Single-Handle vs. Two-Handle Faucets

What is the difference between a single handle and a two-handle faucet?

Though they perform the same task, there are differences between a single handle and a two-handle faucet.

Single Handle

A single-handle faucet contains one lever that handles both temperature and water pressure. The user moves it up and down to change how much water comes out of the tap. Left and right movements adjust the temperature from completely cold to hot.

The single-handled style was created in the late 1930s by Alfred Moen. He believed a single version was an appropriate model after he scalded his hands with a two-knob version.

Two Handle

Two-handle faucets were the standard for decades in kitchens and bathrooms. They feature knobs, levers, or cross handles on each side of the faucet. Normally, they’re connected below the sink.

Some newer models feature the faucet and two handles as one piece that’s set on top of the sink. Others feature two separate faucets that deliver cold and hot water separately.

Which Faucet Type is Right for your Sink?

Overall, single-handled faucet styles have a modern and streamlined appearance. Since there’s less hardware to consider, they fit well in smaller bathroom and kitchen sink spaces. Furthermore, it allows you to operate the faucet with one hand while the other is being used for washing up or preparing food.

The two-handled faucet style is a classic design that remains popular. One reason is better temperature control. Users can finesse the hot and cold handles to achieve a temperature that fits their needs.

On top of this, there’s a symmetry to a two-handled faucet. No matter how far apart the hardware is from each other, there’s an evenness that’s appreciated. Furthermore, if the hot or cold handle runs into a problem, then the water can be turned off, but the faucet is still operational with the remaining handle.

The main disadvantage to this faucet style is it doesn’t fit modern sink designs originally built for a single-hole design.

Two-Handle Faucets

Two-handled faucets come in a variety of sizes and styles. Finishes come in oil-rubbed & brushed brass, and nickel. Polished chrome is also available.

Two-handle Bathroom Faucets

4″ Centerset: Perfect for smaller bathrooms, the 4″ centerset is a small fixture where the faucet and handles are close to each other. The hot and cold controls are either levers or cross handles.

Widespread Faucets: This is the two-handled design seen in most kitchens and bathrooms. The three holes for the faucet and levers/cross handles are evenly placed on the sink.

Single-Hole Faucet With Two Handles: This model fits into a single hole in the sink. However, instead of a lever, it features two handles at its base. While smaller than other two-handle models, they still perform the same purpose.

Two-handle kitchen faucets

Bridge Faucet: A bridge faucet has a pair of hot and cold handles joined by a horizontal connector pipe. Instead of the hardware being under the sink, the pipe is exposed above the countertop. As a result, it forms a bridge between the hot and cold lines.

Wallmount Kitchen Faucet: This form of faucet isn’t installed on the sink’s surface. Rather, it’s wall-mounted right above the vessel. In turn, it frees up additional space.

Pot Filler: A pot filler has a unique design. One handle is situated at the base of the faucet. The second control is based above it. This allows for the uninterrupted flow of water into a pot.

Single Handle Faucets

This is a one-handle style where the control is based on the top, side, or bottom of the faucet. The colors and finishes are the same as the two-handle models.

Single handle bathroom faucets

Single-Hole Faucet: This is designed for both convenience and size. The water control is based at the top or side of the faucet and it controls both temperature and volume with the same handle.

Single handle kitchen faucets

Pull Down Faucet: This model has a large, curved faucet spout which houses a Spray head that pulls down for added functionality. The control level is based on its side to allow for easier access and operation.

Pull Out Faucet: Similar in design to the pull-down model, a pull-out design resembles a standard fixture with a single lever on top. However, the faucet comes out of its base and is extendable for deeper cleaning.

Shop Faucets at Kingston Brass

Choosing the right faucet for a kitchen or bathroom sink is sometimes overwhelming. The specialists at Kingston Kitchen and Bath are here to help. Reach out to them when you require assistance for a simple upgrade or total remodel.