Bathroom faucets: a review of the best manufacturers

Counters plumbing stores offer us a wide range of faucets for the bathroom. On the one hand, this is a great opportunity to choose what really suits you, given your personal preferences and financial opportunities. On the other hand, to understand the abundance of the proposed models can be a serious challenge.

Long service life and product quality depends on many characteristics, such as the manufacturing country, the material used in the manufacture, and much more.In order to choose the right model of the mixer, you need to get an idea about their types and the best manufacturers in the field of plumbing. For a start, let's look at the characteristics and criteria that should be paid attention to when buying this product.

The mixer is that product which is chosen for long exploitation. Therefore, you should be extremely attentive to such details as ease of use, durability, versatility and warranty of the manufacturer. Give a large percentage of the cost of the brand and the unique aesthetic characteristics - in vain for your wallet.

Given the structure and the presence of certain functions, the product is divided into the following types, each of which has its own merits:

• Classic valve models are the most simple designs. Often in the manufacture of two-valve system using a crane box made of ceramic with rotating mechanisms. In the old model of the valve mixer, the only drawback is the crankcase. Due to the long exploitation, the compactor is forced through, which allows the crane to scroll, causing the valve to flow in the future.In the current models, the manufacturer installs a ceramic crane box, which is pre-equipped with rotating mechanisms. In the case there are two plates with holes, and in the case of displacement of one of them, they either turn on the water or turn it off.

• Ball (single lever) - extremely convenient and compact model, which is equipped with a lever handle. It rotates freely by 180 degrees, which makes it possible to regulate the required temperature. In order to turn on the water, the lever is moved in the up and down direction. This model is very demanded for installation in premises.

Today, the single-lever mixer is produced in two formats - with locking mechanisms like a ball and with removable cartridges. This is the most demanded model due to the fact that the regulation of water supply and disconnection is carried out with one motion. The same applies to the intensity of pressure and temperature. As for the probable risks of leakage, in this model they are reduced to zero. Many top manufacturers only promote mixers with removable cartridges.

• Thermostatic model with automated control of temperature and water flow rate. A thermoelement is located inside the mixer housing, which controls the combination of hot and cold water flow. Regulation takes place by means of two rotating handles. Accidentally scalded with hot water or fall under the stream of ice water does not work, which greatly increases comfort during operation.

In the case of this model, a valve is installed, which reacts to any minor changes in the pressure of the water flow in the two pipelines. When the flow force changes in one valve, it instantly changes it in the second pipeline in accordance with the specified mode. Temperature control is made when setting the mode, in the future you will not have to do it again. It will be enough just to open and close the water.

However, this model has one very significant drawback - if one of the pipelines is faulty and there is no water in it, then the other pipeline will automatically shut off the water supply. In other words, in the summer, when hot water is turned off, access to cold water will also be closed.

• Contactless model - innovation from manufacturers of sanitary products. Not the most demanded model, if we are talking about installing in a dwelling with a water-mounted on / off sensor mounted inside. The mixer is operated from household electrical grids or specialized lithium batteries with a long shelf life. The sensor intercepts the movement of hands and turns on the flow of water, after which it stops it after a certain period of time. This design is very practical and easy to use, but it can repel the consumer with its high cost. The touch model works with the help of an infrared sensor, which in different models differs by the principle of operation.

Some models will shut off the water flow instantly after you take your hands beyond the limits of the sensor, other models give water for some more time. Fans of original solutions like mixers that can change the shades of the water jet, depending on the temperature.Of the significant drawbacks can be identified special requirements for water. In the case of passage through the case of a mixer of hard water, the contactless model will not function.

Most consumers argue that the best manufacturer is the one who produces a quality product with a reasonable price, while providing a guarantee for a long service life. As you know, the mixer of domestic production is not so in demand than the product from European countries, such as Germany, Switzerland, Italy, the Czech Republic and many others. In addition, there is no reliable Russian who has shown himself from the positive side of the brand.

Quality faucets made by a domestic manufacturer, to find on the shelves of plumbing stores is not so simple. And the product that we are offered often have low quality indicators, low functionality and primitive design. Nevertheless, they have certain advantages that distinguish them against the background of imported analogues:

1. They are several times cheaper than a product from a foreign manufacturer. But it is worth mentioning that their lifespan is also small.But there are situations when it is necessary to replace the mixing construction urgently, and the budget does not allow to purchase an expensive product.
2. Finding the required spare part in the event of a breakdown will be much easier for a domestic product. Service departments at any large plumbing store are located exclusively in large cities, while in provincial towns it is almost impossible to find an imported spare part.

Domestic mixers are prepared in advance to work with the water that flows through pipes in our country. The mixer, made in Russia, will provide quality work on the water supply, while the imported model will require additional purchase of a fine filter, the guarantee to which is attached if all requirements are met during operation, otherwise it will not be provided.

But in general, for many consumers living in Russia, the imported product will be much more practical and more convenient during use. First of all, it is connected with the aspect of ecology, comfort in operation, durability of fasteners and locking devices and high aesthetic characteristics.

The most famous enterprise in Belarus for the production of mixers is "Snabstroyservis". Having launched the first line of sanitary products in the distant 2007, the company is dynamically improving and expanding. The design is made of high quality brass, which ensures their long service life. Externally, the models do not differ in original design.

All models meet the requirements of GOST 25809-96. In addition, the manufacturer for all models released provides a two-year warranty. The fact is that Snabstroyservis has insured all its products in advance. Consequently, in the event of a breakdown or an unpleasant incident, such as flooding (it is necessary to prove the manufacturer’s guilt), all expenses will be reimbursed to you without fail.

The quality of German products for many years is rightfully recognized as a world standard. Products Hansgrohe has been on the domestic shelves of plumbing stores for a long time and these products are in great demand in our country. This brand specializes in the manufacture of structures for small bathrooms. Most of the presented models have a compact size, durable and reliable mount, minimalist design. In the assortment there is a large number of lines with valve and single lever mixers, thermostats and with various types of fasteners for the most demanding consumers.

Speaking of German quality, it is impossible not to mention such a brand as Grohe. This is another bright sample of German quality. This manufacturer has factories in all major countries, and in each it is in demand and loved by consumers. The warranty provided by the manufacturer on the Grohe mixer is one of the most impressive - ten years.In the manufacture focuses on the versatility and ergonomics of the product. You will not be bothered by extra noise or water spray, which is common when using lower-quality mixers.

The manufacturer has released models with all possible types of designs and methods of fasteners. The most part is presented in the form of a set, whose products are made in the same style and design. The main advantage of Grohe products is a significant reduction in water consumption., as the mixer was originally produced for the purpose of economical water consumption. Products for fasteners are high-quality and convenient to use, installation does not require the involvement of specialists. In the manufacture of the mixer is used brass, but a small part of the elements is made of aluminum alloy.

Finnish production of sanitary products and accessories attached to them has the best ratio of quality and cost. The most popular brand in Finland is Oras. Her products focus on high strength and reliability. Also, consumers will be attracted by the original design and a large variety of models. In the released lines appear all formats of mixers on the designs and methods of fasteners. Valve and single lever mixer is presented in a classic form. It has a standard design and is distinguished by its simplicity of form.

Despite the diversity of models, This manufacturer is focused on the manufacture of more expensive mixers - contactless and thermostats. In the manufacture of used brass and modern ABS plastic. These materials allow to reduce the cost of the product, while not changing the quality characteristics during the entire period of operation.

Despite the widespread opinion of the poor quality of sanitary products made in China, there are decent mixers that are inexpensive at the same time. Many enterprises in China produce stunning mixers that coincide in appearance and internal design with European counterparts.Do not forget that a large number of manufacturers have opened their subsidiaries in the south and east of Asia and are themselves engaged in the control of the production cycle. It is worth noting that the products they produce are distinguished by high levels of strength and quality, moreover they are offered to consumers at a lower cost.

The most famous producer today is Ledeme. In general, this manufacturer duplicates the European original, but, nevertheless, the products of this manufacturer have decent quality characteristics. At production brass and metal ceramics is used.

Another brand that deserves attention - Frap. This is a Chinese manufacturer specializing in water structures, which is a subsidiary of a European company. Under this brand, cranes are produced in a variety of formats for different functional areas. For example, a thermostatic mixer is very popular in Russia.

As with any other acquisition, the choice of sanitary products can be made based on a sort of rating of the most trustworthy manufacturers. As mentioned above, today, German enterprises can boast of the highest quality products. They are famous for the high strength of products and a wide range of products with different price segments. By purchasing a German faucet, you will become the owner of a decent equipment for your bathroom or shower. Therefore, it is worth starting a rating with representatives from Germany.

Products are practical, durable and perfectly adapted to work with domestic plumbing systems. Most models are equipped with a ceramic cartridge that optimizes water consumption. Everything else, you have the opportunity to choose a mixer for the installation method you need (wall-mounted, hidden, vertical).

The manufacturer offers a solid range of single-lever mixers that are equipped with a thermostatic device. Products of this brand stand out due to the use of high-quality metals and chromium coatings.

A bright representative of French elegance and lightness. Smooth lines and high build quality, a huge range with minimalist original design solutions - all this has attracted consumers for many years.

About the modern mixer in the first place says its design. In this case, focus on the decor of the furniture, the bath itself and, of course, faucets. Despite the fact that for many, the faucet is purely practical in nature, do not neglect the possibility of adding a highlight to your bathroom.

For example, the futuristic decor in the form of a ribbon, the handle for regulating the water in the form of a joystick, and the jets of water are like a tiny waterfall. Many models are equipped with modern sensor technologies, which will allow economical use of water resources and add a modern design to the bathroom interior.

Nowadays, models under matte bronze and those that have flexible liners are quite popular.. It remains only to decide what is necessary for your bathroom. Do not forget to purchase liner and gaskets, as well as other necessary tools.

How to choose a faucet for the bathroom, see the next video.