How to choose a shower faucet and what to look for when
Recently, the range of mixers is constantly growing, with the result that the choice of this device becomes more and more difficult. Different models may differ not only in the design and device of the locking mechanism, but also in their functionality. To help with the selection, we will further consider what models of shower faucets exist, what their features are, and what to look for when choosing.
Types of faucets
So, all currently existing types of shower faucets have the following main differences:
- Type of locking mechanism;
- Functionality.
Below we take a closer look at the most common types of these devices.
Type of locking mechanism
Perhaps one of the most important moments of the mixer, to which you need to pay attention when choosing is the type of the locking mechanism.
Such parameters depend on it:
- Convenience and ease of use of the device;
- The durability of the mixer;
- Functionality.
Depending on the type of locking mechanism, the following types of mixers are distinguished:
| Mixer Type | Description |
| Duplex | It is a classic design. The principle of operation is based on the fact that the regulation of the flow of hot and cold water is carried out by separate valves, independently of each other. Accordingly, to adjust the optimum temperature and pressure, you have to rotate two valves simultaneously with your own hands. It should be noted that the presence of two valves allows you to fine-tune the temperature of the water. The disadvantage is the rather rapid wear of the gasket of the locking mechanism, as a result of which, after a few years or even less, such mixers begin to “drip”. True, it is not difficult to replace the gasket yourself. I must say that recently there have been ceramic gates, which are deprived of this disadvantage, however, their price is higher. |
| Single lever | This device is fundamentally different from the two-valve valve, since its locking mechanism is a cartridge, inside which there are ceramic or aluminum discs. In the process of adjusting the flow, the disks are displaced relative to each other and thus open or block the passage. As you can easily guess from the name, temperature and flow are set by one lever, which is quite convenient, the only thing that is finely adjust the water temperature is somewhat more complicated than the valves. It should be noted that the single-lever shower mixer is more durable, however, it is water-demanding. Therefore, at the entrance must be installed coarse filters. |
| Thermostatic | A feature of this device is the presence of a thermostat, which ensures the constancy of the set temperature. The locking mechanism of this faucet is designed so that it reacts to the slightest temperature drops in the flow and automatically adjusts it. A shower mixer usually has two handles:
Such devices are safer, since they exclude the possibility of a burn. In addition, this device is much more convenient to use, because before taking a shower you just need to adjust the optimal water pressure. |
| Portion-Push | Shower mixers are designed primarily to save water. After pressing the button, water is supplied only for a certain period of time, after which it automatically overlaps. The flow temperature is usually adjusted with a separate lever or handle. In more expensive models, it is possible to adjust the time of water supply. The principle of operation of this mechanism is based on the fact that when the button is pressed in the housing, the piston is displaced and thereby opens the passage for water. Then he gradually returns to its original position, and the time of his return to the place is the time of water supply. Thus, the batch-and-pressure mixer for the shower is an excellent choice for those who are trying to save water. |
| Electronic | The electronic shower mixer is the most modern device in which the control of the locking mechanism is carried out by electronics. Before operation, the user only needs to set the water temperature and flow rate. Often, such devices are equipped with a liquid crystal display, which displays basic information, including water temperature. Setting up modes of operation in such models, as a rule, is carried out using sensors. Electronic automatic shower faucet is the most expensive, however, it is the most convenient to use. |
Tip! For a summer shower, for example, in the country, you can use a homemade shower faucet, which is made of two valves that regulate separately the flow of hot and cold water.
With regard to the choice of the locking mechanism, it depends entirely on their own wishes and financial capabilities.
Functionality
In addition to the features discussed above, shower mixers may also have the following options:
- Spout - allows you to use the device as an ordinary tap.
- Flexible shower - As a rule, the stationary shower faucet has a watering can on a rigid rod that is attached to the wall. However, some models are additionally equipped with a flexible shower, like a bath.
- Multiple operation modes of the shower head. Usually this function has a shower head on a flexible hose.
Selection features
We looked at the main types of shower faucets. Based on the information received, one can consciously make a choice in favor of one or another type of device.
However, in addition to this, before buying you need to pay attention to some other points:
- The material from which the shower faucet is made - the most durable products are made of brass or bronze, since scale almost never settles on their surface. However, the cost of such products is the highest. Therefore, the most common currently are stainless steel faucets.
It must be said that it is often difficult to visually determine the material from which the device is made, so it is necessary to pay attention to its weight. If the crane is light, it means that it is probably made of low-quality material, for example, silumin.
- Design - the appearance of the faucet is also an important point of choice, as it significantly affects the perception of the bathroom interior. If, for example, the bath is designed in a classic style, it is better to install a retro shower faucet that will harmonize well with the rest of the interior.
- Manufacturer - the highest quality and durable products are from German and Italian manufacturers, however, their cost is the highest. A cheaper alternative are mixers made in Poland.
As for the Chinese models, it is better to abandon their purchase, since the durability of these products remains in doubt. This is especially true of the cheapest cranes made of low quality materials.
Tip! The mixer is a fairly expensive purchase, so buying it is better in a large specialty store, where the seller surely complies with warranty obligations.
Here, perhaps, the whole instruction for choosing a shower faucet.
Conclusion
Despite the huge range of shower mixers on the plumbing market, having sorted out their types and features it is easy to make the right choice. The main thing - to decide on the basic requirements for the device, as well as with the purchase to pay attention to the nuances that are listed above.
You can read more information on this topic from the video in this article.