Single Vs. Double Handle Faucets | Advantages and Drawbacks

While getting a faucet for my washroom, I fell into the dilemma of choosing between single vs. double handle faucets. While single handled ones seem handier, the latter seems to be more comfortable in terms of temperature control.

As it turns out, both are equally amazing – single handle faucets are superb for smaller washbasins, and double handle ones are meant for larger ones. You will get more precise temperature control with the latter and easier convenience with the former.

However, choosing among them won’t get any easier without a thorough comparison – which will be provided here. Alongside that, you will also get to know about each of them properly.

A Look into Single Handle Faucets

The name pretty much gives it away – single handle faucets contain just one handle. You will most commonly find this type of faucet at homes or for small sinks in restaurants and other commercial spaces.

These faucets generally contain a very streamlined design, and they can be very user-friendly as well. Whether it’s in terms of installation or usage, you will find these to be very convenient.

Let’s look at the pros and cons for more clarity −

Pros

Cons

A Look into Double Handle Faucets

Again, the name pretty much gives it away – a double handle faucet is one that contains two handles. These usually look very stylish and go with almost every space virtually.

The biggest benefit of using this type is that you will be able to control the temperature more precisely. Hence, you can use them in a variety of spaces no matter what the purpose of their use is.

Now, we will look at their pros and cons for an overview.

Pros

Cons

Which One Should You Choose – Single or Double Handle Faucets?

So far, we have seen that both single handle and double handle faucets are amazing and come with their own benefits and drawbacks. But which one would be the best for you? – Let’s compare here.

What Will You Use It for?

Before you decide the number of handles you should go for, and you should determine what you will be getting the faucet for.

If you need a faucet for the small basin in your washroom, then get a single handle faucet. However, if you need a kitchen faucet where the control of temperature is required, then you should get a double handle faucet.

Style of the Faucet

If you already have a faucet, then you should determine its style. If the faucet contains double handles, then you should go for that and vice versa.

A change in the type of faucet handle is possible, but it isn’t always necessarily the best option.

Moreover, if you go from a double handle style to a single handle one, then an extra space might remain – which won’t look good.

Size of the Sink

This is an especially important factor in this case. Always go with single handle faucets if you have a smaller sink.

Double handle faucets can often deliver more water pressure, which will cause splashing in return. Hence, if you have a larger sink, then go for double handle faucets.

Does It Go with Your Space?

Both single faucets and double faucets can look really good on your sink, depending on the design it contains. And this is an important detail that you should consider because you wouldn’t want it to look odd.

Go through the design catalog and check which faucet goes best with the design of your sink space.

Ease of Installation and Repair

Single handle faucets are generally easy to install. They can also be easy to repair – you can easily do these by yourself with the instructions.

When it comes to double handle faucets, though, you will need professional help.

A professional plumber is surely required for the installation process, but you might be able to repair it by yourself.

Temperature Control

Temperature control is most precisely possible through double handle faucets. However, you will not have this facility if you choose a single handle faucet.

So, if it is necessary for you to control the temperature, then definitely choose the former.

Convenience in Maintenance

When it comes to maintenance, the single handle faucets win the deal. They are very easy to clean and maintain – since there is only one handle, you can easily clean the back and front of the faucets. And the one handle won’t provide much hassle.

Double handle faucets are generally more difficult to maintain and clean, so you will rarely want to do it. Since there are two handles, you will require more time to get rid of the gunk and dirt.

Leaking Issues

When single handle faucets leak, you will have no choice but to fix them right away.

But with double handle faucets, you can still use them because the other handle will still be functional.

However, once the other handle starts leaking, you will have to repair it as soon as possible, and the costs might double as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are single or double handle faucets better?

That really depends on what you will be using the faucet for. If you are going to use the faucet for a small washbasin, then go for single handle faucets. For larger sinks, go for double handle faucets.

2. Can you replace a single handle faucet with a double one?

Yes, you will be able to replace a single handle faucet with a double but you will need to make modifications in your sink for that. Basically, you will need to make space for the other handle and also make sure there is an additional connection for it.

3. Can you replace a double handle faucet with a single?

Yes, you can replace a double handle faucet with a single. However, it probably will not look as good because there will be additional space in one side. And you might face other issues as well.

4. Is there a cartridge in a single handle faucet?

Yes, there is a cartridge in a single handle faucet, and it is usually a ceramic disk or one of the ball types.

5. Do double handle faucets have cartridges?

Yes, double handle faucets also contain cartridges. Most faucets come with cartridges.

Final Words

Have you made your choice between single vs. double handle faucets? Well, it is quite simple – with a smaller sink and no need for temperature control, you choose a single handle faucet and vice versa.

Don’t think that you will miss out on certain characteristics if you choose one. Just go for the one you will need the most.