Hard water can create staining and buildup in your kitchen sink. But having the right faucet for hard water can make all the difference. With so many options on the market, it's hard to know which will be best for your needs. This is why we've spent several hours researching hard water faucets, as well as speaking to individuals who use them and going through reviews of a number of kitchen faucets for hard water. We've compiled the top 10 best kitchen faucets for hard water that are out this year.
If you've ever had hard water you'll know how quickly a sink can become stained with buildup. This is down to not having the right kitchen faucets installed to cope with hard water. What, exactly is hard water? Basically, its water that contains a high level of mineral deposits, usually because it passes through chalk and limestone deposits. This causes that white crusty buildup you see, also known as limescale. While drinking hard water isn't a risk to your health, it can leave buildup and residue in the sink and in your pipes. It also causes your dish detergents to not perform at their best, which means you need to use more of it. Rather than scrubbing away at your sink, the easiest solution is to buy a kitchen faucet made specifically for hard water.
Whether you are replacing the faucet yourself or having someone else do it, you still need to choose the best kitchen faucet for hard water to suit your needs and style. With so many to choose from, it can seem a bit overwhelming. However, we've put together this guide to help you choose the best kitchen faucet for hard water in your home. Our guide will walk you through what to look for when purchasing a new hard water faucet, and which are the best of the bunch.
How We Evaluated and Assessed Kitchen Faucets For Hard Water
We started our assessment of the best kitchen faucets for hard water by looking at the products on the market. After many hours of research, we were able to rank these products, as well as discovering what was important to look for when buying a hard water faucet. This was done through customer review and experiences from test users. We were then able to create a top 10 list of the best products on the market. Here's what we have found.
| Product | Weight | Size | Editor's Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kohler K-99259-VS Artifacts | 8.1 pounds | 8.5 x 4.3 x 17.6 in | 4.8 | $$$$ |
| Kraus KPF-1640 Modern Nola | 7.17 pounds | 8.8 x 2 x 19.6 in | 4.7 | $$ |
| Delta 9158 DST Fuse | 6 pounds | 11.5 x 7 x 11.5 in | 4.4 | $$$ |
| KRAUS Oletto Single Handle | 5.9 pounds | 8.7 x 2 x 15.8 in | 4.4 | $$ |
| KOHLER K-99260 Artifacts | 8.1 pounds | 9.1 x 6.4 x 17.6 in | 4.6 | $$$$$ |
| Delta Essa Single-Handle Bar-Prep | 1 pounds | 1.2 x 11 x 14 in | 4.3 | $$ |
| Kraus KPF-1602 Single Handle | 10.3 pounds | 32.1 x 8.5 x 2.2 in | 4.1 | $$$ |
| Delta 978 DST Leland Single Handle | 6.65 pounds | 9.2 x 12 x 9.2 in | 4.5 | $$$ |
| Delta Cassidy Single-Handle 4197 | 6.6 pounds | 12.6 x 4.3 x 12.6 in | 4.3 | $$$ |
| KINGO HOME Lead-Free | 7.5 pounds | 28.2 x 10.9 x 2.8 in | 4.3 | $ |
Top 10 Kitchen Faucets For Hard Water
1. Top Pick - Kohler K-99259-VS Artifacts
The Kohler K-99259-VS Artifacts is our highest recommended hard water kitchen faucet. This practical, eco-friendly faucet has a simple classic look with its vibrant stainless steel finish, a vintage styled high-arch spout and turned lever handle that can be operated single-handedly
It offers a unique spray-head that pulls down and has 3 spray functions:
- Sweep Spray that gives you a wide spray of forceful water via its angled nozzles, making it brilliant for cleaning.
- Berry Soft is a lighter spray for gently washing vegetables and fruit.
- Aerated Stream is a great option for filling up pots and jugs.
Kohler K-99259-VS Features:
- DockNetik – a magnetic docking system within the faucet body offers secure locking for the spray-head in place when not in use, which means the spray head won't droop. The pull-down function glides smoothly.
- Promotion – this technology makes using the spray-head comfortable and easy, with its swivel ball joint and braided hose. This keeps the hose from getting tangled or kinking up.
- Master Clean - the faucets spray face guards against the buildup of mineral deposits and its surface is easy to clean.
The faucet body is made from top quality metal for durability, is deck mounted and you get all of the important hardware that you will need to install the faucet. Even better, you get a lifetime warranty from the manufacturer.
The faucet is ADA, ASME, CSA, ANSI, NSF, and UPC approved, as well as being approved for commercial use. The water consumption and flow rate are 1.8 gallons per minute. The arched faucet height is 17.63 inches, with a 9.06-inch spout reach. The spout swivels 360 degrees.
Pros
You are able to choose handle placement upon installation
Simple to install
3 function sprayer
Excellent water flow rate
Easy to clean
Cons
Fairly heavy
Expensive
Final Verdict
We found this kitchen faucet for hard water to be the best due to its functionality and durability. Some may argue it's a bit on the expensive side, but it is well worth the price, especially with its lifetime warranty from Kohler.
2. Second Pick - Kraus KPF-1640 Modern Nola – Strong Pressure
This was our 2nd choice for the best kitchen faucet for hard water guide. It has a finish that prevents corrosion, rust, and mineral buildup, a heavy-duty double spring design, and an all-metal handle and body for maximum durability. The low flow Neoperl aerator is high performance, and the dual function spray and stream sprayer give 360-degree swivel capability allowing it to access the entire sink area. The single lever design also offers flow and temperature control that is effortless. It comes in a stainless steel or chrome finish.
One of the installation features that buyers like is that it gives 1 or 3 holes, allowing you to choose which way you prefer it. The magnetic docking feature allows easy positioning.
Kraus KPF-1640 Features:
- Neoperl Aerator – this feature gives the faucet a low flow but high-performance ability that helps reduce the wasting of water without having to sacrifice good water pressure. The rubber nozzles are easy to clean and protect against hard water buildup.
- Single Lever Flow Control – this splash free all metal lever handle is durable and designed for precise temperature and flow control.
- Magnetic Docking – its docking and movement capability makes this faucet easy to use in and around the sink.
- Dual Function Spray Head – the sprayer allows you to easily switch between a powerful spray or aerated stream with the simple push of a button.
The height of this faucet is 19.6 inches and has a modern double-coil design that can fit in any type of kitchen. The Kerox ceramic cartridge offers long-lasting, drip-free usage. The flow rate is 1.8 gallons per minute.
Pros
It's very firm and sturdy
You can choose between the aerated and powerful spray stream
It's rust resistant
Very easy to clean
Comes with tools to service the faucet
Long lasting ceramic cartridge
Powerful direct spray feature
Lifetime warranty from the manufacturer
Cons
The spout is rather tall, which some felt made it look weird and isn't ideal for small sinks
Some felt the hose a bit too short
Final Verdict
This is a faucet that has some power behind it and offers some great features. It's easy to install yourself, offers longevity and is easily cleaned and maintained. It's low cost but high functioning and gives a traditional style look to your kitchen.
3. Third Pick - Delta 9158 DST Fuse Single-Handle
Coming in at number 3 on our list is the Delta 9158 DST Fuse Single Handle hard water faucet. One of the aesthetic features we like is that the stainless steel finish has a brushed matte finish on the spray head and base, which comes in three colors choices; Chili Pepper, Cracked Pepper, and Snowflake White. It's great for those who want to add a splash of color to their kitchen. It's easy to install and easy to clean.
Another feature we like is the Diamond Seal Technology that Delta uses. It reduces the risk of leak points appearing, makes installation less of a hassle, and the faucets last twice as long as what is standard in the industry. Everything that is needed for installation is in the box, including the InnoFlex integrated supply lines.
Delta 9158 Features:
- MagnaTite Docking – the faucet has a powerful magnet integrated into the system that snaps and holds your faucet spray into place. Because the wand remains docked when not using, you don't have to worry about it drooping over time.
- Diamond Seal Technology on the valve's ceramic disc, which is diamond-lined, giving you a lifetime of optimal performance. This means lubrication is not needed and it does away with water on the seals.
- The Touch-clean technology on the spray head has spray holes made of soft rubber, which means no mineral build up because it can be wiped away.
- There are 2 installation options for one and three hole sinks.
- The two function spray head lets you switch easily from stream to spray.
- Easy installation with a Duramount mounting system, which eliminates leaks with its one-piece supply line.
- The high arc spout has a 360-degree swivel range.
- Hose has the capacity to reach 20 inches.
- The faucet is ADA compliant.
Pros
The faucet can be installed above the sink, cutting out the hassle of having to crawl under the sink to tighten
Lifetime warranty
Easy to install
Easy to clean
Cons
The deck plate is optional and needs to be ordered separately
Customers would like to see it come in more than the 3 finishes offered
Final Verdict
The Delta 9158 DST Fuse Single-Handle brings efficiency and style together in this product. There weren't any complaints about the functionality of the faucet or installation and it met the expectations of customers and ourselves. It costs a bit more than your standard kitchen faucet for hard water, but it seems well worth the price for all it offers.
4. Best Value - KINGO HOME Lead-Free Modern Stainless Steel
For those wanting a quality kitchen faucet for hard water without having splash out a lot of money, the Kingo Home Lead-Free faucet is a good choice. It has a clean classic look with its brushed nickel finish, and the ceramic valve means no hard water buildup. It comes with all of the mounting hardware needed to install, including adapters and water hoses. You also get a lifetime replacement warranty.
Kingo Home Features
- The nozzle and spout rotate a full 360 degrees, allowing you to reach all areas of your sink.
- The pull-down spray wand has a 20-inch flexible reach.
- Sprayer has a stream and spray function.
- The nozzle uses Touch-Clean technology for easy cleaning and the prevention of any mineral buildup.
Pros
Ceramic valve disc
Good value for money
Powerful spray
Easy to install with all hardware included
Has a quick connector hose
Easy to clean
Cons
Some found the pressure to be a bit too robust, causing splashing up in and out of the sink
Replacement parts can be a bit expensive
Final Verdict
We found the Kingo Home faucet ticks the important boxes when it comes to functionality and its a good price for those who don't want to spend a lot but still want a quality hard water faucet. The issue with replacement parts being expensive is something to consider, but you do get a warranty for replacements with Kingo.
5. KRAUS Oletto Single Handle
We liked the simple, sleek design of the Kraus Oletto Single-Handle faucet. It has a durable finish that is said to not to fade over time. The dual function sprayer has easy to clean rubber nozzles to eliminate any mineral build up, and it is free of lead in its construction. The faucet stands at a height of 15 ¾ inches. Installation is fairly simple with its drop in base and it comes in either a chrome or stainless steel finish.
Krause Oletto Features:
- Pull-Down technology makes the 14 inch hose easy to retract, and the swivel adapter gives an extended range of motion, allowing it to pivot and flex, reaching around the entire sink.
- Dual Function Sprayer gives both a powerful spray function and an aerated stream.
- Easy Clean soft silicone nozzles prevent mineral buildup and can be wiped clean, keeping your powerful water flow intact.
- Neoperl aerator gives a low flow/ high-performance water stream that helps to reduce water waste without affecting pressure.
- Single lever flow control was designed to give a precise and splash free flow and temperature control.
Pros
Offers better kitchen performance.
Easy to install.
Lifetime warranty.
High performance.
Cons
While the hose is very flexible, you need to take care not to twist it too much when installing.
Final Verdict
The Kraus Oletto single handle faucet has an ergonomic design and is easy to use. The ease of installation is also a plus. It has a mid-range price that offers a durable, good quality faucet and has all of the basic features you would expect for this type of faucet.
6. KOHLER K-99260 Artifacts
Another kitchen faucet for hard water from the Kohler Artifacts range, the K-99260 is the top handled model of the K-99259 side handle model. It too has Kohler's unique three-function pull-down spray head functionality.
- Sweep Spray that gives you a wide spray of forceful water via its angled nozzles, making it brilliant for cleaning.
- Berry Soft is a lighter spray for gently washing vegetables and fruit.
- Aerated Stream is a great option for filling up pots and jugs
One of the things we like about this model is the handle placement, which doesn't interfere as much as a side-handle does. It offers the features you would expect from a Kohler faucet.
Kohler K-99260 Features:
- DockNetik – a magnetic docking system within the faucet body offers secure locking for the spray-head in place when not in use, which means the spray head won't droop. The pull-down function glides smoothly.
- ProMotion – this technology makes using the spray-head comfortable and easy, with its swivel ball joint and braided hose. This keeps the hose from getting tangled or kinking up.
- MasterClean - the faucets spray face guards against the buildup of mineral deposits and its surface is easy to clean.
Pros
Simple to install
Excellent water flow rate
3 function sprayer
Easy to clean
Cons
Expensive
Fairly heavy
Final Verdict
The Kohler K-99260 Artifacts offers durability and functionality. If you have limited space between the sink and back-splash, the forward facing handle on this model is a good choice. Its one of the more expensive kitchen faucet for hard water, but you do get the Kohler lifetime warranty.
7. Delta Essa Single-Handle Bar-Prep
The Delta Essa uses a contemporary take on euro designs and comes with many of the features you would expect from Delta. It has a diamond embedded valve that keeps the faucet running like new over long periods of time. The spout height is 14 inches and overall the faucet has a soft but elegant look. The pull-downs spray wand is flexible and easy to pull, with an extending and retracting hose that has no point of friction. It comes in 4 finishes; Arctic Stainless, Matte Black, Chrome, and Venetian Bronze.
Delta Essa features:
- MagnaTite technology means your spray head won't droop over time and it makes it easy to dock and undock smoothly.
- Diamond Seal technology has a tough diamond coating for the valve for long lasting durability.
- The InnoFlex PEX waterway makes sure water stays inside the faucet and out of contact with any mental contaminants.
- Touch-Clean soft, rubber nubbins are equipped with the nozzle for easy cleaning and the prevention of mineral buildup.
- You have both a spray and stream option.
- Comes with an optional escutcheon giving you the choice of a 1 or 3 hole installation.
Pros
Solidly built
Reliable touch technology
Easy to install
Light at base indicates water temperature
Cons
Not a full sized kitchen faucet
Water turns off with the slightest touch if you accidentally bump into it or if pot comes into contact with it
Final Verdict
This faucet is meant to be used for a bar or preparation sink, so it's not as large as your normal kitchen sink faucet. It boasts that it can last up to 5 million uses. A lot of buyers loved that it had a temperature light for the water at its base, which can come in handy. It's a mid-range priced quality kitchen faucet that offers the basic features of a pull-down faucet.
8. Kraus KPF-1602 Single Handle
The Kraus KPF-1602 faucet is constructed of lead-free brass and has a rust-resistant finish. It's a bit different from most faucets in that it has an open coil spout and is listed as a commercial styled faucet. The faucet comes in a choice of chrome or stainless steel finish. The spray face uses a Neoperl aerator, a Kerox ceramic cartridge, and a two-way diverter for drip-free flow control. One of the functions we like is its pre-rinse spray, which is quite powerful.
Kraus KPF-1602 features
- Commercial Design – the open-coiled spout and high arch gives a more modern industrial aesthetic.
- Flexible – the pull-down sprayer and comfort height spout makes this faucet very functional and flexible. The single lever handle gives easy flow and temperature control.
- Integrated Diverter – allows you to switch from a powerful pre-spray to spout instantly.
- Kerox Ceramic Cartridge – one of the best in the industry, these cartridges have been tested over 500,000 cycles and give drip free usage.
- Neoperl Aerator – reduces water waste without having to sacrifice on water pressure.
- Pre-Rinse Spray – this function allows you to divert your water flow from the main spout with the press of a lever on the sprayer.
- Open-Coil Spout – the spout can swivel 360 degrees allowing you to reach all areas of the sink.
- Easy Installation – with its single hole mounting, you can effortlessly integrate the faucet into your sink. All of the mounting hardware needed is included.
Pros
Easy installation
Ceramic cartridge
Pre-rinse spray function
Easy to clean and maintain
Heavy duty components
Cons
Some don't like the diverter function because they can't use the main faucet and sprayer at the same time.
Main valve is directly under the main spout making it hard to not get yourself wet when turning it on.
Final Verdict
This faucet has a very dramatic look to it and is pretty heavy duty. So, if you want something contemporary with an industrial aesthetic, this faucet is for you. It does seem that a ¼ turn screw has been removed as a feature to this model, where older versions had it. While it says it saves water with its aerated spout, many feel that it wastes more water and is harder to use based on its design. This may be more a problem of preference for the buyer, but something to take note of.
9. Delta 978 DST Leland Single Handle
The Delta Leland faucet has a more traditional look, giving it a timeless appeal. It comes with a soap dispenser and has two finishes to choose from; Brilliance Stainless and Chrome. It uses MagnaTite technology for easy docking and undocking and falls in the lower to mid-range pricing.
Delta Leland features:
- MagnaTite technology means your spray head won't droop over time and it makes it easy to dock and undock smoothly.
- Diamond Seal technology has a tough diamond coating for the valve for long lasting durability.
- Soap dispenser in matching finish.
- Duramount mounting system and one piece supply line eliminated leaks.
- Touch-Clean soft, rubber nubbins are equipped with the nozzle for easy cleaning and the prevention of mineral buildup.
- You have both a spray and stream option.
- High arc spout has a 360-degree swivel range with spray and stream modes
- Hose has a 20-inch reach capacity
- Can be installed for a 2 or 3 holed sink
Pros
Supply lines are included
Fairly easy to install
Easy to clean
Good quality for the price
Cons
Soap dispenser sits lower than expected, giving little clearance between the pump and your hand, and making it difficult to fill
Cold and hot lines could be more flexible to make installation easier.
Final Verdict
This faucet has the usual Delta quality and a traditional appeal to it. While the soap dish inclusion is a great idea and is still functional, it seems to have some issues being awkward to fill because it screws from underneath. If you can get past that issue, this seems to be a pretty good kitchen faucet for hard water with its features.
10. Delta Cassidy Single-Handle 4197
The Delta Cassidy has that old time appeal that is a great addition to rustically styled kitchens. The shape is designed after the silhouette of a woman and comes in a Venetian Bronze finish. It only has a 120-degree swivel range, however, which may be an issue for some. It uses Delta's Diamond Seal and MagnaTite technology, the Duramount mounting system, and Touch Clean sprayer.
Delta Cassidy features:
- MagnaTite technology means your spray head won't droop over time and it makes it easy to dock and undock smoothly.
- Diamond Seal technology has a tough diamond coating for the valve for long lasting durability.
- Duramount mounting system and one piece supply line eliminated leaks.
- Touch-Clean soft, rubber nubbins are equipped with the nozzle for easy cleaning and the prevention of mineral buildup.
- You have both a spray and stream option.
- Spout has a 120-degree swivel range with spray and stream modes
- Spray wand has a 20-inch reach capacity
- Can be installed for a 1 or 3 holed sink
- Lifetime Limited Warranty
Pros
ADA compliant
20 inch reach on hose
Reasonably priced
Unique design
Cons
Tough to install
120-degree swivel as opposed to 360-degree swivel on many other faucets
Many have found the hose to be troublesome when pulling with it lagging to push and pull in and out of the hole
Final Verdict
While the Delta Cassidy has a unique design and many of the features you would want in a pull-down faucet, there seem to be some issues with flexibility and smooth application. The sprayer part of the faucet is made of a chrome plated plastic material, which may not withstand the wear and tear as well. The hose isn't reinforced and can kink and pulling out and pushing the sprayer back is not very smooth, with no automatic retraction. While it's not a bad faucet, these are things that may put buyers off.
What Are The Advantages Of Using A Kitchen Faucet For Hard Water?
A kitchen faucet that is made specifically for hard water has special elements, such as a filter and a ceramic sealed surface that makes them pretty much invincible to the effects of hard water and the damage it can cause.
Staining, Residue, and Buildup
For a start, you will be eliminating the issues caused by hard water, such as stains and buildup. Minerals left behind can build up over time, leaving your sink and faucet stained with white, green, red, brown, and blue stains, as well as leaving a slimy or filmy residue. These stains can be extremely hard to remove, sometimes needing professional products to cut through and remover any scaly buildup. A buildup of residue can also lead to your faucet becoming blocked, which minimizes the amount of water that can come out of the faucet. Installing a kitchen faucet for hard water will eliminate these issues.
Hard Water Damage
It's not just your faucet that can become discolored or damaged. Hard water deposits can also damage any rubber washers used to seal your faucet against leaks, which can lead to even more damage. If you use water from your kitchen sink to fill appliances, such as your tea or coffee pot, these can become damaged with buildup and limescale deposits as well. This not only leads to leaking but can make your hot beverages taste awful. The same goes for crock pots, irons, steamers, and cooker that you fill from your kitchen faucet.
What to Look for in a Kitchen Faucet for Hard Water
We've shown you the top 10 kitchen faucets for hard water on the market. However, it's important to know what to look for when purchasing a new faucet. Here's our buying guide to help you.
Filter – this is the most important aspect to consider when buying your faucet. Your faucet should have a high-quality filter that is made to remove minerals from the water.: Faucets with single piece filters are best because filters that have several pieces can easily become damaged from mineral deposits over a period of time. They are also harder to clean than a single piece filter.
Faucet Design – something to keep in mind, like with filters, is that a faucet that has a more complicated design has more of a chance of accumulating mineral build up over a period of time. A simple, straightforward design is the best way to go.
Materials – it's important to know what your faucet is made of because some metals are more easily damaged than others. Polished chrome and brushed nickel are the most recommended materials for your faucet.
Sealing – a faucet that has a sealing coat tends to last longer and be more effective over time. Ceramic coating is usually the best option and these are designed specifically to withstand the damage caused by hard water.
Price - price is also an important factor when buying a faucet. Top of the line faucets will cost a lot more. However, there are a number of good quality faucets that will do the job and not break the bank. More expensive doesn't always mean better, so make sure you verify the quality of the faucet before you buy it.
We hope the research we have presented, along with the buying guidelines will help you choose the best kitchen faucet for hard water sinks in your home.