A faucet is an essential device in the world of sanitary engineering, often taken for granted despite its everyday use. It is an appliance that enables the use and control of water in kitchens, bathrooms, and elsewhere, meeting water requirements in different spaces. Besides the function of water supply, faucets also control the water temperature so that people can get hot or cold water as needed. They provide the user convenience, efficiency, and hygiene. Knowing the types of faucets, the parts, and their work is what helps one identify the right faucet for their needs. So keep reading!
What is a Faucet?
A faucet is a primary plumbing materials based fitting designed for the control of water flow from a pressurized source. It is made up of a valve system that is mostly composed of ball, cartridge, compression, or ceramic disc valves used to regulate the temperature and the rate of water flow. Faucets are made with long-lasting materials such as brass, stainless steel, or plastic that are highly resistant to corrosion. Smart faucets also have features like touchless sensors and water-saving technology, forming an important component of sustainable water management in today’s construction.
Parts of a Faucet
A faucet is made up of several parts, each of which has a special function in the flow and temperature regulation of water, and ensures the operation of the faucet smoothly over time. These parts include:
Handle
The point from where a user controls the faucet. This part is essentially used to regulate water volume and temperature by rotating or lifting. The layout of the handle could be single lever or double handle, depending on what the faucet was designed for. The handle is the actuator of the water valve that is inside the faucet, and it is the element that turns the water supply on and off.
Set Screw
This is a small but essential piece designed to clamp the handle to the faucet stem or valve. It allows for a handy removal of the handle and the same easy replacement during regular maintenance. Set screws are usually positioned at the bottom of the handle, and they are indispensable to ensure the handle is firmly and tightly attached, and free from play during operation.
Cap
The outer cover that surrounds the valve or cartridge acts as a protector of the internal mechanism. In addition to its functional use, this element enhances the appearance of a faucet by giving it a sleek, polished appearance. The cap may be taken off for the purpose of getting to the inside of the faucet to repair or replace parts.
Ball or Cartridge Valve
The core of the faucet manages the water flow and the temperature. A ball valve consists of a spherical ball with channels that turn to allow the water to pass, while a cartridge valve relies on a cartridge with internal gaskets. Both types are long-lasting and efficient, giving the user the flexibility of temperature and pressure control.
Seats and Springs
Two components that form a perfect water-tight connection, thus avoiding leakages when the water is switched off. The seat is the actual part that creates the water-tight seal, while the spring is responsible for the valve staying shut.
O-ring
The O ring is produced from rubber and used to block the water from leaking that moves through the faucet. They are located at different places within the faucet assembly, such as the handgrip or spout. O-rings are a necessity as they are important to the prevention of drips and are the reason for keeping the seals water-tight.
Faucet Body
Core component which hides/ supports all other elements like the valve, cartridge, and handles. It’s usually made from materials that are strong and do not wear out very quickly, such as brass and stainless steel. The faucet body is also the part on which the whole faucet is fastened to the kitchen sink taps or countertop.
Spout
The portion of the faucet where water flows out. A spout line includes the entire range of spout outputs, each of different shapes, sizes, and types. The spout can be either stationary or extendable, and its high and far reach are vital in terms of its functionality.
Aerator
A small grid screen is situated at the end of the faucet spout. Its major task is to mix some amount of air with the water. It causes the stream of water to go without splashing, and the pressure remains high while the amount of water used is low.
Mount and Escutcheon Plate
Used to attach the faucet to the sink or countertop and hide any gaps or holes left during installation. An escutcheon plate is, among other things, a decorative cover and helps in improving the whole faucet’s appearance, especially in the case of widespread or bridge faucets.
Mounting Bolts
Utilised to attach the faucet to the sink or countertop, to keep it from moving, and to guarantee its stability. This kind of bolt is usually located under the plate or the base of the faucet. With mounting bolts installed correctly, the faucet can work smoothly and remain firm during normal usage.
Functioning of a Faucet – How Does a Faucet Work?
- Water Flow Control: The basic role of a faucet is to adjust the flow of water from a high-pressure water supply system to a sink, bathtub, or any other plumbing fixtures.
- Valve Mechanism: The center of the functioning of a faucet is its valve system, which may consist of ball, cartridge, or compression valves. Through the valves, the faucet not only regulates the quantity of water passing through it, but also is responsible for determining the temperature and flow rate.
- Single or Double Handles: A single-control faucet provides a user with the opportunity to operate both the flow and the temperature of the water by a single lever, while in the case of a double-handle faucet, the hot water is separated from the cold water, and therefore, the control of the temperature can be made more accurate.
- Touchless Technology: Sensor-operated faucets have motion or heat detectors installed in them that can identify the user’s hands and turn on/off the water even without them physically touching the faucet.
- Aerator Function: The aerator that is implemented in the spout of the faucet helps in mixing the water with air, a process that reduces the volume of water and maintains the pressure by mixing air.
- Sealing and Prevention of Leaks: The internal parts of the faucet, such as O-rings, gaskets, and seals, are what hold back the water from the seepage, and enable the faucet to operate smoothly without water wastage.
Types of Faucets
Faucets come in various types, each of them designed with particular mechanisms to control the flow and temperature of the water. Here are the most frequently used faucet types,
- Ball Valve Faucet
Equipped with a single handle, this faucet has a hollow perforated ball located inside, and the handle, which is rotatable, is used to change the position of the ball, thus controlling the water flow and temperature. Commonly used in kitchens and modern bathrooms, these faucets are simple to operate and maintain.
- Disc Faucet
These use ceramic disc cartridges to adjust water flow and temperature. Two ceramic discs inside the faucet move up and down to regulate water volume and temperature, and thereby provide a very durable and leak-free system. These are usually used in expensive or luxury kitchen and bathroom areas.
- Cartridge Faucet
Powered by a cartridge valve, which enables smooth operation of the faucet. The valve moves up and down to control the water temperature and flow. This type of faucet can either have a single handle or a double handle.
- Compression Faucet
More traditional and basic faucet, with two individual handles that are for hot water and cold water separately. The handles are turned to open or close the water supply by compressing the rubber washers. It is commonly used in utility or service areas.
- Single Handle Faucet
Means that you control both the water flow and temperature with just one lever. The handle dictates the rotation or movement of the valve situated in the faucet, and hence, the water is released successfully at different temperatures and pressures.
- Double Handle Faucets
A type of faucet with two different handles, one for hot water and the other for cold water. Each handle operates separately for water flow, and together, they are in a position to allow the user to change the temperature and also regulate the amount of water flow.
- Touchless Faucets
Faucets with sensors function on the basis of motion or heat detection to control water flow. A sensor detects the presence of hands or an object and turns on/ off the water flow without any touch. A touchless faucet is a common feature in places like shopping malls, airports, hospitals, and luxury homes.
- Wall-Mounted Faucet
A fixture that is attached directly to the wall, above the sink, bathtub or other spaces, rather than being located on the sink or the counter. It requires fixing of bathroom plumbing basics and lines running through the wall and usually comes with a separate handle for cold and hot water.
- Widespread Faucets
Less conventional and consists of separate tap and handle pieces that provide more flexibility in design. The handles are used to adjust the water temperature and flow, while the spout is generally mounted separately and is connected by flexible hoses.
- Bridge Faucets
Consists of handles and a spout that are connected through a horizontal pipe or bridge. The water flow is primarily regulated by the handles, while the bridge accommodates the functional and visual support as well.
- Centerset Faucet
Space-saving innovation that has both handles and the spout integrated into a single unit. Both the handles and the spout are placed on a central base and a valve system that is responsible for regulating both water flow and temperature.
- Vessel Faucets
This type of faucet is one with a taller spout that allows access to water without having to twist, and is usually operated by a single or double handle valve. It works well with vessel sinks, which are placed on top of the countertop.
- Gooseneck Faucet
Gooseneck faucets are taller and have a curved spout to give more room and maneuverability. The shape of the spout adds accessibility to water and it is usually operated by a single handle or lever.
- Separate Spray Faucets
These are tap fittings with an additional handheld spray device. The latter provides flexibility, thus making it possible to carry out cleaning and rinsing tasks that need a mobile water source.
Faucet Installation Process
Tools Needed
- Adjustable Wrench
- Pipe Wrench
- Screwdriver
- Plumber’s Tape (Teflon Tape)
- Basin Wrench
- Pliers
- Bucket or Towels
- Caulk or Silicone Sealant
- Level
Installation Process
1. Shut Off the Water Supply and Drain the Lines
The first thing to do is to turn off the water supply to the sink even before the work begins. It will be necessary to find the stop valves first, and then, by turning them off, one can minimize water leakage to a minimum. The system should be opened for a little while to let the water out.
2. Remove the Old Faucet and Plumbing Components
Unfasten the mounting nuts of the old faucet using a basin wrench. Detach the water supply lines by using pliers or a pipe wrench. In case there is any old mounting hardware or seals, a scraper or a utility knife will be needed to remove them.
3. Inspect and Prepare the Sink or Countertop
Go over the sink or countertop surface where you will install the faucet with detergent and hot water to clean it of all the dirt and old caulk. Review the mounting surface for damage. If there is any such damage, a silicone cleaner will take care of the surface.
4. Assemble the Faucet Components
First, wind the plumber’s tape (Teflon tape) around the threaded connections of the valve body of the faucet and any of the connectors where the water supply lines will be joined. Follow the instructions provided by the brand to connect the faucet, the handles, valves, and spout correctly. With two-piece handles, make sure all the parts are well-aligned.
5. Install the Faucet and Secure It
Before setting the faucet into the hole in the sink or on the countertop, check the alignment of the two. For the case of intricate faucets such as widespread or bridge faucets, make sure the right distance between the handles and the spout is maintained. Use the included mounting bolts to fix the faucet firmly onto the sink and prevent slipping.
6. Connect Water Supply Lines
The water supply lines should be connected to the faucet’s inlet connections. Follow the manufacturer’s design while using a torque wrench to tighten the connections to avoid loose connections and leaks. And a few wraps of pipe joint compound or Teflon tape on the threaded connections will prevent the leakage.
7. Verify that the Faucet is Properly Aligned and Functional
Before you install the faucet assembly entirely, check if the faucet is aligned with the sink and that the spout is of the proper height. Also, make sure you have the leverage to operate the faucet handles or levers in a free and full range of motion without any resistance.
8. Examine the Faucet for Leaks
Turn on the hot and cold water supply lines, and open the faucet to test the water flow. Look for any indication of leaks at the faucet’s base, connections of the supply lines, and valve points. If some areas are leaking, then fix the links, or if the problem is with washers or seals, just replace them.
9. Final Adjustments and Sealing
When the faucet is fully operational, put a very small amount of silicone sealant around the faucet base, where the sink or countertop is in contact with it. By applying the sealant, the water will not be able to penetrate under the faucet, and thus you will have a neat and professional finish.
10. Inspect and Clean
Check the faucet at regular intervals to see if there is any leakage or indications of wear. Use non-abrasive cleaning products to take care of the surface of the faucet and unblock the aerator to guarantee that there is no mineral deposit by taking it out to wash regularly.
Faucet Maintenance and Care Tips
The following are the essential care tips to adhere to,
- Regular Cleaning: The faucet should be cleaned regularly so as not to allow calcareous deposits and dirt to settle. Non-abrasive cleaners can be used to protect the finish.
- Check for Leaks: At regular intervals, take a closer look at the faucet to make sure it is free of leaks. In case of leaks, inspect and replace the O-rings, washers, and valve parts that may be damaged.
- Maintain Aerators: Regularly cleaning the aerator is important to avoid blockages from either debris or the build-up of mineral deposits.
- Replace Worn Parts: Elements, such as washers, seals, and cartridges, over time might get worn down; repairing them immediately will prevent the bigger problems.
Cost of Faucets
| Faucet Type | Price Range (INR) |
|---|---|
| Ball Faucet | ₹1,500 – ₹5,000 |
| Disc Faucet | ₹3,000 – ₹10,000 |
| Cartridge Faucet | ₹1,500 – ₹6,000 |
| Compression Faucet | ₹500 – ₹2,500 |
| Single Handle Faucet | ₹1,000 – ₹8,000 |
| Touchless Faucet | ₹3,000 – ₹15,000 |
| Wall Mount Faucet | ₹1,500 – ₹6,000 |
| Widespread Faucet | ₹2,000 – ₹12,000 |
| Bridge Faucet | ₹2,500 – ₹15,000 |
| Centerset Faucet | ₹1,500 – ₹5,000 |
| Vessel Faucet | ₹2,000 – ₹10,000 |
| Faucet with Sensors | ₹4,000 – ₹20,000 |
| Gooseneck Faucet | ₹1,500 – ₹7,000 |
| Separate Spray Faucet | ₹1,800 – ₹8,500 |
Conclusion
The selection of the most suitable faucet is crucial for both the operational and aesthetic aspects of any room. Whether one chooses a typical compression faucet or a smart touchless one, it is very important to keep in mind the aspects of water efficiency, durability, and design compatibility. Proper installation of a faucet and its continuous service will keep it in good operating condition for a long time, hence forming a vital part of a more efficient and sustainable water system in homes and businesses.
Apoorva H P Achar