Shower faucets: types and choices

Mixers for a shower are presented in a huge assortment. But to make a choice among all these species is not as difficult as it seems. It is only necessary to approach the topic carefully and take into account all the basic subtleties and nuances of each variety.

The modern bathroom contains many basic plumbing elements and blocks. But for all their reliability, these devices can often break. Therefore, it is important to know the features of the same shower faucets, their basic characteristics. Moreover, such information will also be useful in arranging new apartments and houses from scratch. Knowing the features of a particular device, it will be easy both to pick up a replacement for it and to repair it whenever possible.

Depending on this proportion, this or that temperature is set. Accordingly, when the ratio changes, this temperature will change very quickly. Mixers can be controlled with a single lever or a pair of valves.

The lever type means equipping the inside with a large ball with special slots; through these channels mixed flows of water enter. Changing the angle of rotation of the lever, change the flow head. There are also modifications with ceramic cartridges. They have two mutually contacting plates. When they shift relative to each other, mixing of water is provided. In order for the plates to leave the designated place, you need to manipulate the lever.

For faucets, they often buy:

• internal parts;

• enclosures for flush mounting;

• hidden parts of mixing devices;

• switches between positions;

• mounting boxes;

• shut-off valves;

• thermostats and their external units;

• external panels;

• adapters for mounting on the sides of the bathtubs;

• sets of pens.

But tee crane deserves special attention. Its essence is simple: there are 3 outputs, two of them are continuously connected, and the third can be periodically blocked. It will turn out to embed the similar crane in any pipe.

It is not difficult to install such a crane, and if a plastic pipe is used, then even a complex installation tool is not required.

Axle box - Another version of the tap used in shower faucets. In the official plumbing literature, it is often called a valve head. Crane boxes are needed to supply and shut off water inside the mixer. Almost all structures of this kind are made of brass.

Components of the crane box are:

• jumpers;

• fittings;

• thread

• jumper pads;

• quick-release washers;

• hexagonal rods;

• square heads under the flywheel;

• gasket stops;

• locking gaskets;

• pivots.

The axle boxes can be made of rubber or cermets.

Systems with a watering can are very diverse. They are made of both metal and plastic. The metal design is more durable. Watering can also count on a variety of modes.

Some models come with a flexible hose. In fact, this is a 2 in 1 solution that has become a real plumbing classic. It is convenient to use it while taking a bath and taking a shower. Flexible hose systems are:

• with brass or steel tap;

• with a plastic or metal hose;

• with various geometric designs;

• with installation on a bathtub or on walls.

The multifunctional mixer clearly outperforms the simplest solution. It is very rare to meet a model that only divides the flow of water into thin streams. In the near future, such designs may completely disappear. In addition to the simplest mode, in modern samples there is also a soft supply of aerated water and a hard massage jet.

If there is a desire to take a contrast shower, it is difficult to do without a panel with a thermostat. Such devices absorbed all the achievements of modern technology. They are completely reliable and safe. A good mixer with a thermostat retains the set thermal settings for as long as needed. But if necessary, changing them is not difficult.

Thermostats not only provide the required performance. They ensure that too hot or too cold water does not suddenly pour. Therefore, it is an important element for safety and comfort. The thermostat is especially important when bathing young children. None of their experiments will lead to burns.

Very often you can find faucets with a mesh. Its official engineering name is an aerator. It should not be assumed that such a grid is designed to retain harmful substances. It is also erroneous to believe that it weakens the pressure of water. In reality, aerators are needed so that water is saturated with oxygen more efficiently.

Grids can make from:

• ferrous metal;

• polymeric materials (characterized by greater durability);

• bronzes;

• brass;

• ceramics.

A good aerator helps save water.In combination with air, its volume grows, and the pressure, despite the lower flow rate, does not decrease. In addition, the mesh prevents splashes. Another advantage is the effective removal of chlorine and the prevention of limescale. Therefore, no reasonable consumer will not remove the aerator from the mixer. But it needs to be changed every year.

There are grids:

• with vacuum valve;

• rotary (operating in spray or spray modes);

• based on a flexible hose;

• with non-volatile backlight (showing the temperature level).

Budget class mixers can be equipped with a push divertor with a return spring. The time of its use in advanced plumbing is from 150 cycles.

An example of a portioned (portioned-pressed) kit is Varion Armaturen 9520900. This system automatically shuts off the water supply. For its manufacture, a brass grade is used that can withstand heating up to 70 degrees. A batch mixer reduces water consumption. The delivery set also includes a hose, cam, watering cans and holders.

Talk about the types of faucets can not ignore the parameters watering cans. They are often made of plastic. Such a solution is cheap, but with a metallic coating it gives an excellent appearance.

The lightness of the plastic construction allows you to not be afraid of its falling on an acrylic surface. But she also has a serious drawback - a short service life.

Metal watering can much more durable. Most often it is made of stainless steel grades. Highlighted chic look have brass and copper designs. It is easy to clear metal of a calcareous deposit. But you will have to pay for such a product more than for a plastic watering can.

Most often, the spout resembles a circle or oval in shape. This configuration is convenient and outwardly enjoyable.

The size of the spout is selected according to your own taste and needs. There are no strict standards here. It is easiest to move a watering can with a diameter of 0.06-0.08 m. To create a "waterfall" or rain shower, you need to use mixers with a large watering can. Some people will like triangular designs or original “handsets”, other design developments more.

More and more widespread now elbow mixers. Until recently, they were used in operating rooms and other premises of hospitals. The popularity of such devices is due to the fact that they guarantee utmost cleanliness and an increased level of hygiene. In addition, they are much more convenient than traditional designs. You can even press the thickened handle with your elbow (hence the name).

Elbow faucets for the home are gradually becoming more sophisticated. But they are being upgraded mainly based on design considerations. This is an urgent operation, no one will consider the crane, and for life you need a more interesting and attractive product. Usually it is equipped with an elongated spout of an arc type. Some models have an aerator. The internal water switch can be of various designs.

Enhanced design features are typical of a cascade mixing device. Often these models are called "waterfalls". They reproduce the movement of water in nature. The cascade system emits a wide stream of water.

It is the diameter of the hole in the valve that affects the pressure; the width and depth of the spout do not matter here. And here it is necessary to point out the features of double-lever (they are also two-valve) mixers. Inside their housings is a pair of crane boxes.In some models, the locking mechanism is made in the form of an elastic rubber pad. Then the valve head closes the place from where the water enters the spout.

Older versions of this kind implied a rotation clamp. Because of this, gasket life is reduced.

Double lever mixers are considered the ideal choice for rooms in the spirit of classicism, retro, country (especially Provence) and shabby chic.

Their main properties:

• simplicity;

• familiar appearance;

• ease of setup and adjustment;

• turning on and off with two hands at once.

If the room is decorated in a modern style, then it is more correct to use a single lever mixer. It will be appreciated by adherents of maximum comfort. But connoisseurs of advanced technology will appreciate contactless push-button devices. Gates and levers sometimes do not exist at all, but there are infrared sensors or sensory elements that recognize the approach of the hand.

There are also touch buttons. A simple touch to them, even without pressing, activates the mixer. The appearance of such a device makes it acceptable in the futuristic interior. Buttons can be located both on the mixer body, and at the spout, and on a separate panel. If the device is equipped with a thermostat, it is logical to use a liquid crystal screen with a display of the pressure force and the degree of heating of the water.

It is also necessary to take into account the difference between the various mixer installation schemes. Almost all plumbing is designed for vertical installation with one hole. If there are more holes or a horizontal block is required, then this is usually specified in the documentation. The lead-in flexible circuit can be used in any case. Both the vertical and horizontal mixer can have a flat body with a layer of chrome.

Some people prefer outdoor mixing devices. They must be installed during construction or overhaul. This technique makes very stringent requirements for materials and internal "stuffing". She looks attractive. But such products are expensive, and they cannot boast of special reliability.

Another classification of faucets - camouflaged and externally connected devices. The second option is found less and less, because they try to clean the plumbing as much as possible from prying eyes. And this is not only the case - an open cold pipe or hose provokes the formation of condensate.

The vast majority of people are accustomed to brass and bronze mixers. They look nice, but are quite expensive. Ceramic devices are even better from a design point of view. However, their reliability is a big question (as with budget constructions made of silumin). Responsible manufacturers try to use chromium plating in three layers, since a single-layer coating will peel off in about 2-3 years, if not faster.

Separate plastic parts are sometimes used. Elements made of polypropylene are advantageous for their low thermal conductivity and lightness. They are chemically neutral.Ceramics are similar in their properties to plastic. But it is more aesthetic and is usually used in more expensive designs.

The wall mounted faucet is almost universal. Putting it in the right place is easy. The main thing is that there is a hard surface. Various decorative plates as a base are not suitable. But the repair of the wall device is simple.

The built-in device allows you to hide eyeliners and connection points. However, putting it harder. And the repair in case of an accident will be complicated. Placing on the side of the bath is possible only on acrylic and elite stone structures. Standing stationary faucets are rare, and only professionals can install them.

Shelf mounting will be easier provided that water pipes are connected to the piece of furniture. Those who want to use both a bathtub and a shower cabin use a corner shower panel. This panel will allow you to combine the bath with the shower, and do without a cabin (equipping a sauna). It is also suitable for individual design boxes.

In the vast majority of cases, faucets with a long spout are used.

The difference between them may also concern:

• lifting heights;

• cast and prefabricated;

• single or dual device.

The height of the nozzle is determined by the distance from the base of the mixer to the hole for the discharge of water. For the shower, structures with an elongated spout and a low spout are most often used. But if you plan to use them also for the sink, then this is not too convenient. The length of the attached hose is determined by the parameters of the bath, the growth of users.

You should definitely choose the most reliable brands and the well-known plumbing brands in the world. With no exceptions, faucets from:

• Grohe;

• Hansa;

• Hansgrohe;

• Mamoli;

• Herbeau;

• Teka;

• Gustavsberg;

• Geberit

Products Wasskrakraft is the epitome of genuine German quality. It uses the latest technical advances.

Fans of Russian products should pay attention to products Milardo. This company offers a number of collections named after various rivers.

A reliable mixer from Frap. It is much better than anonymous Chinese designs. The manufacturer himself notes that his designs look stylish and modern.

And Kaiser mixers stand out:

• creation by experienced engineers;

• the use of sound materials and components;

• ability to endure a huge load;

• adaptability to various styles.

Traditionally use mixers:

• white

• copper;

• matt chrome colors.

Fans of futurism should choose cranes that resemble a tape or have a different unusual shape. But not all people appreciate such extraordinary solutions. In many cases, a mixer with a calm, harmonious look is more appropriate.

It is often thought that for the summer cottage shower you can choose only the simplest faucets. But this is not so. And worthy models that deserve good reviews should be purchased at the cottage. Some products for a shower cabin are even without a spout, but most people will prefer a more traditional and manageable look. These solutions can be combined: an unchanging stream pours from the hole from above, and with the help of a hose, water is directed to the right place.

Responsible manufacturers always try to use high-quality brass containing a large proportion of copper.If aeration and filtration of water is critical, various models of Migliore, Lemark are suitable. If possible, faucets without a thermostat should be avoided - they are already becoming a little archaic.

If you are looking for a win-win model, you should pay attention to:

• Grohe Contromix Public;

• Rosa RS 032.00;

• Vidima Orion BA003AA;

• Hansgrohe Logis Classic.

Even the best faucets sometimes have problems. It is enough to break just one component to notice that water is flowing uncontrollably. Apart from manufacturing defects, you can indicate the following possible sources of problems:

• low-quality components;

• installation errors;

• bad water quality;

• mechanical defects;

• excessive or too weak head.

Therefore, it is important to understand that even professional repair will not always allow you to use the mixer calmly and further. Leak under the spout is usually eliminated by changing the gasket. It should be made of the same material as the factory installed. To protect against leakage through the thread, use sanitary flax or FUM tape. Plumbers prefer to use just the tape, because it is easier to work with.

In ball valves have to do the flushing. The only stuck grain of sand is enough to keep the water flowing even after closing the valve. If a thorough flushing does not help, you will have to change the mechanism; for a while you can do by screwing the tape onto the thread.

Single lever taps cause problems due to clogged cartridges or damaged threads. Cartridges can only be replaced because they are not repairable. The problems with them are indicated by:

• difficulty adjusting the lever;

• unauthorized change in water temperature;

• inability to supply hot or cold water.

Next, watch a video with expert advice on how to choose a shower faucet.