Ask Joshua - Pros and Cons of Pot Fillers

Hi Joshua,

I am planning to expand my kitchen this incoming fall. I have been looking at many design inspiration photos on Pinterest and Instagram to decide on the kitchen design for my new kitchen. One thing that I’ve noticed that the latest kitchen designs, including high end kitchens, are not including pot fillers. I remember seeing a lot of high end kitchen usually have them but now they don’t anymore. I’ve always wanted one, so now I’m concerned if it’s a no-no now. What are the pros and cons about having a pot filler?

Much thanks!

Kate - Atlanta, Georgia

Scandinavian style kitchen with pot filler designed by Joshua Jones, JJones Design Co.

Hi Kate,

Thank you for asking me about the pros and cons on having a pot filler for your new kitchen. First of all, pot fillers were very popular for a number of years, but, yes, you’re correct that they’re no longer as popular now for several reasons.

Pros:
1. The most obvious pro is that you can easily fill that pot right at the stove without lugging a heavy pot from sink stovetop.
2. Not all kitchen sinks can fit a large or tall pot under the faucet so having pot filler is the best solution for that situation.
3. It can give your kitchen a high end look (this is debatable now though with the changing tides of trends).

Cons:
1. While it is easier for you to fill up the pot with water, you still have to carry it to the sink to drain it out.
2. According to several of my interior design colleagues, they’ve experienced leaks from the pot fillers that destroyed their gas ranges. It can also damage cabinetry if the leak isn’t addressed quickly enough. It happens more often than many people realize.
3. It gets dirty easily from grease and splatters, so it requires extra cleaning.
4. If it is not used often, it can rust.
5. Having a pot filler on the wall might put a damper on that beautiful backsplash you have in mind.

I’d consider weighing these pros and cons for yourself whether you want to install one or not.

Warmly,

Joshua Jones

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