An under-sink water filtration system is a fantastic investment in your family’s health, but the perfect finishing touch to that system is a dedicated drinking water faucet.
This small, elegant secondary tap provides a designated and hygienic point for dispensing your purified water, keeping it completely separate from your regular hot and cold tap water.
In a city like Delhi, where water quality is a significant concern for many households, having a reliable source of purified drinking water is essential. As of September 26, 2025, complementing an under-sink filtration system with a dedicated drinking water faucet is the most stylish and convenient way to ensure every glass is fresh and pure.
These faucets not only prevent cross-contamination but also add a touch of sophisticated, coordinated style to your kitchen sink area.
This guide will explore the five best drinking water faucets, highlighting durable, lead-free models designed to deliver pure water with elegance and reliability.
1. iSpring GA1-B European Designer Faucet (Non-Air Gap)
iSpring is a leading manufacturer of reverse osmosis (RO) systems, and their GA1-B faucet is a beautiful and reliable complement to any filtration setup.
This faucet features a graceful, high-arc gooseneck design with a sleek, European-inspired style that looks fantastic in modern kitchens.
It is constructed from solid brass with a premium brushed nickel finish, ensuring both durability and a clean water path.
The single handle operates with a smooth, quarter-turn motion, and the spout swivels 360 degrees for complete convenience when filling pots, glasses, or water bottles.
As a non-air gap model, it has a slim, clean base, making it a popular choice for its minimalist aesthetic and easy installation.
- Elegant European Design: The sleek, high-arc gooseneck spout adds a touch of modern sophistication to your kitchen sink.
- Solid Brass Construction: The faucet body is made from high-quality, lead-free solid brass for maximum durability and a pure water path.
- Durable Brushed Nickel Finish: The premium brushed nickel finish resists corrosion and coordinates beautifully with stainless steel appliances and main faucets.
- 360-Degree Swivel Spout: The spout rotates completely, offering a full range of motion for filling containers of any size.
- Non-Air Gap Model: Features a slim, single-tube design for a clean, minimalist look and a straightforward installation process.
- Drip-Free Ceramic Valve: A high-quality ceramic disc valve provides a lifetime of smooth, precise, and leak-free operation.
- Simple Single-Handle Control: The lever handle operates with a smooth quarter-turn and can be easily controlled with the back of your hand.
- Standard Compatibility: Designed to work with standard 1/4″ and 3/8″ tubing from most under-sink filtration systems.
- Trusted Filtration Brand: iSpring is a highly-regarded brand known for its quality RO systems and components.
- Easy to Install: Comes with all necessary mounting hardware for a simple, single-hole installation.
2. Waterdrop WD-15-B Stainless Steel Filter Faucet (Non-Air Gap)
The Waterdrop filter faucet is a fantastic choice for those who prioritize premium materials and a contemporary look.
This faucet is constructed entirely from 304 food-grade stainless steel and features a stunning matte black finish, making it a bold statement piece in any modern kitchen.
The solid stainless steel construction ensures a completely lead-free water path and offers superior resistance to rust and corrosion.
The spout swivels 360 degrees, and the single handle is equipped with a high-quality ceramic valve for precise, drip-free control.
With its combination of industrial-grade materials, striking design, and leak-proof performance, the Waterdrop faucet is a durable and stylish upgrade.
- Solid 304 Stainless Steel: The entire faucet, including the interior, is made from food-grade stainless steel, ensuring a 100% lead-free and durable fixture.
- Modern Matte Black Finish: The sleek matte black finish is perfect for contemporary kitchen designs and is resistant to fingerprints and water spots.
- 360-Degree Swivel Spout: Provides complete flexibility, allowing you to easily fill pitchers and pots on the counter next to the sink.
- Leak-Proof Design: Features a triple O-ring seal and a precision ceramic cartridge to ensure a lifetime of drip-free and leak-free performance.
- Non-Air Gap for a Clean Look: The slim, single-hole mounting provides a minimalist and uncluttered appearance on your countertop.
- Universal Compatibility: Comes with quick-connectors for both 1/4″ and 3/8″ tubing, making it compatible with almost any under-sink filter system.
- Easy to Operate: The handle moves smoothly and requires just a 90-degree turn to go from off to fully on.
- Simple Installation: Designed for a straightforward DIY installation in minutes.
- Highly Rated by Users: Consistently receives positive reviews for its solid build quality, beautiful finish, and easy setup.
- Excellent Value: Offers the quality and durability of solid stainless steel at a very competitive price point.
3. APEC Water Systems Faucet-AG (Air Gap)
For many reverse osmosis systems, an air gap faucet is not just a recommendation but a requirement by local plumbing codes, and the APEC Faucet-AG is a reliable, industry-standard choice.
An air gap faucet provides an essential safety feature by creating a physical air gap in the RO system’s drain line, which absolutely prevents any contaminated drain water from being siphoned back into your clean drinking water system.
This faucet is identifiable by its wider base and the gurgling sound it makes as the RO system drains.
It is built from high-quality materials with a classic chrome finish and a dependable ceramic valve. If your plumbing code requires an air gap, this APEC faucet is a trusted and compliant solution.
- Air Gap Safety Feature: The built-in air gap is the most effective method for preventing drain water backflow, which is a requirement in many regions.
- Plumbing Code Compliant: Installing an air gap faucet ensures your RO system is compliant with local plumbing codes that mandate this feature.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality, lead-free materials with a classic chrome finish for long-lasting performance.
- Industry Standard Design: This is a classic, functional design that is compatible with most APEC and other branded RO systems.
- Smooth and Reliable Operation: The single handle operates a quality ceramic disc valve for a lifetime of dependable, drip-free service.
- Easy to Use: The handle turns smoothly for easy dispensing of pure, filtered water.
- Requires Three Drain Connections: The base of an air gap faucet has three tubes: one for clean water in, and two for the RO drain line connection.
- High-Arc Spout: The spout is tall enough to easily fit most glasses, water bottles, and small pots underneath.
- Trusted RO Brand: APEC Water Systems is a leading manufacturer of high-quality reverse osmosis systems in the USA.
- Essential for Safety: Provides complete peace of mind that your drinking water system is protected from any possible contamination.
4. Kingston Brass KS3195AL Restoration Beverage Faucet (Non-Air Gap)
For kitchens with a traditional, vintage, or farmhouse aesthetic, the Kingston Brass Restoration Beverage Faucet is a beautiful and elegant choice.
This faucet features classic, early 20th-century design cues, including an ornate spout, a decorative base, and a gracefully curved lever handle.
It is constructed from solid brass for a heavy, premium feel and is available in a wide range of beautiful finishes, including Polished Brass and Oil-Rubbed Bronze, allowing you to perfectly match your main faucet and other hardware.
This non-air gap faucet combines timeless style with the durable, drip-free performance of a modern ceramic disc cartridge.
- Classic Vintage Design: The Restoration collection’s ornate, traditional styling adds a touch of classic elegance to your kitchen.
- Solid Brass Construction: Fabricated from high-quality solid brass for a substantial feel, superior durability, and a pure water path.
- Variety of Finishes: Available in a wide selection of beautiful finishes to perfectly coordinate with your kitchen’s decor.
- Drip-Free Ceramic Cartridge: Utilizes a high-quality 1/4-turn ceramic disc cartridge that ensures a lifetime of reliable, leak-free performance.
- Non-Air Gap for a Classic Look: The slim, single-hole base is consistent with the faucet’s traditional, uncluttered aesthetic.
- High-Quality and Durable: Kingston Brass is known for producing heavy-duty, high-quality fixtures that are designed for long-term performance.
- Graceful High-Arc Spout: The tall, curved spout provides ample clearance for filling containers.
- Easy Single-Handle Control: The classic lever handle is both beautiful and easy to operate.
- Standard Compatibility: Designed for use with a standard 1/4″ water line connection.
- Perfect for Traditional Kitchens: This is the ideal choice for adding a dedicated filtered water tap without compromising a classic design scheme.
5. ESOW 304 Stainless Steel Drinking Water Faucet (Non-Air Gap)
The ESOW drinking water faucet is a fantastic budget-friendly option for those who want a simple, durable, and no-frills fixture.
Its key selling point is its all-stainless-steel construction, including the interior, which is rare at this price point. This ensures a completely lead-free water path and excellent corrosion resistance.
The design is simple and functional, with a slim gooseneck spout that swivels 360 degrees and a simple quarter-turn handle.
It’s a non-air gap faucet that is easy to install and comes with connectors to fit both 1/4″ and 3/8″ tubing.
For a reliable, all-metal faucet without a high price tag, the ESOW is an unbeatable value.
- 100% Stainless Steel Construction: The entire faucet is made from 304 stainless steel, offering a completely lead-free and highly durable fixture.
- Exceptional Value: Delivers the quality and durability of an all-stainless-steel faucet at a very budget-friendly price point.
- Simple, Functional Design: The no-frills gooseneck design is timeless and focuses purely on reliable performance.
- 360-Degree Swivel: The spout rotates fully, providing convenience and flexibility at the sink.
- Universal Compatibility: Comes with fittings to connect to both 1/4″ and 3/8″ water lines, making it compatible with virtually any filtration system.
- Drip-Free Ceramic Valve: Equipped with a quality ceramic cartridge to ensure leak-free operation.
- Easy to Install: The straightforward design and included hardware make for a quick and simple DIY installation.
- Non-Air Gap Model: The slim, single-hole mount provides a clean and simple look.
- Brushed Finish: The brushed stainless steel finish is easy to clean and coordinates well with most modern kitchen appliances.
- Highly Rated: Consistently receives excellent reviews from users who praise its solid build, easy installation, and great price.
Buying Guide
First, and most importantly, determine if your RO system or local plumbing code requires an Air Gap faucet for safety.
Once decided, choose a faucet made from lead-free materials like solid brass or 304 stainless steel. Finally, select a style and finish that complements your main kitchen faucet for a beautiful, cohesive look.
What is a Drinking Water Faucet?
A drinking water faucet is a small, secondary tap installed on your kitchen sink or countertop that is exclusively connected to an under-sink water filtration system, such as a Reverse Osmosis (RO) unit. Its purpose is to dispense only the purified water, keeping it separate from your regular hot and cold tap water to prevent any cross-contamination and ensure the water you drink is as pure as possible.
Air Gap vs. Non-Air Gap Explained
This is the most critical distinction when choosing a faucet for an RO system:
- Non-Air Gap Faucet: This is the most common type. It has a simple, slim base and one single tube that connects to the filtration system to dispense clean water. They are easy to install and have a cleaner look.
- Air Gap Faucet: This type has a much wider base and three tubes underneath. It provides a crucial safety feature by creating a physical air gap that prevents contaminated water from your sink’s drain line from ever being siphoned back into your clean drinking water system. They are required by plumbing codes in many areas.
Helpful Information
Installation Basics
Installing a drinking water faucet is a common DIY project.
- Drill a Hole: If your sink or countertop doesn’t have a spare hole (like for a soap dispenser or side sprayer), you will need to drill one. The required hole size is typically 1/2 inch to 1 inch.
- Mount the Faucet: Feed the faucet’s threaded shank through the hole and secure it from underneath with the included mounting hardware.
- Connect the Tubing: Using the provided quick-connect fittings, attach the water line from your filtration system to the inlet tube on the bottom of the faucet.
Compatibility Check
Before you buy, check the tubing size used by your filtration system. The two most common sizes are 1/4 inch and 3/8 inch. Most modern drinking water faucets come with adapters to fit both sizes, but it’s always wise to double-check.
Tips
- Coordinate Your Style: Try to choose a drinking water faucet that matches the style (modern, traditional) and finish (brushed nickel, chrome, matte black) of your main kitchen faucet for a professional, cohesive look.
- Think Beyond Drinking: Use your filtered water faucet to fill pet water bowls, water your sensitive indoor plants, and fill your coffee maker or tea kettle to prevent mineral buildup and improve taste.
- Check Your Code: Before choosing a non-air gap faucet, it’s a good idea to check your local plumbing code requirements, especially if you are having your RO system professionally installed or are undergoing a permitted renovation.
- Clean the Spout: Periodically wipe the tip of the spout with a clean cloth to prevent any buildup and keep your water tasting fresh.
Comparison Table
| Model Name | Type | Primary Material | Style | Key Feature |
| iSpring GA1-B | Non-Air Gap | Solid Brass | Modern European | Sleek, reliable gooseneck design |
| Waterdrop WD-15-B | Non-Air Gap | 304 Stainless Steel | Modern | Striking matte black finish, all-steel build |
| APEC Faucet-AG | Air Gap | Metal | Classic/Functional | Provides backflow prevention safety |
| Kingston Brass Restoration | Non-Air Gap | Solid Brass | Traditional/Vintage | Ornate, classic styling |
| ESOW Faucet | Non-Air Gap | 304 Stainless Steel | Simple/Functional | Excellent value for an all-steel faucet |
FAQ
Q: Do I really need an air gap faucet for my RO system?
A: It depends on your local plumbing code. Many regions legally require an air gap faucet with a new RO system installation to prevent any possibility of drain water contaminating the public water supply. While a non-air gap faucet will function correctly, the air gap provides an added layer of safety.
Q: Can I connect a drinking water faucet to my refrigerator’s ice maker line?
A: Yes. You can use a T-fitting to split the purified water line from your filtration system, sending one line to your new drinking water faucet and the other line to your refrigerator’s ice maker and water dispenser.
Q: What does “100% lead-free” mean for a faucet?
A: This means the materials that come into contact with the water contain no lead. The highest quality drinking water faucets are made from solid 304 stainless steel or solid brass with a lead-free interior waterway. This is crucial for ensuring the water you drink is not re-contaminated after it has been filtered.
Conclusion
A dedicated drinking water faucet is the perfect partner for your under-sink filtration system, providing a safe, convenient, and stylish way to access pure water.
By keeping your filtered water separate from regular tap water, it ensures the highest level of purity for every glass.
Whether you need the code-compliant safety of the APEC air gap faucet, the modern elegance of the iSpring or Waterdrop models, or the timeless charm of the Kingston Brass fixture, there is a perfect option to complete your setup.
This simple addition elevates the functionality of your kitchen and provides daily peace of mind, making it an essential upgrade for any health-conscious home.