Before Buying a Faucet Online — A Complete Buyer’s Guide (Detailed Version)

1. Overall Buying Mindset (Ask These Three Questions First)

1. What is the usage scenario: kitchen / washbasin / countertop basin / wall-mounted shower / bathtub?
   (Different scenarios require different spout heights, flow types, splash control, and temperature control.)
2. What is the water pressure and water supply condition in my home?
   (Low-pressure homes must consider low-pressure-compatible faucets; high-rise buildings also need to check max pressure tolerance.)
3. Do I prioritize long-term durability and serviceability (B2B/projects/rentals), or short-term aesthetics (C-end renovation)?

Once the scenario and priorities are clear, select based on the following criteria.

2. Common Faucet Types on the Market (By Function & Structure)

For washbasins / sinks:

• Single-handle single-hole faucets — most common, one handle controls temperature and flow
• Double-handle two-hole faucets — traditional style, hot and cold separated
• Vessel faucets / tall faucets for countertop basins

For kitchens:

• Pull-down / pull-out faucets with hose spray head
• High-arc single-handle faucets with side sprayer

For showers / bathtubs:

• Single-control mixing valves + diverter
• Thermostatic valves / pressure-balanced valves — anti-scalding, anti-pressure fluctuation
• Concealed (in-wall) systems vs exposed panel systems

Smart types:

• Touchless (sensor) faucets
• Touch-control faucets

Special types:

• Waterfall faucets
• Multi-outlet shower systems
• Diverter systems

Faucet type, for bathroom, kitchen and bathtub

3. Check Valves & Cartridges — How to Judge Quality and What to Look For

Concept clarification:

• Cartridge = the core component that controls hot/cold mixing and water flow
• Check valve = one-way valve that prevents backflow contamination

How to evaluate cartridge quality

Type

• Ceramic cartridge > compression valve
  Ceramic is more durable, wear-resistant, and seals better.

Replaceability

• Can the cartridge be replaced separately?
  This is extremely important for long-term maintenance and cost savings.

Material

• Metal cartridge bases (brass/bronze) are more durable than plastic bases.

Brand/model traceability

• Presence of cartridge model codes or standard cartridge types = better manufacturing control.

Testing data

• Product descriptions stating lifespan tests (e.g. “500,000 open/close cycles”) are a quality signal.

How to evaluate check valve quality

Structure

• Rubber flap + spring type or ball valve type
• Prefer EPDM/NBR rubber + stainless steel springs

Filters

• Built-in mesh filters help prevent clogging

Serviceability

• Can it be disassembled and replaced?

Leak prevention

• Backflow leakage test compliance (ask seller if not stated)

Practical online verification methods

• Check for “ceramic cartridge” labeling
• Confirm spare cartridge availability
• Read reviews for:
  • “leaking”
  • “cartridge replacement”
  • “handle stiffness”
  • “dripping”
• Ask for material certificates and testing reports if available

The check valves, from Amazon

4. Materials & Internal Structure (What’s Good, What’s Risky)

External body & spout materials

Best choices:

• Solid brass (low-lead brass alloy)
• Stainless steel (304 / 316)

Why:

• Brass: strong, corrosion-resistant, repairable
• 304 SS: good corrosion resistance
• 316 SS: better for coastal/high-salt environments

Risk materials:

• Zinc alloy (die-cast zinc / Zamak)
  Cheap, weak corrosion resistance, brittle, poor longevity

Internal waterway & components

• Internal channels: brass or stainless steel preferred
• Plastic internal waterways = aging risk, odor risk, temperature resistance issues
• Threads/connectors: metal threads > plastic threads
• O-rings:
  • Best: EPDM or Viton (fluoro rubber)
  • Acceptable: NBR (but less durable long-term)
• Springs: stainless steel preferred
• Welding/structural joints: poor welding = leak risk

Common internal problems

• Excessive plastic components
• Plastic valve seats
• No low-lead / lead-free certification
• Non-removable aerators (difficult cleaning)
• In-wall concealed systems without service access

A brass wall-mounted faucet

5. Surface Finishing — Durability & Maintenance

Chrome plating

• Bright finish, common
• Quality depends on the nickel underlayer thickness

PVD coating (Physical Vapor Deposition)

• Superior durability and corrosion resistance
• Best for black/gold finishes
• Much stronger than paint or spray coating

Brushed stainless / brushed nickel

• Scratch-resistant
• Fingerprint-resistant
• Ideal for high-use areas

Painted / powder-coated

• Color variety
• Lower durability
• Higher peeling risk in humid environments

Finish selection advice

Bathrooms:

• PVD / thick chrome / brushed stainless preferred

Kitchens:

• PVD or stainless steel recommended for durability

What to check in product descriptions

• “Multi-layer plating”
• “Salt spray test hours (48h / 96h / 240h etc.)”
• Anti-corrosion treatment descriptions

With a color surface finish 

6. Flow Rate & Water Pressure — Must Be Considered

Flow rate standards

• Basin/kitchen faucets: 1.2–2.2 GPM
• Shower heads: 1.8–2.5 GPM (or higher)

Pressure compatibility

• Typical working pressure: 0.1–0.6 MPa or 20–80 PSI
• Low-pressure homes need low-pressure compatible models

Flow control

• Aerators regulate flow and improve water feel
• Removable aerators = easy maintenance

Pressure fluctuation protection

• Pressure-balanced valves: stabilize temperature during pressure changes
• Thermostatic valves: precise temperature control + anti-scalding

How to verify

• Check:
  • Max/min working pressure
  • Recommended flow rate
  • Water efficiency certifications
• If unsure, measure home pressure or consult a plumber

7. Installation Issues & Requirements

Pre-purchase confirmation

• Mounting holes: 1-hole / 3-hole / 4-inch / 8-inch
• Hole diameter (common: Ø32mm / Ø35mm)
• Countertop thickness compatibility
• Hose connection size (commonly 1/2", region dependent)
• Hose length
• Concealed valve depth requirements
• Included accessories:
  • Check valves
  • Angle valves
  • Sealing gaskets
  • Installation kits
• Power supply for sensor faucets
• Professional installation requirement for thermostatic systems

Installation details

• Bolt length compatibility with countertop thickness
• Proper sealing (Teflon tape + gaskets)
• Independent shutoff valves (angle valves) for maintenance
• Filter mesh on hoses
• Pressure testing after installation:
  • Full hot/cold flow for 5–10 minutes
  • Leak inspection
  • Handle smoothness test

Special warnings

• Concealed systems without access panels = high future repair cost
• Drinking water lines require certified lead-free compliance

8. Questions to Ask Sellers & Red Flags

Must-ask questions

1. Cartridge type and model? Replaceable separately?
2. Body material, internal waterway material, spring material?
3. Surface finishing method & salt spray test data?
4. Working pressure range & recommended flow rate?
5. Lead-free / drinking water safety certifications?
6. Installation accessories included? Warranty period and coverage?
7. Spare parts availability and after-sales support?

Red flags (avoid buying if present)

• No material specification (only “metal” or “alloy”)
• “Copper” claim but very light weight (likely zinc alloy)
• No spare parts or after-sales support
• Repeated reviews about leaking, loose handles, stuck cartridges
• Vague surface treatment descriptions
• Painted finishes in humid environments

9. Practical Buying Workflow

1. Define scenario and priorities
2. Check:
   1. Ceramic cartridge
   2. Brass/stainless body
   3. Lead-free labeling
3. Verify certifications and testing data
4. Analyze user reviews
5. Check spare parts and warranty
6. Confirm installation compatibility
7. Save invoice and packaging
8. Inspect parts before installation

10. Final Summary (Decision Checklist)

Mandatory requirements

• Ceramic cartridge with replaceability
• Brass or stainless steel body
• Clear pressure and flow specifications
• Clear installation dimensions and compatibility
• Spare parts and after-sales support
• No mass leakage complaints in reviews

Bonus features

• PVD coating
• High salt spray resistance rating
• Thermostatic / pressure-balanced valves
• NSF / CUPC certifications
• Pre-installed stainless braided hoses
• Integrated check valves