How Much Does It Cost to Install an Above-the-Stove Pot Filler?

by Team HomeServe
Wolf stovetop and knobs with pot filler on wall

Above-the-Stove Pot Filler Costs at a Glance:

  • Fixture cost: $300-$1,000+
  • Installation cost: $300-$1,000+
  • Building permit to run new water line: $50-$150

Commercial kitchens have long benefitted from specialized faucets designed for filling oversized stockpots, and now, everyday homeowners can enjoy this technology, too.

This May Also Interest You: How to Install or Replace Your Kitchen Faucet: A Step-by-Step Guide

Adding a pot filler can be as simple as installing a regular kitchen faucet. However, there are some other things to consider before taking on this job or hiring a plumber. Here’s a cost breakdown.

What Is a Pot Filler Used For?

A pot filler, also called a pasta arm, is a specialized, high-volume faucet that's typically mounted on the wall about 16 inches (40 centimeters) above the stove. This feature lets homeowners quickly fill large pots for boiling pasta and making soups or stocks. This way, you can avoid the hassle of filling pots in the sink and carrying them across the kitchen. Most products have an unobtrusive, double-jointed design that lets them fold flat against the wall when they aren't in use. With all these benefits, it's easy to see why pot fillers have become commonplace in designer kitchens.

How Much Does It Cost to Put in a Pot Filler?

Pot filler installation costs depend on a variety of factors, including the type of fixture, the location of existing pipes and whether the wall has to be opened to accommodate new water lines and shutoff valves.

While some homeowners report paying as little as $300 for the fixture, according to Ferguson, many residential products range from $450 to $800. High-end pot fillers may cost more than $1,000. Other things that can affect the cost include the cartridge type, spout reach, flow rate and finish.

Installation costs for a pot filler vary just as widely as the cost of equipment. On the low end, it'll cost about $300 to hire a professional plumber, so says Houzz. Industry experts report significantly higher costs of $1,000 or more. One design blogger said they spent about $550 to have a plumber run a water line and connect the faucet once the tilework was complete.

How Much Does It Cost to Add a Pot Filler to an Existing Kitchen?

There will likely be some additional expenses when adding a pot filler to an existing home. This job typically involves removing the existing drywall or tiled backsplash to run a new water line through the wall opening. A building permit is also required when modifying a home's plumbing system. This alone can increase the cost of the project by $50 to $150 or more, depending on the jurisdiction.

Are Pot Fillers Worth It?

Kitchen upgrades can be a worthwhile investment. Some homeowners love their pot fillers, while others believe this seldom-used feature isn't worth the money. According to Remodeling, major kitchen remodels have a 54% to 57% return on investment. More selective upgrades generate returns as high as 72%. Whether a pasta arm is a “selective upgrade” in your case depends on where you live and other similar houses on the market in your area.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to install a pot filler is a personal one. Here are a few factors to consider.

  • Budget
  • Local plumbing rates
  • Design considerations
  • Plumbing access
  • Valve installation
  • Cooking style
  • Physical ability

Homeowners who feel that installing a pot filler is out of their budget can enjoy similar functionality by installing a kitchen faucet with a pot-filling feature. These commercial-style fixtures feature an additional high-flow spout for filling large pots. Plus, they generally have a pull-down sprayer that makes it easier to wash dishes and clean the sink.