Bottom valve in the mixer: what is it?

In the domestic market of sanitary equipment, the bottom valve has appeared relatively recently. Although at first it was perceived with distrust, but it turned out that the device was quite comfortable, had a pleasant appearance and could significantly save water consumption.

The bottom valve in the faucets is a design that serves to block the hole at the bottom of the sink, if you need to collect a certain amount of water in it. Abroad, the issue of water consumption is quite acute, so people are accustomed to be careful about this resource, and the bottom valve is exactly the device that can help with this. It is a more reliable option than plastic and rubber plugs, which, when used, often fail and wear out quickly.

A simple device is mounted at the bottom of the washbasin., to its drain hole and, if necessary, blocks the connecting pipe with the water supply. At the same time, an ordinary tap is installed with two valves regulating cold and hot water.

Two types of bottom valves are subdivided.

• The mechanical type works on the basis of the spring mechanism. The device has nothing to do with the operation of the mixer, which can be considered its advantage.
• The second option is a bottom valve with a lever mechanism complete with a mixer. The overlap of the drain occurs by pressing the lever.

This technique includes the following details:

• stopper for blocking the drain;
• control lever;
• connecting the valve and the lever base in the form of a rod;
• siphon to drain water into the sewer;
• connecting threaded element for siphon installation.

The mechanical system of the Push Open valve is not as hygienic. In order to open the cork, you need to put your hands in the water. However, it also has its advantages - due to the lack of unnecessary parts in general, such a bottom valve looks more aesthetically pleasing.

In terms of their design, the caps can differ in shape, color, which is not decisive, therefore the color range is limited - these are silvery, golden, bronze shades of metal.

The relevance of this technique is due to the possibility of multifunctional use of the sink. In it you can wash, soak small things for a while, wash the dishes.

There are other advantages of this device:

• more attractive appearance - instead of the hole you can see a beautiful metal valve cap;
• convenience and ease of use - the lock is controlled by one movement;
• ease of cleaning;
• resistance of the valve to the effects of water and mold, unlike plastic and rubber stoppers;
• prevention of annoying odors from the drain;
• quick, easy installation;
• optimal water saving is probably the main advantage of the bottom valve.

As for the shortcomings, they are virtually absent, apart from the fact that it is necessary to monitor the water level and regulate its flow and discharge in time. Particularly forgetful it may be advisable to purchase a washbasin with overflow to avoid accidental floods.

Unusual to this method of use can hardly be called a disadvantage. Having accustomed yourself and your family to care about water consumption, hardly anyone will complain about the inconvenience, especially with obvious savings.

Installation of the valve can be done independently, without special skills, but you should always pay attention to the installation of the mixer, which is located in close proximity to the device.

It is important to carry out all the work sequentially, starting with the installation of the crane.

• you must first pass through the hole hoses that combine the foot valve (its lever) and the valve;
• then the mixer is fixed on the sink and fixed with a special nut; on both sides between it and the sink, a gasket made of rubber is placed with the tap for maximum sealing;
• so that at the joints the dimensions of the hoses and pipes completely coincide, in some cases there is a need for trimming and stripping, while taking care that the cut particles do not fall into the drain mechanism - this can lead to failures in its operation
• Pipe and hose connections are secured with seals with nuts, carefully, avoiding pipe bends, as a rule, U-shaped placement is used.

Next, make the installation of the bottom valve:

• the device fits neatly into the hole;
• the device has two crossed fastening needles, they should be fixed with a plastic cross;
• then they must be connected to the valve's ear and its lever so that when pressure is applied to it, the needle will close and open the plug.

Only after this, the siphon for a sink or a corrugated spout, which is present in some taps, is connected to the installed equipment. The siphon is wound from below, and the hose is connected to the sewage system.

Serviceability of equipment is checked in stages. Turning on the water supply, you need to make sure that there are no leaks at the joints, as well as in the design of the mixer itself. If water leaks out, a special Fum fluoroplastic tape is additionally used for the thread, and the nuts should also be tightened.

To check the tightness of the siphon, unscrew the entire valve. At the same time it is necessary to ascertain the normal operation of the valve. To do this, open and close the stopper 2-3 times, collect and drain water into the sink. Carrying out such a check is a necessary condition for the continued, uninterrupted operation of the system. The strength and reliability of hoses and pipes does not hurt to check even before the installation of the mixer and valve.

Different designs are suitable for specific needs. It all depends on where the bottom valve is needed. If it is required for a shower tray or bath, it is preferable to choose a mechanical model. It is possible to purchase the device complete with a siphon or separately.

Regarding the sinks used for washing, a kit with an automatic valve of factory production is suitable; such equipment is also equipped for a bidet. Buying a valve and a valve separately, you can stay on models with a chrome-plated coating, this combination will be optimal.

The main criteria on which to navigate:

• quality locking system, lever or mechanical;
• overflow device (its presence or absence);
• aesthetics of appearance;
• manufacturer of products.

By the way, almost all these nuances affect the cost of construction. Of course, the most important thing is high quality and durability; therefore, such equipment is chosen only from proven manufacturers. As a rule, this means a high degree of tightness, the immunity of parts to the aggressive effects of hot water, the salts contained in it. Any products of this type must have a certificate of quality and other important documentation with which you need to read. In case of any breakage within the established period, the device can be replaced, thanks to the warranty card.

The bottom valve is a functional headset that helps to make water flow more economical and convenient to operate, and thanks to the instructions, it is possible to carry out the installation with your own hands.

How to install a foot valve, see the video below.