Installing an outdoor kitchen faucet can take your outdoor cooking and entertainment to the next level. With an outdoor faucet, you’ll have easy access to water for food prep, cleanup, and more. But not all outdoor faucets are created equal. When choosing the best outdoor kitchen faucet, there are several key factors to consider.
We’ll cover critical considerations like durability, functionality, convenience, and aesthetic design. With the right information, you’ll be able to confidently choose the ideal outdoor faucet to suit your space and needs.
Durability Considerations
Since outdoor kitchen faucets are exposed to the elements, durability is a top concern. The materials, weather resistance, valve design, and finish all impact how well a faucet holds up over time.
Materials
Stainless steel is one of the most durable materials for outdoor faucets. It stands up to corrosion and keeps its shiny polished look for years. Solid brass is also an excellent choice, as it combines attractive finishes with great longevity.
While plastic and polymer faucets are typically more affordable, they tend to be less durable and prone to sun damage and wear. Focus your search on all-metal faucets for maximum sturdiness.
Weather Resistance
Since outdoor faucets endure all types of weather, it’s important to choose a model made to withstand the elements. Key features that boost weather resistance include:
- Freeze protection – prevents water from freezing in winter
- UV-resistant materials – prevent sun damage
- Water/rain-tight seals
- Wind-resistant design
High-end faucets are rigorously tested to perform through harsh weather conditions year after year.
Valve Design
The internal valve impacts water flow and leak prevention. Ceramic disc valves control the flow precisely and prevent annoying drips. However, compression valves tend to wear out quicker and may leak over time.
Finish
How the faucet is finished also affects its durability:
- Polished, brushed, and oil-rubbed finishes add flair while resisting corrosion.
- Powder coating provides maximum protection from rust.
- Varnish options like “wood” provide a unique look.
Functionality and Performance
You’ll want an outdoor faucet that provides optimal water flow and pressure for all your needs. Performance factors to evaluate include:
Water Flow
Look for a high gallons per minute (GPM) rating, ideally above 1.5 GPM. This ensures adequate water flow for washing dishes, cleaning, and filling pots.
Adjustable flow rate options allow you to control the water for different uses. A high-flow setting tackles tough cleaning, while a low flow gently rinses produce.
Water Pressure
Outdoor faucets should be designed for standard outdoor hose pressure levels around 60 PSI. Features like pressure balancing technology provide consistent flow even as pressures fluctuate.
Safety Features
For safe, clean water, outdoor kitchen faucets should have:
- Backflow prevention to stop contaminated water from siphoning back
- Anti-siphon technology for the same purpose
- A built-in vacuum breaker
Extra Features
Added functionality from bonus features includes:
- Pull-out sprayer for directed cleaning
- Soap/lotion dispenser
- Hot water outlet – requires hookup to water heater
- ADA compliant levers for accessibility
Convenience and Ease of Use
You’ll appreciate an outdoor faucet that’s highly convenient to install and operate. Seek out these useful features for everyday use:
Installation
Hassle-free installation options include:
- Push-to-connect – requires no tools or joining pipes
- Flexible supply lines that fit tight spaces
- Pre-attached hoses/sprayers
Operation
For ease of use look for:
- Single lever handle for temperature and flow control
- Full 360 degree rotation and articulation
- Comfortable, ergonomic handles
- High clearance under spout for sink access
Hose Integration
Integrated hoses, sprayers, and dispensers add major convenience:
- Retractable hose reels for quick access and storage
- Pull-down/pull-out spray head
- Handy soap/lotion dispenser
Auto Features
The latest automatic options include:
- Touchless infrared sensor activation
- Auto shut-off timer to prevent waste
Aesthetic Design Factors
While functionality comes first, you’ll also want an outdoor kitchen faucet that makes a stylish statement. Design considerations include:
Style Options
- Traditional, modern, industrial aesthetics
- Single hole, widespread, or wall mount
- Articulating for greater reach
- Commercial-style stainless steel
Finish and Color Choices
- Polished chrome, brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze
- Matte black or vibrant colored finishes
Accent Features
- Curved spouts, cross or lever handles
- Wood, stone, or metal handle accents
Brand Style Matching
Choose a look that coordinates with your other high-end appliances and fixtures.
Top Outdoor Kitchen Faucet Recommendations
Based on the criteria above, here are two top-rated outdoor kitchen faucet options:
STYDDI Frost Free Outdoor Faucet
This frost-proof faucet is made of durable, weather-resistant cast brass with a stainless steel interior. It provides 1.8 GPM flow and includes a backflow preventer for safety. The single-handle design swivels 360 degrees for convenience. It comes in polished chrome, matte black, and vintage bronze finishes to match any decor.
Delta Faucet Trinsic Pro
This highly functional faucet has a magnetic docking spray head, 20-inch hose reach, and touch clean spray holes. The TempSense technology turns water on gradually to prevent scalding. It comes in three finish options and is covered by Delta’s lifetime limited warranty.
Installing an outdoor kitchen faucet brings great convenience and functionality to your outdoor space. Pay attention to critical features like solid construction, high performance, safety, and ease of use. Consider your design preferences for style and finish as well. We hope this comprehensive guide helps you find your perfect outdoor kitchen faucet!
With water conservation in mind, look for low-flow faucets with the EPA’s WaterSense certification. Faucets with multiple spray patterns add versatility for tasks like cleaning and rinsing. High-tech options even have Bluetooth connectivity for controlling the faucet from your phone. And if DIY installation is important to you, some faucets are designed for easy self-installation.
By carefully considering all these factors, you can select the ideal outdoor kitchen faucet to tackle outdoor cooking with ease and efficiency. Investing in a durable, functional faucet designed for outdoor use will provide maximum convenience for years to come.
