BathSelect Sensor Technology Explained: IR vs. Radar in Commercial Faucets

Tip: To meet local codes and comfort goals, use touchless faucets with 0.35–1.2 GPM aerators and thermostatic mixing valves.

How Infrared (IR) Sensors Work

When hands enter the active zone, IR sensors send out infrared light and pick up reflected signals, which starts the flow of water. IR gives accurate, repeatable activation ranges with low power use in controlled lighting, which makes it cost-effective for many facilities.

Putting things in the right place and calibrating them

• Mount height and sink shape: Keep the emitter and receiver away from mirror-like surfaces. Matte or stone basins cut down on stray reflections.
• Detection distance: Most factories have ranges of about 4 to 8 inches (10 to 20 cm). For shallow bowls, make sure to adjust the range so that splashes don’t cause misfires.
• Ambient light: Don’t let direct sunlight or bright task lighting shine on the sensor window.
  Wiring and Power

Power & Wiring

• Not much power: Great for battery packs (usually 4×AA or 6V) that last for years under normal use.
• AC options: 110-240V low voltage leads; make conduit and service panels accessible.

Dependability and Maintenance

• Cleaning the lens: In order for the beam strength not to degrade, one needs to remove soap residue or water spots from the sensor window.
• False triggers: If the bowls or drain grates are shiny and facing the sensor, you might have to recalibrate the sensor. Angle adjustments can solve this issue.
• The batteries can be checked periodically and changed when they are depleted in the busy bathrooms (every three to six months).

How Radar (Microwave) Sensors Work

Radar sensors send out low-power microwaves and use the Doppler effect to find motion. Because radar detects motion instead of light, it is stable under bright lights or reflective surfaces. It is also capable of working at slightly longer or more flexible approach angles.

Characteristics of Performance

• Angle tolerance: More forgiving when users come from the side or with unusual hand angles.
• Lighting immunity: Not affected by high-lux downlights, skylights, or glare from mirrors.
• Through-surface sensitivity: Can pick up small movements through thin materials; set the range to avoid interference from stall doors or hallways.

EMC, Power & Setup

• EMC considerations: Keep low-voltage runs separate from mains and heavy motors; follow manufacturer shielding guidance.
• Power: Typically AC with regulated low voltage; some models support battery with power-save logic.
• Commissioning: Use onboard DIP switches or app-based tools (when available) to set range, hold-open, and timeout.

Maintenance & Reliability

• Fewer light-related issues: No lens reflection tuning needed; verify range annually to prevent hallway triggers.
• Service access: Provide access panels for control boxes; label low-voltage leads and mixing valve lines.

IR vs. Radar: Real-World Performance

Spec & Compliance Notes

• ADA: Make sure there is enough reach and clear floor space; hands-free actuation makes it easier to get to.
• Water codes: Check the pressure range (for example, 28–72 psi is normal) and make sure the aerator GPM (for example, 0.35/0.5/1.0/1.2) matches your area.
• LEED and being eco-friendly: Use low-flow aerators and metered timeouts together to cut down on use.

Product Image Gallery

See below for some touchless models from BathSelect. To see the full specifications, finishes, and installation information for any card, click on it.

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BathSelect Examples & Specifications

Here are some examples of BathSelect models and technical resources that can help with submissions and specifications. Always check the most recent cut sheets for GPM, detection distance, power options (AC/DC), IP ratings, and finish availability.The availability of models, finishes, and specs may change. Check the project’s conditions against the electrical, plumbing, and mounting limits.

Model availability, finishes, and specs may change. Confirm electrical, plumbing, and mounting constraints against project conditions.

Integration & Plumbing Notes

• Mixing valves: Use thermostatic/ASSE 1070 valves to keep outlet temperatures safe, and make sure they are easy to get to for service.
• Filtration: Inline strainers keep solenoids safe in areas with hard water; plan to clean them every so often.
• Shutoffs: Give each faucet its own isolation stop to make maintenance easier without shutting down the whole bank.

How to Pick the Right Technology for Your Project

If the budget and the ability to accurately forecast the conditions are what are primarily on your mind, then the IR-based BathSelect models will work nicely for you. In situations involving lots of traffic, the angles and conditions of the lighting and splash will vary, and the radar sensing principle works better there. Various models are available, which include combinations of both techniques offered by the BathSelect option.

Best Ways to Install

• First, make a mockup: Before installing a lot of faucets, test one faucet per bank to make sure the range, splash, and user approach are all good.
• Taking care of cables: Mark the low-voltage and solenoid lines and stay away from the high-voltage lines to avoid interference.
• Vandal resistance: In public places, use tamper-proof fasteners and recessed control boxes.
• Starting: Set a timeout (30–45 seconds), a hygiene flush (if you have one), and a detection distance to cut down on waste.

Quick Troubleshooting

• No activation: Check the batteries and power, the inline filters, and the polarity of the solenoid. Make sure the sensor window is clean.
• Short bursts or surges: Check the minimum pressure and aerator GPM, clean the strainers, and reset the detection range.
• Phantom triggers: For IR, lower the range or change the angle. For radar, shorten the range to keep the motion from going off-basin.