Ever stared at a leaky faucet and thought, "I could fix this if I just knew what these bits are called?"
You're not alone.
I've been there—kneeling under the sink, holding a random metal piece, and wondering if it's a valve or a cartridge.
Today, we're fixing that.
No jargon. No fluff. Just the exact names of every faucet part, why they matter, and how knowing them saves you time (and money).
Let's start with the big question: What are faucet parts called?
Core Components: The Bits That Make It Work
These are the non-negotiables. Without them, your faucet's just a fancy metal ornament.
Spout
The hollow tube that delivers water from the faucet body to the sink.
You know, the part you actually put your cup under.
But not all spouts are created equal:
- Pull-down/pull-out spouts: Kitchen heroes. Detach to rinse dishes or fill pots from all angles.
- 360° rotating spouts: Swivel left to right—perfect for double sinks or multitasking.
- Gooseneck spouts: Tall, curved, and ideal for filling big pots. Think kitchen faucets here.
Handle
The part you touch every day. Controls water flow and temperature.
Two main types:
- Single-handle: One lever to rule them all. Adjusts hot and cold with a flick of the wrist. Great for one-handed tasks.
- Double-handle: Separate knobs for hot and cold. More precise temp control, but less convenient for quick washes.
Fun fact: I once replaced a stiff handle in 10 minutes—turned out it was just a loose screw. Saved £80 on a plumber.
Valve/Cartridge
The faucet's brain. Regulates water flow and stops leaks.
Think of it as the gatekeeper.
Two common types in modern faucets:
- Cartridge valve: Smooth, reliable, and easy to swap out. Most modern faucets use this.
- Ceramic disc valve: The premium option. Super durable, leak-resistant, and built for heavy use. Found in high-end models.
If your faucet drips when off, 9 times out of 10 it's a faulty valve/cartridge. Replace it, don't replace the whole faucet.
Aerator
The tiny mesh screen at the spout tip. Mixes air with water to reduce splashing and save water.
You've probably unscrewed one to clean mineral deposits (thanks, hard water).
Why it matters: The EPA says aerators cut water usage by up to 30%. That's £££ off your water bill over time.
Check Valve
A one-way valve that prevents water backflow to avoid source contamination.
Regularly inspect for clogs or damage
Gravity Ball
A counterweight component in pull-out faucets that assists spray head retraction.
Ensure secure installation and check for damage.
Structural & Installation Parts: The Hidden Heroes
These hold everything together. You don't see them, but you'll miss them if they fail.
Faucet Body
The main housing connecting all components. Usually brass or stainless steel—tough stuff.
This is the base of the faucet. The part that anchors everything to your sink or wall.
Yep, that's the answer to "What is the base of a faucet called?"—the faucet body.
Escutcheon Plate/Deck Plate
The decorative cover that hides mounting holes on sinks or countertops.
No one wants to see unsightly holes or pipes. This plate makes your faucet look finished.
Mounting Hardware
Nuts, washers, brackets—all the bits that secure the faucet to the sink or wall.
Tighten these properly, or your faucet will wiggle like a loose tooth.
Supply Lines
Flexible hoses (stainless steel or braided polymer) that connect the faucet to your water pipes.
Old, cracked supply lines are a flood waiting to happen. Replace them every 5-7 years, even if they look fine.
Specialized Components: For Faucets With Extra Features
These are the bonus tools. Not every faucet has them, but they add serious functionality.
Diverter Valve
Switches water flow between the spout and attachments.
Ever used a kitchen sprayer or a tub faucet with a showerhead? Thank the diverter valve.
Solenoid Valve
The magic behind touchless faucets. Uses an electromagnetic sensor to turn water on/off when you wave your hand.
Hygienic, convenient, and perfect for busy kitchens or public bathrooms.
Pop-up Assembly
Controls sink drainage. Includes a drain stopper and linkage rods—you know, the lever you pull to plug the sink.
If your sink drains slowly, check if the pop-up assembly is clogged with hair or gunk.
FAQs: Your Faucet Questions Answered
What's the most common faucet part to fail?
The valve/cartridge. It's the hardest working part, so it wears out first. Replacements cost £10-£30 and take 20 minutes to install.
Can I mix and match faucet parts?
Stick to the same brand if possible. Parts like cartridges are often brand-specific.
How do I know if my aerator needs cleaning?
Water sprays unevenly or splashes more than usual. Unscrew it, soak in vinegar overnight, and scrub with a toothbrush. Good as new.
What's the difference between a faucet body and a deck plate?
The faucet body is the main structure; the deck plate is the decorative cover for mounting holes. Think of the body as the skeleton, the deck plate as the makeup.
Final Thought
You don't need to be a plumber to understand faucet parts.
Knowing what each bit is called turns "I need a new faucet" into "I just need a new cartridge."
And that saves you time, money, and the frustration of staring at a sink full of mystery parts.
So next time your faucet acts up, remember: it's just a bunch of simple components working (or not working) together. You've got this.
What are faucet parts called? Now you know. Go fix something.
