15 June A disc faucet turned on with water streaming out

The 6 Most Common Faucet Types

Posted by PlumbWize

Whether they’re in your bathroom or your kitchen, the importance of a reliable faucet cannot be overstated. While they all serve the same purpose, they’re not all made the same.

There are several things to consider when planning out which faucet types are best suited to different parts of your home. When shopping around for faucets, it’s important to take into account your lifestyle and aesthetic goals.

Keep reading to learn more about six common faucet types!

Table of Contents:

Faucet Types You Need to Know

    1. Compression Washer Faucets

The compression washer faucet is the grandfather of all faucets.

This model has been around since the beginning of time (well, since the beginning of indoor plumbing, at least). As the name suggests, compression washer faucets utilize washers to create a watertight seal.

Their most recognizable attribute is having two distinct handles for cold and hot water. To release water, simply untighten the handles. However, they have fallen out of favour given how they often get stuck and require some strength to operate.

You will typically find these faucet types attached to utility sinks in older houses.

    2. Cartridge Faucets

Cartridge faucets are ideal for bathrooms and kitchens.

While they do bear resemblance to tried-and-true compression faucets, the cartridge types offer some enhancements that make them easier to use.

A cartridge faucet

They typically have handles that require a half turn to be switched on or off, making them much smoother and seamless. Turning their handles does not require the user to apply much pressure, improving usability for all.

These faucet types are also quite durable but easy to fix if necessary.

    3. Disc Faucets

These single-lever faucet types with cylindrical bodies are the newest designs in modern faucet technology.

They supply both hot and cold water by mixing them inside a pressure balance cartridge chamber. At the bottom of that chamber, two ceramic discs work to control the volume of water flow.

Temperature can be managed by side-to-side rotation of the handle. The uncomplicated functionality of a disc faucet is perfect for kitchens and bathrooms. They’re also an ergonomic choice for people who experience hand grip challenges.

    4. Ball Faucets

A ball faucet is right at home in either the kitchen or the bathroom.

As the first washerless faucet, they are easily identifiable by a single handle that rotates over a ball-shaped cap atop the base of the faucet spout. This ball features chambers with rubber O-rings and spring-loaded rubber seals.

The exterior of a ball faucet is solid and sturdy, but the interior structure tends to be more prone to damage over time. The bright side here is that replacement parts tend to be inexpensive and can be easily installed.

    5. Touchless Faucets

When it comes to avoiding messes and minimizing the spread of hand bacteria, touchless faucets certainly have their benefits.

They are motion-activated, with only one handle to regulate water temperature. They allow for a simple, mess-free handwashing experience. Smart(er) versions of these touchless faucets can even be controlled via a voice assistant.

You may have encountered touchless faucets in high-volume public places such as airports, but they are great options for your home, too. Parents with young children might want to consider them to reduce germs and the possibility of taps being left running.

a person fills a glass of water using a touchless faucet

    6. Touch-Activated Faucets

If touchless isn’t your thing, you can also opt for touch-activated faucets. A simple touch prompts the sensors in the spout to initialize the water flow.

when Should I Replace My Faucet?

Finding yourself with a faulty faucet can be a real annoyance, whether it’s stopping you from washing your hands after yard work or washing the dishes piling up in the sink. A leaky faucet is also a nightmare for your water bill.

Stay proactive and keep your eyes peeled for the telltale signs it’s time to take a trip to the hardware store for a brand new faucet:

  • Rust
  • Mould and mildew
  • Smelly or foul-tasting water
  • Poor water pressure
  • Spitting water rather than a smooth flow
  • Squeaky handle
  • Leaking handles

Expert Faucet Installation To Fit Your Home

If you’ve bought yourself a new faucet—be it a replacement or upgrade—it’s time to call PlumbWize to ensure it gets installed correctly the first time.

You can count on our skilled plumbers to work quickly while providing quality service. Rest assured our team is equipped and ready with state-of-the-art equipment to repair or install all faucet types. We’ll make sure your investment lasts.

Contact us today to book an appointment!

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