While we do the majority of rinsing and food prep in the sink, wouldn’t it be nice to have a dedicated faucet for filling pots so you don’t have to travel from your sink all the way to your stove? A kitchen pot filler near your range can save you a lot of hassle.
Typically found in high-end and modern homes, it’s no doubt that pot fillers are considered kitchen luxuries by many.
Pot fillers are used to fill in pots with water right at your stove. It’s a convenient feature that provides quick access to water and lends any kitchen a modern aesthetic appeal. A pot filler is a convenient addition to any kitchen and helps you save time in the kitchen.
But how is it different from your regular kitchen sink faucet?
In this article, we’ll talk you through everything you need to know about pot fillers and how they can elevate your cooking game.
What Is a Pot Filler?
Also referred to as a pasta arm or kettle faucet, a pot filler is a type of kitchen faucet designed to be used and installed over a burner or range. It differs from your typical kitchen sink faucet (often deck mount) not just in terms of location, but also in its design.
A pot filler faucet is often mounted on the wall behind your range. It features an extendable arm that you can conveniently pull out to fill pots on the stove. You can also fold it back towards the wall when not in use, so it’s still quite compact and doesn’t take up a lot of space.
Pot fillers are also available in a range of designs and finishes to complement any kitchen decor. As it becomes more of a commonplace in modern kitchens, many homeowners and remodelers opt to retrofit a pot filler faucet to an existing kitchen.
They also make an excellent statement piece. Pot fillers are one of those subtle elements in the space that makes a huge impact both on functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Benefits of Pot Fillers
Installing a pot filler faucet comes with a range of advantages, especially for busy households. If you have the wall space for one, you can enjoy the following benefits.
Practicality
A pot filler faucet is a handy water source designed to make cooking and preparing food easier. It gives you quick access to water so you boil water for your morning tea, make soup, or cook a large pot of pasta.
Having a water source right where you cook simply makes everything so simple. This is especially true whenever you need to add water to your recipes frequently.
Another thing that makes these fixtures so convenient is that, if you have a large pot that doesn’t fit a regular sink, you can just turn to your pot filler faucet and it will do the job. You can also use the kettle faucet to fill bottles, flower vases, fish tanks, and so much more.
Less Physical Strain
Filling large pots right where you cook saves you the hassle of having to transport the heavy pot from your sink to the stove. This eliminates the physical strain on your back, arms, hands, and wrists.
When you carry large, heavy, water-filled pots all the way to your range, there’s a risk of spills. You may even slip in the process, which can lead to a more serious issue. Pot fillers easily fill pots and simply minimizes those problems and save you time.
They Help With Multitasking in the Kitchen
It’s a savvy way to multitask. A handy kettle faucet at your stove allows more space in your kitchen sink to do other things like rinsing pots or washing the dishes. It also cuts down the amount of time you spend traveling from the sink to your stove carrying a heavy pot.
Plus, since most pot fillers have two handles or valves, you can use them both if you need to fill two pots simultaneously. In busy kitchens, time is gold. The more time you have, the more things you can accomplish and you’ll become more productive.
Less Messy
Again, adding a pot filler provides you with more sink space and makes your kitchen clutter-free. Plus, frees up counter space given that sometimes there is a line of pots waiting to be filled up in the sink.
They Elevate Your Kitchen
Pot fillers can instantly elevate a kitchen. These fixtures aren’t just functional but they also lend a decorative touch. And with a range of designs and finishes to choose from, you’ll find one that suits your kitchen’s style.
But for a more cohesive look, it’s always a good idea to opt for something that matches your kitchen sink faucet. If you have an open plan, it will be so beautiful and homey with a pot filler faucet in it.
They Add Value to Your Kitchen
More likely, they add value to your home. While pot filler faucets aren’t uncommon in many homes, they are often considered more of a luxury rather than a necessity. So, adding a pot filler above your range can increase your home’s resale value.
What Are the Downsides?
We already know that pot fillers are a useful addition to any kitchen. However, they come with a few potential downsides.
Cleaning Is a Mess
Pot fillers, just like any other fixture in your home, require frequent cleaning. However, because they are installed over your cooktop, they get greasy and can be difficult to clean. You can’t just put the cleaning aside, so you must clean and maintain it to keep grease and smoke.
The position of pot fillers makes it difficult to reach the full arm, but it’s doable. It’s always a good idea to clean them regularly to retain their beauty and shine.
Potential Leaks
Leaks happen to kitchen faucets all the time. But it’s different when it comes to pot filler faucets because they don’t come with drainage, so leaks or spills can be a problem. The leakage from the pot filler can pose potential damage to your stove and pipe.
And for traditional pot fillers with one valve, it can be a problem because there’ll be no spare valve to turn to if it starts leaking. Make sure to go for a kettle faucet with two valves to help mitigate the problem.
Expensive To Install
Pot fillers can be expensive to purchase. Pot filler installation may require a plumber, adding up to the overall cost. Depending on the kitchen design, your plumbing, and local labor rates, hiring a professional to install a pot filler may cost up to $3,000 or even more.
Is it worth the cost? Yes, if you have a busy household and you find yourself cooking food in large quantities. Or if you simply like the convenience of having a pot filler above your stove, then go for it. At the end of the day, it really boils down to your needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Point of a Pot Filler?
Pot fillers are fitted behind the range to make it easier to fill pots with water. These fixtures also fill pots faster than a standard sink faucet. They provide convenience and are easy to access, especially when cooking large meals.
A pot filler also saves time and energy since it eliminates the need to transport heavy pots of water from the sink to the stove.
Are Pot Fillers a Good Idea?
It depends on your needs and the type of kitchen you have. For busy kitchens, it’s generally a good idea to have your kettle faucet easily accessible right next to your range. They do, however, take up space on your wall and can be an eyesore if not installed correctly.
Where Is the Best Place To Put a Pot Filler?
It’s typical to install a pot filler directly above the stove or cooktop. But, you can also have it installed either to the left or right of the cooktop. It should also be at a height that is comfortable for you and within reach of all your burners.
Why Do Pot Fillers Have Two Handles?
Most pot fillers include two handles as well as two valves. These handles allow you to turn on and off the water either at the spout’s end or at the wall. With traditional pot fillers, however, you only have one handle but they lessen the space they take up from the wall.
What Is the Best Height for Pot Filler?
It depends on the height of your range and the size of your pots. Generally, you should keep a distance of about 18 to 36 inches between the pot filler and the stove. This height provides sufficient clearance for most pots and pans while also keeping your fixture at a comfortable height.
Wrap Up
A pot filler is a simple yet incredibly useful accessory for any kitchen. It makes cooking safer and more fun by eliminating the need to carry heavy pots back and forth between the stove and sink. That said, it’s not a necessity in every home, but it’s definitely something worth considering if you wish to upgrade your kitchen.
They are great for kitchen renovation. Plus, different pot filler styles and finishes allow you to choose a design that best suits your kitchen. But before you purchase one, make sure to consult a professional plumber to make sure that it’s installed properly.
If you have any questions about pot fillers, feel free to reach out and we’ll be happy to help. Good luck!
