4 Different Types of Faucets 

Faucets come in various shapes and sizes, and there’s more to them than just turning the handle to get water. Whether you’re remodeling your kitchen or bathroom, or just looking to upgrade your current faucet, understanding the different types of faucets available can help you make an informed decision. So, let’s explore the world of faucets together, and discover the different types out there.

1. Ball Faucet

A ball faucet is a type of washerless valve that controls the flow and temperature of the water using a single handle. This type of faucet is easily identifiable by its round base and handle on top. It operates using springs, rubber valves, o-rings, cams, and a round ball located inside the faucet.

While ball faucets are the oldest type of washerless valve, they tend to leak more than other types of faucets such as cartridges or disc faucets. This is because of their complex inner workings, which contain a larger number of parts. Although the exterior of the faucet is durable, the internal parts of the ball faucet require more maintenance. Despite this, ball faucets are still one of the least expensive types of faucets available on the market.

2. Ceramic disc faucet

If you’re looking for a long-lasting and leakproof faucet, a ceramic disc faucet might be the right choice for you. This type of faucet is easily identifiable by its single lever over a wide cylindrical body. Ceramic disc faucets use two ceramic discs located at the bottom of a mixing chamber to control water flow and temperature. 

The discs work together to regulate the water flow, making this type of faucet very reliable and durable. Ceramic disc faucets are also designed to handle extreme temperatures and often include cartridges for added safety. Although they can be initially more expensive than other types of valves, they are considered to be a great investment due to their durability and long-lasting performance. However, it’s important to note that ceramic disc faucets can be costly to fix and may require professional repair.

3. Cartridge faucet 

A cartridge faucet is a type of faucet that utilizes a cartridge device to control water flow. This device is situated within the faucet and is connected to a handle, which also resides within a valve that is located within the faucet. By turning the handle, the cartridge within the valve controls the flow of water out of the spout.

 There are two main types of cartridges: volume control cartridges and thermostatic cartridges. Volume control cartridges regulate the amount of water that flows through the faucet by turning the water on and off. 

In contrast, thermostatic cartridges regulate the temperature as well as the flow rate of the water. Overall, cartridge faucets are low maintenance and their cartridges are known for their durability and ease of replacement, though the cost of replacing them may vary depending on the manufacturer and model of the sink.

4. Compression Washer Faucet

Compression washer faucets are one of the earliest types of faucets used in plumbing. They are easily identifiable by their separate hot and cold water handles, which require you to turn them clockwise to close off the water flow. 

This compression action forces a rubber washer into the valve seat, which stops the flow of water. Because of their simple design, compression washers are relatively easy to repair and maintain. 

However, they are also known for being prone to leaks due to the constant pressure on the washers. These types of faucets are more commonly found in older homes and buildings, as newer technology has replaced them in modern plumbing systems.