It gets its alkaline pH from the minerals that have dissolved in it.

Q8. How hard water can be softened?

Ans: There are a number of ways you can soften hard water:

  • Boiling – When you do this and let the water cool you may see white minerals deposited at the bottom of the pot.
  • Use an Ion Exchange Filter – Some of these can be attached to kitchen faucets or used in containers with a filter. Or you an get one that attaches to your water line so it covers water usage in the whole house.

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