robinets

Robinets, in English called faucets or taps, are valves used to control the release of water from a plumbing system. They are installed at fixtures such as sinks, basins, showers, and outdoor spigots. The primary functions are to shut off water supply, regulate flow, and often mix hot and cold water to achieve the desired temperature.

Several mechanism families are common. Compression robinets use a threaded stem with a washer to seal the flow; ball robinets rely on a rotating ball and seals; cartridge robinets use replaceable cartridges to control flow and temperature; and ceramic-disk robinets employ two ceramic discs for precise regulation. Each type offers different durability, maintenance needs, and ease of repair.

Typical components include the faucet body, a handle or lever, a valve cartridge or stem, seals such as O-rings or washers, and an aerator at the outlet that reduces splash and saves water.

Materials most often include brass as the core, frequently plated with chrome or nickel; stainless steel and certain plastics are also used. In installations, hot and cold supplies may be color-coded. Regular maintenance addresses leaks, mineral buildup, and worn seals; repairs commonly involve replacing washers, O-rings, or cartridges.

Regionally, the term robinet is standard in Francophone countries; in English-speaking areas robinets are usually called faucets or taps. Modern codes increasingly require lead-free materials and the use of aerators or flow restrictors to conserve water.