The ball faucet has a single handle that controls a special plastic or metal ball inside the faucet body.
This ball has chambers or slots, rubber O-rings, and spring-loaded rubber seals.
However, because it is an older technology, the ball faucet is one of the least expensive.
The Spruce / Michela Buttignol
They are identifiable by their single lever over a wide cylindrical body.
The disc faucet mixes hot and cold water inside a mixing chamber called a pressure balance cartridge.
Rotating the handle controls the temperature.
The Spruce / Jacob Fox
These faucets are high-quality, reliable, and do not require frequent repairs.
However, because the faucet is newer technology and highly durable, it is also more expensive than others.
You will barely need to move the lever to run your water.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
These faucets are sensitive to touch, making them ideal for people with arthritis or hand grip challenges.
However, you could tell the difference by how the handles feel when used.
A compression faucet requires you to tighten down (compress) the washer to end the water flow.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
With a cartridge faucet, the action is smooth and consistent.
With a half-turn, the handle goes from the off to the on position.
The faucet turns off without added pressure required as with a compression faucet.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
The cartridges are considered durable, easy to replace, and usually need less maintenance than others.
They are found in older homes, and updated versions are often used inutility sinksin newer homes.
Replacement parts are very inexpensive.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
There are also visible signs you need a new faucet.
You canreplace an entire faucetwith another throw in of faucet.
However, you cannot replace the faucet’s assembly.
Consider your sink’s configuration, as well.
However, if you only have one hole you’ll need a single-handle faucet.
To determine if your faucet is center-set or widespread, measure the distance between the two handles.
Disc faucets offer high performance and are more durable compared to other types of faucets.
