Comparison index

Faucet part identification matrices

Use a matrix when no single model number settles the answer. Each comparison isolates a bounded set of attributes—such as handle count, control function, dimensions, broach, thread, ports, or connector geometry—and shows what evidence should send you to a record.

Use the index deliberately

Choose the record that matches the evidence you have

  • Pick the matrix for the fixture and part class before comparing physical features.
  • Measure with one method and one unit system; conversions and camera perspective can hide small differences.
  • Treat pressure-balance, thermostatic mixing, and diverter functions as different jobs even when parts look related.
  • Use the result as a route to a source-linked record, not as permission to force an uncertain part into the valve.
Identification matrix

Bathroom Single-Handle Cartridge Matrix

Identify a single-handle bathroom faucet cartridge through model evidence, handle movement, retention style, stem shape, ports, and precise measurements.

Single-handle lavatory faucets · Measure before purchaseOpen reference
Identification matrix

Compression, Cartridge, Ceramic, and Ball Matrix

Distinguish compression stems, cartridge systems, ceramic mixing cartridges, and ball controls through handle motion, retention, seals, and service parts.

Common faucet control mechanisms · Measure before purchaseOpen reference
Identification matrix

Faucet Aerator Thread Matrix

Identify faucet aerator threads by housing style, thread location, measured diameter and pitch, metric or inch format, keying, and spout clearance.

Aerators and outlet devices · Measure before purchaseOpen reference
Identification matrix

Faucet Cartridge Dimensions and Port Matrix

Measure and compare faucet cartridges by body diameter, length, stem, tabs, ports, seals, retention, and orientation before selecting a replacement.

Replaceable cartridges · Measure before purchaseOpen reference
Identification matrix

Faucet Part Supersession Matrix

Verify faucet part supersessions through official records, model and date ranges, required adapters, included hardware, installation changes, and source history.

Obsolete and superseded service parts · Measure before purchaseOpen reference
Identification matrix

Faucet Sprayer and Hose Connector Matrix

Compare kitchen sprayer and hose connectors by location, coupling mechanism, dimensions, seals, release method, hose routing, and model documentation.

Side sprays, pullout and pulldown hoses · Measure before purchaseOpen reference
Identification matrix

Faucet Stem Broach and Spline Matrix

Compare faucet stem broaches using spline count, major diameter, flats, keyways, screw style, and handle depth without relying on appearance alone.

Stem-to-handle interfaces · Measure before purchaseOpen reference
Identification matrix

Frost-Free Faucet Stem Matrix

Identify a frost-free sillcock stem by manufacturer, model, overall length, handle-end and valve-end geometry, packing, threads, and official diagrams.

Frost-free sillcocks and wall hydrants · Measure before purchaseOpen reference
Identification matrix

Hot and Cold Cartridge Orientation Matrix

Resolve hot and cold cartridge orientation using supply tracing, valve position, stem rotation, indexing tabs, markings, and manufacturer instructions.

Hot- and cold-side stems and cartridges · Measure before purchaseOpen reference
Identification matrix

Kitchen Single-Handle Cartridge Matrix

Narrow a kitchen single-handle cartridge by faucet body, handle motion, retention, stem geometry, port layout, measurements, and official parts diagrams.

Single-handle kitchen faucets · Measure before purchaseOpen reference
Identification matrix

OEM vs Aftermarket Faucet Parts Matrix

Evaluate OEM and aftermarket faucet parts through verified application, specifications, included hardware, warranty terms, documentation, and seller traceability.

Original and third-party service parts · Measure before purchaseOpen reference
Identification matrix

Old Shower Valve Identification Matrix

Identify an older concealed shower valve by trim layout, stem geometry, body markings, operating motion, and measured dimensions before ordering parts.

Older concealed shower valves · Measure before purchaseOpen reference
Identification matrix

Pressure-Balance vs Thermostatic Shower Valves

Compare pressure-balance and thermostatic shower valves by control behavior, internal parts, temperature response, trim clues, and verification steps.

Pressure-balancing and thermostatic valves · Measure before purchaseOpen reference
Identification matrix

Roman Tub Valve and Part Matrix

Identify Roman tub valves, cartridges, stems, spouts, and hand-shower connections using deck measurements, access conditions, markings, and function.

Deck-mounted Roman tub valves · Measure before purchaseOpen reference
Identification matrix

Single-, Two-, and Three-Handle Shower Systems

Compare one-, two-, and three-handle shower systems by control function, valve architecture, service access, measurements, and part-identification clues.

One-, two-, and three-handle controls · Measure before purchaseOpen reference