Pulldown vs. pullout faucets: Which one is best?

Pulldown and pullout faucets are popular options for kitchen sinks, thanks to their convenient design. Both types of faucets have a high-pressure sprayer built into the faucet that eliminates the need for a separate sprayer on the side of the sink and leaves space for a built-in soap dispenser or water filtration. However, there are key differences between these types of faucets, and understanding them can help homeowners choose the right style for their lifestyles.

The pulldown faucet is easy to notice. It has a tall stem that arches over the sink with a detachable head. The user can pull the faucet head down to direct the water flow into a pot, rinse dishes, or spray the sides of the sink. A pullout faucet has a lower profile that rests closer to the sink. You can leave the detachable head in place to use it as a traditional faucet, or pull the head out to use it as a sprayer.

Pros and cons of pullout faucets

Pullout faucets offer several advantages that make them a great choice for some kitchens. They typically have a longer hose that can stretch beyond the sink. This is convenient for filling pots or dishes resting on the countertop, especially if the faucet can hook to the pot. The lower profile reduces splashing and fits in tight spaces like underneath the cabinets. Many users feel like they have more control over where the water goes when they use this type of faucet.

However, this characteristic comes at a price. Using a pullout faucet to fill a tall pot can be a challenge unless it’s sitting in the sink, which means the heavy pot has to be lifted out of the sink. They can also be awkward to use. The pullout design requires gripping the faucet head in a way that might not feel natural and may be more difficult for children to use.

Pros and cons to pulldown faucets

The pulldown faucet’s tall stem makes it ideal for filling big pots and tall pitchers. It leaves plenty of room to slide items into the sink. This type of faucet also has a more ergonomically correct design, which makes it easier for some people to use. They can grab the faucet head, pull it down, and move it around the sink without readjusting the grip or stretching to reach the spray button.

Unfortunately, the tall spout is more likely to splash and decreases water pressure. In a kitchen with low water pressure, this type of faucet may be impossible to use without some renovations. Some people also report that over time, the pieces holding the head in place can break down. This leaves the head dangling in place when it’s not in use. The faucet still works, but it appears to be rather awkward.

Tips for choosing a faucet

When choosing a kitchen faucet, there are several factors to consider. Appearance—finding the right style and finish that coordinates with the rest of the kitchen—is important. However, the faucet also needs to work within the available space and meet the buyer’s expectations.

Sink depth and location

In a kitchen with a shallow sink, a pullout faucet is usually a better choice because they tend to splash less. These sinks don’t have as much surface area, so the water has nowhere to go but on the counter around the sink and behind the faucet. This may not be a deal-breaker, but it’s something to keep in mind for those who don’t want to spend time soaking up the water that pools around the edges of the sink.

Water pressure

A pulldown sink may not work well in a kitchen that already has low water pressure. This is because the arch design requires more pressure to push the water through the entire length of the faucet. Without adequate pressure, it may be more difficult to rinse dishes and can take longer to fill pots and pitchers.

Space

Pullout faucets often work better in small spaces. The low-profile design does not take up as much room compared to pulldown faucets. This can be helpful if the sink is located under a cabinet or in a corner that does not leave enough space to accommodate the taller faucet. It may still be possible to install a pulldown faucet in a tight space, but it’s important to measure carefully.

Spray type

Pulldown and pullout faucets come with a variety of pressure and spray options. Some have a single button that activates the spray, while others may have multiple buttons for different spraying modes. They may narrow the stream of water for more precise spraying or open up the flow when it’s time to fill a pot. Some faucets also switch between different spray patterns, including a single stream, a soft spray, or a wide spray pattern for gentle rinsing.

Kitchen style

Both pulldown and pullout faucets come in a variety of styles that work well in many different decors. The Concord single-handle pullout faucet features the sleek, straight lines typical of modern design, while the rounded edges of the Eden single-handle pullout faucet fits right in with a more traditional style. Keep in mind, though, that pulldown faucets tend to be more dramatic and can easily be a focal point in the kitchen.

Hose length

The big selling point of pulldown and pullout faucets is the detachable head. It should stretch far enough to reach the places the homeowner wants. Pullout faucets usually have longer hoses than pulldown faucets, but hose length does vary between brands. Check out the length to make sure it meets expectations.

If you’re ready for an upgrade and want to replace your faucet, check out the selection of pulldown and pullout kitchen faucets available at Kingston Brass. From bright and shiny chrome and brass to muted oil rubbed bronze and matte black, there’s a faucet to fit every décor and lifestyle.