For those who have traveled outside of the United States, they may notice that other countries have overflows in their kitchen sinks just like in the bathtub and bathroom sink. So, why don’t we have them?
We Don’t Need Them
The simple truth is that it isn’t required by regulation or code so most manufacturers just don’t make them. Having an overflow can cause a sanitation hazard as food gets trapped inside. This could become a serious issue and require continual calls to a plumber to fix. While European designers have addressed the issue by making it easier to get to the overflow to clean, American manufacturers have chosen not to have them at all.
The Purpose of An Overflow
The overflow is there to prevent a disaster on the floor if you forget to shut off the water. In a tub, you can walk away while it is filling and an overflow prevents a mess for when you return. These accidents just don’t happen that often in a kitchen sink.
European designers have been making their sinks that way for years and probably have just continued on because it is tradition. Homeowners may expect to see an overflow in their kitchen sinks and manufacturers have just continued to make them. In America, it is more of a case of “you can’t miss what you never had.”
If you need to update or install a new kitchen sink, you can work with your local plumber to determine the right design for you. They can help you locate a kitchen sink that meets codes and fits in with your design.
