Guide to Different Types of Kitchen Faucets

By Benner Plumbing Staff | March 16, 2026

The kitchen faucet is the most used fixture in your home. From the first cup of coffee in the morning to the final cleanup after dinner, it’s a tool that needs to be as durable as it is stylish. If you are planning a kitchen refresh or your old tap has finally started to leak, you might be overwhelmed by the sheer variety of different types of kitchen faucets available today.

At Benner Plumbing, we know that choosing a faucet isn’t just about the finish; it’s about how the spout height, handle configuration, and spray functionality fit your daily routine. This guide breaks down the most popular styles to help you find the perfect match for your sink.

Mounting Styles: Where Does It Sit?

Before looking at the “bells and whistles,” you need to know where your faucet will be mounted. This is usually determined by your sink or countertop.

1. Deck-Mounted Faucets

This is the most common style in Calgary homes. The faucet is mounted directly to the countertop or the “deck” of the sink.

  • Best For: Modern kitchens and standard undermount or drop-in sinks.

  • Pro Tip: Make sure the number of holes in your sink matches the faucet (or use a deck plate to cover extra holes).

2. Wall-Mounted Faucets

These are attached to the wall above the sink, leaving the countertop completely clear.

  • Best For: Farmhouse-style sinks or creating a minimalist, “industrial” look.

  • Plumbing Note: These require the water supply lines to be moved into the wall, which is a more complex rough-in process.

Functionality: Pull-Down vs. Pull-Out

When comparing different types of kitchen faucets, the “sprayer” is usually the biggest decision point.

3. Pull-Down Faucets

Elegant GROHE gooseneck kitchen faucet installed on wooden counter

These feature a high-arched “gooseneck” spout where the spray head pulls directly down into the sink.

  • The Benefit: The high arc provides excellent clearance for filling deep pots or cleaning large baking sheets. It is the gold standard for modern kitchen design.

4. Pull-Out Faucets

On these models, the spray head pulls out toward you in a straight line rather than downward.

  • The Benefit: Because the spout is shorter, it’s a great space-saver for kitchens with low-hanging cabinets. The long hose makes it easy to rinse the far corners of a double-basin sink.

Control Options: Handle Configurations

5. Single-Handle Faucets

One lever controls both temperature and flow.

  • Why it’s popular: It’s incredibly easy to use with one hand (or even an elbow if your hands are covered in flour). They also require only one hole in the countertop, creating a cleaner look.

6. Double-Handle Faucets

Rubinet dual-handle gooseneck kitchen faucet in chrome.

Separate handles for hot and cold water.

  • Why it’s popular: It offers a classic, symmetrical look that fits perfectly in traditional or Victorian-style kitchens. They allow for very precise temperature adjustments.

7. Touchless & Motion-Sensor Faucets

Technology has finally reached the kitchen sink. These faucets activate with a simple wave of the hand or a tap on the spout.

  • Why it’s popular: It is the ultimate hygienic choice. You can turn on the water without spreading germs or raw food juices onto your hardware.

Specialty Faucets: The “Pro-Chef” Upgrades

If you spend a lot of time cooking, you might consider these specialized different types of kitchen faucets:

  • Pot Fillers: A long-reach, folding faucet installed over the stove. It allows you to fill heavy pasta pots directly on the burner.

  • Bar/Prep Faucets: Smaller versions of standard faucets meant for secondary sinks or wet bars.

  • Bridge Faucets: A two-handle design where the hot and cold lines are joined by a visible “bridge” pipe above the counter.

The Calgary Factor: Finishes and Hard Water

In Calgary, our hard water can leave “limescale” and water spots on your new faucet. When choosing between different types of kitchen faucets, consider the finish:

  • Brushed Nickel & Matte Black: These are excellent at hiding fingerprints and water spots.

  • Chrome: Highly durable and affordable, but requires more frequent wiping to keep that mirror-like shine.

  • Spot-Resistant Finishes: Many modern brands now offer “Shield” technologies that repel water and oil, keeping your faucet looking new for longer.

Why Professional Installation Matters

Different types of kitchen faucets might seem like a simple “screw-on” job, but they are one of the most common sources of slow, hidden leaks. A professional plumber ensures that:

  1. Water Lines are Secure: Preventing high-pressure “blowouts.”

  2. Seals are Watertight: Protecting your expensive vanity cabinet or kitchen island from rot.

  3. Flow is Optimized: Ensuring your aerator is set correctly for your home’s water pressure.

At Benner Plumbing, we carry a wide selection of top-tier brands and handle the installation from start to finish.

Upgrade Your Kitchen Sink Today

Ready to trade your old, leaky tap for a modern masterpiece? Whether you want a high-arc pull-down or a classic double-handle design, the experts at Benner Plumbing & Heating LTD. can help you choose and install it with precision.

Browse our Kitchen Fixture Products or contact us today to book an installation!

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