A plumbing fixture is any device connected to the plumbing that delivers or drains water: toilets, sinks, faucets, showers, tubs. Choosing them is a balance of function, water efficiency, style and ease of cleaning.
Toilets
- Two-piece: separate tank and bowl, affordable and common.
- One-piece: tank and bowl in one unit, easier to clean, usually more expensive.
- Wall-hung: the tank is hidden in the wall; looks modern, easy to clean under, but needs a special frame.
- Comfort height models are taller, easier for many adults.
Modern toilets use far less water than old ones. WaterSense-labeled toilets use 1.28 gallons per flush or less (EPA WaterSense). Dual-flush models offer a smaller flush for liquids.
Sinks
- Bathroom: pedestal, wall-mounted, drop-in, undermount, vessel (sits on top of the counter) and integrated sinks.
- Kitchen: compared in detail in the different types of kitchen sinks.
Faucets
- Single-handle or two-handle.
- Bathroom configurations: single-hole, centerset, widespread and wall-mounted.
- Kitchen: pull-down or pull-out sprayers, bridge faucets, pot fillers and touchless models.
WaterSense bathroom faucets use 1.5 gallons per minute or less. Installation is covered in how to install a new faucet.
Showers and tubs
Shower heads (fixed, handheld, rain), pressure-balancing or thermostatic valves that prevent scalding, alcove tubs, freestanding tubs and walk-in showers.
Faucet and fixture finishes
The finish affects maintenance as much as looks:
- Polished chrome: the most common, durable, easy to match, but shows water spots and fingerprints.
- Brushed or satin nickel: warm gray, hides spots and fingerprints well, good for busy family bathrooms.
- Matte black: modern and dramatic; shows limescale in hard water areas and can wear on cheap finishes.
- Brass and gold tones (brushed, satin, unlacquered): warm and back in fashion; unlacquered brass develops a patina.
- Oil-rubbed bronze: dark brown with copper highlights, suits traditional and rustic styles.
- Stainless steel: common in kitchens, resists corrosion.
PVD (physical vapor deposition) finishes are much harder and more scratch-resistant than standard plated finishes. Match finishes within a room, or mix intentionally (for example, black faucets with brass lights).
Water heaters
Tank, tankless, and heat pump water heaters differ in cost, efficiency and space needed. Heat pump models are among the most efficient options.
Fixtures are the main decisions in a renovation, see the essential steps to a bathroom remodel.
