Ceramic Disks vs. Tap Washers – Which One Is Best?
When it comes to choosing the right tapware for your home, there are a variety of options available, including ceramic disk taps and traditional tap washers – making it difficult to determine which one is best for you. In this blog, we’ll examine the pros and cons of each type and ultimately discuss what is best for your home.
Why Tap Washers or Ceramic Disks Are Important
To control the flow of water in any residential or commercial building, tap washers or ceramic disks can be found. Both are components of a tap that help to create a watertight seal when the tap is turned off, preventing water from flowing when it is not needed.
In both cases, tap washers and ceramic disks are important components that help to regulate the flow of water in a tap. Without them, water would flow continuously, making it difficult to use the tap effectively – leading to water wastage and a higher monthly water bill.
What are Tap Washers?
First, let us start with tap washers. These traditional tap components are made of rubber or nylon and sit at the base of the tap spindle. When the tap is turned on, the washer is forced against the seat, creating a seal that prevents water from flowing. One of the main advantages of tap washers is their affordability – they are the cheaper option when compared to ceramic disk taps. Additionally, if a washer fails, it can be easily replaced without needing to replace the entire tap.
However, there are some drawbacks to using tap washers. Over time, the washer can wear out, causing the tap to drip or leak. This can be frustrating for homeowners and can also result in a higher water bill. Also, when the tap is turned on or off, the washer is forced against the seat, creating friction that can cause the washer to wear down faster – this means that tap washers may need to be replaced more frequently, leading to higher maintenance costs in the long run.
What are Ceramic Disks?
Now, let’s take a look at ceramic disk taps. Instead of using a rubber or nylon washer, ceramic disk taps use two ceramic disks that move against each other to control the flow of water. When the tap is turned on, the disks move apart, allowing water to flow through. When the tap is turned off, the disks come back together, creating a watertight seal. One of the main advantages of ceramic disk taps is their durability. Because there are no rubber or nylon components, there is less wear and tear over time, and they last longer. Ceramic disk taps are also easier to turn on and off, requiring less force than tap washers, making ceramic disks a great option for the disabled, people with arthritis, and children.
There are some drawbacks to ceramic disk taps as well. They are generally more expensive than tap washers, which can be a concern for some homeowners. Moreover, if a ceramic disk fails, it may be necessary to replace the entire tap, which can be more costly than replacing a washer. However, with proper maintenance and care, ceramic disk taps can last for many years, making them a worthwhile investment.
The Verdict
So, which type of tapware should you choose for your home? While tap washers may be more affordable upfront, they require more maintenance over time and can result in higher costs in the long run. At Water Workx Plumbing, we recommend Ceramic Disks as they offer the below benefits when comparing to tap washers.
Durability:
Ceramic disks are more durable than tap washers. Because they are made of hard ceramic material, they are less likely to wear out over time. They are also less likely to break or crack, which means they will last longer and require less maintenance.
Ease of Use:
Ceramic disk taps are easier to turn on and off than taps with washers. They require less force to turn, making them a good option for people with arthritis, disabilities or other conditions that affect hand strength. They are also easier for children to use, which can be an important consideration for families.
Water Conservation:
Ceramic disk taps are more effective at preventing leaks than taps with washers. When tap washers wear out, they can allow water to drip or leak, which can waste a lot of water over time. Ceramic disks create a tight seal that prevents leaks, which can help conserve water and save on water bills.
Low Maintenance:
Because ceramic disks are more durable than tap washers, they require less maintenance. They are less likely to wear out, which means they will need to be replaced less often. This can save time and money on maintenance costs over the lifetime of the tap.
