Touch faucets have become popular over the last few years for their unique style, high quality performance and many design options. But despite their increasing numbers, many users still do not know how a touch faucet works. A touch faucet uses sensors in the same way that a touchless faucet uses infrared sensors to turn the water on. However, the working principle is different. When the sensor detects contact with the hand, it sends a signal to turn on or off the water supply unit.
These touch faucets are ideal for both residential and commercial kitchens. Even though they may be new to many people, these faucets can actually be quite useful in a number of ways. For example, along with touchless faucets these touch faucets deliver ultimate convenience. Especially when you are busy in the kitchen and you need a spare hand to turn the water on and off. In addition to being convenient, and energy-efficient, touch kitchen faucets also come at a very affordable price point compared to their traditional counterparts. This means that even if you have a limited budget for your home improvement project yet still want to get a few upgrades done on your kitchen, then this is definitely one thing that should be considered because it will not only save you money but also time as well!
What is a touch faucet?
A touch faucet is a type of faucet that allows you to control the flow of your hot and cold water with simple gestures. Touch faucets work just like traditional faucets, except that they have an added feature called “touch on” activation. When you turn them on, they will only turn off if they sense your touch. Some models can be connected to smart devices such as Amazon Alexa or Google Home so that you can control them from anywhere in the world using your voice or by using other apps on your smartphone or tablet. Touch technology is the latest trend in home appliances. These faucets can be controlled with just a tap of your finger or hand, which is a great way to save energy while saving water at the same time.
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How do touch faucets work?
Here’s a bit of science to get us started. I know it’s boring, but it’s the only way to understand how a touch faucet works. Will keep it simple! Human bodies are capable of storing electricity. The ability to retain electricity is known as capacitance. As a result, the human body acts as a capacitor that retains electric energy. Approximately 100 pF is the capacitance of the human body, according to recent studies. If you have ever been shocked by touching a metal object, then you know how much electricity is stored in your body. So when you touch a metal object, your body gets shocked and stores some of that electricity in itself. A touch faucet detects the presence of human body capacitance, which is then used to control the flow of water through the faucet. Touch faucets have sensors that measure the presence of human capacitance and send electrical signals to a circuit board, which activates a solenoid valve. The solenoid valve opens and closes when it receives a signal from the circuit board. Touch sensors are usually located on the handle and on the spout. Most touch faucets are made from brass or other highly conductive material. Basically the sensor measure the environment capacitance. When you touch the faucet it will notice an increase and triggers the water flow.
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Are touch faucets durable?
Touch faucets are a great way to add some style and function to your kitchen, but they’re also quite durable. The average touch faucet has an average lifespan of around 15 years. Touch faucets are durable and long-lasting, so you can enjoy them for years to come. The manufacturers of touch faucets provide warranties that protect their products from leaks, corrosion, and wear and tear. If you want to enjoy your new faucet for a long time, consider getting a high-quality model from known brands like Delta or Kraus. However, this doesn’t mean that a small brand can’t offer a durable touch faucet.
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Do touch faucets go bad over time?
Touch kitchen faucets allow you to conserve water while bringing convenience. As with every piece of technology that is supposed to make our lives easier, there can be issues such as::
Low batteries
Touch faucets use batteries to power their sensors. This can be a problem if your batteries die or if you don’t remember to recharge them. The battery indicator will let you know when they need replacing, but it’s important that they’re always replaced before they run out completely. Battery life can vary from unit to unit as well as from brand to brand. Typically batteries last in a touch faucet between 1 or 2 years depending on how often you use the faucet.
Solenoid valve failure
A solenoid valve is a type of valve that uses electricity to control the flow of water. The most common application for this type of valve is water faucets. These valves have an electric motor that opens and closes the valve, automatically turning on and off as needed. Solenoid valves can wear out over time and need to be replaced. If you notice that your faucet’s been acting weird lately, and you changed the batteries it could be a faulty solenoid valve.
Touch sensor isolation
Probably the most challenging part of a touch faucet. A wire connects the faucet’s body to the control box under the sink, which acts as a capacitance sensor. This wire may not function properly if it is not isolated during installation or if it touches other metal components like your sink.
Related Article: How To Troubleshoot Your Touchless Faucet: Here Is How To Fix It
Are touch faucets hygienic?
Touch faucets are convenient and can save you a lot of time, but they are not entirely hands-free. Although they are very easy to use, especially for children and people with low mobility you will have to touch them. This means they are more hygienic than traditional ones but not completely hands-free like touchless faucets. Having less contact with the faucet reduces cross-contamination, and they are easier to clean and maintain. However, you could still get bacteria from touching the faucet handle or the spout.
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What is the best touch kitchen faucet?
The best touch kitchen faucet is not the same for everyone. You’ll have to take into consideration the features, style, and finish but most importantly your budget. Our favorite touch faucet is Delta Essa Touch Kitchen Faucet. It has a sleek design and a beautiful finish that looks great in any kitchen. Essa is highly rated by consumers who have used it in their homes. This unit features easy-to-use touch control, which includes an automatic shut-off feature so you don’t have to worry about forgetting to turn it off. Also, Delta is a brand name that has been around for more than 100 years. They are known for their high-quality products, great customer service, and competitive pricing. Below you will find a table with the most rated touch kitchen faucet brands based on price range:*Depending on the manufacturers and retailers and their products, prices may vary. Price ranges are approximations.
Brand | Price Range | Customers Rating | Latest Price |
Delta | $250to $850 USD | ||
Kraus | $200 to $400 USD | ||
CREA | $90 to $150 USD | ||
DJS | $80 to $150 USD | ||
BAGNOLUX | $150 to $200 USD | ||
Bathfinesse | $90 to $150 USD |
Conclusion
The touch faucet is a practical upgrade over traditional faucets for customers with limited mobility, as well as for anyone who’d prefer to keep his or her hands clean during the faucet-wetting process. And the wide array of features that are now available on modern touch faucets can make this a more convenient option for any household. Those looking to upgrade their kitchen or bathroom should definitely consider how do touch faucets work.
