Leaky, Low Pressure Kitchen Faucets? Brands You’ll Want to Avoid
If your kitchen faucet is causing constant headaches with leaks, low water pressure, or other problems, it may be time to replace it. But not all faucet brands are created equal when it comes to durability and performance over the long haul.
Kitchen Faucet Brands With Frequent Leaks
Nothing is more annoying than a faucet that drips and leaks nonstop. But some big name kitchen faucet brands seem especially prone to developing leaks surprisingly early on.
Excel
Excel branded kitchen faucets are very affordable, but the lower quality components don’t hold up well over time.
Many Excel kitchen faucet owners report leaks developing within the first couple years of use. Problem areas include worn out washers and O-rings that allow water to drip from the spout or handle joints.
The sprayheads are another leak-prone weak point, with the connection splitting to cause an annoying drip during use.
American Standard
While American Standard is popular for its bathroom fixtures, its kitchen faucet offerings tend to disappoint homeowners.
Owners cite leaks forming around the faucet connections to the sink or supply lines. The ceramic disc cartridges inside the faucets also break down earlier than better constructed models.
Other Leak-Prone Brands
While not always a guarantee, pricier brands like Kohler, Grohe, and even Delta also see higher than average complaints about unexpected leaks requiring faucet replacement or repairs.
Kitchen Faucet Brands With Low Water Pressure
Weak water flow can make washing dishes or filling pots a slow trickle. Some faucet brands seem more prone to inadequate pressure issues.
Kraus
Kraus kitchen faucets are stylishly designed, but can disappoint in real world performance. Flow rates are often quite limiting, leaving owners frustrated with less than satisfying water pressure.
Despite wide spouts, Kraus models can labor to produce enough flow to wash dishes efficiently or conveniently fill large pots.
Premier
As a budget-priced faucet brand, Premier uses lighter weight plastics and cost-saving components that compromise performance.
To meet regulations, these faucets include restrictive aerators and flow limiters that prevent strong pressure needed for kitchen tasks.
Other Low Pressure Brands
Moen and Kohler also receive some criticism regarding kitchen faucet models that fail to achieve desirable water pressure and flow rates.
Factors Contributing to Kitchen Faucet Failure
What causes some kitchen faucet brands to break down and underperform prematurely? Here are a few of the common factors.
Inferior Materials
Cheaper kitchen faucets utilize lower grade metals, plastics, and rubber components that corrode and wear out faster than quality materials.
Plastic cam and cradle assemblies and weaker zinc alloys simply can’t withstand years of regular kitchen use.
Poor Manufacturing
Careless manufacturing leads to leaks at connection points. Faucet parts are not properly sealed, aligned or fitted together during assembly.
This results in internal leaks and split hoses or fittings that drip water during use.
Limited Warranties
Problematic kitchen faucet brands often only provide 1-3 years of warranty coverage. This leaves owners footing the bill for replacements or repairs after a short time.
Tips for Picking Reliable Faucet Brands
While no faucet lasts forever, you can maximize durability and performance by choosing quality brands and models.
Prioritize Durability
Look for solid brass or stainless steel internal components. Plastic parts wear out faster. All-metal faucets hold up better.
Seek Long Warranties
Aim for at least 5 years of coverage for manufacturer defects. This protects you if issues arise down the road.
Read Reviews on Specific Models
Brand reputation varies. Focus on feedback for the actual faucet model you’re considering.
Commercial kitchen faucets built for restaurants can provide heavy-duty durability in a busy home kitchen.
By avoiding inferior quality kitchen faucet brands prone to early breakdowns, you can install a faucet that will provide lasting performance you can rely on.