Just a Touch: Faucets Without the Fuss

It's amazing how technology has changed the plumbing world. One item that is continuing to gain popularity, particularly in kitchens, is the touch faucet. These faucets or fittings have sensors located along the spout and handle of the faucet. With a quick tap from a finger, forearm or hand, the flow of water is activated. Although these faucets can also operate in manual modes, the touch mode is great for messy hands or full arms.

Cost: Most touch faucets start at around $350, with prices reaching $600 or more. The price can depend on where you shop, and a faucet always comes with a complete installation kit (including battery pack). Today, it's easy to find touch faucets at major retailers — both online and in stores. If you hunt, you can find these kitchen fixtures for as low as $280 online.


Addison Single Handle Lavatory Faucet with Touch2O.xt™ Technology : Bath Produ - $348.00 » Delta's Touch2O is available for kitchen and bathroom faucets. The faucet features a proximity sensor to automatically come on when you get close. The flow can also be activated by touch or manually using the handle. This no-brainer faucet makes it simple for your little ones to remember to conserve water while brushing their teeth.


Brizo Charlotte Electronic Faucet with Proximity - $699.00 » Brizo also has a branded touch faucet technology, called Smart Touch Technology, that is available for kitchen and bathroom faucets.

This bathroom faucet also has a proximity sensor for completely hands-free activation.


Pilar Pull-Down Single Handle Widespread Kitchen Faucet with Touch Technology - $363.88 » Some manufacturers and retailers include a soap dispenser — such as on this faucet — although it can cost more.

Advantages

While this technology is mainly touted for its ease of use (especially with messy or full hands) and ability to keep your kitchen clean (and avoid cross-contamination) there are other benefits. For example, these faucets are an excellent option for people with dexterity or mobility issues.


Brizo Venuto SmartTouch Faucet - $567.00 » Most of these faucets are considered ecofriendly, since they can help conserve water during food preparation, use less water and have automatic shut-offs. Many of these faucets can contribute points toward Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) project certification.

The base of this faucet has a ring with an integrated LED light that indicates the battery charge. When the light is blue and constant, the batteries are fully charged. When it starts to flash red, it's time to change the batteries. You'll also know if the batteries need changing if the touch on/off becomes sporadic.


Cassidy Single Handle Pull-Down Bar/Prep Touch Faucet - $570.00 » Most of today's touch kitchen faucets come with a pull-down spout and spray feature. They come in a wide variety of designer finishes and styles, which can suit most kitchen styles. Note that some finishes will cost significantly more than others.

As of now, touch faucets only come in single-lever configurations, which can be used to operate the faucet manually, too.


Delta Faucet Battery Holder » Disadvantages

Touch kitchen faucets do require batteries to operate successfully. These battery packs need to be changed out over time, so you'll always need to have some on hand if you want to use the touch-activated feature.

Some of these faucets are more sensitive than others. Some can be activated with a light brush, which can be frustrating.

Also, there's no way to adjust for temperature or water flow through the touch technology — this has to be done manually. Since the faucet handle controls the water's on and off switch as well as flow and temperature, adjusting to hot and cold without turning off the water completely can take some time to get used to.

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Next: 8 Kitchen Amenities You'll Really Wish You Had

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