What are the Different Types of Bathroom Faucets?

Here at Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we specialize in faucet installation, so we’re familiar with the different types of bathroom faucets and how they work. Today, we will walk you through the various bathroom faucets to help you make an informed decision.

Compression Faucets

Compression faucets are one of the oldest and most traditional types of bathroom faucets, commonly found in older homes. They typically have two knobs, one for hot water and one for cold. They operate using a simple mechanism—turning the knobs compresses a washer against a valve seat to regulate water flow.

Advantages of Compression Faucets

• Less expensive than more modern faucet types
• Simple design
• Easy to repair
• Often the most affordable option

Cartridge Faucets

These are the most common bathroom faucets today. They feature a single handle or two lever handles that control a ceramic or plastic cartridge within the faucet. Turning the handle rotates the cartridge to regulate water temperature and flow. To keep your cartridge faucet in good shape, be sure to check and replace the cartridge if it becomes worn or damaged. O-rings and seals may also need replacement over time to maintain a watertight seal. However, it’s important to know when you’re out of your depth and seek help from a trusted plumbing repair service.

Advantages of Cartridge Faucets

• Smooth handle operation
• Easy to adjust water temperature
• Relatively durable with replaceable cartridges
• Easy maintenance
• Leak-resistant

Ball-Type Faucets

Ball-type faucets are known for their single-handle design. They comprise a ball-shaped component with internal seals that controls water flow and temperature by rotating within the faucet housing. When the faucet is off, the ball valve is positioned so that its holes are not aligned with the water inlets, blocking water flow. Moving the handle adjusts the position of the ball valve and aligns its holes with the water inlets. This allows water to flow through the valve and out of the faucet spout.

Advantages of Ball-Type Faucets

• Washerless design that reduces the need for maintenance
• Easy to use with single-handle operation
• Versatile
• Sleek and stylish in design

Disc Faucets

As the name suggests, disc faucets utilize a pair of ceramic discs to regulate water flow. When you turn the handle, it rotates these discs, allowing water to pass through the corresponding channels. When the faucet is off, the holes in the ceramic discs are misaligned. This prevents water from flowing through the faucet. Disc faucets are ideal for commercial settings like restaurants, hotels, and public restrooms where durability is crucial. As long as they’re installed by a professional plumbing service, disc faucets can last for up to 15 years.

Advantages of Ceramic Faucets

• Durability
• Smooth operation
• Leak-resistant
• Precise temperature control

When to Replace Your Bathroom Faucets

• Old age
• Outdated design
• Cracked, chipped, or corroded faucets
• Decreased water pressure
• Recurring leaks
• Faucet handles feel stiff, loose, or difficult to turn

When you’re in need of faucet installation or repair, trust the skilled plumbers at Mr. Rooter Plumbing to do an exceptional job. We’ve been in the plumbing industry for over 50 years, so we have the expertise and experience to install, repair, and replace all types of faucets.