Although the mixer is quite simple design, it can be made from the most different materials, therefore, when choosing, you should know what properties each of them differs from. As a rule, several metal alloys, plastics and ceramics are used as the main materials for the manufacture of modern taps. All other materials are used only for decoration in exotic interiors.
The safety of operation, strength and reliability, service life, convenience and comfort of use depend on what material was used in the production of the mixer. The mixer body is most often made from various metal alloys; other parts can also be made from it. Bronze and brass with chrome-plated surfaces are considered the most acceptable and common. These materials are neutral to the aquatic environment, so a faucet made from them can last for many years, is not heavily contaminated with mineral deposits, and they do not damage the internal mechanism.
Alloy steel is used more rarely in the production of taps than brass. This is due to the fact that such steels are more difficult to process and often become dirty over a short service life. Sometimes you can find faucets made of silumin, which is an alloy of silicon and aluminum. This material is cheap and easy to cast, but ages too quickly, becoming brittle and deteriorating. In addition, it has an ugly appearance, therefore, when choosing a mixer, it is better to choose another material.
They have a high level of reliability bronze faucets with brass threads. They have the longest service life, are durable, and are not afraid of any external negative impacts, do not change their appearance over time. The only drawback in this case is the fairly high cost of the products.
A rather tempting option is to purchase plastic faucet, which has a number of positive qualities- plastic is technologically advanced and inexpensive material, which “adapts” well to the need to manufacture mixers. Therefore, such taps are light and durable, do not become overgrown with dirt and sediment over time, do not oxidize, and are neutral in relation not only to water, but also to other compounds. The material has a low level of thermal conductivity, which is especially important in cases where the mixer parts can become very hot during operation. The only drawback of plastic faucets is their lack of reliability, as a result of which such faucets still serve a much shorter period of time than metal products.
Ceramics has similarities to plastic performance characteristics, but more pleasant and comfortable to the touch. But from of this material most often made internal structure mixer, flywheels, and outer casings are made of metal. After all, the ceramic case, due to strong pressure during switching, can very quickly become unusable, crack and crumble.
When it comes to faucet coatings, there are: enameled and chrome faucets. Both options have an attractive appearance and protect the metal well from mechanical damage and corrosion. Chrome and enamel are applied to the metal surface, but if the mixer is made of plastic, then copper is applied to it first, and then chrome.
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Who and what is the faucet made of that supplies water to the sink, bathtub or shower hose? A question that cannot be ignored if you want to install in your bathroom/kitchen not only beautiful and comfortable, but also durable equipment that can properly perform its functions for many years.
What materials are mixers made from?
Truly high-quality faucets are made from brass, a material that is a copper-based alloy. It accounts for up to 60%. Zinc is usually added to copper, and metals such as:
- lead;
- manganese;
- nickel;
- iron;
- tin;
- aluminum.
Brass is resistant to constant exposure to water and is safe for human body. There is one thing - before buying, you should ask about the lead content. The norm suggests 2.0–2.5%, but some manufacturers increase the presence of plumbum to 5-6%. This is not dangerous to health, but problems may arise when using the mixer. The risk of “hot” cracks increasing, leading to leaks or even bursting of the faucet.
What are sink and shower faucets made of besides brass? Chinese models are most often made from Zamak (in our country this composition is better known as TsAM). Its basis is zinc alloyed with aluminum, copper and magnesium. This material is much cheaper, so manufacturers can install low prices to the final product. But in terms of reliability and durability, Zamak is significantly inferior. Additives that are added to tap water corrode the faucet body relatively quickly.
As a result, leaks will form that will need to be repaired. Typically, parts that are not in constant contact with water, such as handles, are made from TsAM. This alone allows you to seriously reduce the cost of the mixer without losing quality.
How to check - brass or Zamak?
It is not always possible to be sure that the model is made of brass. Some unscrupulous manufacturers “increase” the quality of their product by providing false information regarding its composition. Faucets made from Zamak are usually whiter and have a rougher surface. In addition, they are much lighter, although not in all cases. Cunning counterfeiters sometimes put a metal ball inside to weigh it down, so it’s better not to rely on weight.
In general, the original faucet for bathtub, shower or kitchen sink from famous brand contains an engraved or laser-printed logo. There is no such sign on fakes, since its application is too expensive and deprives the fraud of any meaning.
Sputtering
The answer to the question of what faucets are made of will be incomplete without mentioning the coating of the body and faucet. The surface of the device can be covered with almost any material, including:
- chrome (Grohe Euroeco 32734000, Lemark Pramen LM3306C);
- copper (Migliore Princeton ML.PRN-802 Ra, Edelform Mollis ML1812C);
- bronze (Lemark Vintage LM2806B, Elghansa Retro 2702754);
- gold (Cezares Elite LSM1-03/24-Bi, Migliore Prestige ML.PRS-744).
The quality of spraying plays an important role in the issue of durability. Most often, chrome is used, giving the faucet a modern appearance. If you are more interested in noble “antique”, check out the models covered with gold, bronze or copper. The surface of the product should be as smooth as possible. If, as a result of the inspection, unevenness, sagging, or even uneven color is observed, it is better to refrain from purchasing.
Execution and equipment
Naturally, it is not enough just to know what faucets are made of. The level of assembly does not always correspond to the quality of materials. Before purchasing, you should carefully inspect the body and faucet. Ask to disassemble the faucet as much as possible to evaluate the connecting parts. Threads and edges must be smooth and clearly defined, sealing gaskets must have a uniform texture.
When choosing a shower mixer, pay attention to the quality of the shower head and nozzles. For the production of the former, plastic is usually used, for the latter - silicone. These are non-toxic materials that are easy to clean and do not stain limescale. Naturally, before visiting a regular or virtual store, you should clarify the parameters water pipes and shower hose. This will save you additional headaches during the installation process.
For anyone who wants to purchase a bath/shower faucet that does not require repair or replacement after just a couple of months of use, we recommend products from well-known European brands. These include Jacob Delafon, Lemark, Grohe, Cezares, Geberit and Hansgrohe. Their products are always certified and supplemented detailed instructions and, most importantly, a two-year warranty is provided.
Housing modern man It's hard to imagine without water. Comfort depends entirely on its presence. Especially if we're talking about about cold and hot water. But to use water, you need special devices called faucets. They are the most different types, they are made from different materials. In addition, they have different levels functionality. Therefore, many people are confused when they come to plumbing stores. The huge assortment baffles some. Let's try to understand the nuances the right choice bathroom faucet.
Nuances of choice
Mixers are divided into separate types according to the following parameters:
- Appearance.
- Functionality.
- The material from which the body is made.
- Decorative coating.
- The presence of one or two levers.
- Mounting method.
- Vertical or horizontal type installations.
- Spout shape and length.
In addition to these nuances, designs are classified by level of functionality into:
- Those that are installed only on the sink.
- Those that can simply supply water, or can switch to a shower.
- Those that represent two individual element. One is in the form of a tap, and the other is in the form of a shower hose with a watering can. Each of these elements can work independently.
What are they made of?
Bath faucets are made from a variety of materials.
- Brass structures. This material is recognized as the most suitable for the manufacture of faucets. He has quite high density. The structures made from it are very heavy. Often brass products are coated with compounds such as chromium and nickel for beauty. Experts are unanimous in their opinion that brass faucets, which are additionally protected with chrome, can last for many years while maintaining an attractive appearance. Naturally, in the case of the last nuance, proper care is required. In a word, such mixers have a long service life and are not afraid of corrosion.
- Faucets are also available in bronze.
- As for silumin products, their quality leaves much to be desired. It is clear that they will not serve their owners for long.
- If we talk about ceramic structures, they have almost everything internal elements made of the same brass. Such devices require special care.
- Glass faucets come in transparent and colored varieties. They may have backlighting and so on.
Many faucets are coated with special materials that add beauty to the devices. In addition, additional coating can extend the life of the product. Such materials include:
- Chromium.
- Enamel.
- Gilding.
- Bronze.
- Platinum.
Sometimes some elements of mixers are made from:
- Chromed plastic.
- Marble.
- Crystal.
- Malachite.
As for the type of fastening, mixers are divided into the following groups:
- Built-in. Models of this type are usually mounted on the wall. In this case, the pipes are simply walled up. Such devices have certain disadvantages. So, such a mixer cannot be installed without cutting the walls for pipes. Subsequently, the grooves with laid pipes are sealed. It follows from this that if any problems with the pipes are discovered, the wall surface will have to be dismantled.
- Mortise. Designs of this type are distinguished by the fact that they are installed directly on the end or side of the bathtub. In this case, all pipes are hidden directly under the bathtub. For installation of the shower and watering can, special sockets are made. If necessary, the watering can can be removed from the socket. This installation method is convenient and beautiful. However, if the shower head is pulled out of its socket too often, it will not last very long.
- Floor-standing. Such products are attached to the floor surface. They are most often equipped in large bathrooms, in which the bathtub is placed directly in the center of the room or simply moved away from the wall at a certain distance. Of course, designs of this type look very stylish.
Now let's talk about the types of bathtub faucets.
Models with valves or valve
These products differ in that they have two valve handles. One of them opens the feed cold water, and the other is hot. These models are easy to recognize. They are used in most bathrooms. They are often called two-valve. This is easy to understand, because they have two valves in their design.
Valve mixers are classified as classic style, to retro and country styles. They have such advantages as simplicity of device, classic appearance and low price. In addition, such products are highly reliable. They tolerate contact well with hard chlorinated water. As for the disadvantages, these include the fragility of the sealing gaskets. Over time, they become unusable and the faucet leaks. Although this drawback can be easily eliminated by replacing the old gaskets with new ones. Also considered a disadvantage is the high water consumption, difficulty in adjusting the jet pressure and its temperature. This also leads to a certain inconvenience, which lies in the fact that the regulation must be carried out with both hands.
But now you can find more advanced models of valve-type mixers on sale. They are valves that are made of ceramics and have a rotation mechanism. Such products are two round-shaped plates. Their surface is perfectly smooth with through holes. The valve can rotate ninety and one hundred and eighty degrees. This makes it much more convenient to set the water flow parameters.
Single lever or single lever models
These models have only one handle. It is she who regulates the water flow parameters. It is worth noting that the water temperature can be adjusted either separately or simultaneously. Such devices are also called one-armed and single-grip. If we consider the operating principle of these mixers, they are divided into ball and cartridge. The latter have become more widespread. If the control handle of a product is located horizontally, then it is called joystick.
The main advantages of single-lever designs are comfortable operation. They are very easy to operate with one hand. And such products can last for many years. True, the last factor strongly depends on what kind of water flows in the pipes, that is, on its quality. This is where it comes from main drawback single lever models. Thus, in urban networks, water enters apartments and houses with big amount garbage that cannot be seen with the naked eye. Because of this, mixers break down ahead of schedule. For this reason, when using single-lever products, it is better to install a water purification filter. After all, if a mixer of this type breaks, you will have to buy a new cartridge for it, the cost of which is quite high.
As with valve models, single lever mixers There are also improved models. They are distinguished by the presence of a function that allows you to save water. It consists of two operating modes. One mode is for saving, and the second supplies water strong flow. But in order to switch to it, you need to make some effort to overcome the resistance that arises when trying to fully open the lever.
Models with thermostats or thermostatic
Faucets that fall into this category supply water at a certain temperature. They are characterized by a high level of comfort in use. Thermostatic designs have two handles. With their help, the water temperature and flow strength are set. At the same time, if the temperature is set, then all that remains is to simply regulate the force of its supply. The temperature will remain unchanged. This is very convenient if there are small children in the family, as the possibility of getting burned is greatly reduced. Note that if the temperature does not match tap water with the temperature that was set by the user, the thermostat will definitely warm it up.
Non-contact models
Technology, as we know, does not stand still. Technological development has not spared the creation of mixers. The result was designs equipped with infrared sensors, as well as a water supply mechanism without any mechanical action. Water flows if you simply place your hands under the spout of the faucet. You need to understand that such devices depend on the energy source. Based on this, they are:
- Autonomous, that is, they operate on batteries that need to be changed from time to time.
- Powered by electricity.
Contactless devices may have a display, but there are models on sale that are not equipped with one. Of course, the presence of a display adds comfort. It displays the temperature and strength of the water flow. Contactless products are often installed in public institutions. But they are also found in residential areas.
The main advantages of such structures include beautiful view, the opportunity to save water, high level comfort during use. However, they also have disadvantages. These include high cost and dependence on the power source.
Cascade models
Such mixers are distinguished by their originality. And all thanks to the unusual spout. It has the original flat shape. When water flows through it, the spout takes on the appearance of a cascading waterfall. Naturally, it looks very beautiful.
The advantages of cascade mixers are their beautiful appearance, high level bandwidth. As for the disadvantages, there is only one and this, of course, is the high cost of such structures.
Electronic models
If we talk about electronic mixers, they are a combination best qualities non-contact and thermostatic models. They allow you to set the desired water temperature and its supply mode.
The advantages of such products include aesthetic appearance and high comfort of use. At the same time, they save water. Among the disadvantages, of course, is the high cost. In addition, such models quickly fail if they are in constant contact with hard water. It is worth adding that electronic products imply the presence of a power source.
Combined models
If we talk about combined products, they are distinguished by a rather long spout, which allows for the supply of water to the bathroom and washbasin. To do this, you just need to turn the spout in the desired direction. Please note that this faucet model belongs to the economy class.
How to spot a fake
Due to the fact that now many products, including faucets, are counterfeited, it makes sense to figure out how to distinguish a branded product from a counterfeit analogue.
First of all, you need to carefully inspect the galvanic coating. The presence of any scratches or black spots is unacceptable. Some manufacturers label their products for added protection. This may be the company logo, which marks the handles of the faucets and the back surface of the body. Under no circumstances should you trust sellers who persuade you to purchase products without such labeling. In addition, branded faucets are sold in original packaging. Therefore, an ordinary “cardboard” or bag is evidence of counterfeit products.
A company name printed with a typo should also be alarming. Moreover, each branded product must have its own warranty card with the addresses of service centers. If there is no such coupon, then it is better to refuse to buy a mixer altogether.
In order to extend the service life of the mixer, it is advisable to install an additional filter for water purification. This is especially true for new buildings. Water enters them through new pipes, which, as a rule, contain quite a lot of garbage and various technical impurities. It is better to install in-line filters. Naturally, this process is expensive, but you will be sure of reliable operation mixer
Note that they tolerate contact well poor quality water faucets of domestic production, which are equipped with the usual rubber gaskets. Domestic models are even better because they can be disassembled and repaired. This number will not work with foreign analogues.
When purchasing a mixer Special attention you need to pay attention to the connecting pipes through which water will be supplied. Tubes can be rigid, made of copper or brass, or flexible, which are metal-polymer hoses. For hard tubes you need to buy an additional adapter. The latter are not always included with the mixer.
Video. Installing a GROHE bathroom faucet
What is your ideal bathroom - ultra-modern or retro? Perhaps you like monochrome solutions or you prefer bright colors. Today, thanks to the efforts of designers and engineers, you can find a wide variety of plumbing equipment in stores to create the bathroom of your dreams, and the main highlight of the bathroom interior can be a faucet. The most important thing is to clearly determine for yourself which solution will be the best for your bathroom and which faucet to buy in your case.
Which material to choose?
While looking at faucets in a store or at the market, did you find a cute but lightweight model? You should refrain from purchasing such a faucet - most likely, it is made of low-quality and fragile alloy and will not last you long. Quality faucets well-known companies made from brass or bronze, heavy materials. Bronze models need additional protection, because over time bronze becomes covered with a greenish copper coating. Brass is resistant to corrosion, but they are usually coated with a layer of nickel or chromium. Nickel and chrome-plated faucets look modern and stylish, their cool shine emphasizes the cleanliness of the bathroom, and the top coating provides additional protection.
Premium models may be covered for more expensive materials, for example, gilding or enamel and decorated with glass, marble or even precious stones. Such options will ideally fit into the atmosphere of a luxurious bathroom, but you will have to spend a significant amount to purchase such a faucet.
Glass faucets, which can have multi-color lighting, look extremely impressive. These designs are also not cheap, but they immediately attract attention. It’s clear to say what material it’s made of better mixer, it is forbidden. Brass ones are considered optimal in terms of price/quality ratio., but in some cases you can give preference to models made of ABS plastic. They are less durable, but are quite capable of lasting several years. Plastic structures with high-quality coating can be installed in a country house or in a rented apartment.
Classification by design features
Depending on the design, mixers are divided into:
Touchless faucets are often installed in hotels, restaurants, and institutions. Such designs have infrared sensors that signal to turn on the water only when you bring your hands to the tap. After a couple of minutes, the water supply turns off automatically. The big advantage of such models is their hygiene - you do not need to touch the parts either to turn the water on or off. Besides, touchless faucet for the sink guarantees that you will never flood your neighbors, forgetting to turn off the tap. For zealous owners, it is important that contactless models can significantly reduce water consumption, thereby utility costs are reduced.
Mounting type. What types of mixers are there?
Most often in apartments and public institutions we come across wall-mounted or mortise mixers. But in addition to these methods, it is possible to install the structure into the floor or embed it into the wall. So, according to the type of fastening, mixers can be divided into:
Which mixer to choose
When studying the range of faucets, pay attention to the design. This is especially important if you are completely redecorating your bathroom and want to keep it in the same style. If you can't limit your budget, then purchase two mixers - separately for the bathtub and sink. If you want to save money, then stick to the familiar “goose” type design., which recently decorated every bathroom. These models have a long faucet that can serve both the sink and the bathtub if they are placed side by side. Although these faucets look a little old-fashioned, they are in slightly less demand than stand-alone faucets. Buyers are attracted not only by more profitable price, but also ease of operation and less complicated maintenance of these models. In addition, today many manufacturers offer consumers such faucets in a very original design, turning them into an interesting interior detail.
On this moment, the market is replete with a variety of different faucets with showers. This is no longer just useful and convenient thing, further bathroom design will be based on it. Many manufacturers pair them with various accessories, sinks, and bathrooms. Selection criteria often depend on the financial capabilities of the buyer, taste preferences. But there is general rules, which are worth considering before purchasing.
In order to understand how to choose a faucet for a bathroom with a shower, consider what it is made of, its functionality, specifications, usability and design.
What materials are modern faucets made from?
When choosing a new faucet, you need to find out what material it is made of. Please note that the heavier the unit, the longer it will last you.
At the moment, manufacturers most often use the following materials:
- Plastic. Such mixers are not expensive, easy to install, and not heavy. But their huge disadvantage is that they will not serve you for many years and can break at the most unexpected moment.
- Alloy steel. Such mixers are resistant to corrosion, however this model can be found less and less on the market, because Their production has been reduced due to the complexity of processing the material. Moreover, they are different short term services.
- Silumin is a special alloy of aluminum and silicon. It does not corrode, but is a fairly brittle material.
- The most durable and popular material- brass. An alloy of copper and zinc is added to it in such proportions as not to harm human health. Upper layer brass faucets nickel or chrome plated. Chrome plating increases the service life of the product.
In expensive faucet models, silver and gold plating are used. They call it "Antique".
Additional elements (watering cans, handles) of mixers are made from ABS plastic- it is quite durable and will last a long time.
Types of faucets
In order to understand how to choose a high-quality faucet for a bathroom with a shower, you need to have a clear idea of what they are, how they should be attached and what functions they perform. To facilitate the selection process, mixers are divided into the following types:
1) For its intended purpose:
- low spout faucets. It can be short or long. These faucets have a water switch for the shower and a spout.
- shower mixer. Mainly used in shower stalls. Distinctive feature- lack of spout and water flow switch.
- universal models. It is equipped with a long spout and can be used for a bathtub and a sink at the same time. Great option for small bathrooms.
2) By type of fastening:
- mortise Mounted on the side of the bathroom. Such models look beautiful due to the fact that the hose is hidden under the bathtub, but if replaced with a new one, difficulties may arise. In such models, it is the hose that often fails.
- faucets on a stand. Typically used for free-standing bathtubs. They are the most expensive option. Pipes are brought directly from under the floor.
- Wall-mounted mixer. The most commonly used models. Equipped with a long or short spout and a hose with a watering can, which are hung on the wall.
3) By design they can be divided:
- Two-valve. Such faucets have two handles - for bitter and cold water. The water supply is carried out through a valve axle box, which shuts off or opens the flow. The main advantages include quick temperature adjustment and ease of installation. However, such faucets constantly require replacement of the gasket, otherwise it leaks. If you have meters installed, then such a purchase will be expensive, because while you install desired temperature and adjust the flow, a lot of water will flow out.
- Single valve. They have one lever, through which the total water supply is regulated. Convenient because you can control the flow and temperature at the same time. Many models have valves that save water supply. The main disadvantage is that if it breaks, you need to replace the entire module.
Often the cause of breakdowns is salt deposits. If you buy a special filter, this will extend its service life.
- Thermostatic valves. They serve the water temperature that you set yourself. The design of such models is not very different from two-valve ones, so if a part breaks, you can always find a replacement. Their main disadvantage is their high price.
- Contactless. Water is supplied using infrared sensors automatically. They save water consumption, but run on electricity or batteries, which can sometimes lead to difficulties in the event of a power outage or when batteries are missing. Not suitable for bathtubs, only for sinks.
Several rules for using mixers
Having chosen a model and installed it, you need to remember several rules that will extend its service life:
- When cleaning, do not use products containing formic, phosphoric or acetic acid. They corrode the outer layer and lead to the formation of rust.
- Do not use dry cleaners or metal sponges, which can scratch the surface.
- special means Do not pour directly onto the mixer; first apply it to a soft sponge.
- Traces of shampoo, shaving foam, and gels are washed off with plain water.
- The watering can and hose must be wiped dry after each bath.
- Do not forget to remove the watering can aerator from time to time and clean it from the inside.
The final choice of mixer model depends only on you, but correct installation, careful operation and timely detection of breakdowns, any mixer can work for more than one year.