The valve is the part of a faucet that controls water flow and mixing. It's also the part that most often fails. Three main valve types — only one is modern.
Ceramic disc (modern standard)
- How it works: Two ceramic discs with holes slide over each other to control flow.
- Lifespan: 30+ years.
- Drip-resistance: Excellent — minerals don't easily score ceramic.
- Cost: Slightly more expensive than older designs.
- Verdict: Pick this. It's the modern default.
Cartridge
- How it works: Single replaceable plastic-and-rubber cartridge controls flow and temperature.
- Lifespan: 10–15 years per cartridge.
- Drip-resistance: Good when new. Worsens as rubber gaskets wear.
- Repair: Cartridge replacement is DIY-able and cheap.
Compression (legacy)
- How it works: Rubber washers compress against a metal seat.
- Lifespan: Washers wear in 1–3 years; full assembly 5–8 years.
- Drip-resistance: Poor. The classic dripping faucet is usually a worn compression washer.
- Verdict: Found only in very old fixtures. Avoid when buying new.
Ball valve
- Single-handle kitchen faucets with a rounded handle base.
- Modern variants use ceramic disc internally; older ones use rubber seals.
- Reliability varies by manufacturer.
How to tell what you're buying
Modern Maliben faucets use ceramic disc cartridges by default. Check the product page for: "ceramic disc valve" or "ceramic cartridge". The Waterfall Antique Brass Faucet, Brass Pull-Out Kitchen Faucet, and most others all specify ceramic disc.
What this means for buying
- For a faucet you'll use for 15+ years: ceramic disc is the only right answer.
- For renter-replace situations: cartridge is fine and cheap.
- Compression: only if you're matching a historic fixture.