Frequently Asked Questions
Q. "What is a widespread faucet?"
A. A widespread faucet includes three separate parts that measure from 8 to 16 inches from center to center.
Q. "What is a centerset?"
A. It is a lavatory set that is 4" center to center from handle to handle.
Q. "What should I look for when purchasing a faucet?"
A. Many times we're first drawn to the way a faucet looks, it's design and the finishes available - and that's not a bad thing, we all want a stylish, comfortable home. However, there are several other questions you should also be asking:
- Is it easy to get parts? Easy to repair and replace parts?
- Is it a true "washer-less" (doesn't mean it won't leak, it will eventually anyway but is usually easier to operate and easier to repair) or not?
- Where is it made? What type of warranty does it have? How long has this model been made? Does the manufacturer stand behind their products and how long has that company been in business?
- Is the company that you are buying the faucet from reputable and been in business long enough so that you know you can trust them?
Q. "Why should I choose a WaterSense labeled faucet?"
A. Well, the numbers can speak for themselves: It is estimated that by installing WaterSense labeled faucets and accessories, the average household can save more than 500 gallons per year. Most of us know that we can conserve water by turning off the tap when not in use, but many may not know you can save water while using it with the right water saving faucet. The WaterSense partnership program is sponsored by the EPA which provides water conservation and quality guidelines for participating manufacturers. All products with the WaterSense label have had complete third party certification and testing to ensure they meet the criteria, which is to reduce water use by 20-30 percent with out sacrificing performance and also maintain high quality standards. Please note that due to state low-flow regulations, we cannot ship non-WaterSense certified lavatory faucets or showerheads to customers in Colorado. Please check to ensure the product you're selecting is WaterSense certified prior to ordering to help avoid any delays or problems with your order.
Q. "What kind of products are WaterSense labeled?"
A. Bathrooms are by far the largest water users in the home, accounting for more than half of all the water that families use indoors. Thus, you can find a wide range of lavatory faucets, showers, and toilets available with the WaterSense label. Just look for notes on the product page for the item(s) you've selected to find out which products we offer that carry WaterSense certification.
Q. "What are the new California Energy Commission water efficiency standards and how does this affect me?"
A. Effective January 1, 2016, certain plumbing fixtures will be required to comply with new California Energy Commission requirements for flow rate and water efficiency. Since the program began in 1976, it has continually worked to develop standards for energy- and water-using appliances and fixtures that will help Californians to conserve energy and water. To help the state deal with current and future drought conditions, only water-saving plumbing fixtures will be legally available for sale in California. Products like faucets, toilets, urinals, and shower heads are all affected by the new regulations.
Sold after January 1, 2016:
- Public lavatory faucets & aerators must have a maximum flow rate of 0.5 gallons per minute or less (at 60psi)
- Kitchen faucets & aerators must have a maximum flow rate of 1.8 gallons per minute or less (at 60psi) - dual function faucets may have an optional temporary flow of 2.2 gallons per minute
- Toilets must use a maximum 1.28 gallons per flush or less - or a dual-flush effective flush volume of 1.28 gallons per flush or less
- Wall mounted urinals must use a maximum 0.125 gallons per flush or less
- Other urinals must use a maximum 0.5 gallons per flush or less
Sold after July 1, 2016:
- Lavatory faucets & aerators must have a maximum flow rate of 1.2 gallons per minute or less (at 60psi)
- Shower heads must have a maximum flow rate of 2.0 gallons per minute or less (at 80psi)
Sold after July 1, 2018:
- Shower heads must have a maximum flow rate of 1.8 gallons per minute or less (at 80psi)
What this means for the average consumer is that you can rest easy knowing that the product you're getting is compliant with the law - and will help you do your part to save water, our most precious natural resource. Additionally, it is important to note that current EPA WaterSense program requirements are not as stringent as the California Energy Commission requirements. Thus, not all WaterSense products may be compliant with the new laws in California. Please be sure to review the specifications of the product you're purchasing prior to placing your order as we cannot ship non-compliant products to our customers in California.
Q. "What does washer-less mean?"
A. Any faucet could be 'washer-less', as they come in both the single- and two-handle type. In most washer-less faucets, the control of the water flow is done by a cartridge or arrangement of seals that allow water to flow when the holes or ports are lined up. The design is such that the water flow is basically sheared off. Unlike 'washer' types, extra or stronger pressure on the handle will not help stop the water flow. There are many different designs of washer-less cartridges, and some foreign cartridges can be very expensive (imported models). Ceramic cartridges are becoming very popular, and have been around for over 20 years. Ceramics tend to last longer than other types of cartridges but can cost a lot more when replacing. Remember, all faucets will eventually leak. There tends to be less friction and wear and tear with a "washer-less" faucet compared to the older washer-type faucet.
Q. "Why do some faucets cost so much more than others?"
A. Some faucets are simply made better than others with higher quality material such as solid brass, which generally provides a superior look, performance, and durability. While you may pay more for a quality faucet, you're likely to receive more value for your money as a result of longer, more reliable, trouble-free service. Paying more doesn't always mean you'll get a better value, but generally, a more expensive faucet (just like a more expensive appliance, automobile, etc.) does give better and longer service. We recommend that you DO shop around once you know the exact brand and model that you want, to avoid paying extra for the exact same faucet or avoid the hassle of dealing with a disreputable retailer.
Q. "I really like the new "designer" finishes, but I'm wondering if they are as durable as chrome. What do you recommend?"
A. In our opinion, nothing beats triple plated chrome for a lifetime of durability. That being said, however, many manufacturers have worked hard to make their other finishes more durable and long-lasting, so it really is a matter of personal preference and use. Additionally, many manufacturers now offer special care/cleaning guides with their products to help you maintain the new designer finishes as long as possible.
