Air Metering Faucets

By: Patricia Holland

Air Metering Faucets have become some of the most desired faucets for building owners. Because of their multiple features and benefits for both users and building owners, these faucets are commonplace. Perhaps the most important feature is that a very light touch will activate a ten second flow of water. Usually less than five pounds of pressure is all that is required for activation, making it easy to operate for children and the physically disabled. And the faucet has an automatic shutoff feature to save water and deter vandals.

Air Metering Faucets are usually constructed from a solid cast brass body and then chrome plated. Both metals are extremely corrosion resistant. The operating mechanism is inside the body and is removable from the top with a standard hex allen wrench. The mounting options typically include a four inch centerset or a centershank with or without an eight inch trim plate. The mounting is on top of the lavatory with studs. A strong, durable mounting makes this type of faucet more vandal resistant. The metering cycle should be checked periodically to confirm that it is consistent. The metering valve cartridge is replaceable on these faucets if needed.

Air Metering Faucets have an automatic shutoff. They are considered more sanitary because the user’s hands are not needed to shut the water off. The standard faucet in this category will have a flow control operating range between twenty and eight pounds per square inch. An internal flow restrictor keeps the flow rate constant at all pressures within the operating range. The water flow rate is a very low 0.50 gallon per minute which will save the building owner water, energy, and money every month.

Although Air Metering Faucets can accept either a tempered (warm) or cold incoming water supply, there is another option available. If the building owner wishes to provide a consistent supply of water at a specific temperature then he / she can order the faucets with thermostatic mixing valves. These valves will mix hot and cold water together and deliver a tempered water stream at a precise temperature. For safety purposes, the maximum allowed temperature is one hundred and five degrees.

Today’s Air Metering Faucets are ADA compliant. Since they have a very light touch requirement of five pounds of pressure or less, they require no digital dexterity. Therefore they can be easily activated by the severely disabled and very young children. These faucets are also in compliance with various standard codes and certifications. They are CSA certified to meet CSA B125 standards for faucets and plumbing fixtures.

Check with the manufacturer for all warranty information. Typically these types of faucets will have warranties of ten years or more will standard / normal use. Some internal parts will experience “wear and tear” and if replaced will extend the life of the fixture. However, most warranties do not cover labor charges or installation charges. In addition, abuse, improper installation, improper maintenance, or accidents will usually void all warranties.