Kitchen Faucets: Spouts, Sprayers and Aerators

Counting holes: single-hole, centerset or widespread

The sink decides the faucet. Count the holes in the sink or countertop: one hole takes a single-handle faucet, three holes in a kitchen sink are usually spaced eight inches from outer hole to outer hole, and a widespread faucet has separate parts that fit holes spaced up to about sixteen inches apart. A double-handle model listed at eight inches fits that spacing, while a centerset on a four-inch base is more common on bathroom sinks. An escutcheon or deck plate can cover extra holes. Measure the center-to-center distance between the outer holes before choosing.

Arc height, spray style and aerator thread

High-arc spouts clear tall pots and make filling a stockpot easy; low-arc spouts suit shallow sinks or a window sill behind the faucet. Listed spout heights run from about three to eight and a half inches. A pull-down wand needs room under the sink for the hose weight, while a separate side spray works with a classic two-handle faucet. Aerators screw into the spout tip and come in several thread sizes; a dual-thread aerator is made to fit more than one, so check which thread your spout uses.

Questions about Kitchen Faucets: Spouts, Sprayers and Aerators

How do I measure for a new kitchen faucet?

Count the sink holes, then measure the distance between the outer holes if there are three. Also check how far the spout must reach to the sink center and how much height the window or cabinet leaves above.

What is an aerator and can I replace it?

It is the small screen at the spout tip that mixes air into the water and filters grit. It unscrews by hand or with a key, and you can replace it if you match the thread; a dual-thread aerator fits more than one thread.

Pull-down or side spray, which suits me?

Pull-down sprayers combine the wand and spout, so there is one fewer hole to fill and they rinse large pots easily. A side spray is a separate head and is easier to replace if it wears out.