At first glance, all faucets seem to work the same way: turn a handle or two, and water flows forth. However, the inner workings of faucets vary greatly from model to model. There are actually four primary types of faucet valves - the areas inside faucets where hot and cold water are mixed and the flow rate is regulated.

Each type of faucet valve functions in a different way to achieve the same purpose - the delivery of water at a desired rate and temperature. Below is more information about these valve types and what you should know about their operation and maintenance.

1. Compression Valve

As the oldest type of faucet valve in use, compression valves are both simple and inexpensive. A compression valve consists of a screw stem that raises and lowers as it is turned and a rubber compression washer at the bottom of the stem.

When the valve handle is turned counterclockwise, the stem is raised, and the rubber washer is lifted out of the concave water inlet. This permits water to enter the faucet body. Likewise, as the stem is lowered, the washer is pressed into a concave inlet, and the flow of water is blocked.

The chief advantage of compression valves is their low cost, which makes fixtures containing these valves less expensive than other types. However, compression valves are more prone to leaking than other types of valves. The rubber washer can become deformed after repeated use, and it can also crack and fall apart.

As a result, leaks will develop once the washer is no longer able to seal the inlet. This will require the replacement of the washer to restore the valve's watertight integrity. Fortunately, the low cost of parts and the relative ease of repair makes faucets with compression valves a viable option for most homeowners.

2. Ball Valve

Another common type of valve found in faucets is the ball valve. Ball valves are used in single-handle faucets and are also relatively inexpensive. The primary component of a ball valve is a steel ball that contains a network of grooves and holes. These grooves and holes align with the hot and cold water inlets. Then, adjusting the ball with the faucet handle controls water temperature and flow rate.

The downside of ball valves is their relative complexity. They contain numerous small parts, including springs, O-rings and washers. Leaks will eventually develop as these parts wear out. In addition, mineral deposits and tiny debris in the water can cause problems inside the faucet, which may require cleaning or replacement of affected components.

3. Cartridge Valve

Cartridge valves are in widespread use in faucets, and they offer excellent performance at a reasonable cost. The key component in a cartridge faucet is a small cylinder made of plastic or brass. Inside the cylinder, a network of channels direct water flow rates and also control temperature.

An O-ring seals the bottom of the cartridge to prevent leakage from around its edges.

Cartridge valve faucets possess several advantages when compared to ball valve faucets. For example, cartridge valves can be used in a singlehandle configuration like ball valve faucets, or they may be paired inside two-handled faucets.

In addition, cartridge valve faucets are designed for replacement simplicity because they contain few parts. In fact, fixing a leaky faucet simply requires replacing the worn-out cartridge with a new one.

4. Ceramic Disc Valve

The newest type of faucet valve is the ceramic disc valve. This innovative valve design incorporates two rotating discs made from ceramic. The discs contain channels that align when rotated, which allows water to flow and control over temperature settings. Ceramic disc valves are inherently sturdy, highly reliable and rarely in need of repairs.

The disadvantage of ceramic disc valve faucets is the premium price you pay for the technology and precision manufacturing. However, ceramic disc valve faucets are almost leak-proof, and their long life spans will usually pay back the initial investment in the long run.

If you have questions about faucet valves, be sure to contact Moody Plumbing Inc. for help. Our team of service professionals is waiting to assist you with new fixture installations and plumbing repairs.