German kitchen faucets: varieties, brands and choices

A mixer is that item or, say, a fixture, the whole process of cooking depends on the work of which. German manufacturers of sanitary ware are considered leaders in the production of quality kitchen faucets. These products are time-tested and prove their specialty and originality.

Good mixer performance is as follows:

• ease of opening and closing the tap;
• smoothness of temperature control of water;
• intuitive sensitivity settings;
• lack of extraneous sounds at work;
• jet thickness, its transparency;
• lack of spray;
• softness of the flow;
• profitability of water consumption;
• long term of operation.

The main advantage of large German manufacturers is a well-built and streamlined service department that works in the field of warranty service. It is she who ensures the uninterrupted delivery of both finished products and components or spare parts for repair. The most famous and tested German manufacturers include the following:

• Grohe;

• Franke

• Blanco;

• Hansgrohe, in particular their Axor premium line;

• Kludi;

• Keuco;

• Dornbracht;

• Jorger.

Their main positive qualities include technological effectiveness and innovativeness. They really strive to keep up with the times, try to offer consumers new, more functional products, equipment is periodically updated.

German kitchen faucets in their appearance and design can be divided into three main categories.

• Kitchen faucet - This is the classic and most budget option.It is a curved spout with two taps to turn on hot and cold water. The weak point of the taps is rubber gaskets. They, of course, can be changed if necessary, and everything will work as before. Modern models are equipped with ceramic gaskets. They last longer than rubber, but this is noticeably reflected in the price of the product.

• Single lever model, according to the housewives, is much more practical and convenient than a valve. The demand for this design is explained by simplicity and reliability. One control element controls both the pressure of the water and its temperature. The push mechanism works on the same principle, but is more modern. Despite the fact that the cost of a single lever mixer is an order of magnitude higher, in use it is more comfortable and durable.

• Touch mixer - one of the latest inventions of scientists, embodied in life by German manufacturers of plumbing. This design has no levers or gates. It consists of a crane equipped with a motion sensor. Water turns on automatically, you only need to bring your hands to it. Some models are equipped with a touch screen; with its help, the water temperature and pressure level are adjusted. The display can be configured and used as a clock, timer or thermometer.

With Select technology, the convenience of controlling pressure mixers reaches a radically new level. This option involves moving the control handle to the corner of the sink. An additional button for turning water on or off is at the top of the tap. Such a model is usually equipped with an exhaust spout. The advantage of such a mixer is a soft stream without excessive spraying.

Another type of similar multifunction crane from German manufacturers is with a long spout. The jet of water emanating from it is laminar - transparent and absolutely does not emit noise, as it is formed without air suction. Pressing a button in the upper part of the body activates the jet in the shower version, which is convenient for washing vegetables, herbs or fruits. The shower has a retractable system.

The S-box module provides easy and smooth sliding of the retractable hose. This innovative system, developed by German masters of kitchen plumbing, was even awarded a prize for a significant contribution to the development of the kitchen industry in 2017. Ease of use and sophisticated technology are the hallmarks of Hansgrohe, a company that cares about its customers.

The design has a lot of colors, unique decor elements that are harmoniously combined with the interior of the kitchen and comfortable use for the intended purpose.

The shape and bend of the spout are different for all kitchen taps. It depends on the model and manufacturer. Some German manufacturers produce faucets only characteristic patented form. This is a certain guarantee of the originality of the product.

The choice depends on the specific requests of the buyer and the depth of the wash. If the sink is quite deep, then in combination with a high spout when washing dishes, water splashing cannot be avoided. Short or low faucet will not allow to wash large-sized dishes qualitatively.

Models of foreign production have a different design. They differ in assembly methods and functionality.

• Cast mixer design - The most reliable protection against unwanted water leaks. A one-piece metal case strengthens it, but makes it immovable.
• The prefabricated mechanism of the crane indicates the mobility of the spout. If the structure is assembled correctly, then it is no worse than cast and leakage is also excluded.
• Built-in switch It is used to connect to household appliances, the use of which requires a water supply (washing machine or dishwasher, coffee machine). Recently, this function contains almost all German faucets.
• Filtration systeminstalled in the spout tube makes the water much cleaner and allows you to immediately consume it in food. Faucets with this function are equipped with a double spout. A tap containing a filter usually has a bizarre or unusual shape.

In Germany, the production of mixers from several materials has been established.

• Metal. German plumbing manufacturing technologies exclude the use of silumin and other low-quality alloys. In order for the faucets to last as long as possible, bronze and brass are used to cast parts. Kitchen taps made of these metals are considered the most reliable and have an attractive appearance.

• Pottery or granite. The positive side of ceramic sanitary ware is its corrosion resistance and beauty, but this cannot be said about strength. Any mechanical impact on the crane may result in chipping or cracking. Granite spraying extends the life of the mixer, as this material is not as fragile as ceramic. Thanks to the granite coating, this type of mixer can also claim to be durable.

• Spraying with chrome, nickel, bronze, gold. An additional coating of the tap and other elements of the device with nickel, chrome or precious metals protects it from the harmful effects of hard water. In conditions of high humidity, spraying acts as a repulsive barrier, preventing corrosion. The external appeal of these products is also not in last place. They look elegant, fashionable and expensive.

Before buying, you need to decide on the design of the mixer and its color design, so that it harmoniously fits into the overall interior of the kitchen. When choosing the best option in a suitable price range, you need to pay attention to the type of installation, the design itself and the materials from which it is made. The main thing - you should not chase fashion. Popular and advertised models are often not the best Chinese copies.

A high-quality imported mixer should be made of metal, which means it must have the appropriate weight.

An overview of Kraus kitchen faucets in the video below.