You’ve heard, of course, of the proverbial kid in the candy store. So many choices, an unlimited appetite and, theoretically at least, a rare opportunity to partake without boundaries.
Maybe candy isn’t your thing, but haven’t you ever wanted to have that kind of opportunity for something extra special to you? Sure you have, but we’re also willing to bet that “faucets” isn’t it.
In fact, most of the customers we serve actually wish there weren’t as many choices or, at the very least, that it were a whole lot easier to buy one, especially when you consider that you can spend anywhere from under a hundred dollars to well over a thousand dollars on a new kitchen or bathroom faucet.
Well, there’s not much we can do to help you appease your own sense of aesthetic quality since there are an unbelievable assortment of colors, styles, and finishes. But we can help you discern good quality from just okay quality, and that alone should at least help prevent some buyer’s remorse.
Tips for Buying a New Faucet
- Faucets made from cast molding generally are more durable than those pressed from a machine.
- Internal valves are the leading contributor to durability, but the one thing you can’t see in a showroom. Some faucets even include anti-scald valves for added safety. In general, you want a faucet with a metal vs. plastic valve, so be sure to ask before finalizing your purchase. Metal simply outlasts and outperforms plastic.
- Most faucets are made of brass with nickel plating, but you have numerous other choice, including chrome, brushed chrome, polished brass, pewter, stainless steel, gold plating, or powder-coated enamel. Powder coating can be produced in various colors. In general, solid brass faucets last the longest, but also typically cost the most.
- Count the holes in your sink before you replace your faucet so you can be sure to buy the right kind. Or, if you want a different type of faucet but don’t want to change out your sink, you can also purchase a base plate to cover the existing holes.
- How important is ease of use to you? If that’s high on your list, then a single-handle faucet is clearly your best bet, and even easier if you purchase one with a motion sensor for instant on and off.
One more tip to the wise: ask about the warranty. The better the faucet, the more likely it is to come with an anti-leak or drip lifetime warranty.
And, of course, for expert installation and help in choosing exactly the right faucet for any given application, be sure to contact LBA Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing now or any time at all.
