A user on Reddit asked how to find a special kitchen faucet that provides cold water, hot water, and cold filtered water all from a single hole? Here is the experience shared by a US homeowner:
In our kitchen, we have a granite countertop with a sink and a convenient pull-down faucet installed underneath. However, our water quality has always been poor, with an unpleasant taste. We initially considered purchasing a refrigerator with a water dispenser/filtration system, but unfortunately, due to space constraints in our home, we couldn’t replace our fridge with that type, as it’s right against the wall and can’t be moved or replaced. Although we’ve been using a Brita filter, the frequent replacement of cartridges and refilling became quite inconvenient.
So, I started looking for other solutions to improve our water quality, besides a fridge or water jug. Ultimately, I discovered that an undersink filtration system seemed to be the most suitable option for us. However, these systems usually require an additional faucet to be installed on the countertop to provide filtered water, and our granite countertop isn’t suitable for drilling a second hole for another faucet.
After some in-depth research, I found that some companies have introduced faucets that only require one hole, specially designed to provide cold water, hot water, and cold filtered water simultaneously.
What is a 3 way faucet?
A 3-way faucet refers to a type of faucet that can simultaneously provide cold water, hot water, and a third type of water (usually filtered cold water) within a single fixture.
1. Definition and Function
- Definition: A 3-way faucet is a faucet with three water output options, typically including cold water, hot water, and filtered cold water.
- Function: This faucet is installed through a single hole and features internal channels and valves, allowing users to select different types of water as needed.
2. Working Principle
The working principle of a 3-way faucet involves the switching of internal valves, which control the flow of different water sources through rotation or pushing the handle. When cold or hot water is selected, the corresponding valve opens, allowing water to flow through and out of the faucet. When filtered cold water is chosen, the water passes through a built-in filter to remove impurities and odors before flowing out.
3. Design and Application
- Design: 3-way faucets are typically made from high-quality materials to ensure durability and reliability. Their design is often sleek and modern, making them suitable for various kitchen and bathroom decor styles.
- Application: These faucets are widely used in places that require high-quality drinking water, such as home kitchens, restaurants, and cafes. They provide users with a convenient and quick way to access drinking water while enhancing the quality of life.
Application Requirements for a 3-Way Faucet
The application requirements for a 3-way faucet involve several aspects, including water sources, filter configuration, hose size, and installation conditions. Below is a detailed explanation of these requirements:
1. Water Source Requirements
A 3-way faucet needs to connect to three water sources: cold water, hot water, and filtered cold water. Therefore, before installation, it is essential to ensure a sufficient and stable supply of these three water sources. For the filtered cold water, a suitable filter must be configured to ensure the safety and cleanliness of the water.
2. Filter Configuration
- Filter Type: The appropriate filter should be selected based on local water quality and user needs. Common filter types include activated carbon filters and reverse osmosis filters. Activated carbon filters are primarily used to remove odors and chlorine, while reverse osmosis filters provide a higher level of filtration, removing dissolved solids, bacteria, and more.
- Filter Capacity: The filter's capacity should be determined based on the household water consumption and usage frequency. Ensure that the filter can continuously provide sufficient filtered water to meet the daily drinking needs of household members.
- Filter Replacement and Maintenance: Regularly replacing filter cartridges is crucial for maintaining water quality. Therefore, it is necessary to understand the replacement cycle and method for the filter and to replace it on time. Additionally, regular cleaning and maintenance of the filter can extend its lifespan.
3. Hose Size Requirements
- Compatibility: The hose size should match the inlet and outlet of the 3-way faucet. Before installation, measure the sizes of the faucet's inlet and outlet to choose the appropriate hose for connection.
- Pressure Resistance: The hose must withstand a certain water pressure to ensure stable and safe water flow. Therefore, when selecting a hose, pay attention to its pressure resistance and material quality.
- Length and Flexibility: The hose length should be appropriate to facilitate easy connection between the faucet and water source during installation. Additionally, the hose should have a certain degree of flexibility for bending and adjustment as needed.
Advantages of a 3-Way Faucet
A 3-way faucet offers several significant advantages over traditional faucets, making it popular in homes, restaurants, cafes, and various other settings. Here’s a detailed explanation of these benefits:
1. Versatile Functionality
The 3-way faucet provides three water options: cold, hot, and filtered cold water, greatly enhancing user choice. Users can select the appropriate water type based on their needs, making it flexible and convenient for different drinking scenarios.
2. Healthier Drinking Assurance
Equipped with a filter, the 3-way faucet effectively removes impurities, odors, and harmful substances such as chlorine and heavy metals. This allows users to drink filtered cold water directly without worrying about water quality, addressing the growing concern for healthy drinking.
3. Energy and Water Efficiency
The 3-way faucet features advanced water-saving designs that reduce resource waste while maintaining water flow. Additionally, the filter extends the faucet's lifespan and minimizes the frequency of replacements and repairs, resulting in savings on materials and maintenance costs.
4. User-Friendly Design
Typically designed with ergonomics in mind, the 3-way faucet allows for easy switching between water types. The water flow direction and angle can also be adjusted to accommodate different user preferences and habits, making it an ideal choice for homes and restaurants.
5. Aesthetic Appeal
The 3-way faucet emphasizes beauty and style, with various designs and colors to meet diverse aesthetic preferences. Whether in a modern minimalist or a classic elegant style, there’s a matching 3-way faucet available. This stylish aspect not only serves practical purposes but also enhances the home environment.
Conclusion
The 3-way faucet requires only a single hole to provide cold, hot, and filtered cold water within one unit. It offers numerous advantages, including versatile functionality, healthier drinking assurance, energy efficiency, user-friendliness, and aesthetic appeal. These features make it the preferred choice for drinking water solutions in various settings. If you're looking for a professional website for 3-way faucets, you can search for Lilium Faucet and shop directly on their official site. This website specializes in 3-way and 4-way faucets. When choosing and using a 3-way faucet, consider your personal needs and budget to find the most suitable product.