By Miles SinclairUpdated November 2026
The delta leland single-handle touch kitchen sink faucet suits homeowners who want a traditional-styled faucet with touch activation, a pull-down sprayer and a single lever for temperature and flow. It fits well in a standard single-hole sink with a deck that has room for a pull-down spout and a touch-control module, and it works for people who like the convenience of tapping the body of the faucet with a wet or dirty hand. It is a weaker choice for anyone with a sink that has three or more holes and no deck plate, for buyers who want a fully hands-free sensor faucet, or for those who want an ultra-modern profile. Anyone on a tight installation timeline should also read the setup notes below, since touch faucets add a battery or power step that a plain faucet does not require.
DELTA Leland Brushed Nickel Touch Kitchen Faucet with Pull Down Sprayer, Traditional Single Hole Touch On Kitchen Sink Faucet, Single Handle, SpotShield Stainless 9178T-SP-DST
Product Overview
This model is the brushed nickel version of the Delta Leland touch line, listed under the Amazon title DELTA Leland Brushed Nickel Touch Kitchen Faucet with Pull Down Sprayer, Traditional Single Hole Touch On Kitchen Sink Faucet, Single Handle, SpotShield Stainless 9178T-SP-DST. The model number tells you three things: it is a single-handle design, it uses touch activation, and it carries the SpotShield Stainless finish that Delta applies to resist fingerprints and water spotting. Shoppers comparing it with the chrome version of the same design will notice that the core layout is identical, so the buying decision mostly comes down to finish preference and how much you value the SpotShield coating.
The Leland name refers to a traditional, arched spout profile with a pull-down spray head. It is designed to sit on a single mounting hole, which makes it a common replacement for older single-control faucets in kitchens built over the last few decades. If you are already familiar with how a Delta Leland Touch Kitchen Faucet Review: Features and Performance style faucet is set up, you will recognize the controls right away. For broader context on how touch faucets work across the Delta line, the guide Touch Sink Faucet Delta: How It Works and How to Set It Up Right walks through the sensor and battery basics.
Owners often describe the Leland as a middle-of-the-road traditional faucet: not as stripped down as a utility model, not as sleek as a contemporary pull-down. Its visual weight suits farmhouse, transitional and classic kitchens. The spout reach is moderate, which generally clears a standard double-bowl sink without the water hitting the far rim.
Key Features & Specifications
The table below lists the features that are stated in the product name or that are well established for this model family. Where a detail is not confirmed, it is left out rather than guessed.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Model number | 9178T-SP-DST |
| Type | Kitchen sink faucet, single hole installation |
| Handle | Single handle lever |
| Activation | Touch on (tap anywhere on the body or lever to turn on and off) |
| Sprayer | Pull-down spray head |
| Style | Traditional |
| Finish | Brushed nickel with SpotShield Stainless coating |
| Power | Battery-operated touch module (manufacturers specify battery power; check the current manual for the battery type and number) |
| Mounting | Single hole, deck mount |
Before you order, measure your sink deck. Manufacturers specify single-hole mounting, so confirm that your countertop or sink has one drilled opening for the faucet body and that the deck is thick enough for the included mounting hardware. If your sink has a deck plate, check that the plate is compatible with the pull-down hose path. Owners sometimes overlook the hose length and clearance under the sink, so measure the space for the pull-out hose and the touch module wiring.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Touch activation lets you shut the water off with a clean elbow or the back of a wet hand, which owners often describe as the main day-to-day benefit.
- Single-lever control is simple to learn and does not require two-handle coordination.
- Pull-down sprayer gives a useful reach for rinsing pans and filling tall pots.
- SpotShield Stainless finish is designed to resist fingerprints and water spots better than a standard brushed finish.
- Traditional profile fits a wide range of kitchen styles without looking out of place.
- Single-hole installation keeps setup simpler than multi-hole faucets on most standard sinks.
Cons
- Touch modules run on batteries, so you need to replace them periodically and keep a spare on hand.
- Installation takes more steps than a basic faucet because of the sensor wiring and battery housing.
- Owners with very low water pressure sometimes report slower response from the touch sensor.
- The finish, while resistant to spotting, still shows some marks under strong side lighting.
- Not a fit for sinks with three or more holes unless you use a deck plate.
- Replacement parts are widely available, but troubleshooting touch problems requires reading the manual carefully.
Performance Analysis
Because this review is research-based, the performance discussion draws on the stated specifications and on patterns that appear repeatedly in owner feedback rather than on any personal testing. Owners often report that the touch function works reliably when the battery is fresh and the sensor area is kept clean. Common complaints cluster around three areas: battery drain, sensor response with very low pressure, and setup errors during installation.
Flow and spray performance depend heavily on your home’s water pressure. Manufacturers generally recommend operating faucets within a moderate pressure range. If your home sits at the low end, expect a softer stream and a slightly delayed touch response. Installing a pressure check gauge before you buy is a practical step. For pressure-related troubleshooting that applies across touch faucets, the article Delta Touch2O Kitchen Faucet: Features, Setup and Common Issues covers the same types of symptoms.
Spray durability is another area owners watch. Pull-down hoses and their docking mechanisms are a wear point on any pull-down faucet, so avoid yanking the head and let it retract under control. The finish holds up well to routine cleaning with mild soap and water. Abrasive pads and harsh chemical cleaners can dull any brushed finish, so stick to soft cloths.
Leak reports for this model family are generally tied to improper seating of the supply lines or O-rings during installation rather than to the cartridge itself. If you suspect a leak, check the connections under the sink first. For a broader look at the single-handle control system and its cartridge, see Single-Handle Kitchen Faucets: Control, Cartridges, Care.
Who Should Buy This Product?
This faucet is a good match for homeowners replacing an older single-control faucet on a standard single-hole sink who want a touch feature without moving to a fully hands-free sensor model. It also suits cooks who fill large pots and rinse produce often, thanks to the pull-down sprayer. Buyers who like a traditional look and want a finish that handles fingerprints well will likely be satisfied.
You should skip this model if your sink has multiple holes and you do not want a deck plate, if you need a faucet that works reliably at very low water pressure, or if you strongly dislike maintaining batteries. Shoppers who want a fully sensor-activated faucet that waves on and off without touch may prefer a different category; the guide Delta No Touch Kitchen Faucet: How It Works, Setup and Fixes explains how that type differs.
Buying Guide
Start with your sink. Count the mounting holes, measure the deck thickness, and check whether you have a single bowl or double bowl. A single-hole faucet is the simplest fit, but many older sinks have three holes for a separate spray and two handles. In that case, a deck plate or a different faucet type is needed. The article Two-Handle Kitchen Faucets: Layout, Holes and Upkeep explains the hole layouts in detail.
Next, decide between touch and standard. Touch faucets add convenience but require battery maintenance. Standard single-handle faucets have fewer parts to replace. The overview at Kitchen Faucet With Single Handle: Types, Parts and How to Choose helps you compare the trade-offs.
Finish is the last decision. Brushed nickel hides water spots and fingerprints better than polished chrome, which is why the SpotShield version appeals to many households. If you prefer a different tone, compare the options in 7 Best Delta Kitchen Faucet Brushed Nickel Picks for Every Sink.
If you want to compare alternatives within the same Leland line, two well-known options are the chrome touch version and the chrome non-touch version. Both share the traditional single-handle layout.
- Chrome touch version: The same touch-activated Leland design in a polished chrome finish. Choose this if you want the touch feature and prefer a brighter, reflective look.
DELTA Leland Chrome Touch Kitchen Faucet with Pull Down Sprayer, Traditional Single Hole Touch On Kitchen Sink Faucet, Single Handle, Chrome 9178T-DST
- Chrome standard version: The traditional Leland with a pull-down sprayer and no touch module. Choose this if you want fewer batteries to manage and a simpler installation.
DELTA Leland Chrome Kitchen Faucet with Pull Down Sprayer, Traditional Single Hole Kitchen Sink Faucet, Single Handle, Chrome 9178-DST
For more options across the brand, the roundup 5 Best Delta Touch Kitchen Faucet Models for Everyday Use (2026) covers other touch models.
FAQ
Does the delta leland single-handle touch kitchen sink faucet need to be hardwired?
Manufacturers specify battery operation for the touch module, so no hardwired electrical connection is needed. Check the manual for the exact battery type and replacement schedule, and consult a licensed electrician if you plan any wiring changes beyond battery replacement.
Will it fit a three-hole sink?
Not directly. This is a single-hole faucet. On a three-hole sink, you would need a deck plate that covers the extra openings, or a different faucet type. Confirm your hole count before ordering.
How do I turn on the touch function?
Tap the faucet body or lever with a finger or the back of your hand. Tap again to turn it off. Keep the sensor area clean, since a film of soap or grease can interfere with response.
Why does the touch sensor respond slowly?
Owners often report slow response when the battery is low or when water pressure is weak. Replace the batteries first, then check your home’s pressure. Cleaning the sensor area also helps.
Is the SpotShield finish worth choosing over regular brushed nickel?
SpotShield is designed to resist fingerprints and water spots better than a standard finish, which many households find useful for daily kitchen use. It does not make the finish scratch-proof, so avoid abrasive cleaners.
How do I clean the faucet without damaging the finish?
Use warm water, mild dish soap and a soft cloth. Dry the faucet after cleaning to reduce spotting. Avoid bleach, abrasive powders and harsh chemical cleaners.
What tools do I need to install it?
Most installers use an adjustable wrench, a basin wrench, a plumber’s tape and a screwdriver. Shut off the water supply under the sink before you start, and keep the manual open for the touch module wiring step.
Final Verdict
The delta leland single-handle touch kitchen sink faucet is a sound choice for homeowners who want a traditional look, a pull-down sprayer and the convenience of touch activation on a standard single-hole sink. Its main trade-offs are battery upkeep, a slightly more involved installation and reduced touch response in low-pressure homes. If those trade-offs fit your situation, it is a practical everyday faucet. If your sink has multiple holes or you need reliable performance at very low pressure, look at the alternatives above first.
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.
