Kitchen faucets today offer more than a simple on-off stream. Many pull-down, pull-out, and side-spray models include multiple spray modes that make rinsing, filling, and cleaning easier. Understanding these modes helps you choose a faucet that fits your daily tasks and maintain it properly over time.

Quick overview: Common spray modes include aerated stream, spray, and specialized patterns like ShieldSpray or Power Boost. Side sprays use a diverter to switch flow, and the aerator at the spout tip needs regular cleaning to prevent debris buildup. Kitchen faucets are not covered by EPA WaterSense labeling, but they must meet lead-free requirements.

Common spray modes on pull-down and pull-out faucets

Delta’s product overview for its Leland pull-down kitchen faucet describes a three-function wand that delivers an aerated stream, a spray, and a ShieldSpray pattern. In everyday terms, a stream suits filling pots and a spray suits rinsing; check the maker’s description of any specialty mode.

Moen’s installation sheet for its single-handle pulldown faucet (INS10888A) shows two sets of wand features. On models without Power Boost, you press a button to change between stream, spray and pause (features vary by model). On models with Power Boost, a boosted stream or boosted spray can be enabled, and the sheet says to turn the water off to disengage Power Boost.

Delta’s overview notes dual integral check valves in the sprayer; check valves let water flow in one direction only. For more on how pull-down wands dock and retract, see our docking systems guide.

How side sprays and diverters work

Some kitchen faucets, especially two-handle and bridge styles, include a separate side spray. Moen’s installation sheet for its two-handle kitchen faucet (INS919G) details a side spray that connects to the faucet body through a hose, quick connect adapter, and hose weight. The side spray sits in a dedicated sink hole and is activated by squeezing the handle. Water flows from the spout to the side spray only when the diverter inside the faucet redirects it.

Newport Brass’s instructions for its bridge faucet with side spray (model 9452-1) show a diverter assembly that attaches to the faucet shanks via quick connect adapters. The assembly includes a cold block and a hot block. The instructions warn that if the cold block is installed on the hot side, the faucet will have no flow. The diverter automatically switches water to the side spray when the spray handle is pressed, and back to the spout when released. The side spray hose threads onto the diverter assembly, and the spray escutcheon is secured with a mounting kit under the sink.

Side spray installations require an extra sink hole. Newport Brass recommends a minimum distance of 4-3/4 inches between the side spray hole and the nearest faucet mounting hole. The bridge faucet itself needs center spacing between 8 and 9-11/16 inches. If you are considering a faucet with a side spray, check your sink’s hole configuration. Our sink hole configurations article can help you understand what fits.

The aerator: what it does and why cleaning matters

At the tip of most kitchen faucet spouts sits an aerator, a small screen that mixes air into the water stream to reduce splashing and shape the flow. Over time, sediment, debris, and even lead particles can collect in the aerator. The U.S. EPA’s guidance on lead in drinking water advises cleaning the faucet’s screen (aerator) regularly. If lead particles are trapped there, they can get into the water you use for drinking and cooking.

Cleaning the aerator is straightforward. Unscrew it from the spout, rinse away any debris, and reinstall it. The EPA also recommends using only cold water for drinking and cooking. For more maintenance steps, visit our faucet maintenance page.

EPA’s WaterSense program labels bathroom sink faucets and aerators that use a maximum of 1.5 gallons per minute, but the agency does not have WaterSense criteria for kitchen faucets. The WaterSense specification applies only to private lavatory and bar sink faucets. So while you may see water-efficient bathroom aerators with the WaterSense label, kitchen faucets are not part of that program. For more on water-saving features, see our water efficiency guide.

Flow rates and water efficiency

Flow rate is a key specification on any kitchen faucet. Delta’s Leland pull-down model, for example, has a maximum flow rate of 1.8 gallons per minute at 60 psi, as listed on its product overview sheet. This figure is specific to that model; other faucets may have different maximum flow rates. The flow rate tells you how much water the faucet will deliver at a given pressure, which affects both rinsing power and water usage.

While kitchen faucets lack a WaterSense label, they must still comply with federal lead-free requirements. The Safe Drinking Water Act defines “lead-free” as a weighted average of 0.25 percent lead across the wetted surfaces of pipes, fittings, and fixtures. Delta’s overview states the faucet is verified compliant with .25% weighted average Pb content regulations. When replacing any faucet component that contacts drinking water, look for lead-free certification marks. The EPA provides a guide to identifying these marks.

Flushing a new sprayer and initial setup

After installing a new kitchen faucet, manufacturers recommend flushing the system to clear out any debris left from manufacturing or installation. Moen’s pulldown faucet instructions (INS10888A) say to turn on the water supply, hold the pulldown hose, and let water run for 15 seconds before attaching the spray wand. This step flushes particles from the hose. Then you attach the spray wand and finger-tighten the connection.

Newport Brass’s bridge faucet instructions also include a flushing step: remove the aerator from the spout, turn on the water supply, and flush the valves until the water runs clear. After checking for leaks, reattach the aerator. This process helps ensure no debris clogs the aerator or spray head later.

Moen also suggests maintaining an 8-inch by 8-inch clear area under the sink for the hose and weight to travel freely. Moveable items like bottles or cleaning supplies can interfere with the hose’s movement. Periodically check that no obstructions have entered this zone. If non-moveable pipes are in the way, repositioning the weight higher on the hose may help. For more installation tips, see our deck-mount installation guide.

Lead-free requirements and safe installation

Because kitchen faucets connect to drinking water, materials that contact the water must meet lead-free standards. The EPA’s lead rule sets the maximum allowable lead content at a weighted average of 0.25 percent on wetted surfaces. Faucets that comply, like the Delta model referenced, are marked as meeting these regulations. When installing a new faucet or replacing parts, always use components that are certified lead-free.

Installation involving wall-mount faucets, new supply lines, or any work inside walls is a job for a licensed plumber. Local plumbing codes apply, and a professional can ensure the job meets safety requirements. For touchless kitchen faucets that include electrical connections, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for GFCI protection and proper grounding. Never bypass these safety steps. For an overview of different faucet types, visit our kitchen faucet types page.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between stream and spray modes?

Stream mode delivers a single, aerated column of water that is quiet and splash-free, making it good for filling pots and pitchers. Spray mode produces a wider pattern of multiple jets that provide more forceful rinsing action for cleaning dishes or produce. Some faucets also offer a pause function that stops the flow temporarily, and boosted modes that increase pressure for tough tasks. Delta’s three-function wand and Moen’s spray wand both include these basic patterns, with variations like ShieldSpray or Power Boost depending on the model.

Do kitchen faucets have WaterSense labels?

No. The EPA’s WaterSense program currently labels only bathroom sink faucets and aerators, which must use a maximum of 1.5 gallons per minute. Kitchen faucets are not covered by a WaterSense specification, so you will not see the WaterSense label on a kitchen faucet. You can check the flow rate on the product specifications to compare water use.

How do I clean the aerator on my kitchen faucet?

Unscrew the aerator from the spout tip by hand or with a simple tool if it is tight. Rinse the screen under running water to remove any sediment or particles. Reinstall it and run the water briefly. The EPA recommends cleaning the aerator regularly to prevent lead particles and debris from accumulating.

For more details on spray modes and related features, visit our spray modes guide.

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