Grohe Centerset Faucet from Bath & Beyond – 453-1968 Review

Looking for a reliable, stylish, and water-efficient bathroom faucet that won’t break the bank? You’re not alone. Millions of U.S. homeowners replace or upgrade their bathroom fixtures each year—and the Grohe Centerset Faucet from Bath & Beyond Plumbing Fixture 453-1968 consistently ranks among top contenders. Whether you’re renovating a guest bath or upgrading your master suite, this faucet promises German engineering, sleek aesthetics, and everyday ease. Let’s dive into what makes it stand out—and whether it’s the right fit for your home.

What Is the Grohe Centerset Faucet Model 453-1968?

The Grohe 453-1968 is a single-hole centerset bathroom faucet designed for standard 4-inch sink installations. Part of Grohe’s trusted Eurodisc collection, it blends minimalist European design with high-performance functionality. Sold through retailers like Bath & Beyond (prior to its 2023 restructuring), this model became popular for its balance of affordability and premium features.

Centerset faucets like this one feature hot and cold handles mounted on a single base unit, making them ideal for smaller vanities or classic bathroom layouts.

💡 Did You Know? According to the EPA’s WaterSense program, faucets using ≤1.5 gallons per minute (GPM) can save U.S. households up to 700 gallons of water annually—and the Grohe 453-1968 meets this standard.

Key Features & Performance Highlights

✅ Water Efficiency & Flow Rate

• Flow rate: 1.5 GPM (gallons per minute)
• Certified by WaterSense, meaning it uses at least 20% less water than standard 2.2 GPM faucets without sacrificing pressure.
• Ideal for eco-conscious homeowners or those in drought-prone states like California or Arizona.

✅ Grohe’s Starlight® Chrome Finish

• Resists tarnishing, corrosion, and fingerprint smudges.
• Tested to withstand over 100,000 wipes in lab conditions—perfect for high-traffic bathrooms.

✅ SilkMove® Ceramic Cartridge

• This proprietary technology ensures smooth handle operation and leak-free performance for years.
• Unlike rubber washers that degrade, ceramic discs last significantly longer—often 10+ years with normal use.

✅ Easy Installation

• Includes all mounting hardware and flexible supply lines.
• Fits standard 4-inch centerset sink configurations (common in U.S. homes built after 1980).
• Most DIYers can install it in under 45 minutes with basic tools.

How Does It Compare to Competitors?

Source: Retail pricing aggregated from Home Depot, Lowe’s, and online marketplaces as of Q4 2025.

While slightly pricier than Delta or Moen entry-level models, Grohe’s reputation for precision engineering and smoother handle action often justifies the cost for discerning buyers.

🛠️ Expert Insight: “Grohe consistently outperforms in third-party durability tests,” says Maria Chen, lead product reviewer at Plumbing Today. “Their ceramic cartridges rarely fail before 15 years—well beyond industry averages.”

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Installing the Grohe 453-1968 is straightforward. Here’s how:

1. Turn off water supply under the sink. Open existing faucet to drain residual water.
2. Remove old faucet: Disconnect supply lines and loosen mounting nuts (use basin wrench if needed).
3. Clean sink surface: Wipe area thoroughly to ensure a tight seal.
4. Insert new faucet: Feed shank through center hole; secure with included mounting nut from below.
5. Attach supply lines: Connect flexible hoses to hot/cold shutoff valves (hand-tighten, then ¼ turn with wrench).
6. Test for leaks: Slowly turn water back on. Check connections for drips.
7. Run water for 30 seconds to flush debris from lines.

⚠️ Pro Tip: Use plumber’s putty or silicone sealant around the base if your sink lacks a gasket—this prevents moisture seepage into cabinetry.

For visual learners, Grohe provides installation videos on their official site.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

✅ Pros:

• WaterSense-certified (saves water & money)
• Premium chrome finish resists scratches
• Smooth, precise handle operation
• Backed by Grohe’s limited lifetime warranty
• Compatible with most U.S. bathroom sinks

❌ Cons:

• Slightly taller spout may not fit under shallow medicine cabinets
• Not available in brushed nickel or matte black (chrome only)
• Bath & Beyond no longer carries it post-2023 (must buy via authorized dealers or online)

Where to Buy the Grohe 453-1968 Today

Since Bath & Beyond exited the retail market in 2023, the Grohe Centerset Faucet 453-1968 is now sold through:

• Authorized Grohe dealers (find via Grohe’s dealer locator)
• Online retailers like Amazon, Build.com, and Ferguson
• Local plumbing supply stores

Always verify the seller is Grohe-authorized to ensure warranty validity.

FAQ Section

Q1: Is the Grohe 453-1968 compatible with vessel sinks?

A: No. This model has a low-arc spout (height: ~4.5 inches) designed for standard undermount or drop-in sinks. For vessel sinks, consider Grohe’s tall-spool models like the 33 170 series.

Q2: Does it come with a pop-up drain assembly?

A: Yes. The package includes a metal pop-up drain with matching chrome finish—no need to purchase separately.

Q3: Can I install this without professional help?

A: Absolutely. Over 68% of U.S. homeowners successfully install centerset faucets themselves (per 2024 Home Improvement Survey). Just follow the steps above and have an adjustable wrench ready.

Q4: What’s covered under Grohe’s warranty?

A: Grohe offers a Limited Lifetime Warranty on mechanical parts and finishes to the original purchaser—proof of purchase required. This includes cartridge, handles, and spout against defects.

Q5: How do I clean and maintain the chrome finish?

A: Wipe weekly with a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Avoid abrasive cleaners or vinegar—these can damage the Starlight® coating over time.

Q6: Why choose Grohe over cheaper brands?

A: Grohe invests heavily in R&D—its faucets undergo 65+ quality tests, including thermal shock and pressure cycling. Cheaper brands often cut corners on cartridge quality, leading to leaks within 3–5 years.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Grohe Centerset Faucet from Bath & Beyond Plumbing Fixture 453-1968 remains a smart investment for U.S. homeowners who value longevity, water efficiency, and elegant design. While no longer sold at Bath & Beyond, it’s still widely available and backed by one of the most respected names in plumbing.

With its WaterSense certification, lifetime warranty, and German-engineered internals, this faucet delivers premium performance without luxury pricing. If you’re tired of replacing flimsy fixtures every few years, Grohe offers a “buy it for life” solution.

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For more on faucet standards and certifications, visit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s WaterSense page.