In other words, measure from the centerpoint of the far left hole to the centerpoint of the far right hole. Most faucet centers range between 4 and 16 inches, with widespread faucets typically measuring at 6 to 8 inches and centerset faucets measuring at 4 inches.
For the most accurate measurement, remove the faucet and handles from the sink. To get the faucet center, measure from the center of the hole in the sink on the far left to the center of the hole on the far right. Faucet center measurements can be anywhere between 4 and 16 inches.
The four-inch measurement for a centerset faucet refers to the center-to-center distance between the two furthest mounting holes. Centerset faucets have three mounting holes. There's space for a connection to each tap and then the mixing connection for the spout in the middle.
Most of the 8-inch or widespread faucets have three pieces, the tap and the hot and cold handles, which means some 8-inch faucets can fit holes not exactly 8 inches apart. If the span is 4 inches, a 4-inch faucet is what you need. These usually have a base and come in one solid piece.
Measure from the base of the tap, where it touches the sink, to its highest point. This could be on the spout if it's a U-shaped tap or on the top of the handle if it's an F-shaped tap.
Use a ruler to measure across the thread diameter where the connector would attach. Include all the thread in your measurement. Now you've got your tap thread measurement, you can easily work out which tap connector is compatible for your tap.
If you have windows or cabinets above your sink, measure upward from the center mounting hole to find the maximum overall height and ensure your new faucet can fit comfortably underneath. To find the ideal spout reach, measure from the center mounting hole forward to the center of your sink.
Common Faucet Sizes
Here are some common sizes to consider: Standard Faucet: Most standard faucets measure around 6-8 inches in height and have a reach of 4-6 inches.
Once you have the faucet out, count the holes and measure the distance apart. If there is only one hole in your sink you'll need a faucet designed with the handle as part of the faucet. If you have three holes but want a decorative set of water lines above the sink, select a “bridge faucet" that mixes the hot and cold.
A 4-inch centerset bathroom faucet connects to a three-hole bathroom sink. So if you have a three-hole sink with the outside holes 4 inches apart, you should be able to install a single-handle bathroom faucet. However, a deck plate to cover all the holes is usually needed.
Faucet Connector Sizes
The inlets on a faucet are the components that connect to your water supply lines. Most faucets in the United States have a 1/2" MPT (male) or 1/2" FPT (female) threaded inlet. These connections use the NPT (National Pipe Thread) standard.
While installing a kitchen faucet is not necessarily easy, it can be accomplished by inexperienced do-it-yourselfers in just a few steps. It doesn't require specialized skills beyond knowing how to turn off your water and how to tighten and loosen nuts and bolts.
Similarly, faucets that have a standard-size connection may not fit a sink that has a non-standard-size connection. Therefore, it is important to check compatibility before purchasing a faucet to make sure it will fit your sink or countertop and that the installation process will be as smooth as possible.
4-inch centerset faucets are made for washbasins with three holes and have handles that are 4 inches apart. They combine a spout and handles on a single base unit. Some centerset faucets may have two handles mounted onto a 6-inch plate.
You will need to know the size of the installation area, to be sure it will accommodate the width of the sink as well as the depth and height. This measurement is also useful in determining the size of the faucet and any range of movement it may require.
Most of the time, the hole for your kitchen faucet will be 1 3/8 inches across. That's the standard size you'll typically see. But here's the catch - not all faucets play by the same rules. Some of them require a little more breathing room with a 1 1/2-inch hole instead.
Measure Faucet Center:
For three-hole faucets, such as widespread or centerset types, measure the distance from the center of one handle to the other for an approximate figure. For accuracy, remove the faucet and handles to measure from the far-left hole's center to the far-right hole's center.
Measure the Diameter of Existing Holes: For replacements, measure the diameter of the existing holes in your sink or bath. This ensures the new taps will fit without the need for additional drilling.
Place your straightedge ruler or your level across the top of your sink. Use your tape measure to measure the deepest part of your sink basin to the bottom edge of the ruler. Write down the depth. If you have an undermount sink, be sure to measure the height from sink to countertop.
Use the Specification Sheet, or measure the product for the hole configuration. The product Technical Specification sheet will have the recommended hole size and spacing required for installation. The specification sheet is on the website under the product's image, in the Documents and Specs tab.
How to Measure Faucet Supply Line Sizes. Identify the Connection Points: Find the supply lines and shut-off valve under the sink. For Male Threads: Measure the outside diameter (OD) of the male threads using a caliper or a ruler.
Choosing the right faucet for your kitchen or bathroom sink is key. Make sure it fits your sink's hole size and layout. Most faucets need a hole diameter of 1-1/2 to 2 inches. Always check your faucet model's specs before buying.
Standard kitchen sink dimensions are 22 inches long by 30 inches wide, with an average depth of 7 to 10 inches.
Due to so many different styles, kitchen faucets are not universal.