Project Source 2 Handle Kitchen Faucet

Affordable Functionality Meets Timeless Design in Your Kitchen

Have you ever found yourself standing in your kitchen, staring at that outdated, dripping faucet, wondering if there’s an affordable option that doesn’t sacrifice quality? I’ve been there too. After weeks of research and countless hours scrolling through home improvement websites, I stumbled upon what might be the most underrated kitchen upgrade available today: the Project Source 2-Handle Kitchen Faucet.

Let me take you on a journey through everything you need to know about this kitchen essential – from what makes it special to installation tips that will save you time and frustration. By the end of this post, you’ll understand why this budget-friendly faucet might be the perfect solution for your kitchen renovation needs.

What Exactly Is a Project Source 2-Handle Kitchen Faucet?

The Project Source 2-Handle Kitchen Faucet is exactly what it sounds like – a kitchen faucet featuring two separate handles that control hot and cold water independently. But it’s so much more than just that basic description.

This particular faucet is part of the Project Source line of products, which has gained recognition for offering reliable, no-frills home improvement items at accessible price points. The 2-handle design represents a traditional approach to kitchen fixtures that many homeowners still prefer over newer single-handle models.

What sets this faucet apart is its blend of classic functionality with modern manufacturing standards. The dual-handle design gives you precise temperature control – something that can be trickier with single-handle models. One handle controls cold water, the other hot water, allowing you to find that perfect temperature for washing dishes or filling cooking pots.

The faucet features a high-arc spout that swivels a full 360 degrees, providing excellent maneuverability around your sink area. This makes tasks like filling large pots or cleaning oversized items significantly easier. Most models also come with a side sprayer, adding versatility for targeted cleaning and rinsing.

Where Can You Find This Kitchen Essential?

One of the most appealing aspects of the Project Source line is its accessibility. These faucets are widely available at Lowe’s home improvement stores nationwide, as Project Source is one of Lowe’s house brands. This exclusive relationship means you won’t find these exact models at competitors like Home Depot or Menards.

The benefit of this arrangement is twofold: consistent pricing and reliable stock availability. Since Lowe’s carries these products as their own brand, they maintain competitive pricing and typically keep good inventory levels.

For those who prefer online shopping, the Project Source 2-handle kitchen faucet is readily available on Lowe’s website, often with free shipping on orders over a certain amount. You might occasionally find these faucets on third-party marketplace sites like Amazon or eBay, but purchasing directly from Lowe’s ensures you’re getting an authentic product with applicable warranty coverage.

The Price Point: Affordability Without Compromise

Let’s talk about what might be the most attractive feature of the Project Source 2-handle kitchen faucet: its price. In a market where premium kitchen faucets can easily exceed $300 or even $500, the Project Source model typically retails between $50 and $100, depending on the specific finish and whether it includes additional features like the side sprayer.

This price point positions it firmly in the budget-friendly category, but don’t let that fool you into thinking it’s cheaply made. The value proposition here is impressive – you’re getting a functional, reliable faucet that handles daily kitchen tasks without breaking the bank.

For homeowners on a strict renovation budget, rental property owners looking for durable but cost-effective fixtures, or anyone needing a temporary solution while saving for a higher-end model down the road, this price point is incredibly attractive.

When compared to similar models from other manufacturers, the Project Source typically comes in at 20-40% less expensive while offering comparable functionality. That’s money you can redirect to other aspects of your kitchen renovation or simply keep in your pocket.

Materials and Construction: What’s It Made Of?

Despite its affordable price tag, the Project Source 2-handle kitchen faucet doesn’t cut corners on materials. The main body is constructed from solid brass, which provides excellent durability and resistance to corrosion – crucial for a fixture that encounters water constantly.

The internal components utilize a mix of metal and high-grade plastic parts. While premium faucets might use all-metal internals, the strategic use of quality plastics in non-critical areas helps keep costs down without significantly impacting longevity.

Most models feature ceramic disc valves rather than rubber washers found in older faucet designs. This is a significant advantage as ceramic disc valves typically last much longer and are less prone to leaking over time. This modern valve technology represents one of the ways the Project Source faucet incorporates contemporary features while maintaining its traditional dual-handle design.

The aerator (the screen at the end of the spout) is typically made of plastic with a metal mesh interior, designed to mix air with the water flow for a smoother stream and reduced splashing. It’s also removable for cleaning, which helps maintain optimal water flow over the faucet’s lifetime.

Aesthetic Options: Finishes to Match Your Kitchen

While the Project Source line doesn’t offer dozens of exotic finishes like some premium brands, it does provide the most popular options to coordinate with most kitchen designs. The standard finishes typically include:

1. Chrome – A bright, reflective finish that works well in contemporary kitchens and is the most affordable option
2. Brushed Nickel – A warmer, more subdued metallic look that shows fewer water spots and fingerprints
3. Oil-Rubbed Bronze – A darker finish with rich, brownish tones that complements rustic or traditional kitchen designs

These three options cover the vast majority of kitchen color schemes and hardware pairings. The chrome finish tends to be the most budget-friendly, while the brushed nickel and oil-rubbed bronze options might add $10-15 to the base price.

The finish isn’t just about looks – it also impacts durability. The chrome finish tends to be the most resistant to tarnishing and corrosion, while the oil-rubbed bronze might show wear at contact points over many years of use. All finishes are applied using modern techniques that bond the color layer to the brass substrate, providing good resistance to flaking or chipping.

Installation: Can You DIY It?

One of the most appealing aspects of the Project Source 2-handle kitchen faucet is its installation simplicity. This faucet is designed with the DIY homeowner in mind, making it an excellent choice for those looking to save on plumber costs.

The faucet is designed to fit standard 8-inch center-set sink configurations, which is the most common layout in American kitchens. This means it will likely be compatible with your existing sink without modification.

For a typical replacement installation where you’re swapping out an old faucet for this new one, you’ll need only basic tools:

• Adjustable wrench
• Basin wrench (helpful but not always necessary)
• Plumber’s tape
• Silicone sealant (optional)
• Bucket or towels to catch water from disconnected lines
• Flashlight (for seeing under the sink)

The package includes everything else you’ll need: the faucet body, handles, mounting hardware, and sometimes even supply lines (though checking the specific package details is always wise).

The installation process generally follows these steps:

1. Turn off the water supply valves under the sink
2. Remove the old faucet
3. Clean the sink surface where the new faucet will sit
4. Insert the new faucet through the mounting holes
5. Secure the faucet from underneath using the included mounting hardware
6. Connect the water supply lines
7. Attach the side sprayer if included
8. Turn the water back on and check for leaks

For most homeowners with basic DIY skills, this installation takes between 30 minutes and an hour. The instructions included with the faucet are clear and illustrated, making the process straightforward even for first-timers.

The Side Sprayer: Added Functionality

Most Project Source 2-handle kitchen faucet models come with a side sprayer, though some basic models are available without this feature. The side sprayer connects to the main faucet assembly and sits in its own dedicated hole in your sink or countertop.

This sprayer provides targeted water flow, perfect for:

• Rinsing food from dishes before loading the dishwasher
• Cleaning sink corners and edges
• Rinsing fruits and vegetables
• Filling containers that don’t fit easily under the main spout

The sprayer typically features a button that you press and hold to activate the water flow. When released, the water returns to flowing from the main spout. This design prevents accidental spraying and water waste.

The sprayer hose extends approximately 30-36 inches, providing good reach around the sink area. The hose is made from flexible synthetic materials designed to resist kinking and wear over time.

If your sink doesn’t have a dedicated sprayer hole, you’ll need to evaluate whether this feature is worth the additional installation complexity. For sinks with an unused soap dispenser hole or sprayer hole, it’s a perfect fit and adds significant functionality to your kitchen workflow.

Dimensions and Compatibility: Will It Fit Your Sink?

Understanding the physical dimensions of the Project Source 2-handle kitchen faucet is crucial for determining compatibility with your sink and kitchen layout. The standard measurements include:

• Spout height: Approximately 8-10 inches from the sink surface to the highest point
• Spout reach: About 8-9 inches from the center of the faucet base to the end of the spout
• Handle width: The handles extend roughly 3 inches from each side of the central spout
• Total width: Approximately 8 inches from handle tip to handle tip
• Required mounting holes: Three holes with 4-inch or 8-inch spacing (depending on the model)

The 8-inch center-set configuration (measuring from the center of the left handle to the center of the right handle) is the most common, but some models are available in 4-inch configurations for smaller sinks.

Most kitchen sinks manufactured in the last several decades will be compatible with this faucet’s dimensions. However, it’s always wise to measure your existing setup before purchasing. If you have a non-standard configuration, you might need an adapter plate, which can sometimes be purchased separately.

The faucet’s height is an important consideration, especially if you have cabinets or shelving directly above your sink area. Ensure you have adequate clearance for the arc of the spout, particularly if you’re upgrading from a lower-profile faucet.

The Swivel Spout: 360 Degrees of Convenience

One of the most practical features of the Project Source 2-handle kitchen faucet is its fully rotating swivel spout. This 360-degree rotation allows you to direct water flow exactly where you need it, whether that’s to the left sink basin, right basin, or anywhere in between.

This functionality is particularly valuable in:

• Double-basin sinks where you need to easily switch between sides
• Situations where you’re filling containers placed next to rather than directly under the faucet
• Cleaning operations where you need to direct water to different areas of the sink

The swivel mechanism is designed for smooth operation even after years of use. It employs internal O-rings that maintain a watertight seal while allowing for easy rotation. These O-rings are typically made from durable synthetic rubber compounds that resist deterioration from water exposure and minerals.

Some users report that the swivel action becomes slightly stiffer over time due to mineral buildup, but this is easily remedied with routine cleaning (more on maintenance later). Overall, the swivel feature significantly enhances the functionality of this otherwise straightforward faucet design.

Water Efficiency and Flow Rate: Finding the Balance

In today’s environmentally conscious world, water efficiency is an important consideration for kitchen fixtures. The Project Source 2-handle kitchen faucet complies with federal regulations limiting flow rates to 2.2 gallons per minute (GPM) or less.

Most models in this line have a flow rate of approximately 1.8 GPM, which strikes a good balance between water conservation and practical functionality. This flow rate provides sufficient water volume for typical kitchen tasks without excessive waste.

The aerator at the spout tip helps achieve this efficiency by mixing air into the water stream. This creates the perception of higher water volume while actually using less water. The aerator also shapes the water flow into a steady, splash-free stream that’s ideal for kitchen tasks.

For those in areas with strict water conservation requirements (like parts of California), there are low-flow variants available that reduce the flow rate further to 1.5 GPM or even 1.2 GPM. These models typically have “WaterSense” labeling and may qualify for rebates from local utilities in water-restricted regions.

It’s worth noting that while the lower flow rates save water, they do extend the time needed to fill large pots or containers. This is a tradeoff to consider based on your specific kitchen habits and local water conservation needs.

Cleaning and Maintenance: Keeping It Looking New

One advantage of the Project Source 2-handle kitchen faucet’s simple design is how easy it is to maintain. Regular cleaning and a few preventative measures will keep it functioning properly and looking good for years.

For routine cleaning of the exterior surfaces:

1. Use a soft cloth dampened with warm water
2. For stubborn spots, add a mild dish soap
3. Gently wipe along the grain of the finish (particularly important for brushed nickel)
4. Rinse with clean water and dry with a soft cloth to prevent water spots

Avoid abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or harsh chemicals as these can damage the finish. Also steer clear of anything containing ammonia, bleach, or acidic ingredients, as these can degrade the faucet’s finish over time.

For the aerator, which can collect mineral deposits and debris:

1. Unscrew it from the spout tip (you may need pliers with tape-wrapped jaws to avoid scratching)
2. Rinse it under running water, using an old toothbrush to gently clean the mesh
3. For mineral buildup, soak it in equal parts water and white vinegar for an hour
4. Rinse thoroughly and reinstall

If you notice reduced water flow over time, cleaning the aerator as described above will usually resolve the issue. In areas with hard water, doing this every 3-6 months is good preventative maintenance.

For the handles, which can develop stiffness:

1. Remove the decorative caps (usually with a flathead screwdriver)
2. Tighten the exposed screw if the handle feels loose
3. Apply a small amount of food-grade silicone grease to the stem if movement is stiff

With these simple maintenance procedures, your Project Source faucet can remain functional and attractive for 7-10 years or more, representing excellent value for its modest price point.

Durability Features: Built to Last

Despite its budget-friendly price, the Project Source 2-handle kitchen faucet incorporates several features that enhance its durability and reliability:

Ceramic Disc Valves: Unlike older faucets that use rubber washers which deteriorate over time, most Project Source models employ ceramic disc valves. These hard ceramic components slide against each other to control water flow, creating a much more durable sealing mechanism that typically lasts for the life of the faucet without developing leaks.

Brass Construction: The main body being made of brass provides natural corrosion resistance and structural integrity. Brass has been the material of choice for quality plumbing fixtures for decades because of its excellent durability in wet environments.

Protective Finish: The chrome, brushed nickel, or oil-rubbed bronze finishes aren’t just decorative – they provide an additional protective layer that shields the brass substrate from corrosion and wear.

Reinforced Connection Points: Areas that experience the most stress, such as where the spout connects to the base, are reinforced to prevent loosening over time.

While it doesn’t offer the lifetime guarantees of premium brands costing five times as much, the Project Source faucet is engineered to provide many years of reliable service under normal household conditions. Its simple design also means fewer complex parts that could potentially fail.

Warranty Coverage: Your Protection Plan

The Project Source 2-handle kitchen faucet comes with a limited warranty that typically covers defects in materials and workmanship. The standard warranty period is 5 years for the finish and mechanical parts, which is quite respectable for a faucet in this price range.

This warranty provides protection against:

• Leaks or drips due to defective valves or seals
• Finish defects such as peeling, flaking, or discoloration (under normal use conditions)
• Mechanical failures not caused by improper installation or maintenance

To maintain warranty coverage, it’s important to:

• Follow the installation instructions precisely
• Use only gentle cleaning methods as described in the maintenance section
• Retain your receipt or proof of purchase
• Install the faucet in a residential setting (commercial use may void the warranty)

Should you encounter a problem covered by warranty, Lowe’s customer service is the first point of contact. They can facilitate the warranty claim process, which typically involves either replacement parts being sent to you or, in some cases, a complete replacement faucet.

It’s worth noting that this warranty is competitive for the price point. Many similarly priced faucets offer only 1-3 year warranties, making the Project Source’s 5-year coverage an additional value factor.

Two Handles vs. One: The Great Faucet Debate

The kitchen faucet market has increasingly shifted toward single-handle designs in recent years, which raises the question: why choose a two-handle model like the Project Source?

Temperature Control: Two-handle faucets allow for more precise temperature adjustments. You can set exact proportions of hot and cold water, which can be particularly useful for tasks requiring specific temperatures.

Familiarity: Many homeowners, especially those who grew up with traditional kitchen fixtures, simply prefer the familiar operation of separate hot and cold controls.

Visual Balance: In traditional or transitional kitchen designs, the symmetry of dual handles often complements the overall aesthetic better than a single-handle model.

Mechanical Simplicity: Two-handle designs separate the hot and cold water paths until they mix at the spout, potentially reducing internal complexity compared to single-handle models with mixing chambers.

Failure Isolation: If one valve develops a problem, you can still use the other side while awaiting repair. With a single-handle faucet, any valve issue typically affects all functionality.

That said, single-handle faucets do offer advantages in convenience (one-hand operation) and sometimes incorporate pull-down sprayers that some users prefer over side sprayers. The Project Source 2-handle design represents a deliberate choice to serve those who value the traditional approach.

Common Issues and Solutions: Troubleshooting Guide

Even well-made faucets can develop issues over time. Here are the most common problems reported with the Project Source 2-handle kitchen faucet and how to address them:

Dripping from the spout: This usually indicates worn valve seats or seals. If your model has ceramic disc valves, they rarely need replacement, but might need cleaning if mineral deposits are causing improper seating. Remove the handle and valve assembly, clean thoroughly, and reinstall. If dripping persists, replacement parts are available.

Low water pressure: Most often caused by a clogged aerator. Remove and clean as described in the maintenance section. If pressure remains low, check that the supply valves under the sink are fully open and that the supply lines aren’t kinked.

Loose handle: Handle movement is normal, but excessive wobbling indicates the need for tightening. Remove the decorative cap on top of the handle to access the mounting screw, then tighten gently.

Stiff handle movement: Usually caused by mineral buildup or corrosion on the valve stems. Remove handles and apply food-grade silicone lubricant to the stems before reinstalling.

Leaking at the base: This indicates a problem with the O-rings that seal the faucet to the sink. Tightening the mounting nuts under the sink can often resolve this. For persistent leaks, replacing the O-rings (available at most hardware stores) is usually effective.

Side sprayer dripping: Typically caused by debris in the diverter valve that controls water flow between the main spout and sprayer. This component is located within the faucet body and may require disassembly to clean or replace.

Most of these issues can be resolved with basic DIY skills and minimal cost, reinforcing the value proposition of this affordable faucet.

What Do Customers Really Think? The Verdict from Users

Customer reviews of the Project Source 2-handle kitchen faucet reveal a pattern of satisfaction, especially when expectations align with the price point. Analyzing hundreds of online reviews yields these common themes:

Value for Money: The most frequently cited positive aspect is the excellent balance of functionality and affordability. Many reviewers express surprise at how well-made the faucet feels given its budget-friendly price.

Ease of Installation: DIY homeowners consistently rate the installation process as straightforward, with most completing it in under an hour without professional help.

Durability: Long-term users often mention being impressed by how well the faucet holds up over years of daily use, particularly noting the lack of leaks that often plague cheaper fixtures.

Finish Quality: The chrome finish receives particularly positive feedback for its resistance to spotting and tarnishing, while the brushed nickel earns praise for hiding water spots and fingerprints.

Minor Criticisms: The most common complaints involve the plastic side sprayer (on models that include one), which some users find less durable than the metal main faucet body. Others mention that the handles can feel slightly less substantial than those on premium faucets.

The overall consensus appears to be that the Project Source 2-handle kitchen faucet exceeds expectations for its price range, with a typical review rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars. Many reviewers specifically recommend it for rental properties, budget renovations, or as a reliable temporary solution while saving for a high-end kitchen upgrade.

Conclusion: Is This the Right Faucet for You?

After diving deep into every aspect of the Project Source 2-handle kitchen faucet, it’s clear that this fixture offers remarkable value in an affordable package. Its combination of traditional design, modern construction techniques, and accessible pricing makes it an excellent choice for a wide range of kitchen situations.

This faucet is likely right for you if:

• You’re working with a limited renovation budget
• You prefer the precise temperature control of dual handles
• You appreciate simple, traditional design aesthetics
• You’re comfortable with basic DIY installation
• You need a reliable fixture without premium pricing

It might not be ideal if:

• You require specialized features like pull-down sprayers or touchless operation
• Your kitchen design demands unique finishes beyond the standard options
• You have non-standard sink configurations requiring custom fittings

In the landscape of kitchen fixtures, the Project Source 2-handle kitchen faucet occupies an important niche: delivering reliable performance and respectable durability at a price point accessible to nearly any homeowner. While it may lack the luxury touches and extended warranties of faucets costing five times as much, it handles everyday kitchen tasks with aplomb and presents an appearance that belies its modest cost.

Whether you’re outfitting a rental property, working through a budget-conscious renovation, or simply need a reliable replacement for a failed faucet, the Project Source 2-handle kitchen faucet deserves serious consideration. In a world where home improvement costs seem to continually escalate, this fixture stands as a reminder that quality and affordability can still go hand in hand.