Pot Filler
A pot filler is a cold-water tap that you install above your cooktop so you can add water to large stock pots without having to carry a full pot of water around the kitchen.
Overview
Kitchen design trends are moving ever closer to replicating commercial kitchens in the home. One example of this trend is the pot filler. A long-neck faucet that mounts to the wall behind the cooktop, a pot filler allows you to dispense water directly into large pots on the cooktop. This saves lugging pots of water from the sink to the stove.
Although horizontally mounted models are available, most pot fillers are attached to the wall. Almost all are designed for cold water only. Some have two valves, one at the wall and another at the end of the spout. Other models can be turned on with a foot pedal for safe, hands-free use.
A pot filler will require code-approved supply pipe (1⁄2" in most cases) connected with a permanent union at another supply line or the main. The best time to run a new supply is during a remodel. But retrofitting a new supply line and mounting a pot filler is not too difficult as a standalone project. Using PEX supply pipe will make running the new supply line in finished walls easier.
From: The Complete Guide to Plumbing, 978-1-58923-378-2
Step 1
New Supply Line
Plan the route for the new supply line. In most cases, you will enter the stud cavity of the wall and run a new line directly upward, past the backsplash height of the countertop (A). If the countertop backsplash is removable, avoid wallboard patching by installing the tubing behind the backsplash (B). You may also be able to run the supply line underneath the kitchen if there is an unfinished basement (C).
Step 2
How to Install a Pot Filler
Shut off the water supply and locate the cold water supply riser at the kitchen sink. Cut into the riser and install a T-fitting, or replace the existing shutoff valve on the riser with a multiple-outlet shutoff valve, with an outlet for 1⁄2" supply pipe for the pot filler.
Step 3
How to Install a Pot Filler
Plan the route for the new supply line beginning at the T‑fitting and working toward the cooktop area. Determine the height of the new line and then snap chalklines from the sink to the cooktop. With the electrical power shut off, remove wall coverings 2" above and below the chalkline and at the location for the pot filler outlet. Make sure the location is high enough to clear your tallest stockpot.
Step 4
How to Install a Pot Filler
Drill 3⁄4" holes in the framing for the supply tubes. Install protector plates if the holes are within 11⁄4" of the stud edge.
Step 5
How to Install a Pot Filler
Run 1⁄2" PEX from the supply riser through the holes to the pot filler location.
Step 6
How to Install a Pot Filler
Attach the new PEX supply line to the T-fitting at the supply riser, installing an accessible shutoff valve on the new line.
Step 7
How to Install a Pot Filler
At the cooktop, install the faucet union as specified by the manufacturer. Add blocking as needed. The pot filler installed here attaches to a drop-ear L-fitting, mounted to blocking. Apply pipe joint compound to the faucet inlet and thread it on to the L-fitting.
Step 8
How to Install a Pot Filler
Cut and install the wallboard patch. Fit the flange over the inlet. Apply pipe joint compound to the threads of the faucet body. Assemble and adjust the faucet according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Test the faucet before refinishing the wallboard.
