8 kinds of mixers: the pros and cons of the device functions

Mixer - sanitary appliance, which is designed to regulate the flow and temperature of the water, the operating principle of the device is based on a mix of hot and cold water in a tap.

Kitchen faucet

three types of mixer taps for kitchen presented in today's market of sanitary ware:

• dvuhventilnye;
• single lever;
• touch.

dvuhventilnye
Structurally dvuhventilnye consist of two kranbuks spout and between them.

Depending on the type of shut-off valve element mixers are divided into two types:

• with elastic seals;
• with ceramic plates.

In the first case the opening and closing openings for water passage regulates reciprocating kranbuksa. View of crane with elastic strips can not be called too popular, because of the frequent problems of component parts, especially the failure of the seals.

Devices with ceramic locking elements reliable in operation. Blocking and the water supply occurs when aligned holes of two ceramic plates.

The advantage of the twin valve for kitchen - simple design and reasonable price.

Single-lever mixer taps
Single-lever (joystick) is primarily valued for ease of use - the water temperature and the set intensity jet slight touch of one hand.

Structural elements of a single-lever device:

• housing with a movable spout;
• case cover;
• the pivot arm;
• replaceable cartridge;
• gasket.

The joystick water flow adjustment process occurs through two hollow spherical or plate elements with holes. When moving the pivot arm openings coincide with the flow channels of cold and hot stream.

A disadvantage with single handle mixer - the sensitivity to the abrasive particles contained in the water. To solve the problem it is recommended to install a strainer.

According to the technology of production of mixer taps for kitchen divided into cast and prefabricated. In the first case, and the spout body - is a single seamless structure, in the second - the device consists of several individual parts.

In addition to the design features mixers classified based materials for manufacture. distinguish:

• ceramic;
• metal alloys;
• granite;
• plastic.

The best way proved to be articles of metal - bronze and brass. Mixer taps silumin implemented plumbing market, do not differ a special quality of their service life is short. Ceramic kitchen faucets are not as durable as metal and require careful attitude.

Models of granite intended for a complete set of granite sinks. The plastic has a number of advantages, it is inexpensive, lightweight material with low thermal conductivity, is resistant to corrosion and aggressive media, but the service life and the safety factor of plastic mixer taps much lower.

Classification of kitchen faucets for the coating type:

• chrome;
• galvanized;
• enamelled.

By mounting method:

• wall;
• Mortise (directly mounted to the sink).

Characteristics of spout - the angle of rotation
For kitchen faucet mixer important parameter is the angle of rotation "goose". The cost models spout rotation angle varies in the range 120-1400. Cranes higher price category are equipped with spouts with the angle of rotation up to 1800. The premium models the rotation angle of 3600, i.e. the spout may be wrapped around its axis.

Basin mixer

Type-mixers for bathrooms divided:

• valve;
• lever;
• contactless;
• cascading;
• mixers, thermostats.

The first type - the classical mechanical device design provides two valves, through which there is hot and cold water.

Mixers lever type - mixing cold and hot water is due to the built-ball mechanism or the cartridge.

The operating principle of contactless mixing faucet is activated sensors.
Feature cascade mixer enclosed in the name of the device - water is supplied to the strong flow, simulating a waterfall. This premium model. Advantages of cascading mixers: ergonomics and the original design. Disadvantage - expensive price.

Mixers thermostats - a high-tech device that is equipped with an embedded thermocouple, whereby the preparation of the water occurs.

Device components includes:

• temperature scale;
• pressure regulator;
• temperature limiter.

Choosing a faucet on the sink of the type of material, it is necessary to take into account the operating conditions. Bathroom is characterized by high humidity, extreme temperatures, reasonable choice would be brass model, brass - the material is resistant to moisture.

The configuration of the spout
Choosing a faucet-basin mixer it is important to take into account the technical parameters of the nose - the length, height, configuration.

Types Spout:

• fixed;
• rotary;
• low (up to 15 cm);
• high (more than 25 cm).

Sensor faucets

Touch or proximity mixers - the modern "word" in the sanitary ware market. Work provides a sensor mounted to the sink or on the mixer.

flow shutdown occurs automatically.

Advantages of the model:

• hygiene;
• reliability;
• comfort;
• security;
• economy.

The disadvantage of contactless mixer for water supply to the sanitary equipment is expensive cost. In addition, the installation is not always justified, is not appropriate to use as a kitchen mixer.

Structure touch mixer for supplying water includes:

• electronic control unit;
• connecting hoses;
• valves;
• knobs for adjusting the temperature;
• cleaning water filters;
• lithium batteries.

The package of expensive luxury models, manufacturers include remote control, with which you can remotely perform the necessary configuration parameters.

The sensors are powered by lithium batteries. battery lasts up to 5,000 on / off cycles. Experts felt that the proximity sensor can be used without replacing the lithium battery for five years.

types of sensors
To complete sensor taps used in infrared sensors or photocells. Sensors operating principle, which is based on infrared radiation, do not require special gradation distance.

When choosing a contactless mixer is important to consider:

• the shape of the spout;
• sensitivity limit zone;
• country of origin.

Bath mixer with a shower

In completing BATH AND shower mixers include manual flexible hose, shower holder. The design involves the presence of an internal or external water change mechanism shower spout.

Mixers with built-in mechanism differ compact size. They are reliable, even with frequent turning spout is not leaking. The design of the mixer tap with an external shift mechanism has a special output for its mounting.

Depending on the mode switch "shower spout» BATH AND shower faucets are divided into:

• eccentric;
• cartridge;
• ball;
• cork diverter.

Eccentric gear selection
Moving double rod with rubber gaskets along the edges occurs through the eccentric when rotating the handle, the one of the openings is closed. Water is supplied or shower, or nose.

Advantages of the mechanism:

• affordable price;
• is compatible with any type of crane.

Minuses:

• rapid wear of the rubber gaskets;
• dimensions.

cartridge mechanism
Switching from the shower diverter, going through the cartridge.

Advantages:

• reliability;
• ease of use;
• attractive appearance.

Disadvantages:

• in case of failure of the cartridge to be replaced;
• not compatible with all models of cranes.

ball deviator
Structurally, the mechanism is a ball with holes. The ball is disposed between the two washers. When moving the handle water flows into one of the holes and flows through the spout or shower.

Positive sides:

• durability;
• reliability.

Negative points:

• ball mechanism is built into the mixer only requires replacement when damage.

Mechanism cork switch
The principle of operation is similar to the eccentric switch. The difference is that the cork deviator actuates not twist handle, and raise and lower a special cap.

Advantages of the mechanism with a cork diverter:

• stylish and compact form;
• ease of operation.

Minuses:

• inconvenience of repair.

Nozzle "goose" - species differences
When buying BATH AND shower faucet should pay attention to the spout nozzle. Distinguish nozzle type aerator and type "watering". Aerator gives a strong water pressure, even when not fully open the tap, the principle of operation is based on the principle of cavitation - mixing water with the air flow.

Nozzle type shower Lake operates in two modes:

• jet;
• shower.

If we consider the selection of the spout nozzle based index of water saving, the "palm" belongs nozzle aerator.

By kinds of "gander" taps for baths with showers are available with short and long spout. BATH AND shower mixers with a short beak occupied a niche in the market of modern sanitary ware. For the installation of a large area is not required, this model is perfect for small bathrooms, it is possible option to install directly on the bath side.

It is believed that the mixers with a short Gusakov, more dynamic in terms of adjusting the water temperature. Help to reduce water consumption, which in our time is very important.

Mixer with long spout

Vaneau showers cranes, equipped with a long spout, are in high demand. The main advantage - the ability to use the crane for just the two of plumbing fixtures, water supply, and there is a car wash, and bath. At the same gander length makes it possible to use the sink without fear pour water all around.

A disadvantage long spout - because of frequent turns become loose connection, which leads to leakage of the spout.

The configuration of the spout
Spout can be:

• direct;
• curved;
• transformable.

By type of cross-section of the tube:

• round;
• square;
• oval;
• rectangular.

Classification of materials
For production mixing faucet spout used stainless steel and brass - materials resistant to the negative effects of water, is not subject to corrosion.

The coating makes the surface of the gander:

• chrome;
• granite;
• stainless steel;
• brass.

A coating of chromium - advantages:

• providing anti-corrosion protection;
• glossy shine;
• resistance to oxidation;
• inexpensive price.

In some models, the spout cover is made of matt chromium. This material is more practical in terms of operation and maintenance, it traces of dirt and fingerprints are almost invisible.

stainless Floor
It has the same advantages as the chrome. It can be glossy and matte. Widely used in premium models.

granite
Pros:

• high strength;
• hygiene material;
• resistance to corrosion.

The drawback - the high cost.

The coating of brass
Resistant to corrosion, have a large margin of safety. Often used in the collections made in "retro" style.

Built-in mixers

Based on the functionality built in to the preparation and supply of water is divided into:

• faucets for baths;
• For shower;
• for sanitary plumbing fixtures;
• for shower boxes.

Embedded consist of two structural parts:

• the main unit;
• control Panel.

The main unit of the mixer, generally is a plastic cylinder with a brass head. Brass head has four threaded apertures, two of them operate on in a mixer feeding of cold and hot water. Two others - are responsible for the supply of mixed water at the faucet spout and shower heads.

The classification of the installation site
Depending on the place of installation are:

• Built into the wall;
• onboard faucets for baths.

Advantages and disadvantages embedded Mixer taps

• durability;
• reliability;
• perfect design;
• producing high quality material;
• compactness;
• exclude water spray.

The main drawback - the complexity of installation.

Types of Embedded Mixer taps

• with one arm;
• with thermostat;
• bidet mixer.

Single-lever - advantages and disadvantages

Pros:

• reasonable price;
• life of up to 10 years;
• Ease of controls;
• maintainability.

The downside is the need to be replaced regularly (every two years), the O-rings.

Thermostat

Positive characteristics:

• automatic control of flow and pressure of water;
• security;
• constant pressure.

The negative side - the high cost.

Built-in mixers for the bidet

Advantages of the device:

• multifunctionality;
• ease of installation and operation;
• compact, space-saving;
• the presence of the aerator;
• the ability to adjust the direction of the jet;
• stepless adjustment of the jet and temperature strength.

Mixers for shower

By type of construction cranes for the shower stall is classified as well as other mixers, that is, single lever, dvuhventilnye etc. Characteristic difference - the absence of the spout.

Two types of devices for showers presents on the market today:

• wall mixer;
• recessed.

The first type of mixer is mounted on the wall. The package wall mixing tap can include shower wall or floor stand. Stand enables to adjust the height of the watering-shower arrangement.

Embedded mixer taps are equipped with more expensive models of shower. The advantage of this equipment - ergonomics and an attractive appearance.

By the pressure adjusting method and hot water are:

• mechanical;
• electrical;
• Thermostatic.

mixer design for the shower stall
The apparatus consists of two components:

• the first node - a block for mixing hot and cold water, regulates the temperature and incorporation of water;
• second - switching jack. It represents a cartridge with one input and multiple outputs. switch socket receives prepared water mixing unit and sends it to the predetermined output.

Classification of the mixers in the number of modes
On the market plumbing devices presented with the switching modes from one to seven.
One position - the easiest option, the mixer can only operate in one mode - "souls" or "hand-watering."

Two modes - provides the ability to switch from the overhead shower to manual watering.
Three positions - is operating in "overhead shower Lake - rain shower." The most common model of mixer for shower box, a hydro-massage in the lumbar region.

Four positions - has the same modes as the faucet with three positions, supplemented by function - massage feet.

Five or more modes - expensive models are not too popular among consumers because of high cost.

Mixers for bath board

Feature mixer faucet for installation on board the bath - the device consists of several functional mutually independent blocks - tap head, a shower, are equipped with individual fastening to the tub.

Some manufacturers of sanitary ware include packaging-bite type mixer tap special mounting plates. The panels not only improve the aesthetics of the site, but also to reinforce the place of installation of the mixer.

The advantages of on-board models:

• saving space around the tub;
• aesthetics. There are no unnecessary details, the shower hose is hidden behind the bath of the eye;
• convenience and ease of administration;
• large bandwidth, allowing to fill accurately and rapidly even bulky tanks;
• high quality materials.

Along with the onboard virtues have some disadvantages:

• the high cost of the equipment;
• lack of public access to the hidden parts;
• short time operation of the flexible hose (due to frequent excesses).

Installation of the on-board unit
Mixer bite type mounted directly on board acrylic baths. For mounting in a ledge in a pre-cut hole locations you marked.

For drilling the mounting holes are used with electric drill nozzle in the form of crown milling cutter.

The undercut slot fits a special gasket, a part of the instrument set for mixing and feeding water. After that is inserted into the hole mixing tap and fixed to the acrylic board bath by means of fastening nuts which are the same as the gasket are part of the kit.

In the last step to the assembling process crane mixer flexible hoses connect fittings for hot and cold water.

In today's market of sanitary devices a large selection of tap-taps, choosing household plumbing device, regardless of its functional purpose, it is necessary to take into account such criteria:

• reliability;
• functionality;
• material quality;
• maintainability;
• ease of installation and operation.