How High Should A Pot Filler Be From The Floor?

Working with pots can be a pain. Once you fill them with water, it can be strenuous to move them from one spot to another. So, maybe you are considering installing a pot filler. Though, that begs the question, how high should a pot filler be from the floor? If you would like to know, let's find out. 

Pot fillers are typically located on a wall over a stovetop. If you want to avoid problems, you should mount the pot filler at 12 to 24 inches above the stove burner. Though, you might want to use your tallest pot to measure the height you will need. It needs to be tall enough to avoid heating up from the burner or the pot. 

The height of the pot filler is only one aspect apart from many that you may need to consider. Location is equally as important. It will depend on your plumbing and if it is capable of a route to your desired spot. If you would like to know this and more, keep reading ahead. 

water overflowing from a metal pot. How High Should A Pot Filler Be From The Floor

Pot Filler Locations: What to Consider

While it might be exciting to get a handy tool for cooking, it comes at a cost. Pot fillers are typically present above a stove burner. Not all pot filler spots will be the same because it depends on the space and style of pot filler you choose. 

Additionally, there are no water lines near the space where you will install a pot filler. Plumbers will use the nearest source. This source can be the sink, dishwasher, or refrigerator. In most cases, this will require demolition. So, if you are planning to remodel the walls, now will be a great time to add a pot filler. 

Computer Tablet Showing Kitchen Illustration On House Plans, Pencil, Compass.

Pre-Existing Pot Filler

If you have a pre-existing pot filler, it changes the situation. You will not have to worry about plumbing. Choose the replacement style you want, and install it. 

Reach 

If convenience is at the helm of importance, you will want a spout capable of 360-degree rotation. Additionally, it must be able to extend at least 22 inches. This idea will ensure that the pot filler can reach each burner. 

How Much Does A Pot Filler Cost To Install?

Of course, installing a pot filler is not simple. The best time to install pot filler would be when you are considering kitchen renovations. This way, you can tear down the wall as you please. It will make the plumber's job easier.

You will want to become familiar with the plumbing codes. If you do not possess the skill to do it yourself, it is best to seek a plumber's help. From here, the cost can make a dent in your wallet. 

Labor Cost

As some have experienced, the cost of labor can reach up to $550. Since the plumber will most likely need to knock down the wall, you will likely spend additional labor for refinishing. As mentioned above, it is best to accomplish this if you are considering doing kitchen renovations. 

Pot Filler Cost

You must also pick a pot filler. Pot fillers are more of a luxury item. They can range from $100 at the cheapest up to $300 or more for a quality one. In the end, it will end up costing you below $1,000 for installation without refinishing costs. 

Should A Pot Filler Be Centered?

The location of a pot filler is also essential. To avoid any hiccups, it should be located to the left or right of the cooking surface. This way, it can avoid getting hot from the burners or the pot. 

Can You Put A Pot Filler On An Outside Wall?

Getting a pot filler to work on an outside wall is a tricky situation. As some chefs have commented, you can place a pot filler on an outside wall under certain conditions, providing the water supply remains near or along an insulated inside wall.

However, other chefs warn against installation on an exterior wall because of freezing pipes. Kitchens in colder climates will be more susceptible to freezing pipes. That is why insulation is essential for pot fillers on an outside wall. So, your plumber might request you to sign a waiver if there might be a chance that you will run into this situation. 

Should A Pot Filler Be Hot Or Cold Water?

Close up woman filling saucepan with tap water.

Since you will use the pot filler for cooking, cold water is the better option. As the EPA states, you should primarily use cold water for cooking and drinking. The reason is that hot water can dissolve lead quickly. As another chef puts it, hot water leaches more lead and contaminants from pipes. It is not easy to check if they are in bad shape until it starts putting out the stuff you would not want in your food. 

So, to remain on the safe side, it is better to stick with cold water for pot fillers. If you need hot water, fill up the pot and heat it as needed. 

Why Do Pot Fillers Have Two Handles?

Not all pot fillers are the same. You will find a variation that has two handles. While it may seem like a design error, it does have a purpose. If you've frequently used pot fillers, you are already familiar with dripping pots, and potential water leaks. That is why a pot filler has a second handle. It acts as a safety to minimize damage from dripping water. 

Types Of Pot Fillers

Fixed Pot Filler 

As the name implies, a fixed pot filler is installed into a spot and works much like a faucet. 

Swing Out Pot Filler

If versatility is what you want, the swing-out pot filler is a great option. You can move it to different burners depending on your need. So, if you need to fill pots in other spots, this type of pot filler will get the job done. In general, it has a reach of up to 15 inches. 

Cooker Island

If you thought pot fillers are only present on a wall, cooker island pot fillers might interest you. However, getting a pot filler to work on a kitchen island will require more work. Since it is not on a wall, you will have to route the pipes under the floor. This type is not a great option if you have expensive flooring. 

Double-jointed Pot Filler

Double-jointed pot fillers offer the best reach out of all the pot fillers. In general, they can extend from 18 to 24 inches. If flexibility is your concern, you should consider looking for a double-jointed pot filler. 

Sprayer

If you want to get a bit more convenience, some pot fillers also include a sprayer attachment. Though, it does come with inconveniences as some sprayer attachments are too long. It can get caught on pots if you are not careful enough. 

Final Takeaway

Close up shot of range in a French Country kitchen with pot filler on the wall. How High Should A Pot Filler Be From The Floor

By getting to know the conditions that a pot filler needs, you are taking the first steps to enjoying this luxury tool! Although it might seem like a lot of work to get installed, it comes with a reward. Nevertheless, the pain of having to carry a heavy pot of water to the stove will be no more! We hope you found the information insightful. 

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