centerset

Centerset is a faucet configuration commonly used for bathroom sinks in which the hot and cold water handles along with the spout are mounted on a single base plate. The defining feature is a four-inch center-to-center spacing between the handles, which aligns with a three-hole sink arrangement.

In a centerset faucet, the base plate covers three predrilled holes: one for the hot handle, one for the cold handle, and one for the spout. The entire faucet is typically sold as a single unit, making installation straightforward on sinks designed for a four-inch centerset layout. This contrasts with widespread or multi-hole faucets, which require more spacing between handles (often eight inches or more) and may use separate escutcheons or a deck plate.

Compatibility and variations: Centerset faucets are designed for sinks with three holes spaced about four inches apart. They are common in many residential bathrooms and are popular where space is limited or a compact look is desired. Some manufacturers offer variants labeled as four-inch centerset or three-hole centerset; there are also optional adapter kits to fit minor variances in hole placement on certain sinks.

Advantages and limitations: The centerset design provides a compact, easy-to-install solution with a clean aesthetic. It is well-suited to standard 4-inch centerset sink configurations but is less flexible when a sink requires wider spacing or when individual control of spout and handles is preferred. In such cases, a widespread faucet or a single-handle model may be more appropriate.