Pull-Down / Pull-Out Kitchen Faucets
Updated February 20, 2026
Flexible sprayer heads improve reach and cleaning. Great for busy kitchens and deep sinks.
Overview
Pull-down and pull-out kitchen faucets have a spray head that detaches from the faucet body on a retractable hose. Pull-down models aim the spray downward into the sink (most common). Pull-out models pull the entire head toward you (better for filling pots on the counter). Both are the modern standard for kitchen faucets -- single-hole mount, one-handle operation, and multiple spray modes. The retractable hose runs through the faucet body with a counterweight underneath that retracts the head when you let go.
Key Features
- Retractable spray head with flexible hose (20-30 inch reach)
- Multiple spray modes: stream, spray, and sometimes pause
- Single-hole mounting fits most kitchen sinks
- Counterweight system auto-retracts the head to docked position
- Available in chrome, brushed nickel, matte black, and other finishes
Sizing & Selection
Measure your sink hole configuration. Most pull-down faucets are single-hole mount (1-3/8 inch hole). If your sink has 3 or 4 holes, a deck plate covers the extras. Check the spout height (clearance under cabinets) and reach (how far the spout extends over the sink). Tall gooseneck spouts look great but may not fit under low cabinets or windows.
Installation
Single-hole mount: feed supply lines through the hole, secure from below with a mounting nut, connect hot and cold supply lines to the shut-off valves. Pre-attached braided supply lines are standard on most models. The counterweight clips to the hose under the sink. Basin wrench is essential for the mounting nut. Most homeowners can install in 45-90 minutes.
Maintenance
- Clean the aerator every 6 months -- unscrew the spray head tip and rinse the screen.
- Wipe the finish with a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners on all finishes.
- If the head does not retract smoothly, check the counterweight position and hose routing for kinks.
- Replace supply lines every 8-10 years as preventive maintenance.
Buying Tips
- Ceramic disc cartridges last longer than ball valves. Look for ceramic disc in the specs.
- Metal construction (brass body) outlasts plastic. Check the weight -- heavier usually means better build quality.
- Moen, Delta, and Kohler offer lifetime warranties on faucet cartridges. Factor warranty into the buying decision.
- Pull-down is better for deep sinks; pull-out is better for shallow sinks or filling containers outside the sink.
- Touchless models (-400) add hands-free activation -- great for cooking when hands are messy.