Sooner or later, every owner of a house or apartment is faced with the need to choose a faucet for a bathroom, whether it be a major overhaul or just replacing a worn out old tap. The variety of products on the market is confusing which mixer is better to buy: single-lever, double-lever, ceramic, contactless, with which spout shape, and so on. The editors of the site "bestx.htgetrid.com/en/" invite you to familiarize yourself with these and other issues of choosing a bathroom faucet.
Content
Two-valve mixer
This is perhaps the most classic version of the mixer. Despite the fact that such products are cheaper, they are very popular among people of different incomes. The mechanism of a two-valve mixer is quite simple: cold and hot water enters when individual taps are turned on and mixes in a common spout. One of the disadvantages of this mixer is the need to perform more operations, that is, unscrew one valve, then another. But in this way it is easier to adjust the desired water temperature, in contrast to a single-lever mixer.
Two-valve mixers have two types of water supply mechanism: worm and ceramic. The first type is equipped with a rubber gasket inside the crane-axle box, to open the valve, you need to scroll 1.5-2 turns. Such a mechanism, although cheap, is less durable. The ceramic look is more reliable and easy to use. To supply water, it is enough to make only half a turn.
More modern mixers with two taps instead of valves are equipped with single-lever levers. Such products have a ceramic water supply mechanism, and are more expensive than conventional two-valve mixers.
Since two-arm and two-lever faucets are the most popular, there are models on sale in any design, from retro style to modern high-tech. There are similar mixers and different colors from traditional stainless steel to bronze, and even gilding. There are also completely non-standard models, for example, red or black.
Advantages:
- variety of model designs;
- low cost;
- ease of installation and use;
- easy to regulate temperature and water pressure.
Disadvantages:
- cheap models do not differ in wear resistance;
- more mechanical movements have to be done.
Single lever mixers
Such mixers have appeared relatively recently, but have already gained immense popularity. And it is not surprising, because in order to open the tap, you just have to lift the lever slightly. The water temperature is regulated from turning to the right or left, and its pressure from moving up and down. Despite the fact that such mixers are very easy to use, sometimes it can be quite problematic to set the desired temperature.
Single-lever mixers also have two types of mechanisms: ball and ceramic cartridge. As the name suggests, the first type of mechanism has a ball inside with holes for water supply and a cavity for mixing it. This mechanism can fail due to the ingress of large particles of sand and plumbing debris, so the mixer will last much longer if you first pass water through a coarse filter.
Mixers with mechanism of the second type mix water inside the cartridge with ceramic plates. The cartridge can also quickly fail if sand and debris accumulate inside, but if necessary, it can be replaced without installing a new mixer.
Many modern models of single-lever faucets can be equipped with an aerator that mixes water with air, a thermostat and other accessories for comfortable operation.
As well as two-valve, single-lever mixers have a wide range of products for every taste and opportunity. But unlike the first ones, single-lever models are difficult to imagine in the classic retro style, they are more suitable for modern minimalism. In addition to the variety of designs, these faucets are available with a short, long or medium spout, as well as a swivel mechanism that allows you to use the tap in the bathroom and in the sink.
Among the single-lever type, there are so-called elbow mixers. They were first used in healthcare facilities. To minimize hand contact with the mixer lever, the handle has been made more elongated so that you can open it with your elbow. Soon, this type of faucet spread to the homes of ordinary people. This shape of the handle allows you to open the tap with dirty or soapy hands without getting the mixer dirty.
Advantages:
- very easy to operate;
- variety of choice of models;
- has a modern design;
- compact;
Disadvantages:
- difficult to adjust the water temperature.
Mixers with thermostat
These can be mixers of any type. An electronic mechanism built into such a mixer was created to solve the problem of regulating the temperature of the water. Such mixers are equipped with a special sensor that blocks the access of water with a temperature exceeding the set parameters. Usually this is no higher than 38 degrees, but these settings can be changed to suit your needs.
The thermostat can be installed in any modern mixer, be it single-lever or double-lever. Such a mechanism will not only quickly help to adjust the desired temperature, but also protect against accidental scalding with very hot water. In the absence of cold or hot water, the shut-off valve will cut off the supply. Therefore, if water supply interruptions often occur, it is better to refuse such a device. Constant hot water supply can be ensured by installing an instantaneous water heater. The hot water mixer function will ensure the thermostat works correctly.
Advantages:
- the ability to adjust the lower and upper temperature threshold;
- protection against scalding;
- ease of use.
Disadvantages:
- high price;
- incorrect operation during interruptions in water supply.
Contactless mixer
This is the most modern and expensive type of mixer. The name makes it clear that you do not need to contact the device to supply water, you just need to bring your hands to the spout. An infrared sensor will signal the shut-off mechanism to open the water supply. Such mixers have become widespread not only in private houses and apartments, but also in public places - large shopping centers and hospitals.
Water pressure and temperature can be adjusted depending on the type of mechanism. Automatic reacts to the movement of hands to the sides, decreasing or increasing the temperature of the water. Mechanical ones have a small lever on the side of the mixer, with which the desired temperature and water pressure are adjusted. The feeding time can be fixed: it turns off automatically after a set time; or unlimited: the water flows until you remove your hands. Auto-feed faucets are mainly used for washbasins or kitchen faucets. For baths, it is better to install a device with a fixed flow, so it will be easy to get away while water is drawn into the bath.
Despite the high cost of the device, a contactless mixer can significantly save water, because there will be no situation when water leaks away uselessly.
The design of these faucets is minimalistic, which is well suited for any modern interior.
Advantages:
- high quality and long service life;
- convenience and ease of use;
- saving water;
- modern design;
- compact size.
Disadvantages:
- high price.
Installation methods
Currently, there are several options for installing a bath mixer:
- wall;
- mortise;
- floor;
- cascading.
Let's consider each of them in more detail.
Wall
This mounting method is the most classic and popular. Pipes and other necessary parts are mounted in the wall, leaving only the mixer itself outside. With this option, it is convenient to use a swivel gander for washing and bathing. With this type of installation, it is necessary to take into account where the mixer will be located at the overhaul stage. If it is not possible to mount pipes into the wall, they are carried out on top of them, but it does not look very aesthetically pleasing, so you should make a choice in favor of the second installation option - mortise.
Mortise
This option is gaining popularity as it facilitates the installation and repair of the mixer and components. In this case, the pipes are hidden under the bathroom or behind a small panel between the bathroom and the wall. The mixer itself - a spout, levers, valves, shower hose and other accessories are mounted to the side of the bath. The main advantage of this arrangement is the simplicity and convenience of piping, independence from the internal components of the mixer during repairs.
Floor
This type of fastening is more a tribute to fashion than convenience. The only advantage of such embedding will be the spectacular appearance of the bathroom: the bath itself is located at a certain distance from the walls, a special mixer is brought out from the floor to it. If in the first two installation options any mixer can be used, then with this method only floor-standing. Mixers like these do not cost little money, and the need to install pipes in the floor creates additional problems. However, despite all the disadvantages, this type of mixers has its customers.
Cascading
This installation method is the most unusual and modern. In fact, it resembles a mortise, but here the mixer does not look like a single whole, but is divided into its components, which can be located in any order and at any distance from each other. For example, the water supply lever can be located on the side of one end of the bath, and the spout on the opposite. This is especially convenient with a large bathtub with Jacuzzi and other additional functions.
The cascade system, like the floor system, requires the installation of special mixers. But, unlike the latter, there is more convenience and economy of useful space.
Review of the best manufacturers of bath faucets
So, we examined the main types of mixers, operating mechanisms and installation methods. But, before going to the store to buy, you need to study the rating of high-quality manufacturers in order to choose not only the most aesthetically attractive, but also a high-quality reliable mixer that will last more than one year. Let's consider the most popular manufacturers based on the best reviews and practical applications.
Vidima
Mixers of the Bulgarian company Vidima have an optimal price-quality ratio. Despite the fact that they position themselves as budgetary, the products are made of cast high-quality brass, which has anti-corrosion properties. Thanks to a special device, the water supply is carried out evenly, regardless of the pressure. The chrome-plated coating of all components of the mixer protects against corrosion and limescale build-up.
The line includes both classic two-valve models and single-lever models. Bath mixers from this company are equipped with a shower head. A model with a swivel spout is also available.
The average price of Vidima faucets is 4000 rubles.
Advantages:
- affordable price;
- acceptable quality;
- large selection of models;
- mixers are easy to use.
Disadvantages:
- in single-lever models, it is difficult to adjust the temperature;
- The gander gets very hot when hot water is turned on.
Roca
The Italian company Roca began to actively develop on the Russian market since 2004, when the Roca Rus plant was opened in the Leningrad Region. Taking into account the demand of the Russian consumer, the company provides mixers for every taste, needs and possibilities. High build quality and high quality materials guarantee durability and good performance of the system. A wide range of both classic and modern avant-garde models. Depending on the price, you can choose faucets with a thermostat, with a filter switch, with a short and long spout, and so on.
Average price - 10,000 rubles.
Advantages:
- The optimum ratio of price and quality;
- wide range of products;
- the possibility of completing with non-original parts;
- quality guarantee 5 years.
Disadvantages:
- high price of some models.
Oras
The Finnish company Oras has long won the trust of Russian buyers. The company offers only high quality and reliable sanitary ware products. The faucets are made of brass alloy as well as silumin which provides durability and protection against corrosion. The production is carried out in compliance with all international quality standards.
Oras was one of the first to introduce touchless faucets. Now on sale you can find the color of the case of models for any interior: classic stainless steel, bronze, gold, as well as bright unconventional shades.
The average price range is 5000-15000 rubles.
Advantages:
- high quality of products;
- wide range of models;
- acceptable price.
Disadvantages:
- high price of components.
Hansgrohe
The history of this enterprise goes back over 100 years, during which not only various sanitary products were created, but also innovative developments that have gained incredible popularity were produced. Thanks to these developments, we have showerhead fixing bars, hot water scalding systems, height adjustable shower panels and much more. The products are distinguished by truly German quality, functionality and ergonomics.
The company provides a wide selection of constantly updated models. Here you can find faucets that satisfy any need: with thermostat, with hot water, with aerator, non-contact, for cascade, flush or wall mounting, vertical and horizontal.
A wide range of prices: from 4,000 to 100,000 rubles and above.
Advantages:
- high quality assembly and components;
- quality guarantee 5 years and above;
- wide range of models;
- prices for any opportunities;
- ease of use.
Disadvantages:
- fakes are often found;
- some models are very expensive.
Grohe
This German company was recognized as the best not only among the ratings in the opinion of buyers and consumer reviews, but also received many international awards and prizes as the best plant, the best design, reliability and ergonomics. More than 240 patented developments that help improve the quality and functionality of our products are behind our 80-year history.
A huge selection of various sanitary ware products, the main of which are faucets for the bathroom, kitchen, washbasins, as well as their components: hoses with a shower head, built-in elements of cascade, floor and wall mounting, additional switches for the filter. The design of the models pleases with its variety, here you can find interesting models, for example, with the shape of the spout, which creates a beautiful waterfall with lighting.
Grohe constantly monitors quality control and gives a 10-year warranty for its products, and 15 years for professional systems.
Prices can also be found inexpensive, from 4000 rubles, but basically this company produces its goods at a fairly high cost up to 150,000 rubles.
Advantages:
- high quality of all products;
- the widest selection of products;
- unique design;
- the company is recognized as the best manufacturer by many ratings;
- guaranteed service life of 10 years.
Disadvantages:
- high price for most products;
- a large share of counterfeits on the market.
Having studied the description of the main types of bath faucets, the types of their installation and the best manufacturers, you can have an idea of which product is right for you, how much it costs, its functionality and characteristics. If you have experience using a mixer from one of the listed companies, tell us about it in the comments!
