What type of valve does a typical home faucet use?

A typical home faucet usually utilizes a ball valve because of its design and functionality. Ball valves are known for their ease of operation and ability to provide a tight seal, which helps prevent leaks. They feature a spherical disc that rotates within the valve body to control the flow of water. This design allows for quick and efficient opening and closing, making it ideal for faucets where users require immediate control over water flow.

In contrast, globe valves, while effective for regulating flow, are not commonly used in residential faucets due to their more complex design and higher resistance to flow, which can lead to lower water pressure. Angle valves are generally employed in installations that require a change in the direction of the flow, such as connecting pipes at right angles, rather than in faucets aimed at direct water delivery. Gate valves, known for their use in on/off applications without regulating flow, are not typically used in home faucets due to their slower response time in opening and closing and potential for creating more pressure drop in the system.

Therefore, a faucet's mechanism is best suited for a ball valve, providing the necessary performance characteristics expected in a home setting.