One of the key advantages of installing a water softening system in the home is that your faucets will perform optimally for longer. If you’re looking to install new faucets in your bathroom or kitchen, it’s important to be aware that not all faucets were created equally. There are different types of bathroom faucets and choosing the right one depends on your particular requirements and personal preferences, both in terms of looks and functionality. For example, ball faucets are popular for the kitchen, foot operated faucets are popular for hospitals, and motion-sensor faucets are popular for airport washrooms.The most commons types of faucets are as follows:

Compression faucets

Compression faucets are the most well known type, utilising one head and two different handles, with each handle controlling a different temperature (that is, the hot and cold water). Most of us present-day adults became familiar with this style of faucet while growing up, and although it is still popular, washers do tend to suffer over time which can lead to irritating leaks.

Ball faucets

The ball design is commonly used in kitchens, and utilises a single handle which can be turned to adjust the temperature. Moving the handle up and down will turn the water flow on or off. While the fact that there is no washer is seen to be an advantage by some, these types of faucets often suffer from leaks due to deterioration of the valves, the o-ring and the ball itself.

Cartridge faucets

Also known as washerless faucets, this design uses both one and two handles, and features a stem cartridge to control the flow of water (negating the need for a washer). This type of faucet does not suffer from leaks to the same extent as compression and ball faucets, but the parts are still subject to wear and tear over time.

Disc faucets

This style of faucet represents a radical break from traditional faucet design. The system uses one disc which stays stationary and another which slides back and forth to control the flow of water and temperature. While this modern design is very effective at preventing leaks, it is also the most expensive of the types we have mentioned so far. However, keeping the leaks at bay will help you to save money in the long run as less water is wasted.

Hands-free faucets

The concept of a hands-free faucet seems futuristic, but with present day technology this is now a reality. Also known as motion-sensor faucets, the design utilises motion-sensor technology so that the flow of water only turns on when the motion sensor is triggered. This enables you to pre-program a luke-warm water temperature to prevent children from scalding themselves. It is also beneficial in preventing the passing on of germs between the different people who touch the handles in a conventional faucet.

Foot operated faucets

Most conventional faucets can be fitted with a foot pedal which activates the flow of water. This is a preferable type of faucet for sanitary reasons, hence why you often see them at hospitals. Foot operated faucets are also popular in industrial workspaces, allowing workers to control the flow of water with their feet while staying busy with their hands.

(Photos by clarita and click)