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You may be wondering what hard water is in the first place. Our water comes from private or public water systems that clean and add chemicals and calcium to clean water. That is why you’ll need the best kitchen faucet for hard water to ensure your faucet is made of sturdy materials to withstand this.

Hard water is full of dissolved metals, magnesium, calcium, and chlorine, which can damage your faucet pipes if it’s not strong enough. You’ll need a quality kitchen faucet that can handle hard water to avoid corrosion or rusting and a filtration system or water ionizer to purify it. 

Luckily, I’ve listed my picks for the best kitchen faucet for hard water to guide you through your new faucet!

My Top Pick

My personal choice is the Delta Foundry 19744Z-SPSD-DST! I love the 3 spray options and a spray shield to prevent splattering. It’s simple to install and use, ADA-compliant, and constructed with Zinc for a resistant hard water finish.

You can check it out here (button)

You can also find out more with my list of top-notch kitchen faucets for hard water to also consider:

What is the best kitchen faucet for hard water?

1. Delta Foundry 19744Z-SPSD-DST: Best overall pick
2. Delta 9178T-SP-DST Best alternative pick with one-touch technology.
3. Kohler Artifacts K-99259-BL: Best for buyers looking for a high-end commercial kitchen faucet for hard water.
4. Moen Adler Spot Resist 87233SRS: Best spot-resis tant kitchen faucet.
5. Kraus KPF-1610-FF-10SFS: Best budget choice for the best kitchen faucet for hard water.

1. Delta Foundry 19744Z-SD-DST

Delta’s Foundry model is so simple but impressive. It’s constructed with Zinc for extra durability and finished with the quality material of your choice. My favorite thing about Foundry is that it offers a less messy but effective clean-up with its Shield Spray and 3 cleaning functions. 

Delta faucets are well-made with state-of-the-art technology, such as TouchClean, QuickSnap installation, and Diamond Seal, ensuring sturdiness and quality.

Best for: Buyers looking for the best kitchen faucet against hard water with multiple spray options.

Inclusions: 

• Optional deck plate (Escutcheon)
• Handles
• Dish Soap Dispenser
• Valve
• Cartridge

Key Features:

• Dimensions: 10.75 in (L) x 11.5 in (W) x 19.5 in (H) 
• Deck-mounted faucet
• Pull-down faucet with 3 spray functions
• Euromotion diamond valve
• Pre-rinse design
• Constructed with Zinc
• Spout swivel 
• Single lever handle
• Ceramic disc cartridge.
• Maximum flow rate: 1.8 gallons per minute
• Certifications: ADA compliant
• Made in the U.S.A
• Lifetime warranty for non-electronic parts
• 5-year warranty for electronic parts

Pricing

The Delta Foundry 19744Z-SPSD-DST base price is $264.00 which is currently on sale. Costs vary per steel finish. Here’s a breakdown of its price depending on what finishing material to choose:

• Chrome – $392.50
• Spotshield Stainless Steel – $264.00
• Matte Black – $485.65
• Champagne Bronze – $312.85

Likes/Dislikes about the Delta Foundry 19744Z-SPSD-DST

Likes 

• Effectiveness– Cleans thoroughly with its 3 spray functions and Shield spray to prevent making a mess while cleaning.
• Efficiency – Its simple design makes it straightforward to install and use. The faucet hand is also easy to hold and works smoothly, controlling the flow and temperature.
• DiamondSeal Technology – Uses Diamond-coated technology for the ceramic cartridge.
• Magnetic docking system– The faucet uses a magnet to retain the spout part connected to it.
• 360° spout– Provides better cleaning access for all areas of your sink and can be moved to the side when needed.
• Great inclusions – Comes with a ceramic disc cartridge and soap dispenser.
• Manual – Provides easy-to-understand and straightforward instructions for a less hassle installation.
• Certified – Delta is Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant, providing Persons With Disabilities (PWD) accessible products and services.

Dislikes: 

• Design is not for everyone – The exposed interior design may feel too “industrial” or not as appealing to everyone.
• Shield Spray improvements – It would be great if the Shield Spray sphere could be a bit wider.

Overall User Experience

I admire that the Delta Foundry is such a tip-top shape faucet to keep your water safe and pipes sturdy. It’s simple, efficient, and effective. The durable materials ensure it can last longer, making washing dishes and other kitchen sink activities more comfortable. 

2. Delta 9178T-SP-DST

Delta’s Leland model is a high-end faucet that uses one-touch technology to switch your faucet on and off. Much like the Delta Foundry, it also uses ShieldSpray technology and multiple spray functions for better and neater cleaning in the kitchen. Its Diamond-coated seal valve is twice as durable as the industry standard, assuring an extra sturdy faucet against hard water.

Best for: Buyers looking for the best alternative kitchen faucet for hard water with one-touch technology.

Inclusions: 

• Escutcheon
• Handles
• Installation hardware
• Valve

Key Features:

• Dimensions: 11.47 in (L) x 10.44 in (W) x 14.84 in (H)
• Deck-mounted and Pull-down faucet
• Dual-function sprayer and ShieldSpray technology
• Spout Swivels 360°
• Automatic water shut-off after 4 minutes if left running.
• AA battery-powered (6 AA batteries) = 2 years battery life.
• TempSense technology and L.E.D. indicated water temperature change
• Diamond seal valve cartridge that lasts twice the industry standard.
• Dual integral double-check valves in sprayers
• Certifications: ADA-compliant, Califonia Low-Flow compliant
• Made in the U.S.A
• Lifetime warranty for non-electronic parts
• 5-year warranty for electronic parts

Pricing

The Delta Leland 9178T-SP-DSTT starts at $403.96. Prices also differ depending on their color/finish. Here’s a breakdown of its price depending on what finishing material you’ll choose:

• Chrome – $403.96
• Arctic Stainless – $424.14
• Spotshield Stainless – $424.14
• Venetian Bronze – $464.51

Likes/Dislikes about the Delta Leland 9178T-SP-DSTT

Likes 

• Sturdy – Made from high-quality materials to last for years, it won’t wobble when you rotate it.
• Efficient – Has ShieldSpray technology and 2 spray functions: aerated and spray.
• Customization – Has 5 types of finishes to fit your kitchen interior or preferred steel finish.
• Easy to install – Installation takes only 15 minutes with a professional plumber.
• DiamondSeal Technology – Uses Diamond-coated technology for the ceramic cartridge valve, made to last twice the industry standard for extra durability.
• Magnetized spray head– The faucet also uses a magnet to hold the sprayer in place.
• 360° spout – Allows better cleaning access for your sink.
• Appealing – Looks simple but elegant for a clean and minimal finish for your kitchen setup.
• Manual – Provides easy-to-understand and straightforward instructions for a less hassle installation.
• Certified – The Delta Leland is accessible for person-with-disabilities. It also complies with the low flow restrictions of California that faucets should not use more than a maximum flow of 1.2 gallons per minute.

Dislikes: 

• Battery Holder – The battery holder is a little big for AA batteries; C batteries fit better.
• Pricey – You’ll need a big budget to accommodate the costs since Delta Leland is a high-end model.

Overall User Experience

What I love about Delta Leland is the quality is highly durable for your kitchen. Its materials make it last longer than other models while providing an attractive kitchen setting. It uses One-touch technology that lets you tap to switch your faucet on and off, making it quick and hassle-free, especially when your hands are dirty.

3. Kohler Artifacts K-99259-BL

Kohler Artifacts is a high-end quality commercial collection made with sturdy materials to prevent corrosion caused by hard water. You can use three different spray functions and features to efficiently for better cleaning, all while adding appeal to your kitchen setting. 

Best for: Buyers looking for the best high-end commercial kitchen faucet for hard water.

Inclusions: 

• Handles
• Valve

Key Features:

• Dimensions: 11.44 in (L) x 6.13 in (W) 17.63 in (H)
• Deck-mounted faucet
• 3-function pull-down hose spray head
• Kohler ceramic disc valves
• ProMotion technology
• MasterClean Sprayface
• DockNetik system sprayhead lock
• High-arc 360° rotating swiveling spout
• Temperature memory
• 1.5 gallons per minute maximum flow rate at 60 psi
• Certifications: ADA-compliant
• 5-year warranty for electronic parts, valves, controls

Pricing

The Kohler K-99259-BL prices start at $1,173.00. Prices also differ depending on their color/finish. Here’s a breakdown of its price depending on each finishing material:

• Polished Chrome – $1,173.00
• Vibrant Stainless – $1,466.00
• Matte Black – $1,583.00
• Vibrant Polished Nickel – $1,584.00
• Vibrant Brushed Modern Brass – $1,701.00
• Vibrant Brushed Bronze – $1,700.00
• Oil Rubbed Bronze (2BZ) – 1,701.00
• Vibrant French Gold – $1,700.00
• Vibrant Titanium – $1,876.00

Likes/Dislikes about the Kohler K-99259-BL

Likes 

• Easy to use – Simple and easy to use, despite its high-tech features.
• Versatile– Has 3 distinct spray functions: BerrySpray, Aerated Spray, and Sweet Spray. The BerrySpray works very conveniently for washing fruits and vegetables.
• Durable – Has a corrosion-resist finish. Made from high-quality materials to last longer, strengthening its sturdiness.
• Simple Installation – Installation is a straightforward process, making a quick setup for your chicken.
• DockNetik System – effectively locks spray head in place when not used. But the spray head can also hang without being tugged back into place because of its fair weight but pulls back up when needed.
• Spray pull-down effectiveness – Can reach across the entire sink.
• Certified – The Kohler K-99259-BL is ADA Compliant, making it accessible for persons with disabilities.

Dislikes: 

• Colors not as accurate as pictures – The Vibrant Nickel finish does not match the image that shows a traditional nickel color. It has a more amber hue or brown undertone. Kohler Artifacts’ Vibrant Stainless is lighter and brushed compared to its dark and charcoal texture in pictures.
• Pricey – You’ll need a big budget to accommodate the costs since Delta Leland is a high-end model.
• Installation misconception – Do not remove the little white plastic piece at the spray head that serves as the clip to secure the hose in place.
• Not fingerprint proof – The Kohler Artifacts K-99259-BL is not spot-proof like other high faucets. 
• Plastic pull-down handle – For a high-end product, it’s given to expect a full-metal handle than using plastic material.
• Lacks inclusions – Has only a few inclusions upon purchasing despite its high price.

Overall User Experience

The best thing about the Kohler Artifacts K-99259-BL is its attractive build and corrosion-resisting finish. Kohler Artifacts is a commercial finish that calls for a bigger budget due to its high-end costs. But I like that it has better customization with 9 metal finishes for your kitchen setup and preferred finishing! In a nutshell, its style and sturdiness are what stand out for kitchen faucets.

4. Moen Adler Spot Resist 87233SRS

The Moen Adler Spot Resist is one of the best kitchen faucets to keep itself clean and flawless by being resistant to fingerprints and water spots when using the faucet. It uses a 360° swivet spout and pull-down spray with 2 functions. But my favorite part is the PowerClean technology that adds force to water streams but causes less splash for a neater cleaning session in your sink. It speaks for itself when it comes to spotting resistance.

Best for: Buyers looking for the best high-end commercial kitchen faucet for hard water.

Inclusions: 

• Handles
• Valve

Key Features:

• Dimensions: 11.44 in (L) x 6.13 in (W) 14.56 in (H)
• Deck-mounted faucet
• Pull-down hose with 2 spray functions
• Single faucet hole mounting type
• PowerClean technology
• Material: Zinc with stainless steel finish
• 360° rotating swivel spout
• 1.5 gallons per minute maximum flow rate at 60 psi
• Made in the U.S.A
• Certifications: ADA-compliant
• Lifetime warranty for defects and leakage in products for original buyers only.

Pricing

The Moen Adler Spot 87233SRS prices start at only $243.79 for the chrome finish and $296.81 for the Spot Resist Stainless finish. Prices differ depending on their color/finish.

Likes/Dislikes about the Moen Adler Spot 87233SRS

Likes 

• Efficient – Simple and easy to use in your kitchen.
• 360° swivel spout – Allows better access to cleaning your entire sink.
• Spot-resistant – Uses metal construction for spot resistance against fingerprints and water spots.
• Impressive warranty – Offers a lifetime warranty for leakage and defects.
• Manual – Gives clear and straightforward directions with pictures to guide you.
• PowerClean Technology – The faucet spray head releases more force in water streams but less splash.
• The nozzle works well – Spray helps reach across the sink.
• Certified – The Moen Adler Spot 87233SRS is ADA Compliant, making it accessible for persons with disabilities.

Dislikes: 

• Leakage – Several cases of leaks from the connector clip to the water supply and handle.
• Hot water issues – Has trouble producing hot water at times.
• Short spout reach – The spout reach is not as long to reach the entire sink easily despite its 360° swivel spout. 

Overall User Experience

Moen Adler is made of Zinc with a stainless steel finish to provide better durability against corrosion while preventing water spots and fingerprints from staining your faucet. The Moen Adler is minimalistic yet appealing, built to fit almost any kitchen setup. Its simplicity makes a neater and more pleasant kitchen setting for cleaning.

5. Kraus Bolden KPF-1610SFS

Kraus Bolden is one of the best budget kitchen faucets to help resist hard water. What I like about it is its lead-free and spot-free finish for healthier and cleaner kitchen settings. It has accreditation of NSF international testing and ADA compliance that proves its dedication to cleanliness, accessibility, and durability.

Best for: Buyers looking for the best budget kitchen faucet for hard water.

Inclusions: 

• Handles
• Installation hardware
• Valve

Key Features:

• Dimensions: 10.75 in (L) x 4.5 in (W) 18 in (H)
• Solid brass construction
• 2-function pull-down spray head w/ Reach technology
• lead-free filter faucet
• Spot-free finish
• Single faucet hole installation
• Dispenser type: cold water only
• Maximum flow rate: 1.8 gallons per minute
• Made in China
• Certifications: ADA-compliant, NSF/ANSI 61 compliant, and meets NSF/ANSI/CAN 372 requirements.
• Lifetime warranty for defects in the material or build for the original buyer only.

Pricing

The Kraus Bolden KPF-1610SFS costs start at $169.95 only. Prices differ depending on their color/finish. Here’s a breakdown of the different finishes to customize your Kohler faucet:

• Stainless Steel – $169.95
• Matte Black/Black Stainless – $169.95
• Stainless Steel/Chrome – $189.95

Likes/Dislikes about the Kraus Bolden KPF-1610SFS

Likes 

• Easy Installation – Quick and easy instructions n your kitchen.
• Cost-effective – The most budget-friendly quality kitchen faucet that provides spot-resistant finishes compared to other brands. 
• Customization – Provides a wide range of metal finishes and colors for your kitchen setup.
• Spotless finish – Uses spot-free materials for no water spots or fingerprints on your faucet.
• Efficiency – Has a spray and stream option button. 
• Certifications – ADA-compliant, NSF/ANSI 61, and NSF/ANSI CAN 372. Kohler has passed strict American lead-free plumbing requirements and the Drinking Water System Components – Health Effects by the NSR-IRS.
• Lead-Free – Free of harmful lead materials that can contaminate your water.

Dislikes: 

• Need to pay for better inclusions– You’ll need to pay for an upgrade or separate to include a soap dispenser and escutcheon.
• Weak AA Battery inclusion – The included AA batteries are not as strong or do not last long.
• Auto-shut off sensor – Spray automatically turns off after 3 minutes which can be inconvenient when cleaning your sink or washing the dishes.
• Handle design flaw – It would be great if the faucet handle that controls the flow would be longer so it would be easier to hold.
• Lack of customer support – Customer support has cases of being unresponsive to buyer concerns.
• Matte Black finish – Scratches off over time.
• Lacks a temperature sensor – Cannot tell if the faucet will make hot or cold water other than “left or right”. You’ll have to check it manually.
• Design – The complicated design may look too industrial for some buyers.

Overall User Experience

Kraus Bolden offers high-end cleaning with convenient 2-spray functions and a pull-down sprayer for better cleaning across your sink. It’s easy to use and install and offers loads of customization with spot-free finishes to prevent water spots and fingerprints across the faucet. For a quality kitchen faucet to withstand hard water, its price is more than reasonable with its lead-free features.

Advantages of Using a Kitchen Faucet for Hard Water

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Quality kitchen faucets for hard water have double sturdiness and specific metal finishes to help lessen maintenance and protect your sink. Let’s do a rundown of the advantages of upgrading to a kitchen faucet for hard water:

Improved water quality

You also have the choice of installing filters in hard water kitchen faucets to improve the odor and taste. It can also remove impurities and mineral buildup that damage your sink and affect the water flow from the faucet over time.

Preventing Stain, Residue, and Buildup

Hard water kitchen faucets can help lessen mineral buildup by using better metal finishes like Brass and Stainless Steel, making it easier to clean and can provide a spot-resistant finish free of water spots, fingerprints, and other residues in sinks and faucets. It makes less hassle for maintenance over time.

Better water flow

Mineral buildup can cause uneven or slow water flow. Hard water kitchen faucet designs help provide a consistent and smooth water flow despite high mineral content to prevent splashing all over the sink.

Protecting your sink’s surface

Hard water can be full of metal particles that can damage your sink, but kitchen faucets built for hard water can help withstand and prevent these metals from entering and being released into your sink.

What to look for buying a kitchen faucet for hard water:

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Finding a quality kitchen faucet means heavy work in knowing the criteria for a good one. That’s why it’s important to inspect certain qualities in a kitchen faucet model to ensure you’re buying one that can handle hard water for years.

Less time spent on maintenance

Good kitchen faucets for hard water help prevent maintenance by lessening fingerprints, splattering, water spots, and residue. Hard water stains are difficult to remove; choose metal finishes and faucets resistant to their chemicals.

Faucet design and finish

Check if the kitchen faucet model uses Brass and Stainless steel finishes that can resist corrosion or rust build-up, especially if you live in humid areas vulnerable to corrosion. 

Know the handles

There are different types of handles you should check before buying the kitchen faucet. Here are the different handle types to know: 

• Single handle – A single handle type faucet is extra convenient, but it would be harder to control water temperature. Luckily, newer kitchen faucets have temperature sensor lights to help navigate you with your water temperature.
• Two handles – Two handle-faucets are the most traditional style type of handles for temperature. You can have better control over water temperature, but it can be a hassle having 2 handles.
• Hands-free – touch-free or one-touch sensor faucets help save kitchen sink space and lessen the mess. It’s convenient for children and persons with disabilities, but the touch-free feature isn’t 100% since temperature control still needs a handle.

FAQs

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Aside from discovering the best kitchen faucet for hard water and why it’s great to use one, you may have some related questions before purchasing:

Can hard water clog a faucet?

Yes, hard water can cause clogged pipes and corrosion due to the high amount of minerals, specifically magnesium, and sodium. It can leave mineral deposits in faucet pipes due to too much calcium in the water. Clogging can slow down or create uneven water flow, making a mess when using the faucet and requiring more maintenance.

What color sink is the best for hard water?

Brass and stainless steel finishes are the most recommended color finishes that are more spot and corrosion-resistant to the effects of hard water. Brushed Nickel is another spot-resistant finish known to prevent water spots and fingerprints. 

How do you fix hard water in the kitchen faucet?

You can fix hard water stains on your kitchen faucet with vinegar. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide to doing it: 

1. Cover your faucet with a clean rag soaked in vinegar. Make sure hard water stains have direct contact with the rag.
2. Leave the rag for 30 minutes to an hour. 
3. Remove the rag from the faucet and start scrubbing the faucet with a non-scratch sponge. Focus on the areas that have the most build-up. 
4. Repeat these three steps until there is no hard water residue on your faucet.

Hard water can also clog your faucet aerator, causing reduced water pressure or uneven water flow due to all the mineral buildup. But you can also clean it by yourself with a few quick steps: 

1. Grab a pair of pliers and remove the aerator from the faucet spray head. Be careful to prevent denting or scratching it. You can also turn the aerator clockwisewhen viewed from above to loosen it in most models.
2. Start disassembling the aerator. Remember how each part fits together to prevent confusion later on.
3. Soak the aerator parts in vinegar or overnight for better results for 30 minutes.
4. Remove the remaining residue from the aerator screen with a small brush or old toothbrush.
5. Thoroughly rinse all the aerator parts with water.
6. Put back together all the aerator parts together in the same order as you removed them.
7. Reattach or screw the aerator back into the faucet’s spray head and test its water flow.

Wrap-up

A sturdy kitchen faucet against hard water can do many wonders in preventing constant maintenance and providing cleaner water. Aside from ordering a separate water softener such as a filtration machine, it’s important to have a kitchen faucet that can withstand and resist the effects of mineral deposits for years.

Having high-performance faucets will keep you company in the long run and keep you safe from the after-effects of hard water. They’ll serve as both home improvement and kitchen decor to keep your sink safe and new.