You’ve just finished placing the raw chicken in the roasting pan and then you run into a problem. How are you supposed to wash up without touching the faucet and the soap dispenser with your goopy, possibly bacteria covered, hands?
Enter the touchless faucet, a modern marvel that’s cutting back on bacteria in kitchens everywhere. They turn on as you get close to the faucet and turn off when you move away. They save water (and money). They keep your kitchen cleaner. They give you better access and efficiency.
Have you ever wondered how a touchless faucet works? Read on to learn all about it.
Touchless Faucet Functionality
There are three parts that make a touchless faucet work. Take away any of these and you won’t get on-demand water.
The Sensor
This is the part you will be most concerned about and probably the only one you’ll see on a daily basis. The sensor detects either motion or the presence of an object depending on the faucet model. When the sensor is set off, the water turns on. When the sensor no longer detects movement or an object, it turns off.
One type of sensor works by putting out infrared light. When light is reflected off a surface (like your hands), the sensor picks that up and signals the valve to let the water through. When no light is reflected onto the sensor, the valve closes the water off.
The other type of touchless faucet sensor uses an ultrasonic field to detect movement. When your hands disrupt the ultrasonic field, the sensor detects that and opens the valve. When the field is intact, the valve closes.
The Valve
Once a signal is received by the sensor, it engages the solenoid valve. A solenoid is an electromagnet that can push or pull based on the polarity it receives from the sensor. The valve itself acts as a gate for the water that opens or closes when the magnet either pushes or pulls.
The Power Source
A touchless faucet needs power to make the infrared or ultrasonic systems work. Some faucets have batteries, but most are plugged into an outlet. Some of the newest touchless faucet models use a self-generating, hydro-powered system that powers itself.
Shopping for a Touchless Faucet
Touchless faucets come with a variety of perks and plusses beyond being touchless. Many limit water flow so they are compliant with water conservation standards. Each faucet’s on-demand flow stays on for varying lengths of time so if you like the water to stay on a bit longer, choose a faucet with a longer flow time (10 seconds). They also come with different aerators to create a non-splash, softer flow of water. Be sure to check out the specs when you shop to find the perfect fit for you. While you’re at it, check out touchless soap dispensers too.
Touchless faucets come in all kinds of shapes and styles. Gooseneck is a classic look for both the kitchen and bathroom. Spouts are a favorite for more contemporary designs. Finishes vary from chrome to gold and everything in between.
End your hand washing woes with a touchless faucet. Take a look at your options today.
Want to see the hottest bathroom faucet brands? Check it out here.
