Adjustable GOST 19681-94 Sanitary water fittings. General technical conditions
Optional:
In this standard, the following terms with corresponding definitions apply:
Mixer- a water-folding device that provides mixing of cold and hot water, as well as regulation of its flow and temperature by the consumer.
Tap- a water-folding device that ensures the receipt of water from the water supply system and the regulation of water consumption by the consumer.
Valve head- a water fittings unit that provides control of the shut-off element.
Lever- a part of the water fittings installed on the axis of the control unit of the shut-off element.
Aerator- nozzles on the spout that form an aerated (water-air) stream.
Stream switch- a device that switches water from one spout to another.
Tightness of joints- no water leaks through connections.
Jet compactness- absence of splashes and separate streams during the flow of water from the spout.
Sanitary water fittings include mixers and taps according to GOST 25809
4.2 Depending on the design of the controls, the fittings are divided into: taps and mixers with one or two handles, taps and mixers with elbows, with foot start; semi-automatic, push-button or automatic starts.
4.3 The thread size for connecting fittings to the water supply system must be G 1/2-B in accordance with GOST 6357 and G 3/4-B in accordance with GOST 8870 for connecting mixers for hot water columns.
4.4. The connecting thread of the valve heads must be M18x1-6 H/6 g in accordance with GOST 24705. It is allowed to manufacture water fittings with valve head threads G 1/2-B in accordance with GOST 6357 (for valve heads with ceramic shut-off elements).
4.5. The fittings must provide the water flows indicated in the table:
Faucets. Types and main sizes
Adjustable GOST 25809-96 Mixers and water taps. Types and main sizes
Optional:
3.3 Shape and design of mixer and tap bodies, water switches, spouts, aerators, shower tubes, hoses, shower nets, brushes, handwheels of valve heads or handles, parts for connecting mixers and taps to cold and hot water networks, attaching shower nets to the wall or on the mixer body are not regulated by this standard, but are determined by working drawings.
3.4 Wall-mounted mixers are manufactured with a distance between the centers of the fittings for connecting water supply pipes equal to 100 and 150 mm, in accordance with customer orders.
3.5 Mixer and tap spouts are made with an aerator, stream straightener or flared spout.
3.9 The thread size of union nuts and fittings for connecting shower tubes and hoses should be G = 1/2-B, and of rotary spouts - G 3/4-B.
3.10 The thread size of the unit connecting the shower screen to the shower tube and the flexible hose handle tube must be G 1/2-B.
3.12 Mixers and central on-board taps must have a body size that ensures their installation on a sink, sink, washbasin or washbasin opening with a diameter of 34 mm.
3.13 Flexible connections for central and on-board mixers must ensure ease of installation (bending without the use of additional tools).
3.14 Branch pipes for connecting wall-mounted mixers to cold and hot water networks must have an eccentricity of at least 3 mm and internal flanges or external flats for screwing them into a coupling or square.
3.15 The design of mixers for hot water columns should exclude the possibility of increasing the pressure in the water tank of the column above 0.1 MPa.
3.18 The operating time of batch semi-automatic mixers and taps should not exceed 60 s.
On modern market plumbing presented large selection various models mixers. Among such diversity, find suitable option Without special knowledge it is quite difficult. Similar devices differ in their design, functionality and even design. Therefore, first you need to decide on the type of mixer, and then study its other characteristics.
Main types
Today, plumbing stores offer several groups of mixers, which differ in the way they are controlled.
Two-valve models. This device is a faucet with two valves used to regulate the water supply. Such products were recently the most popular, but now they have given way to another variety.
Single lever mixers
This design has a cartridge, which is a regulating mechanism. This technical unit recognized the most vulnerable in this device, because it fails due to low quality water.
In other words, the presence of scale and rust negatively affects the condition of the cartridge. To avoid faucet breakdown, it is necessary to install household filters.
In general, this model is chosen very often due to its stylish design, ease of use and ease of installation.
Thermostatic varieties
Such products appeared on the domestic market quite recently. The equipment compares favorably with other types of mixers with its main characteristics:
Such designs consist of a special panel with a pair of handles. The first element regulates the water temperature, which will remain unchanged until you change the settings yourself, and the second is responsible for turning the water on and off.
An important difference between a thermostatic mixer is safety of use. Thus, the device allows you to protect a person from burns. Water with a temperature above 37˚ C simply does not flow. It is worth noting that the equipment also provides protection against too low water temperatures. This feature will be very valuable for people who have small children.
Touch faucets
This variety is considered most advanced. There are no levers or valves in its instructions, and a special sensor is built into the body, which is responsible for automatically turning on the water. It is enough to bring your hand or an object of a certain size closer to the tap. As soon as such an object leaves the sensor’s coverage area, the flow of water will stop.
Similar faucets are installed in restaurants, shopping centers, cinemas and offices, which provides the most economical consumption water. Thanks to this you can reduce utility costs.
Universal mixer
In apartments with a small bathroom, plumbing fixtures are often installed very close by, so you should give preference to a universal faucet with a long spout. Its size is at least 30 cm.
Such faucets can be used both in the bath itself and in the washbasin. Despite its versatility, the demand for such equipment is gradually falling.
To choose the right bathroom faucet with shower, there are several factors to consider.
Since good equipment is quite expensive, you should decide on its required quantity. At the same time bathroom dimensions are taken into account rooms and the presence of plumbing, which involves the use of faucets. We are talking about a bathtub, shower, bidet and sink.
If in a small room there is only a shower stall or a bathtub with a small sink, then one mixer will do. For the booth itself you will need special built-in product, and for a bathroom and a small washbasin, a universal design with a swivel spout will suffice. Thanks to it you can wash your hands, wash your face and even take a bath.
If the room is quite large, you should install a medium-sized sink and purchase two faucets. Suitable for bath and shower universal model. You can also purchase a product with a housing that allows self-installation shower hose.
Types of construction by installation method
Modern faucets can be installed in different ways. Accordingly, there are several types of such equipment.
It is worth noting that a specific faucet model is suitable for each type of bathtub, and this can cause certain difficulties when repairing the product.
Recently, faucets have appeared on the market that can be installed directly on the floor. Some models are mounted on stands or podiums. Naturally, similar varieties will be quite expensive.
Device type
Bathroom plumbing includes a housing, a cartridge responsible for mixing water, opening mechanisms, fasteners and flexible hoses. Such designs differ in the type of spout, opening method, and also additional functions. Therefore, when choosing such products, you can safely focus on the rating and personal preferences.
Popular faucets with spout. In this case, water will be supplied through a special tube. Such an element has a cross section of round or rectangular shape. It is distinguished by its length and ability to turn.
There are faucets on sale without a spout, that is, products frame type. Here, after mixing, the water flows out in a wide stream, reminiscent of a waterfall. Similar models are suitable for shower stalls and sinks. They would also be appropriate in a bathroom with a shower. There are floor cascade models that look effective. Their cost is very high.
Most modern bath and shower faucets are equipped with a special watering can and hose. Similar variety considered multifunctional. So, each mixer has a special button that switches the mode.
Accordingly, water will be supplied either to the spout or to the shower hose. Naturally, such models are not suitable for installation on a washbasin.
Material and design
To create modern mixers, they are mainly used metal alloys. The finished structure is coated with a layer of enamel or chrome. The most durable and reliable are contour devices that have an internal nickel and external chrome coating.
Thanks to the presence of a nickel layer of construction corrosion is not a problem, and chrome will protect the product from harmful microorganisms. The cartridge and other internal elements are made of metal-ceramics or ceramics.
Chrome faucets, made of brass alloy, are considered the most resistant to mechanical stress. Warranty period The service life of this design is at least 5 years.
Necessary consider shade and design bathroom. If you pay attention to such factors, the product will fit perfectly and become the highlight of the room. Today, cubic and elongated shapes without any special decorations or bulky elements are considered the most relevant. Most modern models are dominated by rounded edges and soft curves.
If we talk about colors, then traditionally, faucets made of bronze or chrome. You can also find models with imitation granite surfaces on sale. Such products are in harmony with colored baths.
Today there are many models on the market manufactured by domestic and foreign companies. The most reliable plumbing fixtures are those from the German company Grohe. Similar equipment is different durability and strength.
Moreover, each mixer undergoes several checks during the manufacturing process. It should be noted that after any model is discontinued, spare parts for it are produced for 10 years.
In addition to Grohe, the following brands have proven themselves well in the domestic market: Oras, Wasser Kraft, Damixa and Hansa. The mixers of these companies differ in their durability and affordable price.
Installing a faucet is considered a fairly simple task. Even an inexperienced person can handle it. Naturally, it is first necessary to dismantle the previous mixer.
It is also worth noting that the hole for such equipment is standard in most cases, so the installation diagram of the structure will be identical.
The work is carried out in several stages.
- The mixer is installed on a special stand located above the mounting holes. The product is secured with a nut.
- The hoses are carefully passed into a special hole, and then they must be sealed using rubber gaskets. After this, the structure is fixed with nuts.
- The next stage involves joining the flanks with the pipes. These elements are firmly secured with nuts.
After completing the work it is necessary make sure the structure is stable.
Choosing a mixer is a responsible task. If you consider everything before purchasing important points, you can really buy quality product. To extend its service life, you should take a responsible approach not only to the choice, but also to the installation of the mixer.
All mixers, depending on their design, can be divided into valve, ball and thermostatic.
Classic valve valves are equipped with two valves responsible for supplying hot and cold water. The water is shut off using a rubber gasket or ceramic plate (see "Shut-off valve material"). In order to turn on the water at full pressure, it is necessary to make 4-6 turns of the valve, which ensures stable operation even with very different ratios of hot and cold water. That is why, if there is gas water heater Valve mixers are recommended. In addition, although the use of such faucets requires a lot of effort, it helps to save water consumption and allows you to more accurately adjust the temperature, unlike ball models.
Ball ones are considered more convenient, because... they are equipped with one handle that rotates in different directions (up and down and left and right). Thanks to this, you can adjust the water temperature and pressure with one movement of your hand. The operating costs of valve and ball mixers, except for thermostatic mixers, are approximately the same. Therefore, manufacturers recommend that when using all types of faucets, in addition to equalizing the pressure of cold and hot water of faucets, install water filters in the apartment.
Thermostatic mixers are equipped with a device for automatically maintaining a set temperature and the same pressure force. A special thermostat controls the set temperature: if the water temperature changes, the ratio of hot and cold water automatically changes the right proportions. The second regulator is responsible for the water pressure.
To ensure that user-specified settings are saved, both regulators have built-in limiters, usually in the form of buttons: to change the setting, you must first press the button, after which you can turn the knob (in many models, the temperature can be changed without pressing the button, but only in the direction of decreasing it ). Thus, limiters allow you to control water flow. Thermostats have another undoubted advantage: if the supply of hot or cold water suddenly stops, the thermostat will turn off the water almost instantly.
Purpose
Depending on the place of use and design features, all faucets can be divided into faucets for bath, washbasin, sink (kitchen), bidet, shower, as well as universal models.
Sink (kitchen) faucets are mounted horizontally; they have a long, high, movable spout to increase the usable area of the sink, making it convenient to clean high capacities. There are models with a pull-out spout (see "Pull-out spout") and with a shower head (see "Shower head").
Spout shape
The shape of the mixer spout can be traditional or cascade.
Traditional form a spout in the form of a tube (round, triangular, oval, etc.) is considered. Such spouts are called classic and are used everywhere.
Cascade mixers are not yet very common due to their unusual appearance. Unlike traditional tube-shaped faucets, cascade faucets have a flat and wide spout; Dimensions vary depending on specific model. Cascade faucets are mainly installed in the side of the bathtub and the wall of the shower cabin, and are less often used for sinks. In addition to their high throughput (it takes a matter of minutes to fill even a large bathtub with water), cascade faucets are simply beautiful and actually imitate a mini-waterfall in your apartment.
Shut-off valve
A shut-off valve is a mechanism in a mixer that is responsible for the supply/shut-off and pressure of water. It can be a rubber or leather valve, ceramic or ball cartridge.
Valves made of rubber and leather are inexpensive and practical materials, but have low wear resistance, so they are often replaced. Now these materials are practically not used.
Ceramic plastinans (cartridges) are stronger and more durable. They are usually made of aluminum oxide and coated with cermet on top.
Ball cartridges are made of stainless steel. These are polished hollow balls with a pin in which water is mixed inside. By changing the position of the pin (using the mixer handle), you can adjust the pressure and ratio of hot and cold water, as well as turning the water supply on/off.
Housing material
The faucet can be made of brass, ceramic, stainless steel or bronze.
Brass is the most popular material for faucets because... it is distinguished by its high strength and practicality and, as a result, its high price.
Ceramic faucets look very beautiful and are expensive, but they are too fragile, so their high price is not entirely justified.
Stainless steel models are durable and inexpensive.
Bronze faucets are also very durable, but are not yet so common.
Coating
The mixer body can be coated with nickel, chrome, matte chrome, white or colored enamel. Less common are gold, platinum, marble, granite or bronze coatings.
Enamel looks very beautiful, but it is not so durable and is easily chipped; Nickel can cause allergies, gold or platinum finishes require special care, and marble or bronze finishes will put a significant dent in your wallet.
The best options are chrome and the now fashionable granite: they are beautiful, durable, and do not harbor microbes. The only drawback of chrome is that traces of drops, fingerprints and stains remain on the polished surface.
Often there are two-color models that combine two types of coating, for example, granite and satin.
Handle rotation angle, horizontal (degrees)
(from 25 to 160 degrees)
The greater the angle of rotation of the knob, the more accurately the user can adjust the water temperature. On the other hand, a shorter stroke helps to set it up faster. All modern ball mixers are equipped with a built-in hot water supply limiter (a removable silicone ring or a special mechanism) - it does not allow you to move the handle beyond a certain temperature level.
Handle rotation angle, vertical (degrees)
(from 25 to 120 degrees)
Vertical adjustment helps to set the optimal water pressure.
Manufacturers provide some faucet models with a built-in water flow limiter to save water consumption.
Swivel spout
The swivel spout allows you to choose the direction of the water flow - into the bath or into the washbasin. Its presence in kitchen faucets is no less important - it’s more convenient to clean. large number dishes and tall or wide containers.
Check valve
A check valve is designed to prevent the reverse flow of water in a pipeline in the event of a sudden drop in pressure below a certain value. This device thus protects against air pops when the water is turned off.
Built-in filter
The built-in filter is designed for mechanical cleaning water from foreign impurities, which prevents breakdowns in the mixing unit. The filter is usually removable, making it easy to clean.
Watering can
Shower heads can be equipped with shower mixers and bidets.
Bidet shower heads are distinguished by their compactness and the presence of a water supply button on the head of the shower head, which is not a shut-off valve and serves only for ease of use.
Using a compact retractable watering can with a flexible hose, it is very convenient to wash sinks of any size and shape. There are two modifications of pull-out sink spouts. In one version, an additional hole can be made for it to the right or left of the mixer; in the second, the hose is hidden directly in the spout of the mixer itself (thus we get a “2 in 1”).
Foot valve
The bottom valve is a special plug on the mixer body to close the drain hole. It opens and closes with a simple press of a button.
Aerator
The aerator is a mesh device located at the very tip of the spout. Its main purpose is to mix water with air, making it softer, and cutting the stream, making it softer and more uniform. Aerators are usually made of stainless steel, but it is better to give preference to models with an additional silicone coating - it is easier to clean.
Built-in
A hidden installation system involves embedding the unit itself into the wall (for example, in shower faucets) or into the side of a bathtub or sink (in bathtub, sink, and washbasin faucets). Only the controls and the spout/pull-out hand shower remain outside. Concealed installation is mainly intended for acrylic bathtubs(it’s easier to drill holes in acrylic than, for example, in cast iron). This installation is preferable for large bathrooms, because you will have to install an additional box. Although there are cases when communications take place precisely in " in the right place", and then you can kill two birds with one stone. The disadvantage is that if the mixer block leaks, you will not know about it right away.
Installation method
Bath faucets can be mounted vertically or horizontally.
Horizontal is the most popular and simplest, because... The device block is mounted on the side of the plumbing fixture.
Vertical method involves mounting the mixer on the wall (mainly these are devices for baths, showers and universal ones).
The choice of one installation method or another depends only on your personal preferences and the location of the communication pipes.
In addition to this division, a distinction is made between open and hidden installation (see “Recessed”).
Number of mounting holes
The number of mounting holes for installing a mixer can be from 1 to 5. We are more familiar with 1-hole mixers: the user can see a block with a spout and switches. Concealed installation with 1 hole is often done for bath and shower faucets.
2-hole faucets are also very popular (separate holes are required for hot and cold water pipes). As a rule, such mixers have a vertical mounting (see "Installation").
Recently, 3-hole concealed-mount faucets have become very popular (see “Recessed”): the unit is hidden in the wall or plumbing body, and a separate hole is needed for each element (spout and handles).
The rarest are models with 4 and even 5 holes (4th for the shower head and 5th for the shower/tub switch).
Quick installation system
The quick installation system assumes that you only need to insert the faucet fasteners into the hole prepared in advance for it and tighten it from above with a hex key (usually supplied in the kit).
Connection size
The connecting size of the tap to the mixer depends on the type of mixer. For example, a bathroom requires more powerful water pressure than a kitchen. And, accordingly, a pipe of larger diameter. Connection dimensions can be of several types: 1/2", 3/4", 3/8", 1 1/2", 1 1/4".
Mounting hole diameter
(from 10 to 60 mm)
The diameter of the mounting holes depends on the design of the mixer.
S-shaped eccentrics
S-shaped eccentrics of a special curved shape significantly simplify the installation of the mixer, as they allow you to adjust the center-to-center distance between the bushings by turning them.
Type of eyeliner
There are two types of eyeliner: flexible and rigid.
A flexible liner is a reinforced tube made of polyethylene or PVC with a plastic “skeleton” in a metal braid; it is easier to install, and therefore is more popular. On the other hand, it is less reliable, so it fails more often.
Rigid liner consists of metal tubes (copper or brass). It causes more problems during installation, but then it is unlikely to cause any trouble.
Spout length
(from 47 to 400 mm)
It is recommended to pay attention to the spout length, because... If the spout is too short, the stream may break against the side of the bathtub or sink, and if the spout is too long, it can reduce the comfort of using the faucet.
Spout height
(from 30 to 400 mm)
It is recommended to pay attention to the spout length, because... due to a very low spout it will be inconvenient to use (this is especially important for kitchen faucets), too high will reduce the usable space.
Handle length
(from 53 to 150 mm)
The length of the ball spout handle depends on the design of the mixer.
Thermostat
The thermostat built into the mixer serves to maintain the set temperature and pressure.
Faucets are one of the key fixtures in any bathroom. There is an amazing variety of models, from examples created according to classical canons to high-tech models with remote control and other delights. To appreciate the new developments of engineers, you need to know general principles designs and technical specifications sink faucets. The main gradation of mixers by design type: single lever; two-valve; electronic contactless. The spout configuration of all types of mixers branches into 2 directions: short, which have minimum distance to the side of the sink and long with the bend of the drain tap. An additional device that can be placed in any type of faucet is a thermostat. This device makes water heating completely independent of hot water supply or heating systems.
Faucets specially designed for sinks are designed for installation in technological holes located in the side of the washbasin or sink.
Distinctive characteristics of the mixer design
- The most familiar in form and principle of functionality are two-valve mixers. These are actually the simplest in configuration and most reliable mixers with a one-piece body, the operating principle of which is based on “pure” mechanics. The water pressure flows out of such a mixer even by gravity, which is valuable at low pressure in the system.
2 screws with sealing rubber axle boxes act as regulating and locking elements.
- Single lever mixers for bathroom sinks have gained unprecedented popularity due to the ability to simultaneously regulate temperature and water pressure. Most faucets have a lever as a control element, but there are also models with joysticks. The lever or joystick is mounted directly on top of the body, which allows you to quickly turn off the water in one movement if necessary.
The cartridge of single-lever mixers is an element designed for mixing hot and cold water coming from different branches of the main line. Inside the cartridge body there is a rod that transmits the influence of the mixer handle to the upper disk (the 2nd lower disk is fixedly fixed). The discs have holes. When the upper disk moves, the holes are aligned, as a result of which the flows of cold and hot water are mixed.
- Ball single lever mixer has the same principle of operation, only instead of disks a hollow ball with holes is used, which plays the same role.
The cartridge may have a molded plastic body, but modern prestigious models are increasingly equipped with collapsible cartridges with ceramic plates that are more resistant to corrosion and deformation.
- Electronic faucets– this is the most innovative development of sanitary fittings, which realized the objectives of preventing re-contamination of hands, especially in public places and saving water.
According to statistics, an electronic faucet reduces water consumption by approximately 5 times in comparison with single-lever faucets - recognized leaders in saving water resources before the advent of touch-sensitive faucets. Basin faucet touchless touch can infrared motion sensors on the spout (on inside) or on the body itself. Anyway electronic system reacts to movement under the tap. In this case, the standard time to turn off the water supply is considered to be a 2-second interval without detecting movement.
As a rule, on the right side of the body there is a lever for adjusting the water temperature, although there are models with an upper lever location. There are models with a set temperature of 38*C (maximum comfortable for a person) without a control lever, which are designed for installation in public places.
It is also not uncommon for electronic faucets to have liquid crystal displays that inform about the water temperature and LED backlight. One of the most high-tech functions that this mixer can be equipped with is automatic flushing of the system in order to fill the water seal in the sewer and prevent the accumulation of bacterial flora in the water supply and sewer systems.
Electronic faucet designs have an average throughput of 7-8 l/min, and batteries electronic circuit have an operational life of 5-7 (according to manufacturers).
Features of the complete set of faucets for sinks
The cheapest to maintain are two-valve type mixers. This fact is both their main advantage and disadvantage. The sales kit may include rubber or silicone axle boxes, which act as seals in the control unit.
Expensive single-lever faucets are often sold together with a spare, replaceable cartridge. This precaution by the manufacturer is due to the fact that almost every model has cartridges installed different sizes and designs. If it fails, finding a similar cartridge will be quite problematic. The cartridge fastening nut is constantly exposed to water, and therefore when installing a new cartridge, it is recommended to install a repair nut, which is also included in the basic kit. Sensor sink faucets are a stand-alone high-tech device and therefore are not supplied with repair kits. Additional accessories to extend the life of the faucet and improve water quality are supplied with electronic faucets: water filters and aerators.
Many faucet models have a structural plug, which, when removed, allows the shower to be connected through a flexible hose. This significantly expands the functionality of the sink faucet: it allows you to wash large dishes or containers for other purposes, and draw water not only into the sink, but also into the bathroom, which is sometimes a necessity in very compact shower rooms.
Unlike faucets that were made in past decades, modern models differ not only appearance, but also technical characteristics. Thanks to original design Any faucet can be an excellent decoration for a kitchen or bathroom.
Which faucets are good and which are not? This question arises for every buyer.
Main classification
In order to divide products into several groups, several parameters are taken into account. The main group is divided into two main types: horizontal and vertical fastening. The installation directly depends on how the pipes are routed.
Structurally, mixers can be divided into several types:
- Thermostatic - relatively new developments that control the supply of water at one temperature. In order to set a different temperature, you need to set other indicators.
- The single valve has the same mechanism as the previous version, but the faucet-axlebox is installed only for cold water.
- Two-valve - such devices are equipped with valve axle boxes.
- Single-lever ones have a vertical handle as the main opening mechanism. It regulates the flow and temperature of water.
- Non-contact - characterized by the inclusion of water without direct contact with the mechanism.
Return to contents
Materials and tools
Despite the fact that today there are various materials that are characterized by high strength and quality, the best option for faucets is brass. This material is quite heavy, so when in doubt which one, you should give preference to more heavy materials. As for the mechanisms, they can be made from various materials. The ceramic cartridge is made of very high quality aluminum oxide, which is fired at a temperature of 1200 degrees Celsius.
All fasteners and ball regulators in single-lever mixers are made of stainless steel, and the handles of mixers and shower heads are most often made of plastic.
Very often, modern headsets are made from an alloy of zinc and copper. The ratio of these materials is absolutely safe for human health. As for brass taps, they are not afraid of corrosion. That's why inner part does not collapse under the influence of water. In order to make an attractive appearance, all parts are coated with a layer of nickel and chrome on top. But it should be noted that most manufacturers use chromium. This material is very durable and hygienic, so it will retain its original appearance for a long time.
In order to make shower heads and faucet handles, artificial materials are most often used, the most common of which is ABS plastic. For Premium class faucets, coatings that imitate aged bronze and gilding can be used.
Return to contents
Two-valve mixers
Despite the fact that there are different options taps that amaze with their appearance, there are people who prefer classic options. In addition, if the bathroom is designed in classic style, then the taps must correspond to the general style.
Two-valve mixers are best suited for this task. It is worth noting such style directions like country and retro.
The basis of such a mechanism is the crane axle box. It is with the help of this part that the water will flow or shut off. It is also responsible for mixing hot and cold flow. Such a faucet has its drawbacks, among which is the vulnerability of the seal.
The gasket must be changed periodically, otherwise the mechanism will leak.
Also, such taps are more difficult to set the required temperature. This is due to the fact that the valves rotate 360 degrees. Therefore, in order to open a sufficiently large water pressure, it is necessary to make several revolutions.
Some two-valve faucets may have ceramic valves, which completely eliminate the above problems. In the process of supplying and shutting off water, two round ceramic plates with holes take part, thanks to which you can adjust the required temperature quite quickly: sometimes half a turn is enough.
Despite the simple mechanism of operation, they are not cheap options. And if you choose the original coating of the material, the cost will increase significantly.
Return to contents
Single lever elements
Most people today prefer new designs with a single lever mechanism, which have replaced the two-valve ones. Such products today are presented in a colossal assortment. They have different shapes, shades, textures, sizes, but the main action mechanism unites all products into one group.
In order to adjust the required water temperature and flow strength, just turn the faucet handle down and up, left and right. Quite simple controls distinguish them from the previous group. In turn, such products can be divided into two subgroups according to the type of internal mechanism:
- ball model;
- the model on which the cartridge is installed.
On at the moment There are practically no manufacturers left who use the first method; most have switched to a new one, which involves the use of a cartridge. The faucet mechanism makes it very easy to adjust the water supply mode and, if necessary, turn it off with one movement of the hand.
One type of such a headset can be distinguished – joystick mixers. They have the same mechanism as in conventional samples, but, unlike them, the handle is not located vertically. It resembles the gear lever in a car and is located vertically relative to the crane. Today, manufacturers are releasing new models of such taps, they are more aimed at saving water. Therefore, they are arranged special equipment, which operates in two modes: economy and full water supply. To switch from economy mode to regular mode, the lever opens all the way, and during switching you will feel a slight resistance from the mechanism.