Herringbone mixer and its features

Herringbone faucets are among the simplest types of faucets that continue to be popular for many years, despite the large range of other, more modern types of faucets. Below we take a detailed look at the features of this device.

General information

The history of these mixers began in the nineteenth century. Given that the design of modern products has changed a lot, the principle of their device remains the same - in the center of the device is located the spout, and on the sides are valves or handles. Accordingly, one valve allows you to open cold water, and the other - hot.

The popularity of this device is due to its visual appeal and ease of use. In addition, these mixers low price, which also attracts many buyers. For the sake of justice, it should be noted that these cranes are far from the most durable, which is associated with the peculiarity of the device of their locking mechanism.

Device

Herringbone mixer consists of several main parts:

• Enclosures;
• Spout (often part of the hull);
• Two valves.

The main element of the mixer are the valves that are responsible for the flow and shut off the flow of water. The valve mechanism is a crankcase, which is of two types:

Below we take a closer look at the features of each type of crane box.

Worm

This type of mechanism is the most common and can even be rightfully called a classic. The advantages of a worm crane are its cheapness, however, it has one serious disadvantage - the locking gasket often fails, as it is movable and constantly in contact with the metal surface.

Tip! The operating instructions do not recommend applying force when tightening the valve in order to prolong the life of the locking mechanism. Otherwise, the wear of the elastic gasket greatly increases.

As a rule, several years after the installation of a new mixer, it begins to drip, which indicates the need to replace the gasket. If the mixer is substandard, then damage may occur much earlier. However, it should be noted that it is not difficult for even a layman to replace the gasket with their own hands.

Ceramic

This locking mechanism does not have a movable elastic gasket, and therefore is more durable. The only thing at the entrance to the water supply should be installed coarse filters, as small grains of sand can ruin it.

Another disadvantage of a ceramic crane box is its higher cost. However, it is justified by the durability of the device. Therefore, in any case, when choosing, it is better to give preference to a product with ceramic locking mechanisms. (See also the article How to choose a sink faucet: features.)

Note! Ceramic and worm valve heads are interchangeable, so the old faucet can always be improved by installing a ceramic locking mechanism. The only thing when buying a part is to make sure that it fits in diameter and size.

Special features

The mixer for a wash basin the fir-tree has both advantages, and some shortcomings. Therefore, before making a choice in favor of this device, we recommend to get acquainted with them. (See also the article How to Install the Sink: Features.)

Merits

Among the positive aspects of the considered cranes, due to which they are popular, can be identified:

• Ease of use, in particular, you can quickly adjust the required water temperature.
• Low cost, compared to other types of mixers.
• Large selection of design.
• Easy to repair.
• Durability (when using a ceramic crane box).
• Specifications of the herringbone faucet allow it to be used for washing in the kitchen or sink in the bathroom.

disadvantages

As for the shortcomings, the most serious are:

• The need for regular replacement pads.
• To adjust the temperature of the jet, you need to use two hands, which is inconvenient for the kitchen, if, for example, one hand is occupied with dishes.
• To completely open the water, you need to complete two turns (does not apply to ceramic valves).

Note! The durability of the mixer depends on the material from which it is made. Brass taps are the best option, since scale practically does not settle on the walls of this material.

Here, in fact, all the main features of the type of crane that you need to know when choosing a mixer.

Conclusion

The two-valve herringbone crane can be called a device that has been tested over the years. Therefore, with all its shortcomings, it is still in demand. However, it cannot be said that this is the best design of the mixer, so when choosing, you should rely primarily on your own preferences.

From the video in this article can be found with some additional information on this topic.