By Miles SinclairUpdated November 2026
The Delta Essa pull-down faucet is a single-hole, single-handle kitchen faucet with a retractable spray head and a matte black finish. It suits homeowners who want a clean, modern look at the sink, need a sprayer that reaches the whole basin, and plan to install the faucet on a standard single-hole sink deck. It is a weaker choice for people who need a touch-activated faucet, want a pull-out sprayer with a longer hose reach, or are working with a multi-hole sink where the faucet would need a deck plate or different mounting setup. Before buying, it is worth checking your sink hole count and the space under the sink, since both affect fit more than any single feature does.
DELTA Essa Matte Black Kitchen Faucet with Pull Down Sprayer, Modern Single Hole Kitchen Sink Faucet, Single Handle, Matte Black 9113-BL-DST
Product Overview
The Delta Essa in matte black, model 9113-BL-DST, belongs to Delta’s Essa collection of kitchen faucets. It is a single-hole, single-handle design built for a standard sink deck, with a pull-down spray head that docks back into the spout body when not in use. The matte black finish is the main visual draw, and it pairs well with stainless steel, granite and white composite sinks. The faucet is part of the broader Delta lineup, which also includes the touch-activated version of the same design and other finish options, so the model is easy to match with other fixtures in a kitchen or bath.
Like most pull-down faucets in this category, the Essa is meant for everyday dishwashing, filling pots, rinsing produce and general sink use. Its single lever controls both water temperature and flow, a layout many households find easier to use than separate hot and cold handles. For readers who are still comparing styles, our guide to Kitchen Faucet Types Explained: Pull-Down to Bridge covers how pull-down designs differ from other configurations.
Key Features & Specifications
The table below lists only the characteristics that appear in the product name or are consistently associated with this model. Confirm exact dimensions and flow rate on the packaging or Delta’s product sheet before purchase, since specifications can vary by production run and region.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand and collection | Delta Essa |
| Model number | 9113-BL-DST |
| Finish | Matte Black |
| Installation type | Single hole kitchen sink |
| Handle style | Single handle |
| Spray type | Pull-down sprayer |
| Style | Modern |
| Touch activation | No (manual lever; the touch version is a separate model) |
Manufacturers typically specify the flow rate for a faucet like this in gallons per minute, and the installation instructions list the minimum and maximum deck thickness the faucet supports. Check both before ordering, because a deck that is thicker than the mounting hardware allows will cause problems at install time.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Matte black finish gives a contemporary look that hides water spots better than polished chrome.
- Single-handle lever is simple to operate with wet hands and is intuitive for most users.
- Pull-down sprayer reaches across the basin and docks back neatly into the spout.
- Single-hole mounting keeps the sink deck clean and avoids the extra holes and plates needed for multi-hole setups.
- Part of a larger Delta family, so matching fixtures and replacement parts are generally easy to find.
Cons
- Matte finishes can show fingerprints and cleaning residue more than some owners expect, and they generally need non-abrasive cleaners.
- Not touch-activated, so owners who want hands-free operation will need the separate touch model.
- Single-hole mounting does not suit sinks with three or four holes unless you add a deck plate, which changes the look.
- Pull-down spray reach is limited by hose length, which can matter for very deep or wide sinks.
Performance Analysis
Owner feedback on Delta faucets in this price tier tends to follow a few consistent patterns. Most reports focus on ease of installation, smooth lever action and how well the pull-down head retracts and docks. Delta’s cartridge-based design is widely reported to be serviceable: when a faucet starts dripping or the lever feels stiff, the cartridge can usually be replaced without swapping the whole faucet. That matters for long-term ownership, because it means a leak is usually a parts problem rather than a reason to buy new.
Common complaints in general pull-down faucet reviews include water spray that feels weaker than expected, and docking that needs a firm push. Both can often be traced to aerator buildup or a magnet that has weakened over time. If you run into these, our guide to Pull-Down Faucet Docking: Magnets, Weights and Fixes explains the usual causes and fixes. For leaks, How to Replace a Delta Kitchen Faucet Cartridge in 6 Steps (2026) walks through the cartridge swap step by step.
Because the Essa uses a single lever for both temperature and flow, the most noticeable performance factor for most households will be water pressure supplied by the home plumbing, not the faucet itself. Low pressure at the faucet is usually a plumbing or aerator issue. Anyone who reports weak flow across multiple fixtures should check the home’s supply first.
Who Should Buy This Product?
The Delta Essa in matte black suits a homeowner doing a kitchen refresh who wants a modern, dark finish, a pull-down sprayer for daily cleanup, and a single-hole installation. It is a practical fit for kitchens with a standard single-hole sink, for people who prefer one lever over two handles, and for anyone who expects to service the faucet with replacement cartridges over the years.
You should probably skip it if your sink has three or four mounting holes and you do not want to add a deck plate, if you need hands-free touch operation, or if you are set on a bright polished finish. People who want a highly polished chrome look or who need a very long sprayer hose for a large farmhouse sink may also be better served by a different model. For a broader comparison of pull-down options, see Best Pull-Down Kitchen Faucets: 6 Moen and Kohler Models Compared.
Buying Guide
Before you buy any pull-down faucet, measure your sink deck and count the existing holes. A single-hole faucet fits a sink with one opening, while a widespread or center-set faucet needs more. Check the space under the sink too, since the supply lines, the pull-down hose and the mounting nut all need clearance. Kitchen Faucet With Pull-Out Spray: What to Check Before You Buy covers these measurements in more detail.
Next, think about the finish. Matte black hides water spots but shows smudges, while brushed finishes are more forgiving day to day. Decide whether you want a manual lever or touch activation, and whether a pull-down head or pull-out sprayer better matches your sink depth and how you clean. Our overview of Pull-Out Kitchen Faucets: Pros, Limits and Fit helps weigh those trade-offs.
If you are comparing Delta against other brands, Moen vs Delta Kitchen Faucet (2026): Which Is Better for Everyday Use? is a useful starting point. Within the Essa family itself, there are two well-known alternatives worth a look:
- Delta Essa Brushed Nickel Touch Kitchen Faucet with Pull Down Sprayer (model 9113T-AR-DST). A touch-activated version of the same design in Arctic Stainless. Choose this if hands-free operation matters more to you than a matte black finish.
- Delta Essa Brushed Gold Kitchen Faucet with Pull Down Sprayer (model 9113-CZ-DST). The same manual pull-down design in Champagne Bronze, a warm-toned option for kitchens with brass or gold accents.
DELTA Essa Brushed Nickel Touch Kitchen Faucet with Pull Down Sprayer, Modern Single Hole Touch On Kitchen Sink Faucet, Single Handle, Arctic Stainless 9113T-AR-DST
DELTA Essa Brushed Gold Kitchen Faucet with Pull Down Sprayer, Modern Single Hole Kitchen Sink Faucet, Single Handle, Champagne Bronze 9113-CZ-DST
FAQ
Is the Delta Essa pull-down faucet a single-hole faucet?
Yes. The model is designed for a single-hole kitchen sink. If your sink has three or four holes, you will need a deck plate or a different faucet.
Does the Essa matte black finish show fingerprints?
Matte finishes can show fingerprints and water residue more than some owners expect. Wiping the faucet after use with a soft cloth and a mild, non-abrasive cleaner helps keep it looking clean.
Can I replace the cartridge if the faucet starts to leak?
Delta faucets are generally designed so the cartridge can be replaced without removing the whole fixture. Check the installation or parts documentation for the exact cartridge number before ordering a replacement.
Is this faucet touch-activated?
No. The matte black model 9113-BL-DST uses a manual lever. Delta sells a touch-activated version of the Essa design as a separate model.
Why does the pull-down sprayer not dock properly?
Docking problems are often caused by a weakened magnet, a buildup of debris, or a hose that is kinked or twisted. Cleaning the docking area and checking the hose path usually resolves the issue. If it does not, consult a licensed plumber.
Will weak water flow mean the faucet is defective?
Not necessarily. Low flow is often caused by a clogged aerator, low home water pressure, or a partially closed shutoff valve. Check those first before assuming a fault with the faucet.
Do I need a plumber to install this faucet?
Many homeowners with basic tools can install a single-hole faucet, but connecting supply lines and sealing the deck correctly takes care. If you are unsure about shutoff valves or water pressure, consult a licensed plumber.
Final Verdict
The Delta Essa pull-down faucet in matte black is a solid, practical choice for a modern kitchen with a single-hole sink. Its single lever, pull-down sprayer and serviceable cartridge design suit everyday use, and the finish gives a clean, contemporary look. It is less suitable for multi-hole sinks, for buyers who need touch operation, or for anyone who dislikes showing fingerprints on dark finishes. Confirm your sink hole count and under-sink clearance before buying, and you should have a straightforward installation.
About Miles Sinclair
Miles Sinclair is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our kitchen faucets & sinks guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
