Review of the best bath mixers
The bathroom is one of the most important places in the house, since it is in this room that we carry out hygienic procedures. Designing a bathroom is not very easy, because the room involves the use of a large number of appliances and communications. The most important point in equipping the bathroom - the choice of plumbing. In order to select the desired product as accurately as possible, you need to take into account such factors in the room as high humidity and constant contact with water.
Product Features
Since the modern market represents a wide range of plumbing items to an ordinary buyer, a person can be confused by the huge choice. The choice of mixers should be based on characteristics such as the material from which it is made,his device, and, importantly, the appearance, because every, even the smallest element of the interior simply must look attractive and be part of a holistic picture of the interior.
Ten to twenty years ago, the choice of the mixer did not cause questions and inconvenience to the owner of the apartment. Everything was much simpler than it is now: if there was a faucet by luck, then it was him who bought it, regardless of the quality characteristics of the product. The most important was the fulfillment of the main functional role. Nowadays there are a huge number of different variations of this product, differing from each other in material, style and the presence of additional amenities. So, now you can choose mixers that independently turn on the water, when hands appear in the field of their “view”.
You can also choose a product of original design that fits into any interior. So, chrome-sensing products will precisely satisfy the high-tech style demanding innovative technologies in the bathroom, and products of delicate shades will suit the Provencal style.
A wide list of possible materials from which the structures are made, ensures that the mixer will not be exposed to rust, dirt, mold and fungi
Kinds
There are many types of this product. Consider the types of mixers in several categories.
Materials
Such a parameter as the material of the mixer is a fundamental factor in its reliability, precise functionality and guarantee of a long service life. Mixers can be made from the following materials.
- Brass. This is one of the most successful options for the mixer. Such material is strong enough, durable (can serve up to ten years) and is not exposed to fungi, mildew and rust. Also make the mixer of bronze. Its characteristics are similar to brass. A distinctive feature of this product is a fairly large weight and a considerable price. Often, cheap Chinese mixers are made of lead alloy, and the final product is called a brass mixer. You can distinguish a fake from the original by weighing both mixers in your hands. A fake will be much easier. In addition, the original product has an orange tint, and a fake gives in red. Thin lead walls of cheap products are quickly destroyed due to constant exposure to water, mechanical damage and moisture.
The important point is that lead is quite toxic. Even if you do not use the water that has passed through such a mixer for oral administration, your skin will not exactly thank you for exposing it to contaminated water.
- Alloy steel. Nowadays, plumbing products are rarely made of alloy steel, because its products are short-lived and, moreover, they cost a pretty penny.
- Chrome faucets They are highly resistant to mechanical damage, high temperature, which ensures their long service life. Products are unsuitable for the development of colonies of pathogenic microorganisms on its surface, and at the same time do not bear any harm to the human body. In addition to these advantages, chrome products fit perfectly into the interior and look very expensive.
- Nickel products have the same advantages as chrome. They are immune to aggressive environmental conditions and the effects of rust and fungi, but the only drawback is the possibility of allergies due to the use of such a mixer. Therefore, people who are sensitive to metals should limit contact with nickel devices.
- Enamelled products, look very original, but their durability raises some doubts. The coating quickly cracks and peels off due to moisture and warm water.
- Often plastic part of the mixer elements. In order to reduce the cost of the product, plastic handles and other components are covered with a layer of nickel, aluminum or chromium. Original gadgets can have gold-plated handles, the inside of which consists of plastic. Of course, it is not uncommon for the coating to slip out of plastic during operation, since it will not be possible to fully adhere the metal with a smooth surface.
However, chrome-plated plastic mixers are more durable and safe, unlike the same enamel or nickel that can cause allergic reactions.
- Ceramics Included in only some of the components of the structure. It is necessary to carefully select a product from this material, since only high-quality ceramics will last for a long time, but cheap analogs may crack due to exposure to high temperatures.
Shower head and connection hose design
One of the most important elements of a bathroom is a shower, and therefore its watering can and hose.Lake is responsible for the intensity of water on the skin, so its shape is worth paying much attention to.
Classic shower head options are oval or round.In which there are many small slots for water. They serve only to fulfill the main function - water supply, and no longer have any “bonuses”. Probably, this is unexpected, but in our time such habitual devices have faded into the background, and they are replaced by more functional watering cans with many additional features. The design of such products is completely different.
With the help of various designs, manufacturers of these products are trying to compensate for the limitations of their functions. But everything relies on the requests of the buyer, which means that this option can fully satisfy your needs in case you only need its main purpose.
In our time, the demands of customers have increased, preferring watering cans, which have the ability to switch shower functions. So, there is a button for spraying water, a normal mode and an intensive massage mode. Thanks to the ability to set the desired mode manually, such watering cans have gained popularity.
The material from which watering cans are made can also be different. Most often, watering cans are made of metal, as it is very durable. However, it has a lot of weight, which means that if you accidentally fall on the surface of the bath, the watering can can scratch it. The most budget option - polymer watering cans, but they are short-lived and can crack under mechanical stress. On the other hand, the fragility of such a budget watering can not be a minus, since it is not a pity to replace it with another one if necessary.
Now let's talk about the hoses. The most familiar to us are the hoses, consisting of a plastic tube and framed with a spiral of plastic or metal. But over time, the plastic spiral unwinds and spoils the “inside” of plastic or metal, and it also has a negative effect on the bath surface. Therefore, such products have lost their relevance.
Silicone hoses, covered with foil or nylon on both sides, replaced the previous models. They can function well for a lot of time, and they also look great. The material is unpretentious to maintain, so limescale for them is not terrible. The surface on top of a metal hose, made in the form of a jagged ornament, looks original and attractive. Perhaps this is the best choice of all.
The length of the hose is also of great importance. Its choice should be based on the total length of the bath and the height of the person who will take hygienic procedures. Most often choose hoses with a length of 1.5 m.
In the event of a hose breakage, there should not be any difficulty in replacing it with a new one, since the joints of the hose and watering can are the same for all types of structures. The most vulnerable point of breakage is the attachment of the hose to the other components of the shower, this is especially strong in the hose-housings. New hoses are equipped with a special material called swivel. This is a special plastic plate that is attached to the hose to increase the slip of the product. This allows it to rotate freely and prevents mechanical damage.
Spout length
Spouts are divided into two types.
- Static - fixed models that perform the function of only a conductor of water. They are the most durable and reliable.
- Movable - such structures can be rotated in any direction. This is designed for those cases where one spout must simultaneously function for the sink and for the bath.However, the moving mechanism can wear out quickly, which makes moving spouts less reliable.
To select a mixer, it is necessary to take into account such parameters as its height and length. These characteristics are fundamental points that determine the convenience during use of the mechanism.
The height of the product is determined by the distance of the spout and the holeinto which the water flows. Faucets from 15 to 25 cm are used in cases where the faucet is used only for washing hands, face or brushing teeth. High spouts (from 25 cm) are used for other procedures, for example, when washing small items or filling various containers. Installing high structures involves the use of large deep sinks, otherwise the water will hit the bottom of the sink, and the spray will scatter throughout the room.
The length of the spout is the distance between its extreme points. This distance can vary from 3 to 50 centimeters. Of course, long taps are appropriate only in conjunction with a wide sink, and vice versa - a short spout is appropriate only in a duet with a narrow one. It is important that the spout should be of moderate length, and the jet should flow directly into the hole.If the water constantly beats the walls of the sink, a raid soon forms on them due to the constant exposure to chlorinated water.
It is also possible to provide the bath with a retractable mixer or heated. You can purchase a water or static version or push models. In the latter water is served in portions and you can control it.
Scope of application
Wall mounted faucets are used in several cases:
- Use for daily hygiene, such as washing hands and face, brushing teeth, etc.
- Constructions that have a rotating mechanism can simultaneously serve not only the sink, but also the bathroom. It is very convenient for miniature apartments with limited free space.
- If the bathroom uses a water-lily sink, which should have free space under it to further fill it with a washing machine, the use of wall-mounted faucets is the only reasonable way out, since it only takes up space above the sink.
Design
When choosing this item plumbing should pay attention not only to the material of its manufacture and functional characteristics, but also on the appearance,since a wide range of these products allows you to make a choice not only in the direction of functionality, but also in the direction of aesthetic appearance. This is an important criterion for any landlord who wants to make their home as comfortable as possible. So, let's talk about the design features of the mixers, which play a fundamental role in their appearance.
In valve mixers, the water pressure is regulated by means of valves. Inside the mechanism there are two plates that are shifted to the side under mechanical action, thereby passing a powerful stream of water. This method is very convenient, as the user can independently adjust the temperature of the water to get the desired result. This option is the most familiar to the average user. Such designs can often be rotated 90 or 180 degrees, whereas in the past they turned up to 360 degrees. This parameter led to rapid wear of the mechanism, so soon the manufacturers decided to reduce the angle of turn of the crane.
In general, the product is very easy to install and use and has a low price, although from shortcomings we can distinguish its quick wear.
Single lever mixers are made in the form of a spherical mechanism or device with several interchangeable cartridges. This option looks modern and very convenient to use, since you can start the flow of water and adjust its temperature with just one movement.
The design is protected from possible leaks, so the soul of buyers often lies in the direction of such cranes.
Thermostatic mechanisms are equipped with a special valve that reacts to fluctuations in water pressure in the pipeline. The valve can affect the water according to the selected modes. The water temperature is regulated by means of special handles, on which the scale of division is drawn. By the way, it is enough to adjust the required water temperature only once in order to skip this stage and limit it only to the activation and deactivation of the handle. The old types of thermostatic mechanisms have one drawback, according to which the absence of one type of water in the pipeline leads to the fact that the second pipeline also does not function. For example, in the absence of hot water cold you also can not get.
However, improved versions guarantee the ability to manually select the desired mode.
The touch structures are equipped with mechanisms that react to the appearance of hands in the field of view. Infrared sensors, having spotted this object, activate the flow of water. Some devices let water in until hands disappear, while others turn on for a certain period of time, after which the water closes.
Of course, such a mechanism is convenient, but it has a big drawback: hard water is not perceived by the device, so it will not work with such liquid.
Mixers can be designed according to the styles that are dictated by the room. So, the design of the room in retro-style obliges to use the same mixers. Such designs look unusual for ordinary users, they can have a copper shade and represent designs of various shapes and lengths. Such mixers often have switches in the form of valves, which adds to the product the spirit of antiquity. Material manufacturing devices are different: nickel, copper, chrome, bronze, etc.
Retro-style mixers are suitable for Provence-style interiors, if the product is made in pastel shades, in addition, they are relevant to the classic style.
Bathroom faucets in the style of minimalism must meet the general criteria of style. For example, simple monochromatic mixers with a lever are suitable for such a room, and the design itself may be small. The same applies to the shower part of the room, which can be equipped with a device with a watering can of a simple oval shape.
The most new and functional mixers are suitable for the high-tech style, since the requirement “to keep up with the times, and even a little bit forward” is essential for the whole style. Sensory mechanisms look very modern and expensive, so they are suitable for a bathroom in high-tech style. In addition to them, other chrome products, representing a wide range of features and functions, are also suitable.
So, according to the options outlined, you can conclude that this element of plumbing can be selected based on your interior. You can also contact the masters who make the device of a certain style to order.
Accessories
In order not to get lost in the plumbing shop surrounded by a huge number of different parts from the faucets, you need to have a certain amount of knowledge.It will allow you to navigate and acquire the really necessary elements of a complete set of your sanitary device.
You need to know that parts for the mixer should ideally be provided by the same company as the mixer itself. The fact is that products of the same brand are close to each other in terms of materials and forms, thanks to which all the elements will be able to most successfully connect with each other, in contrast to different brands. There are a lot of companies that manufacture appliances for this sanitary tool.
Positive feedback from users and plumbers comes to the following companies:
- Grohe;
- Iddias;
- Frap;
- Vidima;
- Esko;
- Teka;
- Wasser Kraft;
- Oute, Hansa;
- Gessi;
- Ravak;
- Ganzer;
- Cezares;
- Zegor;
- Orange;
- Hansgrohe.
Breakdown of the mixer mechanisms is possible for various reasons. Sometimes it is necessary to replace any component, sometimes it only costs by twisting a few bolts or replacing a worn gasket. Each mixer must be accompanied by a specific repair kit, the elements of which serve as a safety net for any spare parts, the replacement of which you can do on your own without any effort.
Most often, the kit includes various parts.
- Rings from rubber.They are a gasket that is inserted for sealing into the base of the spout of the faucet. In the process, this mechanism is erased or cracked, so it is often the reason for the repair.
- The retaining ring is used as a gasket for the mixer in the form of a ring. Its function is to seal the water lock mechanism.
- Gasket for valve head. Usually it is put in a set of two pieces.
- Shut-off gasket is presented in the form of a cuff of rubber, which is put on the crane.
- The valve head washer is a metal fastener that additionally strengthens the water closing mechanism.
- Gasket for eccentric and non-return valve.
- Bolt. Its size is usually 5x8 mm.
- Stickers of red and blue colors for attaching them to levers that are adjustable to supply cold or hot temperatures.
It is recommended to insure in advance and purchase a ready repair kit containing all the necessary components in order to easily replace the components of the crane when it is necessary. Timely replacement of some items will allow you to avoid costly repairs in the future.If you are not ready at one moment to spend money on the purchase of a complete set of devices, buy spare parts as needed.
Also, deep repair of the crane should be carried out by a specialist who will determine the root cause of the problem.
Manufacturers
There are a large number of brands specializing in the manufacture of mixers that have been able to receive a large number of positive feedback from enthusiastic users. These brands are constantly in search of new solutions and improvements that will make the mechanisms provided even more convenient and multifunctional.
Grohe
This German manufacturer specializes in the creation of sanitary appliances for kitchens and baths. An important point is a decent warranty period, which the manufacturer gives for its products - about 10 years. It provides the buyer with a choice of various designs: floor, wall, etc. The mixers of this company can be lever, valve and others. A variety of variations are available in combination with a presentable appearance, warranty and quality of operation.
Most of the devices are made of brass, but there are devices from silumin (an alloy of silicon and aluminum). Acquired products of this company function very well, besides, it has been serving for a long time without repair. With regards to the price - you can find products for the price in the range of 3.5-4 thousand rubles, but there are also exclusive models priced at up to 100 thousand.
Hansgrohe
This company has an excellent reputation as a manufacturer of quality bathroom faucets with a small area. Since a small square of bathrooms is a very common problem, products of this company are in great demand. The design of the Hansgrohe faucets is often made in the style of minimalism, which is very important for small rooms, which absolutely can not be filled with solid bathroom fixtures.
In addition to the excellent appearance of the material from which the technique is made, can not but rejoice: brass coated with chromium ensures long trouble-free operation. The warranty on the product is given for a period of up to 5 years, however, users allocate a much longer period for its quality operation. The price of one product reaches about 4,500 rubles.
Jacob Delafon
The Jacob Delafon company is famous for the original design of bath mixers. Of course, besides design, the products have a number of advantages, which include reasonable price, uninterrupted work and the quality of the material (brass is used as the main material). The manufacturer gives a five-year warranty on the products, however, the forums give a high assessment to the characteristics of the products, and, of course, to its appearance, since the taps have smoothly curved lines. No rough shapes - just french design! The average price for a crane varies around 5,500 rubles.
Oras
The company specializes in the manufacture of faucets for baths. For its price, the quality is simply amazing, which sets the rhythm for all the products of the company and is the main point explaining the high popularity of the products on the modern market. Classical variations of bath taps in the form of lever or valve are distinguished by their restrained design and reliable functionality. However, the company likes to experiment in the direction of greater manufacturability, namely in terms of designing contactless and other new types of cranes.
The only drawback is that cranes are often made of plastic with brass, which means that they are not the most durable of all.It is worth the lever crane about 8 000 rubles.
Wasserkraft
This company manufactures bathroom faucets, which can not fail to please with its quality. WasserKraft creates both budget and functional products. For example, a single-lever crane, the cost of which ranges from 5 thousand rubles, is equipped with a special system, the task of which is to level the jet. The length of the spout of this design reaches 8-9 cm, and the tap is attached to the sink itself.
For low cost, high-quality products are offered with some improvements.
Grohe costa
Another German company manufactures high-quality sink faucets. An example is the Costa 26792 spout, which received the most positive reviews on the web. This design is equipped with a spout equipped with a free-turn system, a holder that is attached to the wall, and a shower head. The latter is equipped with a system for switching modes of character and intensity of the jet. The product consists of chrome-plated stainless steel. Together with the crane all necessary spare parts for further repair are included in the kit. And this device costs approximately 8,000 rubles.
This simple example gives an idea that the company is trying to produce high-quality, durable and stylish plumbing items.
Since 1936, the German company Grohe is popular in Europe thanks to the introduction of advanced technologies., using only high quality materials for production. It occupies a leading position in the production of accessories and equipment for bathrooms. Since then, and until now, this company for its products independently produces cartridges of ceramic alloy, created by the latest technologies. After production, the ceramic cartridges are also coated with Teflon grease, which ensures a long product life and, especially, a smooth movement of the lever to adjust the pressure and temperature of the water. A wide range of models allows everyone to find their own taste, which fits perfectly into the overall interior of the bathroom.
Roca
The company is engaged in the manufacture of high-quality mixers, which at the same time can be called works of art. Appearance of products causes delight. They will fit into absolutely any interior: from Provence to high-tech.Plumbing elements are not only high quality, but also environmentally friendly, so you can not worry about the quality of the water that comes to you.
Not to mention the shortcomings of some products of this company. So, sometimes at the expense of functionality, designers sacrifice quality and functionality for the sake of design. It is worth one crane of this company about 9 000 rubles.
Vidima
The budget variations of bathroom faucets are provided by Vidima. High-quality and low-cost cranes perform their function smoothly and reliably for many years. Cranes do not rust and are not exposed to fungi. Users of these items on the forums note the high reliability and functionality of the cranes, although the design of the products rests rather on the convenience and simplicity of the user, although they can easily fit into any interior.
Recommendations for selection
- If you need a bath faucet, it is recommended to choose a bath in which there is a pre-created hole to accommodate the faucet. Of course, some baths are sold already with a ready-made mixer, however, in the future, if the mechanism breaks, it will be quite difficult to change it to a new one.Most often, it is acrylic baths that already have a hole for the mixer, and the choice of such a bath will provide a favorable appearance of the sanitary fixture.
- Wall-mounted appliances are attached to the wall above the bathroom and often have a long spout. Often to such structures attached shower rod to expand the range of possibilities of use.
- Faucets, which stand on the "leg", connected with pipes located in the floor. Most often, such structures are used in spacious rooms, where the bathroom does not adjoin one wall, but is located in the center of the room. Such mixers look very expensive and unusual.
- If you are a fan of the latest innovative technologies, pay attention to exclusive faucets, which are equipped with the additional water saving function, filters for its additional cleaning and softening, and even lighting. The latter option is ideal for lovers of original things, since taking a shower with such a mechanism becomes even more enjoyable.
- Bidet faucets are often equipped with the function of directing a jet of water in any convenient direction, which allows you to comfortably use it in all conditions.Often, instead of buying a separate bidet, they get a mixer installed near the toilet bowl, which makes this object even more functional.
- People who are predisposed to allergies should pay attention to the material from which the faucet is made in the bathroom. If an allergic person does not understand the causes of irritation on the skin, it is possible that the problem lies precisely in the doubtful quality of the plumbing fixtures. In this case, it is worth replacing them with products from a suitable metal.
- You should not go to the plumbing store, without having a clear idea of what exactly you need from the mixer. First, decide on your requests, and then look for a product that can satisfy them without excesses.
- Carefully inspect every mixer in the store. If the faucet has any cracks, dents or scratches, most likely it is of poor quality.
- Pay attention to the weight of the product. Too light a device indicates a low quality of the materials from which it is made. Most likely, such a product will not be able to serve you uninterruptedly for many years and withstand powerful water streams from day to day.
- Avoid acquiring sanitary products in the markets. Most likely, it is not of high quality.
- When purchasing a mixer, review the documents that you provide in the store. Quality products must contain a warranty sheet (sometimes for a period of up to 10 years), a certificate stating that the product is original, and a document with the date of purchase of the product.
- Inspect the components: the kit should contain all the items described in the passport.
Reviews
According to reviews, Oras brand units work without problems, no breakdowns arise. Well kept any regulated temperature, even very high. Sometimes the mixer needs to be lubricated with grease offered by the manufacturer. This product is included in the rating of the most popular mixers. To her you can pick up very stylish accessories.
Grohe mixer works smoothly, withstands any temperature, the pressure of the jet and the temperature of the water regulates well. It looks very stylish and fits into many interior styles.
If you buy a faucet of the domestic company "Varion", you will certainly be pleasantly surprised, like many of their owners.The crane is rather heavy, which means that it is made of brass, and not of cheap analogues. Valves spin freely and adjust water performance well.
Many buyers of Rossinka products note that the product impression is ambivalent. On the one hand, it performs its main task, and it looks good. On the other hand, the tube from which water flows out is too short. Because of this, the jet of water does not flow directly into the drain hole, but is sprayed along the walls. Perhaps the reason for this is that the size of the sink is not suitable for this mixer. In general, the product is quite not bad, and the price is acceptable.
Customers are attracted by a very unusual design in Lemark project products. and the operation of the mixer. What turns out to be unusual is that it is powered by batteries, unlike other cranes that feed on the network. This crane is worth a lot compared to other mixers - about 7,000 rubles. But it is worth noting that the sensor responds well only to the hands, which means that water flows only when we need it, which is very convenient and economical. Water costs are significantly reduced.
Care and Maintenance Tips
- The long service life of mixers depends not only on its quality characteristics, methods of assembly and the material to be produced, but also on the care that you will carry out for it.
- During the hygienic procedures of the faucet, avoid the use of cleaning products containing acids, vinegar, acetone and bleach. Cleaner containing large granules also adversely affect the outer shell of the product. This may damage the material with which the mixer is covered. Also note that the cloth with which you wipe the product should not be too hard. For example, a wire scourer will accurately leave scratches on your faucet. It is enough to wipe the faucet with a napkin with a soap solution, then rinse off the foam and wipe it with a dry cloth. In this case, it will have an attractive and neat appearance for a long time.
Avoid sudden temperature changes. So, if cold water was flowing from the tap for a long time, a sudden switch to hot water could damage the mixer.
- Do not use any other purpose for descaling.Aggressive components will damage the outer shell of plumbing, because of what it will lose its attractive appearance. By the way, the warranty on the mixer in this case applies. It is also necessary without fail to observe the dosage of cleaning substance described in the instructions on the package.
- In order for the product to serve you for a long time, be sure to install coarse filters for hot and cold water. Particles such as rust, which is in a liquid, can not only spoil the quality of water produced, but also harm the faucet itself.
- Before installing the new mixer, flush the pipeline with running water, as over the years, sand, steel chips and rust have accumulated in it.
- It is important to take a responsible approach to the selection and installation of the mixer, as the correct choice of this type of plumbing will help you avoid unnecessary costs and difficulties. You should also pay attention to the fact that the quality of water with which our skin comes into contact also depends partly on the mixer through which it passes, therefore, it is necessary to give preference to environmentally friendly materials.
Beautiful examples
Mixer, made in the original style.It looks very elegant and quite suitable for use in rooms whose style is vintage, retro or classic.
Unusual design on the leg. Delicate color palette and minimal design without frills perfect for a modern interior.
Exclusive mixer, adjustment of pressure and water temperature in which comes from the impact on the handles. Ideal for high-tech hi-tech style.
How to choose a bath mixer, see the following video.