Photo: Kohler
What We Like
- 3 high-performance spray modes
- Efficient magnetic docking
- Light, quiet and flexible hose
- The durable corrosion-proof metallic build
- Simplified single handle design
- Intuitive temperature memory
- Supports flexible installation
What We Don’t Like
- Not ideal for low-cabinet installation
- The 1.5 GPM flow rate could be higher
Bottom Line
A simplified, elegant, and exceptionally ergonomic faucet with high operational versatility and whose universal design enables it to fit in most kitchen sinks.
Introduction
Kohler K-596-VS is a unique kitchen faucet that offers the perfect blend of performance, operations simplicity, and long-lasting reliability.
It offers 3 powerful spray modes to boost operational versatility, including support for intensive cleaning. Also included in this faucet is the coveted magnetic docking feature for fast hose retractions. You’ll also enjoy working with the 360-degree swivel spout and flexible hose.
Kohler K-596-VS Review
Photo: Kohler
Efficiency: Flexible with Reliable Magnetic Docking
This pull-down kitchen faucet is built for superior handling and operating convenience. You can operate the spray head with one hand as you use the other to execute other kitchen tasks.
Superior ergonomics is one of the features that sets this faucet apart from other models. Its braided hose implements ProMotion® technology, which is light, quiet, and has a swiveling ball joint for maximum flexibility.
Then there’s the spout, itself, which rotates at 360 degrees so that you can move it out of the way in either direction, whenever you need more sink space, to accommodate larger items, for instance.
It comes equipped with a 3-function spray head that boosts operational and cleaning versatility. You can choose the Sweep® spray option and the head will create a forceful and powerful water bake for tough cleaning tasks.
The stream option works great in light to moderate cleaning, and with the simple touch of a button, you can engage boost technology to increase the water flow rate by 30 percent.
To simplify the spray head’s operations even further, this component comes fitted with sculpted buttons that are easy to use even with wet, soapy hands.
Another efficiency-boosting feature in this faucet is DockNetik® magnetic docking system. Often found in premium models, this mechanism will lock the spray head securely in place when it’s not in use.
Kohler takes user convenience and comfort a notch higher with its inclusion of a temperature memory feature, which allows you to turn the faucet on and off at a temperature saved from prior usage.
Even though the high-arc spout provides enough clearance for you to fill pots and clean them as well, it’s worth noting that the 16-5/8-inch component requires a significant vertical clearance, making the faucet unsuitable for installation under low cabinets.
Appearance: Stylish Tarnish-Resistant Finishes
The K-596-VS’s design and look screams elegance and class. The entire unit is very refined maintaining a small signature that is space-saving, especially horizontally.
Kohler offers this faucet in 3 premium finishes including vibrant stainless, polished chrome, and matte black. All of these are tarnish-resistant, meaning that they will retain their sophistication and appeal even after years of continuous usage.
If your kitchenware comprises mainly of stainless steel items, then you should consider getting the vibrant stainless or polished chrome finishes.
The matte black is great for those who prefer a laid-back style combined with a touch of sophistication.
Durability: Strong Metallic Corrosion-Resistant Construction
The entire faucet is built on a premium metallic construction, which ensures the unit will withstand the stresses of everyday usage and constant contact with water.
All the finishes available with this faucet are built to resist corrosion and rusting. Your faucet will look as new as it was even after many years of usage.
Also, the faucet’s disk valves are made of strong ceramic, which helps prevent the common problem of dripping, which tends to affect faucets, gradually.
Regular cleaning of some faucet components does contribute a great deal towards extending the unit’s durability. For ease of cleaning the K-596-VS’s spray face is supported by MasterClean™ technology, which prevents mineral buildup on that component.
A limited lifetime warranty covers this premium unit so that you can have confidence in its consistent and reliable performance.
Installation: Flexible 1-Hole and 3-Hole Configuration Support
A key highlight of the K-596-VS and one of the reasons it is a favorite for many households is its high installation flexibility.
This faucet supports single-hole and three-hole sink configurations, making it a universal installation for most kitchen sinks.
All the necessary supply lines and rings needed for a hassle-free installation have been included so that the process is smooth even for a non-professional.
Also, you’ll be please with the fact that Kohler also included the required escutcheon plate to help achieve a complete installation without spending more money on additional components.
Price: A Good Deal for the Value
There’s no question about the premium features and experiences the K-596-VS brings to your kitchen. It is a faucet that offers a lot of value that supports all-around home uses.
You get 3 spay head functions that address all the common applications done at the kitchen sink, including intensive cleaning, which is made possible by the sweep spray feature that creates a powerful water blade.
Its hose and spout have been optimized to enhance flexibility. The braided hose is quest, light, and braided to simplify spray head use and maneuverability.
Also, the entire faucet is made of heavy-duty metallic construction and comes in tarnish-resistant finishes, all of which boost the unit’s durability.
Another Kohler faucet that competes well with the K-596-VS is the K-22036-CP. This one offers superior operating convenience thanks to its touchless sensor-driven operation.
Because of this touchless control feature, the K-22036-CP reduces the chances of germ transmission because you will be touching the faucet less often.
However, because the sensor technology requires some degree of electric components, there’s always a marginal chance that they could fail and you’d risk losing the smart functionalities.
Also, the K-22036-CP is significantly pricier than Kohler K-596-VS. Therefore, getting the latter maximizes the value you get for your money.
Verdict
The unique blend of performance, ergonomics, and ease of handling make the Kohler K-596-VS the ultimate home kitchen faucet.
3 superiors spay modes, reliable magnetic spray head docking, and a highly-flexible spout and hose are some of the many features that make this spray head blissful for all users in your home, especially for routine sink-related tasks such as cleaning and food preparation.
Specs
- Product Name: Kohler K-596-VS
- Product Brand: Kohler
- Faucet Type: Universal Type
- Faucet Finish: Corrosion and Tarnish-Resistant
- Overall Height: 16-5/8 inches
- Spout Reach: 9 inches
- Connection Size: 3/8-inch
- Connection Type: Compression
- Spray Functions: 3
- Handle Type: Lever
- Spout Swivel: 360 degrees
- Number of Handles: 1
- Water Usage: 1.5 GPM @ 60 psi
- Installation-Ready: Yes, with installation lines and rings
- Warranty: Lifetime (limited)
Key Features
- 3 high-performance and versatile spray modes boost faucet efficiency
- Reliable DockNetik® magnetic docking system for secure spray head docking
- Sweep® spray technology creates a wide and powerful spray for superior cleaning
- Boost technology enhances water flow rate by up to 30 percent
- ProMotion® technology supports the light, quiet, and flexible swiveling hose
- Intuitive temperature memory function that retains previous water temperature
- A high-arc spout design enables convenient filling and cleaning of pots
- The 360-degree spout swivel capacity offers superior faucet maneuverability
- The premium metallic construction guarantees long-lasting durability and reliability
- Supports 1-hole or 3-hole installation for universal sink support