Installation of the mixer is one of the main stages of repair in the bathroom. For the correct installation and the correct operation of the device, it is very important to accurately calculate and follow the recommendations from the manufacturer. In order to install the mixer correctly, it is enough to follow the instructions and take into account the design features of the selected model.
For example, a stand mixer is more suitable for large rooms, while for a small bathroom it will be much more convenient to use the built-in model or standard wall mount.
Primary requirements
Choosing a bathroom faucet, you should consider many important nuances, one of which is the location of the tap. In its turn, it should be chosen taking into account the design features of the mixer model. In most faucets, for example, the lever for adjusting the water supply is located vertically, and this will have to be taken into account in order to place the device as comfortably as possible.
If the mechanism is horizontal, then the operation of such a device should be as accurate as possible to avoid damage to the lever. When adjusting the height of the tap, you need to remember that there must be a distance between the hot and cold water valves at least 15 cm for correct operation. For all models, this indicator is standard, it is not affected by the width of the mixer or its design. A distance of less than 15 cm is a rarity, and is found only in imported models made to order. The width of the model can be up to 25 cm inclusive, everything is individual here and depends on the manufacturer.
For two-valve models, it is important that the inlets match the mixer levers in size. Typically, this installation uses the European standard for location - the cold water valve is always on the right.
Thermostatic models have a non-standard design, and, accordingly, their installation requirements. It is recommended that specialists pre-assemble such models and verify the sizes with what is written in the accompanying documentation. After that, the position of the fittings is marked and installation begins. Fittings usually do not protrude, it is important to maintain the design in the bathroom.
The main thing is to use the mixer after installation was comfortable for all family members. For universal models, the height is 250 mm minimum. If we are talking about the distance from the bottom of the shower or floor - the parameter ranges from 800 to 1200 mm. But for small-sized such indicators are not suitable, so homeowners get out of the situation, calculating a comfortable height individually.
Another requirement to consider - type of mixer. They are different not only in design, but also in function. For example, in order to simply type a bath, a distance of 20 cm is sufficient. But for universal models that will be used for a bath and a sink at a time, the height indicator is much higher and is calculated individually, taking into account the location of the sides and the distance from the floor.
There are a few more rules that must be observed for proper installation.
- Before installation is evaluated the most comfortable position of the crane for use by all households, including children.
- In showers, the height starts from 120 cm minimum, the distance is calculated not only from the floor, but also from the bottom of the cab.
- Before installation, it is recommended to take into account the depth of the bowl, product measurements are carried out in advance.
- If the mixer is mounted near the edge, then its location is calculated so so that maintenance of both the bathtub and the sink goes smoothly. Here the height can be from 850 mm. The dimensions of the selected model and the distance between the gander and the bottom of the bowl are added to it.
- If you have additional accessories, such as water softeners and filters, the design becomes more complicated, and you need to calculate its height subject to additional elements.
It is highly recommended not to place the faucet strictly in the center, especially if it is a universal model with a shower set. It will be much more practical to shift it aside for ease of use.
Choosing a place necessarily take into account the distance between the branches. In order for everything to be smooth, a building level or an ordinary ruler is suitable. The correct arrangement of axes excludes interruptions in the supply of hot and cold water.
It is easier to work with modern built-in models, since a special hole for installation is already provided there. The crane is fastened with nuts, washers and cushioning material. Using the same parts, water pipes are also connected to the structure. If the sizes do not coincide, the excess section is removed, and the cut-off point is ground before installation.
If we talk about the requirements for the main types of mixers, then it is worth highlighting several popular design options:
- herringbone;
- lever;
- thermostatic.
The latter is one of the most expensive options, as it makes it possible to regulate the temperature regardless of water pressure. Such devices have their own safety indicators and a strict height parameter, which can be found in the accompanying document from the manufacturer. The minimum parameter is from 250 mm.
Products are most often made of brass and coated with a special layer. Stainless steel is another popular material, so there will be no problems with strength.Only the composition of the tools during installation and its complexity varies depending on the design.
Standard height
Usually, calculating the optimal height for installation, the first thing that is recommended to be followed is SNiP norms, another reliable source of up-to-date information on the installation of sanitary equipment is an instruction from the manufacturer of a specific model. If we talk about the indicators of the standard for installation, then the following should be mentioned.
- The height from the floor is at least 80 cm, takes into account the location of the upper side of the bathtub or bowl - at least 60 cm from the floor. Only in this case are all the necessary safety measures followed.
- The distance to the bottom of the sink in standard versions is at least 25 cm, This eliminates splashing and loud noise during use.
Note! Standard height parameters for installation at home and in public institutions (clinics, kindergartens, schools) differ among themselves. In this case, the basic height parameter is 1100 mm for a conventional tap and 1200 mm for a conventional shower.
Determining the height begins with the selection of a suitable mixer model and its functions. After that, emphasis is placed on the choice of installation location, often it is associated with the hot and cold water supply point. If the installation is planned elsewhere, the problem can be solved with flexible hoses. Further, the height is tried on depending on the purpose. Universal models are installed at least 250 mm from the floor.
Devices are not recommended to be attached directly to ceramic tiles or other similar surfaces, this is unsafe for operation. The mixer is mounted only after installing the bathroom so that the faucet is at the right level from its sides and bottom.
Distance depending on installation type
Depending on the complexity and installation features, the installation height also changes. Thanks to a wide range of plumbing, there are many options for the location of the mixer in the bathroom. It can be attached not only above the sink. The most common options are as follows.
- External wall mount. There are many such models on the market in design and price range. It is usually mounted so that there is direct and easy access to eliminate any malfunctions that arise during operation.
- Embedded - more modern models of mixers, the height of special holes for installation should be calculated in advance. The only drawback is that in the event of a breakdown, it is necessary to carry out a complete dismantling of the plumbing unit in order to assess the nature of the malfunction and eliminate it.
Specialists are advised to use the classic way to install the sink. It is more affordable and much easier to install and operate, unlike embedded options.
With an independent installation, the following nuances must be taken into account.
- If the mixer creates too intense noise during operation, it is worthwhile to re-calculate the installation height.
- In order to avoid splashing water on the floor, you should calculate the optimal distance from the tap to the bottom of the bowl. The correct calculation will exclude the influence of dampness on the finish in the bathroom and furniture.
- The easiest way to avoid mistakes is to hang up the device according to the manufacturer's recommendations and basic operating requirements.
The mixer itself is a pipe with a movable damper that controls the strength of the stream and the intensity of the water. If we talk about the possible types and methods of installation, then the devices are divided into 3 main categories.
- For Bath - This is usually a small device, water regulation is carried out using two parts. Putting this kind of faucets is necessary at a certain distance from the side of the bathroom, this will eliminate the appearance of splashes and loud noise. The height from the floor should be up to 20 cm.
- For shower - these models are provided to users complete with a cabin where water is supplied to, here the minimum distance is up to 80 cm.
- Universal models can be used both in the bathroom and in the shower. The optimal installation height is 25 cm minimum.
Depending on the functional purpose of the mixer, its location in height also changes. An incorrectly installed device will not work correctly and will serve much less than the warranty period.
Aboard the bowl
This arrangement of the device gives a unique opportunity to use it both for the sink and for the bathroom. The main thing is that the location is optimal in height. The gander of the mixing mechanism must be approximately until the middle of the sink. For installation, the distance from the floor is at least 85 cm, and from the bottom - at least 25, which will allow you to conveniently use the sink for washing large items.
On the rack
It is used if the device will be used by family members of different ages and physique. If necessary, the mechanism is equipped with an additional height adjustment function. The hose of such devices can also be adjusted in length.
As a result, the design is original and attractive. You can mount it anywhere in the room, the support is installed directly on the floor. Spacious rooms are best suited.
On the wall
This option for today can be considered the main one in every modern house. The hole in the wall for installation is prepared in advance, when calculating, the distance from the floor after installing the sink bowl on the supports is taken into account. When installing also the possibility of taking hygienic procedures is taken into account, especially if it is planned to equip a shower cabin nearby. After that, the installation site is selected and the installation process begins.
Do-it-yourself installation of the mixer is simple, an adjustable wrench and a dispenser are enough. Dismantle the old appliance carefully so as not to damage the enamel. If the installation is on the side, then central location is not the best option, it will not be very convenient to use the crane in the future.
The distance between the hot and cold water inlet along the axis should be no less than 15-20 cm. A test assembly of the device is carried out to measure the dimensions, for accuracy during installation, a level or at least a long wooden ruler with clearly visible marks must be used so that the position of the fittings is correct.
A properly installed faucet lasts much longer than the minimum warranty period. If at the installation site near the wall the sizes between the product and the holes do not match, the difficulty can be solved with the help of flexible hoses. If the device is modular and installed without them, then an eccentric is required to coordinate the dimensions of the connecting elements.
The optimal installation height of a mixer of a particular model can be viewed without calculation in the instructions from the manufacturer.
In each case, these recommendations can be taken as the basis for your own calculations, if the proposed height option does not suit you. With a phased approach, even an inexperienced user can handle the self-installation of the mixer.
You will learn more about the subtleties of determining the height of the mixer in the bathroom below.