Kohler manufactures a huge variety of kitchen faucets, and they come in different sizes and finishes. Which one would suit your sink best? Which one would complement the design and style of your kitchen? There is a lot to consider before buying one, but we’re here to guide you through it all, and will help you pick the right unit from the best Kohler kitchen faucets.
We have reviewed 36 products and identified several kitchen faucets that are worth spending money on. On this list, KOHLER K-77515-VS Tournant, which is also our Editor’s Choice, is head and shoulders above the rest. Every aspect of this faucet is well-thought-out and practical. From the durable brass construction and contemporary design and finish, to the thread-function spray head, Tournant is a valuable addition to any kitchen. Read about this choice faucet and others in our Product Review segment.
For this review, we looked at features like the design of each faucet, factoring in things like the handle and spout placement, the type of faucet, materials, spout height, flow rate, valve type, and ease of installation. We then compared how each of these features influenced the performance of the faucet. In the Buying Guide, we’ll go further and discuss why these features are important and the role they play in giving the faucet its usability. We’ve divided the review into easy-to-scan sections that include a comparison table, detailed reviews of each product, and a buying guide.
More features: 1-3-hole installation, 3-function spray head, supply line included, DockNetic magnetic docking system, ceramic disc valves, corrosion resistant finish
KOHLER K-77515-VS Tournant features high-performance ceramic discs that are built to last, and comes in 4 tarnish and corrosion resistant finishes that will stand the test of time. It has a 3-function spray head that releases water in a steady stream that is best for filling up pitchers and pans, a Sweep spray flow that is powerful and wide-angled, best for cleaning dishes and sinks, and a light spray flow christened BerrySoft that is suitable for washing produce. Kohler uses a magnetic system, the DockNetic, to lock the spray head into place.
The high-arc, pull-down spout provides greater clearance, leading to fast and efficient water flow. Kohler uses a boost technology to increase the flow rate. Simply press the Boost button the button and watch as the flow rate increases by up to 30%. There is a temperature memory feature returns the faucet to the temperature level it was at when you last used it.
This is an easy-to-clean, easy-to-maintain faucet. The coil is removable and dishwasher friendly, and the hose is coated and residue-resistant. Once you remove the coil, you can easily wipe down the hose. Both components make cleaning the faucet swift and enjoyable.
It comes complete with flexible supply lines for easy connection to the water line, and supports 1 and 3-hole installation, which you can do with a deck plate. Although not included in the faucet package, you can buy this separately from KOHLER.
More features: temperature memory, removable coil, MasterClean™ sprayface, DockNetik® magnetic docking, ceramic disc valves, corrosion resistant finish, ADA-compliant
The Kohler K-24982-VS Purist kitchen faucet is big and perfect for larger kitchens. It’s solidly constructed from metal and comes in 4 color and finish options. It is deck mounted and installs via a single hole. It does not come with a deck plate, so you need to buy this separately.
The faucet uses a pull-down mechanism. Although it won’t go all the way down to the bottom of the sink, it has a wide reach and is forceful enough for water to reach all corners of your sink, no matter its size. The handle rotates 90 degrees forward to keep the water from landing on the backsplash. Before pulling down the handle, ensure that it is held securely at the base. Listen for the click to be sure it’s well secured. Otherwise, you risk getting water sprayed or spraying areas beyond the sink with water if you release the water on full power before securing the handle.
It has a magnetic docking mechanism that holds the spray head in place, allowing water to fall directly into the sink and not splash around. The spray head itself has 3 water release modes: aerated spray, boost spray, and a powerful Sweep spray.
The black hose is coated for easy cleaning, and the coil covering it is removable and dishwasher-safe. The spray head has a MasterClean spray face that is specially designed to repel mineral buildup, further boosting the faucet’s ease of cleaning.
More features: DockNetik® magnetic docking, 1-3-hole installation, ceramic disc valves, brushed chrome finish, ADA compliant, ProMotion® hose, two-function spray head, MasterClean™ sprayface
KOHLER K-10433-G Forte is made from chrome and comes in a range of finishes. It installs via 1- or 3-holes and comes complete with a deck plate and supply lines to connect to the waterline. The hose and spray head come pre-installed, making installation of the unit a lot simpler for you.
A high spout offers more clearance, and the wide spout reach ensures that water flows directly to the container, no matter how big or small it is. The pull-out spout has a reach of 101/8 inches, which ensures that water covers every corner of your sink with ease.
It has a 2-function spray head that releases water in stream and spray mode. The stream mode supports a steady water flow, the kind you use when filling pans or washing hands. The spray mode releases water in a more powerful spraying force that is ideal for cleaning. The spray head is joined to a braided-nylon hose that pulls out and retracts smoothly, thanks to the ball-joint swivel design of the spray head.
The Forte is easy to operate and uses a single, ADA-compliant lever. Flip the lever to turn on the water, and then move the lever left or right to find the desired temperature. Leave the lever at that sweet spot and then turn on the faucet. It has a high-temperature control mechanism that keeps the water temperature at a safe level, safeguarding against scalds.
More features: 3-function spray head, DockNetik® magnetic docking, removable coil, Sweep® spray, MasterClean™ sprayface, ADA compliant, 1-3-hole installation
KOHLER K-29106-VS Bellera is an elegantly designed faucet made out of strong metal for durability, and features a sleek Vibrant stainless finish, with options for polished chrome and oil-rubbed bronze finishes. It installs via 1 or 3 holes, and comes with an escutcheon plate. The installation process is smooth and easy. If you’re an avid DIY-er or professional plumber, you’ll have it ready and fixed in 30 minutes, probably less.
It has a 3-function spray head that you can adjust for a stream spray with a 1.5 gpm flow rate, a Sweep spray that has a more forceful flow ideal for cleaning, and a Boost mode that increases the flow rate by 30%. Simply press the button located on the spray head once to activate the Boost mode. The flow will automatically reset itself when you turn off the faucet so that the next time you turn on the faucet, the flow will be normal. Then you can press the Boost button to increase flow.
The pull-down spout has a reach of about 10 inches and rotates 360 degrees, providing total reach all around the sink area. There is quite a bit of splattering, though, so you’ll be doing lots of wiping after using it.
A braided hose and swiveling ball joint ensure smooth motion as the spray head pulls out and retracts into the spout. To hold the spray head in place, Kohler uses their patented magnetic docking system, DockNetik.
More features: ADA compliant, single-hole installation, ProMotion® technology’s light, DockNetik®, a magnetic docking system, polished chrome finish, touchless operation, two-function spray head, Sweep® spray, ceramic disc valves
The ultra-modern KOHLER K-72218-CP Sensate is designed in a chic, transitional style that will bring elegance to any kitchen. It’s made from solid metal and comes in a chrome finish and polished chrome color.
Sensate uses sensors and touchless technology with a response time of 20 milliseconds, which is streamlined to enable automatic shut-off. Kohler has designed this unit extremely well, even including a precision activation window to prevent false activation. This window covers 6 inches and begins right at the spout underside and extends towards the faucet base.
It also has an LED light at the base that notifies you when the faucet is ready for use. You can also use the faucet in manual mode, but this option is more taxing compared to rival touch faucets.
A 2-function spray head allows you to switch from stream to Sweep spray and vice versa. The spray head is held into place within the pull-down spout by Kohler’s magnetic DockNetik system. Kohler’s ProMotion technology, comprising of a lightweight braided nylon hose and swiveling ball joint, facilitates the smooth movement of the spray head as it pulls out of the spout and back.
The entire faucet is easy to clean; simply wipe with a wet cloth and that’s it. The spray head has a MasterClean sprayface that prevents mineral buildup, making it maintenance-free.
From the above, you can tell just how diverse the faucet range from Kohler is. From the design and materials to the technology and mechanism, Kohler avails different kinds of faucets to meet varying requirements and style preferences. Whether you want a no touch faucet or the more traditional touch faucet, they’re all available. In this next section, we’ll discuss how to choose a kitchen faucet, focusing on what features to consider.
Kohler is one of the biggest home improvement brands and they have a long history of manufacturing quality products. They’ve been in business since 1873, and have perfected the science of designing and manufacturing top-rated products. So confident are they in their faucets that they issue a limited lifetime warranty.
Kohler manufactures faucets that complement different types of kitchen sinks. For every sink size and design, you can be sure there is a Kohler faucet that will complement it perfectly. This includes even larger sinks that are the exception and not very common. The Kohler K-24982-VS Purist and KOHLER K-29106-VS Bellera are good choices for such kitchen sinks.
Kohler kitchen faucets offer multiple water flow options that will enhance your experience at the kitchen sink.
Kohler faucets come in a range of materials, including stainless steel, chrome, brass, enameled cast iron, and composite material. You get to own a faucet that’s made from your preferred material.
Kohler kitchen faucets also come in a range of finishes, so it’s easy to find a finish that matches your kitchen.
You’ll need: a basin wrench, faucet and sink installer.
Wear protective eyewear. And maybe gloves. Clear the cabinet beneath the sink of all products and tools. Turn off the power on any outlets that may be located beneath the sink. If the area is not well lit, use a flashlight to improve visibility.
Turn off the water.
Open the faucets to relieve any pressure that may be trapped in the water lines.
Disconnect the supply lines that join the faucet to the hot and cold water valves.
A valve that drips when the handle is turned off shows that the valve is faulty. Turn off the water supply to the entire house and replace the valve.
Remove the old supply line faucet connections. Remove any separate connections to the spout and side sprayer. If there’s a diverter, use the basin wrench to remove the nut connecting the diverter to the spray hose. Remove the mounting hardware. If the nuts are rusty, apply a penetrating oil and let it sit a while to loosen them. Clean the area using a gentle cleaner.
From here, follow the manufacturer’s instructions step by step to install the new faucet. The instruments are different for each faucet.
Faucets can be expensive, depending on how well made they are and the materials used to make them. The Kohler range has both low-priced faucets and more expensive ones. Low-cost units cost around $190-$200, while the more expensive ones can go for as high as $600.
Let’s now look at the specific features you should be looking at when evaluating a Kohler faucet for purchase.
Faucets can be single handle, double handle, centerset, or widespread.
A single handle center set has the handle connected directly to the spout. Mount it directly to the countertop if doing a 1-hole installation. If you have 3 holes, use an escutcheon plate to cover the 2 outer holes.
A double handle center set will have two cold and hot water handles, one on each end, and these are connected to the base that holds the spout at the center.
In centerset faucets, the handles and spout come as one unit.
In widespread faucets, the handles and sprouts are three separate units.
In touchless models, the faucet turns on automatically when you place an object (your hands or any kitchen utensil) under the spout and turns off when you remove the object. It relies on sensors for this. Some have a manual option that you can use to turn on the faucet the traditional way. KOHLER K-72218-CP Sensate is an example of a no touch faucet that also has a manual option.
Pull-down faucets have a high-arcing design that gives them a stylish, contemporary look. But this also means they take up a lot of space, and are therefore best used in bigger sinks. To compensate for the space problem, most of them have swivel action, with models like KOHLER K-29106-VS Bellera rotating 360 degrees.
Pull-out faucets do not need much clearance. Because they have a shorter spout, they are well-centered in the middle of the sink, effectively reach the furthest parts of the sink, and are easy to pull around. They are also cheaper than pull-down faucets.
Kohler faucets are made from solid metal, with the most common options being stainless steel, chrome, brass, and cast iron. The valves are made from hardy ceramic. As such, they are durable and last for decades.
Kohler kitchen faucets have a flow rate of 1.5-2.2 gpm. This is in line with the Code of Federal Regulations, which limits flow rate for faucets to 2.2. gpm at 60 psi. Manufacturers use aerators to restrict the flow rate of the water coming down the faucet, and this helps keep water flow within the allowed maximum flow rate.
Valves are the seals that control water flow and temperature. Kohler uses ceramic valves, which are currently the newest inventions in faucet technology. Situated at the bottom of the mixing chamber, the valves go up and down to control the amount of water flowing through the faucet. To adjust the water temperature, the handle rotates side by side.
Kohler builds all its faucets in an easy-to-use design. The faucets are of a reasonable height, with a good number of them meeting ADA height requirements. The handles turn with ease, and you don’t struggle pulling out the spray head or pushing it back in. All the controls are simple and don’t need a lot of manipulation to work.
Kohler is among the few brands that issue lifetime guarantees on its products. For its kitchen faucet line, Kohler gives a limited lifetime warranty, effectively guaranteeing a drip and leak free service for as long as you, the original purchaser, stay in your home. If the cartridges become faulty, Kohler will issue a replacement at no extra cost.
Kohler kitchen faucets are easy to install. They come with all the parts that you need for the installation and detailed installations that guide you through the process from start to finish. It’s something you can do by yourself if you’re handy around the house, but it’s perfectly okay to hire a plumber to install the faucet for you.
Your kitchen faucet should have a protective finish to keep the faucet free from corrosion. Stainless, oil-rubbed, and polished finishes are all popular kitchen faucet finishes.
It’s a bonus to have a faucet that’s certified by a recognized standards body. This tells you that the product meets all quality, safety, or usability standards. Most Kohler faucets are ADA approved for meeting universal accessibility specifications.
Kohler kitchen faucets are made at the Kohler Faucets Operations plants in Arkansas and Wisconsin, US. However, the company has a subsidiary faucet plant in Jhagadia, India, where some components are manufactured, and an additional plant for parts and components in China.
For chrome, Vibrant, and PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) finishes, use a damp sponge and suitable cleanser to clean the surface of the faucet. Buff dry using a clean, soft cloth.
For oil-rubbed bronze faucets, spray the faucet with Windex Original Glass Cleaner and wipe dry using a soft cloth. Use only cleansers that are ammonia, lead, and acid free. Also, rinse the faucet thoroughly and use a soft cloth to dry after each use to reduce water deposits.
Yes. Kohler has a range of shorter kitchen faucets with a great work radius that would be suitable for a non-professional height. Their ADA compliant range is a good place to look, and you’ll have numerous faucets to choose from.
Our best contender and top choice, KOHLER K-77515-VS Tournant, has a lot going for it. From the sturdy brass construction to the 1-3-hole installation, high-arc spout with wider clearance, tri-action spray head, temperature memory, and tarnish-free finish, there is a lot to like about this faucet.
Kohler K-24982-VS Purist, our second-best faucet from Kohler, earns its place among the finest kitchen faucets because of its wide reach and forceful flow rate. We like the 1-3-hole installation, 3-mode spray head, adjustable handle, and easy-to-clean design. Its big size and classic, traditional design are other major draws.
Our third pick among the best Kohler kitchen faucets, KOHLER K-10433-G Forte, is a chrome unit with a brushed chrome finish. What stood out for us was how easy to install and easy to use it is. Top features include the 1 and 3-hole installation, 2-function spray head, and high-temperature control, and we like that it is ADA compliant.
