Bathroom Faucets: A Guide to Choosing the Right One: Best Rated Bathroom Faucets 2015
The bathroom faucet is a crucial element of any bathroom, serving as the primary source for water access and contributing significantly to the overall aesthetics and functionality of the space. When selecting a bathroom faucet, numerous factors come into play, ranging from personal preferences to practical considerations.
The significance of choosing a high-quality bathroom faucet lies in its durability, performance, and aesthetics. A well-constructed faucet ensures a smooth and reliable water flow, resists corrosion and wear, and maintains its aesthetic appeal over time.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bathroom Faucet
The selection of a bathroom faucet involves several key considerations.
- Style: Bathroom faucets are available in a wide array of styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary. The style should complement the overall design of the bathroom and reflect personal preferences. For example, a modern bathroom might feature a sleek, minimalist faucet, while a traditional bathroom might benefit from a more ornate, vintage-inspired design.
- Finish: The finish of the faucet plays a vital role in its appearance and durability. Common finishes include chrome, nickel, brass, and oil-rubbed bronze. Chrome is known for its durability and resistance to scratches, while nickel offers a softer, more subtle finish. Brass and oil-rubbed bronze provide a warmer, more traditional look.
- Function: The functionality of the faucet is crucial. Consider the type of spout, the number of handles, and the presence of features like a pull-down sprayer or a temperature control system. A single-handle faucet offers ease of use, while a two-handle faucet allows for more precise temperature control. Pull-down sprayers are particularly useful for cleaning sinks and tubs.
- Installation: The installation process should be considered, especially if you plan on doing it yourself. Some faucets are easier to install than others. The type of sink and the existing plumbing system will also influence the installation process.
- Budget: Bathroom faucets are available in a wide range of price points. Set a budget before shopping to avoid overspending. Keep in mind that higher-quality faucets tend to be more expensive but offer greater durability and longevity.
Top-Rated Bathroom Faucets of 2015
The year 2015 saw a surge in innovative bathroom faucet designs, catering to diverse aesthetics and functionalities. From sleek contemporary styles to classic traditional designs, the market offered a wide array of options for homeowners seeking to upgrade their bathroom fixtures. This list highlights some of the top-rated bathroom faucets that stood out for their quality, performance, and style.
Top-Rated Bathroom Faucets
These faucets garnered significant praise from consumers and industry experts for their exceptional performance, durability, and stylish designs.
- Delta Trinsic Single-Handle Bathroom Faucet: This faucet boasts a modern, minimalist design with a single lever handle for effortless temperature and flow control. Its diamond-like coating provides a durable, scratch-resistant finish, while the
“Touch-Clean”
feature makes cleaning mineral deposits a breeze.
- Kohler Artifacts Single-Control Bathroom Faucet: Inspired by traditional designs, this faucet features a classic cross handle for a timeless aesthetic. Its ceramic disc valve ensures smooth and precise water control, while the
“Lifetime Limited Warranty”
provides peace of mind for years to come.
- Moen Brantford Single-Handle Bathroom Faucet: This faucet offers a contemporary design with a sleek, arched spout and a single lever handle. Its
“LifeShine”
finish provides a durable and scratch-resistant surface, while the
“Moen’s M-PACT common valve system”
allows for easy replacement of the faucet without having to replace the plumbing.
- Grohe Concetto Single-Handle Bathroom Faucet: This faucet exudes elegance with its minimalist design and a single lever handle. Its
“SilkMove”
cartridge technology ensures smooth and effortless water control, while the
“Grohe StarLight”
finish provides a durable and scratch-resistant surface.
Design and Aesthetics
The design and aesthetic of a bathroom faucet are crucial considerations, as they play a significant role in the overall look and feel of the bathroom. Trends in bathroom faucet design reflect evolving tastes and preferences, with various styles catering to different aesthetics.
Styles of Bathroom Faucets
The style of a bathroom faucet can significantly impact the bathroom’s overall aesthetic. Here are some popular styles:
- Modern: Characterized by clean lines, minimalist designs, and geometric shapes. Modern faucets often feature sleek, angular handles and a focus on functionality. They are often made from materials like chrome, brushed nickel, or stainless steel.
- Traditional: Emphasize classic designs with intricate details, ornate finishes, and a timeless appeal. Traditional faucets often feature cross handles, lever handles, or widespread designs. Materials like polished brass, oil-rubbed bronze, and nickel are commonly used.
- Contemporary: Blends elements of modern and traditional styles, creating a balance between sleekness and elegance. Contemporary faucets often feature a combination of straight lines and curves, with a focus on both functionality and aesthetics. Materials like brushed nickel, chrome, and matte black are popular choices.
Impact of Finishes
The finish of a bathroom faucet can significantly influence its overall appearance and aesthetic. Finishes like chrome, nickel, and brushed nickel each offer a distinct look and feel:
- Chrome: A classic and popular finish that offers a sleek, reflective surface. Chrome faucets are known for their durability and resistance to corrosion.
- Nickel: Provides a slightly warmer and softer look than chrome. Nickel faucets are available in various finishes, including polished nickel, satin nickel, and brushed nickel.
- Brushed Nickel: Creates a subtle, textured finish that adds a touch of sophistication. Brushed nickel faucets are known for their ability to hide fingerprints and water spots.
Functionality and Performance
Best rated bathroom faucets 2015 – Beyond aesthetics, the true value of a bathroom faucet lies in its functionality and performance. Top-rated faucets excel in these areas, offering a seamless blend of efficiency, durability, and user-friendliness. This section delves into the key performance aspects that set these faucets apart, providing insights into their water flow, temperature control, and overall longevity.
Water Flow and Temperature Control
A well-designed bathroom faucet delivers a consistent and comfortable water flow, ensuring a pleasant experience for daily use. The ideal flow rate should be balanced, providing sufficient water pressure without being overly forceful or wasteful. The temperature control mechanism should be responsive and precise, allowing for easy adjustment to the desired temperature.
Faucet Cartridge Types
The type of cartridge used in a faucet plays a significant role in its functionality and longevity. Two popular types are ceramic disc cartridges and ball cartridges, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
- Ceramic Disc Cartridges: These cartridges feature two ceramic discs with precisely machined grooves that control water flow. The discs rotate against each other to regulate water pressure and temperature. Ceramic disc cartridges are known for their durability, smooth operation, and resistance to leaks. They offer precise temperature control and are less prone to wear and tear compared to ball cartridges. However, they can be more expensive to replace if a problem arises.
- Ball Cartridges: Ball cartridges utilize a ball-shaped valve with a series of grooves that control water flow. They are typically less expensive than ceramic disc cartridges and offer a wide range of flow rates. However, ball cartridges are more prone to wear and tear, particularly in areas with hard water. They may also be less precise in temperature control and can develop leaks over time.
Durability and Longevity
A high-quality bathroom faucet should be built to last, resisting wear and tear from frequent use. The materials used in its construction, including the cartridge, spout, and handles, are crucial factors in its durability. Top-rated faucets often feature corrosion-resistant finishes, such as chrome or nickel, and durable internal components to ensure longevity.
“Investing in a top-rated bathroom faucet can save you money in the long run, as it is less likely to require repairs or replacement.”
Reliability and Performance
A reliable bathroom faucet performs consistently over time, delivering a smooth and dependable experience. It should not leak, drip, or experience sudden changes in water pressure. The design and construction of the faucet, including the cartridge, valve, and seals, play a significant role in its reliability.
Installation and Maintenance
Installing a bathroom faucet may seem daunting, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, it’s a DIY project within reach. Proper installation ensures the faucet functions correctly and lasts for years. Regular maintenance keeps it looking and performing its best.
Tools and Materials Needed for Installation
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials. This will ensure a smooth and efficient installation process.
- Adjustable Wrench: Used to tighten and loosen nuts and fittings.
- Channel-Lock Pliers: Provide a secure grip for various tasks, including holding pipes.
- Plumber’s Tape: Prevents leaks by creating a seal around threaded connections.
- Pipe Wrench: Used to tighten and loosen large pipe fittings.
- Screwdriver: Needed for securing mounting plates and other components.
- Level: Ensures the faucet is installed straight and level.
- New Faucet: The star of the show!
- New Supply Lines: Connect the faucet to the water supply.
- Optional: A basin wrench for hard-to-reach nuts and a tubing cutter for precise cuts on supply lines.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing a Bathroom Faucet, Best rated bathroom faucets 2015
Installing a bathroom faucet is a straightforward process, but it’s important to follow the steps carefully to ensure a successful and leak-free installation.
- Turn Off the Water Supply: Locate the water shut-off valve for your bathroom and turn it off. This prevents water from flooding the area during the installation process.
- Disconnect the Old Faucet: Use adjustable wrenches to loosen and remove the old faucet’s nuts and fittings. If the old faucet is difficult to remove, try using a basin wrench. Be careful not to damage the sink.
- Clean the Pipes: Remove any debris or mineral deposits from the water supply pipes. This ensures a clean connection for the new faucet.
- Install the New Supply Lines: Connect the new supply lines to the water supply pipes using plumber’s tape to create a secure seal. Make sure the supply lines are properly secured to the faucet.
- Install the Mounting Plate: Position the mounting plate on the sink and secure it with screws. Ensure the plate is level using a level.
- Attach the Faucet: Connect the faucet to the mounting plate and tighten the nuts using adjustable wrenches. Ensure the faucet is securely fastened and level.
- Turn On the Water Supply: Slowly turn on the water supply and check for leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the connections or re-apply plumber’s tape.
- Test the Faucet: Run water through the faucet to check for leaks and ensure the hot and cold water are working properly.
Maintaining and Cleaning Bathroom Faucets
Regular maintenance is crucial to extend the life of your bathroom faucet and keep it looking its best.
- Wipe Down Regularly: Clean the faucet with a soft cloth and mild soap to remove dirt and grime. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can scratch the finish.
- Remove Hard Water Deposits: Hard water deposits can build up over time, affecting the faucet’s functionality. Use a commercial hard water remover or a solution of vinegar and water to remove these deposits.
- Check for Leaks: Regularly inspect the faucet for leaks, especially around the base and the handle. Promptly address any leaks to prevent further damage and water waste.
- Lubricate Moving Parts: For faucets with moving parts, such as cartridge faucets, lubricate the moving parts with silicone grease to prevent friction and ensure smooth operation.
- Replace Worn-Out Parts: Over time, parts like o-rings and washers can wear out. Replace these parts as needed to maintain the faucet’s performance and prevent leaks.
Consumer Reviews and Feedback
Consumer reviews and feedback are crucial for potential buyers looking to invest in a high-quality bathroom faucet. They offer valuable insights into the real-world performance, durability, and overall satisfaction levels associated with different models. By analyzing these reviews, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the pros and cons of the top-rated bathroom faucets of 2015.
Common Pros and Cons
Consumer reviews often highlight the key advantages and disadvantages of bathroom faucets. These insights can help buyers make informed decisions based on their specific needs and preferences.
- Pros:
- Style and Design: Many reviewers praised the sleek and modern designs of the top-rated faucets, highlighting their ability to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of their bathrooms.
- Functionality: Features such as easy installation, smooth operation, and precise temperature control were consistently mentioned as major advantages.
- Durability: Reviews often emphasized the robust construction and high-quality materials used in these faucets, suggesting their long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.
- Value for Money: Many reviewers expressed satisfaction with the balance between price and quality, considering the top-rated faucets to be a good investment.
- Cons:
- Installation Complexity: Some reviews mentioned challenges encountered during installation, particularly for those with limited plumbing experience.
- Limited Water Pressure: In some cases, reviewers reported experiencing reduced water pressure with certain faucet models, especially in areas with low water pressure.
- Finish Durability: While many reviewers praised the finish of their faucets, some noted that certain finishes, such as chrome, could be prone to scratches or water spots over time.
Overall Customer Satisfaction
Customer satisfaction levels for the top-rated bathroom faucets of 2015 were generally high. Reviews indicated that a significant majority of buyers were pleased with their purchases, citing the faucets’ reliability, performance, and aesthetic appeal.
Price and Value
The price of bathroom faucets can vary widely, from under $50 to over $1,000. The price you pay will depend on several factors, including the brand, material, features, and style.
It is important to consider your budget and the value you are seeking when choosing a bathroom faucet. Some faucets may be more expensive, but they offer features that are worth the extra cost. Others may be more affordable, but they may not have the same durability or longevity.
Factors Influencing Price
The price of bathroom faucets is influenced by a variety of factors, including:
- Brand: Well-known brands typically charge a premium for their faucets, reflecting their reputation for quality and design.
- Material: Faucets made from high-quality materials, such as brass, stainless steel, or ceramic, tend to be more expensive than those made from plastic or cheaper metals.
- Features: Faucets with advanced features, such as touchless operation, multiple spray settings, or temperature control, will typically cost more.
- Style: Designer faucets with unique or intricate designs can be significantly more expensive than standard models.
Budget-Friendly Faucets
For those on a tight budget, there are several affordable options available. These faucets typically use less expensive materials and have fewer features, but they can still provide reliable performance. Some popular budget-friendly brands include Delta, Moen, and Pfister. These brands offer faucets for under $100 that are both stylish and functional.
High-End Faucets
For those who want the best of the best, there are several high-end faucet brands to consider. These brands use premium materials, innovative technologies, and elegant designs to create faucets that are both beautiful and durable. Some popular high-end brands include Kohler, Grohe, and Dornbracht. These brands offer faucets that can cost several hundred dollars or even thousands of dollars.
Value for Money
When choosing a bathroom faucet, it is important to consider the value for money. Some faucets may be more expensive, but they offer features that are worth the extra cost. For example, a faucet with a lifetime warranty may be more expensive upfront, but it could save you money in the long run by eliminating the need for repairs.
Ultimately, the best way to determine the value of a bathroom faucet is to consider your individual needs and budget.
Sustainability and Water Conservation
In an era of increasing environmental awareness, choosing bathroom fixtures that promote water conservation is crucial. Top-rated bathroom faucets, designed with sustainability in mind, offer a range of water-saving features that can significantly reduce your water consumption without compromising performance.
Water-Saving Features in Top-Rated Faucets
Water-saving features in top-rated faucets are not merely a trend but a necessity. These features ensure that you enjoy the convenience of modern bathroom fixtures while minimizing your environmental impact.
- Low-Flow Aerators: These devices, often found at the faucet’s spout, mix air with water, creating a fuller, more satisfying stream while reducing water flow. This reduces water consumption without compromising the user experience.
- Water-Efficient Cartridges: These cartridges control the flow of water through the faucet. Water-efficient cartridges are designed to use less water than traditional cartridges, significantly reducing overall water usage.
Tips for Responsible Bathroom Faucet Use
Beyond the design of the faucet itself, responsible use plays a significant role in water conservation.
- Turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth: This simple habit can save gallons of water each day.
- Use a basin to wash your hands: Instead of letting the water run continuously, fill a basin with water for washing your hands. This minimizes water waste, particularly during times of water scarcity.
- Fix leaks promptly: A leaky faucet can waste hundreds of gallons of water each year. Address any leaks promptly to prevent unnecessary water waste.