Bathroom Faucets With Swivel Spouts Explained
Bathroom faucets are an essential fixture that should offer both form and function. Many homeowners desire the convenience and flexibility provided by faucets with swiveling spouts. Keep reading to learn all about the benefits, features, top brands, and installation tips for bathroom faucets with swivel spouts.
Swiveling faucets can greatly improve the functionality of any bathroom. Unlike fixed spouts, the adjustable swivel allows you to pivot and direct water flow exactly where needed. This added maneuverability makes it easier to fill vessels in the sink or tub, clean hard-to-reach spots, and complete other tasks.
Benefits of Swiveling Faucets in Bathrooms
There are several advantages that make swiveling bathroom faucets an appealing choice over standard fixed models:
Improved Functionality and Convenience
The main benefit of a swiveling faucet is the enhanced functionality and convenience it provides. The spout can swivel a full 360 degrees, offering great range of motion. This allows you to pivot the water flow exactly where you need it. Filling awkwardly shaped vessels or reaching all areas of a large sink basin is no problem.
Swivel spouts also make it easier to use the faucet for cleaning or rinsing within the sink or tub. You can direct the water to scrub corners, wash pets, or anything else without awkward maneuvering. The convenience factor is a major reason homeowners choose swiveling faucet models.
Flexibility for Various Bathroom Tasks
In addition to improved functionality, the flexibility of a swiveling faucet is useful for many common bathroom tasks. Washing your face or hands, brushing teeth, rinsing contact lenses, and similar routines are more convenient when you can adjust the water flow.
Likewise, bathing kids or pets is simpler when you can swivel the faucet to wet hard-to-reach spots. The same flexibility applies to utilizing the sink for minor cleaning jobs where water control is needed. Swiveling spouts provide options that fixed spouts cannot.
Space Saving Design
Swiveling bathroom faucets allow you to access more of the sink basin while taking up less space. Since the spout extends over the sink, these faucets can be installed closer to the backsplash or wall. This leaves more room in the sink area compared to widespread fixed faucets.
The compact footprint of a swivel faucet maximizes your functional workspace within the sink basin. For smaller bathrooms, this space-saving advantage is often a deciding factor.
Modern, Sleek Style
In addition to functionality, swiveling faucets provide an updated, contemporary style perfect for modern bathrooms. The streamlined silhouette and articulating spout have a sleek, almost futuristic aesthetic.
Many models come in crisp, reflective finishes like polished chrome or brushed steel. This allows swiveling faucets to stand out as a striking focal point in your sink area.
Durability and Reliability
Reputable brands ensure their swiveling faucet mechanisms are built to last. Ceramic disk cartridges control water flow smoothly for years of drip-free performance. The interior swivel joint stands up to frequent rotation without breaking down.
Metal construction and protective finishes resist corrosion, tarnish, and mineral build up. This durability ensures your swiveling faucet will provide reliable service for the lifespan of your bathroom.
Key Features of Swiveling Bathroom Faucets
There are a few key features that allow a bathroom faucet to swivel freely. Understanding these specifications helps ensure you choose the right model:
Adjustable Swivel Spout
The spout of a swiveling faucet uses interior mechanisms that allow smooth rotation. Ball joints, gaskets, and washers provide full range of motion while preventing leaks. Quality swivel faucets rotate effortlessly without sticking.
Wide Range of Motion
Look for a faucet that swivels a full 360 degrees. Maximum swivel range gives you complete control over water flow. The spout should rotate smoothly in either direction.
Smooth Swivel Mechanism
High-performing swiveling faucets use ceramic disc cartridges for drip-free control. Interior parts should be corrosion resistant and able to handle frequent swiveling without breaking down over time.
Single-Hole or Widespread Design
Swiveling faucets come in single-hole and widespread configurations. Single-hole mounts directly to sink. Widespread has separate handles and spout. Pick the mounting style that fits your existing sink holes.
ADA Compliant Heights
For accessibility, many swiveling faucets comply with ADA standards for spout height and clearances. This allows use by those with disabilities or limited mobility.
What to Consider When Buying a Swiveling Bathroom Faucet
Keep the following factors in mind when shopping for the ideal swiveling bathroom faucet:
Spout Height and Reach
Consider the sink depth and your needs. Higher spouts provide more clearance, while low spouts work well in vessels. The spout reach impacts your range of motion - pick a size that maximizes your sink space.
Degree of Swivel
Look for 360-degree swivel ability. However, some faucets may limit motion in certain directions. Make sure the arc of motion suits your sink configuration.
Materials and Finishes
Swiveling faucets come in various metal finishes like polished chrome, brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, and more. Materials range from solid brass to stainless steel. Pick a durable finish that matches your decor.
Water Efficiency
Many swivel spout faucets have low-flow aerators to conserve water. EPA WaterSense-certified models exceed efficiency standards without sacrificing performance.
Deck Mount or Wall Mount
Deck mount faucets install directly through sink holes. Wall mount versions attach to wall behind sink. Choose the mounting style that best fits your plumbing and installation needs.
Top Swiveling Bathroom Faucet Brands and Models
Quality swiveling bathroom faucets can be found across many top faucet brands. Here are some recommended options to consider:
Moen
Moen offers the popular Align One-Handle faucet with Reflex system for easy movement and secure docking. Spot resist stainless finish resists fingerprints. Meets ADA requirements.
Delta Faucet
The In2ition model by Delta has a sleek dual-function pull-down sprayer. MagnaTite docking and Diamond seal technology for leak-free durability. ADA compliant.
American Standard
American Standard's queerly beloved Colony Soft faucet has a smooth-swiveling spout and durable metal lever handles. ADA height approved.
Installing and Maintaining a Swiveling Bathroom Faucet
Installing a swiveling faucet takes some DIY skills. Ongoing maintenance keeps things operating smoothly. Here are some tips:
Installation Tips
Most swiveling faucets are single-hole models. Follow the manufacturer instructions for installing the faucet, sprayer, supply lines, and drain components. Use plumbers putty or caulk to prevent leaks.
For widespread faucets, place the spout and handles in sink holes spaced 8 inches apart. Connect with supply lines hidden under sink rim.