Types of mixers: varieties, features, characteristics

What is a faucet in plumbing? This is an indispensable type of equipment that provides us with the level of comfort that has long seemed like a lot of everyday occurrences. The characteristics of the mixers may vary depending on their type and purpose, and in this article we want to consider the most current varieties of household mixing units.

Mixing taps

Types and types

If we go to the plumbing department of any large supermarket, we will see an unprecedented variety of models of mixing plumbing fixtures presented there, which can be confused when choosing the right option.

Therefore, in order to facilitate the task, it would be advisable to attempt to classify these devices according to certain characteristics, characteristics or features.

Fortunately, such attempts have already been made, and we can only get acquainted with their results.

So, it is possible to classify mixers by the following features:

• Purpose and scope of the product. Here we share appliances for kitchens, showers and taps for washbasins. Also in a separate group can be attributed to the three-way valve, as they also belong to the plumbing fixtures;
• Functionality. Separation occurs by common functions or lack thereof. It can be a two- or three-position mixer, a thermostatic device or a software-controlled device, a device with an additional retractable watering can, etc .;
• Construction features. This sign indicates two-lever and single-lever models, electronic and mechanical, with ceramic or worm crane boxes, integrated or rack-mount, wall-mounted or overhead;
• Material and design. Here we are talking about the shape of the body, the style of its design, the materials used. Moreover, the issue of the material is far from idle, it has a purely technical value.

Note! Before going to the store, it is desirable to determine the model you are looking for in terms of the items in this classification, that is, you must clearly understand why you need a crane, where you want to install it, what it should “know how”, exactly how these features should be realized, from what kind of material it should be made and how you want it to look.

To destination

The first step is to determine the purpose and scope of the device.

There are three main groups:

1. Kitchen. They are distinguished by the presence of a high mixer hanger so that overall pots are placed under it, a special-shaped jet that minimizes noise and splashes when a stream falls from a great height, a swiveling gander and other nuances. Sometimes there is a retractable watering can or watering can on a spring;
2. Showers Here we see the presence of additional positions: switching is performed not only between hot and cold water, but the direction of the mixed flow between the gander and the shower hose also changes. There may be three positions - gander, shower, additional watering;
3. For washbasins. In the bathrooms and other bathrooms there is a sink for washing, respectively, for such sinks has its own type of faucets. They have a shorter and lower spout, which is not necessarily rotated, but also have special design features and stylistic nuances.

Note! Of course, you can find a universal mixer, which is suitable for different places, but it is better to choose devices for their intended purpose.

Types of designs

It is important to be able to distinguish devices by type of design. There are several main groups.

The most familiar and traditional are the two-valve models, where each water inlet has its own crane-box with a flywheel for control. Here we must immediately say that the products with a worm locking and adjusting mechanism are hopelessly outdated, and it is better to choose ceramic faucet boxes, especially since their price is available to everyone.

No less, and perhaps more popular is the so-called single-contact or surgical mixer. Initially, the device was designed for medical use and had one handle for controlling pressure and switching between cold and hot flow. This made it possible to regulate water by touching the elbow, which excluded the contact of the surgeon with the valves.

This principle turned out to be very convenient and in demand in the kitchen, and later in the rest of the premises. Today, single lever faucets are found in almost every apartment. They are convenient, reliable, durable and relatively cheap.

The electric mixer is built on the principle of operation of a three-way thermostatic valve, which allows you to install and maintain a predetermined water temperature almost immediately after switching on.

In this case, contact with the crane can be almost completely eliminated through the use of touch sensors and automation software, but the cost of these products is still too high.

Note! Most modern mixers are equipped with ceramic cartridges or box boxes with ceramic plates. For normal and reliable operation of these mechanisms, a coarse water filter is required.

Materials and Design

The material from which the body and the parts of the device are made is very, very important. In order not to waste your time, we will not produce a comparative characteristic, but will immediately present you with the conclusions.

So, the most common and worthy material in terms of price / quality ratio is plumbing brass. Also good are products made of bronze or stainless steel, but they are usually either too expensive or difficult to access due to limited circulation.

Note! We categorically do not recommend to buy products from plastic, silumin, aluminum, steel and other materials.

Most models of mixers are easy to install with your own hands, complete with all the necessary fittings and detailed instructions from the manufacturer. The only thing that needs to be considered is the compliance of the installation method with your plumbing, because it is one thing to put a tulip faucet and another thing to do is an integrated flush panel or wall unit.

The choice of design features depends entirely on the interior of the room, your tastes and stylistic preferences. Here, the field for selection is almost unlimited, and it is difficult to give some valuable advice.

Conclusion

Without a mixing unit, the use of modern amenities will be much less comfortable, so these devices are considered indispensable. Choosing the right option is a crucial task, and the video in this article will help you make the right decision.