Electronic faucets, also known as sensor taps, are those that detect the presence of hands under the spout and automatically let a stream of water flow. This system ensures that the faucet remains closed as long as there is no object nearby.

Originally, electronic taps were intended for use in high-traffic bathrooms such as in hotels and hospitals but they are becoming increasingly popular in homes too.

These faucets can be installed in the sink, bidet, shower or kitchen sink. This automated equipment can go in all those options since it depends solely on an infrared sensor built into the faucet, which lets the water out when it detects a movement in the light beam. This system offers a wide range of actions. The water flows when the hands are placed underneath and stops when the hands are removed.

In the case of a shower, the water will fall when it detects a body at a predetermined minimum distance. The most commonly used system is the one that is activated by passing the hand under the faucet and deactivated in the same way. The system is completed with a safety lock that prevents the unintentional fall of hot water or the blocking of the tap when the supply is interrupted and only cold water falls.

As for the power supply, electronic faucets usually work with alkaline batteries that are factory-installed in the circuit. They typically use four batteries, although some models operate on a single battery. In the case of radar-sensing faucets, a connection to the power grid is required.

Setting the Temperature and Flow Rate

The temperature and flow rate of electronic faucets can be adjusted at the time of installation, although they have a thermostatic valve or a lever that allows you to manually adjust the flow rate, as well as the mixture of hot and cold water. In this way, water consumption is reduced by obtaining the desired temperature as soon as the tap is opened, without the need to let a jet flow.

A valve allows the desired temperature and quantity of water to be set. The Foundation for Ecology and Development assures that this saving can reach 50% compared to other taps. “These systems guarantee the use of essential water, without reducing the user’s feeling of comfort and the availability of water,” it adds. In addition, some models incorporate safety devices that automatically cut off the water if the faucet remains open for more than a certain time. This is very useful in case an object accidentally falls right under the faucet.

On the other hand, electronic faucets can be deactivated while cleaning the toilet or sink in which they are installed and, having the closure assured, they reduce the risk of flooding or leakage. Another advantage is that they stay clean longer and are more hygienic, since it is not necessary to handle them with the hands. This feature has made them widely used in large facilities and industrial kitchens, to avoid the accumulation of bacteria.

Battery Change

Electronic faucets are powered by electric current or by alkaline batteries. In the latter case, the batteries are placed in a battery box connected to the faucet by a cable. The battery box is placed in an inconspicuous but accessible location to facilitate battery replacement.

The batteries are placed in a battery box connected to the faucet by a cable. When the batteries are exhausted, the water will no longer flow. It is therefore advisable to always have a fresh set of batteries on hand. However, most faucets will emit a light or sound signal before the batteries are completely depleted, which can happen every two to five years.

What are your thoughts on sensor taps? Are you going to put them in your house too? Let us know in the comments below.

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