Different types of faucets for residential properties
Faucets are used day in and day out in any home. Apart from its functional purpose, it also accentuates the design of the bathroom, the kitchen, and anywhere it is used.
And while it has the same purpose, there are different types of faucets homeowners can choose from when installing one in their home. This article will discuss these options, to guide homeowners who are choosing their for a replacement faucet or installing a new one.
Different home faucets
Several types of faucets can be used at home. These include disc faucets, ball faucets, compression washer faucets, and two-handle cartridge faucets. Compression washer faucets are one of the most common, and earliest types of faucet designs. It is relatively inexpensive but is not as durable as other types of faucets. It could leak after continued use, as its washers get worn out easily.
Disc faucets on the other hand are a modern faucet design that is controlled by a lever. The temperature is adjusted by moving the lever to its two sides. Ball faucets are meanwhile usually used in kitchens. unlike traditional faucets, it does not have a washer. Two-handle cartridge faucets meanwhile have a stem and a knob. The mechanism goes up and down to release water.
Taking care of faucets
As one of the most commonly used plumbing fixtures in any home, every member of the household has the responsibility to use faucets responsibly. Everyone should move to take care of plumbing fixtures because when it gets broken, everyone will also get inconvenienced.
The best way to keep faucets well maintained is by regularly cleaning them. In areas with hard water, homeowners should clean the faucet regularly by removing limescale, hard water, and other sedimentation that could affect the performance of the faucet. Moreover, if the area has a hard water supply, it is best to install a hard water softener to prolong the life of all the plumbing fixtures.
When to replace a faucet
Since faucets get worn out, they will need replacement. For instance, if it continuously leaks, and needs repair now and then, it could be nearing the end of its lifespan. If the water is constantly leaking or dripping from the faucet even if it is turned off, then most likely it is damaged already. The same goes for the faucet that pours our irregular streams of water. Licensed plumbers call it a spitting faucet, and when the faucet seems to spit water then it most likely has incurred internal damage. Lastly, some faucet handles squeak. While this could mean that the handles need a bit of grease, it also points to a mechanical problem within the fixture. Get in touch with a licensed residential plumber who can easily fix the issue.
Another reason to replace a faucet is when it is already reaching the end of its lifespan. Usually, home faucets can last up to two decades, but of course, maintenance and wear and tear play a significant role in this. Aiming for an eco-friendly home would also move a homeowner to replace his faucet. There are eco-friendly, low-flow faucets that use less water, without diminishing the pressure.