When you are looking to improve your kitchen or bathroom, one of the easiest ways to do this is by installing a new faucet. A new faucet can breathe a fresh breath of life into a worn out dingy space. They are also great to replace if you are having issues with leaks or drips. Did you know there are a few different types of faucets to choose from today? There are typically four basic types of faucets that you can choose from at this point. Some are more commonly used in the kitchen, while others are excellent choices for the bathroom. So let’s take a peek at the four most common faucets you will find in your home.
1. The Ball Faucet
The ball faucet is the most commonly used faucet type in the kitchen. It features a single sleek handle which pivots on a rounded cap that is ball-shaped. This rounded cap sits right at the base of the spout. The ball that is located inside the faucet allows for the water to flow, and with movement can adjust the temperature of the water. It is because the ball has chambers that allow the hot and cold water to mix. The ball faucet was the first of it’s kind when it comes to washerless faucets. It is also one of the most prone to leaking.
2. The Disc Faucet
As one of the newcomers to the types of faucets, these have a very modern appeal. You can spot these faucets by their single lever over a broader cylindrical base and body. As a higher quality faucet, these are reliable and do not require repairs often. The disk faucet will mix the hot and cold water inside a pressure balance cartridge. The disks will lower and raise to control the flow of water allowing more volume to escape. You can turn the temperature by moving the handle side to side.
3. The Compression Washer Faucet
This particular type of faucet has been around since indoor plumbing became widely used. This double handle design is one of the cheapest options you can have. You can identify them by the two separate handles, usually labeled hot/cold. They work off a compression stem that will press against a valve seat. These are the most prone to leaks and often require maintenance. You will find these usually in washrooms, where an aesthetic appeal isn’t as necessary.
4. The Single Handle Cartridge Faucet
Last on the list is the single handle cartridge faucet. These are not precisely identifiable by how they look, but more by how they operate and feel. They are simplistic and work in an up/down to adjust the flow of water and left/right for temperature control. They have been described as a smooth and consistent faucet. There is also a double handle cartridge faucet that operates in the same manner.
Conclusion
So know that you know the four different types of faucets, you will be able to select the right one to make a replacement. They each have their pluses and minuses, and it depends on your style, and what your budget is. The disk faucet will give you the most reliable long lasting water flow with minimal maintenance, and a more significant price tag. The single handle cartridge faucet will be less expensive but more prone to leaks.