Diverter for the mixer: what it is, features and device

It is difficult to even imagine how inconvenient it would be to operate a mixer without a diverter. Many, using this mechanism every day, do not even know what it is. This is a switch that allows you to change the direction of water from the shower to the tap and back in a second.

Under the incomprehensible and the word "diverter" hides a simple mechanism that is built into the body of the mixer or installed separately from it. With this device, changing the direction of water flow from the shower to the faucet or spout is carried out. Such a mechanism simplifies the use of a mixer and increases the comfort of taking water procedures or using water for other purposes.

The device of the divertor is simple, but it provides for the presence of friction parts and direct contact with water. It is these circumstances most often underlie the breakers of the mixers.

Divertors are available in a large assortment. The differences between them may be different. In such a variety it is easy to get confused and make the wrong choice. To avoid this, it is necessary to understand the existing varieties.

According to the type of isolated a number of diverter.

• Push button mechanism is a well-known classic. Such devices are installed at a pressure of small power and the impossibility of automatic fixation of the switch. To change the direction of flow, pull the lever up or down. Because such a mechanism is the second name - exhaust. Manual and automatic devices are available.
• Lever, swivel or flag the divertor has a simple construction. To change the direction of the water, simply turn the knob in the desired direction. Such a mechanism can often be seen on mixers equipped with two handles.
• Spool diverter installed on mixers with two valves. Such mechanisms are arranged very simply, which allows you to cope with their repair or replacement without any problems.

• Cartridge type equipped with a single lever that is responsible for regulating and changing the direction of flow. Such mechanisms are not repaired, but only changed to new ones.
• Eccentric device or ball diverter actuated by turning the knob, thereby activating the stem. This detail due to the progressive movements closes / opens the necessary traffic jams. Repair usually consists in replacement of gaskets, which is considered a plus. But if another problem occurs, the whole mixer will have to be disassembled, which is troublesome and time consuming.
• Cork type It is not particularly popular, although its repair is simple, and operation is convenient. This type differs from an eccentric device by the presence of a lever, and not a rotating handle.

The second criterion is considered functionality. Here also there are two types: two-position and three-position. The first type is more common and accessible. The second type of device is equipped with an additional option, used mostly in the kitchen, allows you to distribute the flow in two directions. The cost of three-position diverter is about a thousand rubles.

• The parameters of the mechanisms are also different.Divertors are available for ½ and ¾ inch threads. This criterion plays a big role, so during the selection must be taken into account necessarily.
• External characteristics are also of great importance when choosing a mechanism. The divertor is not a completely hidden device, so it participates in the formation of the design of the mixer. When choosing, you must take into account the aesthetic characteristics of the crane and its design features.
• According to the method of installation, there are built-in and separate models, independent mechanisms. The first option is relevant in the bathroom, the second is mainly used in kitchens for connecting to a washing machine or dishwasher sink.

For the production of diverter use a huge variety of materials. Some demonstrate high quality and durability, but are expensive. Others are more accessible, but not so high quality. Among the main varieties are:

• Brass is inexpensive and shows good durability. An important role is played by the coating material. Chromium has high hygienic characteristics.Enamel, as well as ceramics, attracts a long service with careful use.

• Nickel now rarely used, as it can cause allergic reactions. Stainless steel is a good option for bath and shower, but such a mechanism will have to constantly look after. Traces of water are clearly visible on the shiny surface, and fingerprints remain.
• Ceramic divertor recently appeared on the market. Not the whole mechanism is made of ceramics, but only the plates that ensure the operation of the device.

• POM - It is an innovative polymer that demonstrates high durability. These switches look attractive, but they are not cheap. On average, their cost is 40% higher than the prices of the classic versions.
• Light alloy mechanisms proved to be one of the most durable. Especially it concerns an alloy from brass and aluminum to which lead is added. With such switches rarely have problems.

When choosing a divertor, it is important to study in advance manufacturers who can be trusted with their choice.

• Kaiser, based in Germany. It offers the user a large assortment of high-quality and safe products made in various style directions.
• French company Jacob delafon creates plumbing mechanisms in a large assortment, including divertors. Products are expensive, but durable and reliable.
• Finnish company Timo well known to the Russian user. Such mechanisms serve for a long time, rarely require repair. Properly created range allows you to select a switch for any plumbing.

• Brand IDDIS based in Russia. Affordable and reliable products pleases many users. Divertors are adapted to water that is not of high quality. However, many import mechanisms quickly fail for this reason.
• Products from the Bulgarian brand Vidima Many consumers and professionals is considered one of the highest quality and durable. In Russia, it is very popular and in demand. Even the high cost does not stop buyers.

When choosing a divertor, you need to focus on convenience in its future operation. Moreover, its design and principle of operation should be clear. In this case, the user will be able to remove it, disassemble, repair or replace it with a new one. Each type of switch has its own problems, some require adherence to subtleties during operation.

These points should be considered when choosing.

• The simplicity of spool diverter attracts users with simple and convenient switching of water to the spout and shower, affordable cost and easy construction. But the trick is the problems that often arise during operation. Axles and crank - the main elements that may be loosely located. Also sealing gaskets and a rubber ring often require replacement. Another difficulty lies in diagnosing and identifying problems.

• Pushbutton switch fails for other reasons.This may be the worn condition of the rubber ring, the breakage of the spring, which is the main working unit or the gland that needs to be replaced.
• Cartridge devices suffer from accumulations of rust, dirt, and other adverse effects that water forms in the pipes. Repair in this situation does not help, you have to change the entire switch to a new one.

In most cases, divertors are removed according to a single scheme:

• water overlaps - be sure to start with this, otherwise you risk flooding the neighbors;
• unscrew the shower hose;
• the gander is dismantled;
• the diverter is removed by means of a cap nut or directly behind the mechanism (if a switch is screwed into the mixer housing);
• installation is carried out in reverse order.

About the features and device of the diverter for the mixer, see the following video.