Valve for mixer - features of the device and repair

Despite the fact that in recent times there have been many types of mixers, two-valve taps are still very popular. Below we consider in detail the features of the device of their locking mechanism, as well as options for its repair.

Features of the valve for the mixer

The main element of the valve, i.e. the locking mechanism is a crankcase (valve head). According to the principle of the device, the valve head for the mixer is of two types:

Each version of the axle box has its own advantages and disadvantages, therefore, below we take a closer look at them. (See also the article How to choose a sink: features)

Worm valve

This type of locking mechanism is a classic, which is familiar to almost everyone who has come across crane repairs. Its advantages include low cost and simplicity of the device, so you can do the repair yourself. However, at the same time there are disadvantages, among which one can single out a quick failure of the rubber gasket.

This is due to the fact that the gasket is constantly in contact not only with water, but also with a metal surface. In addition, the cause of failure of the mechanism is scum, which settles on the walls of the hull. (See also the article How to install a faucet on the sink: features.)

The malfunction of the worm locking mechanism is manifested in the fact that water begins to drip or flow from the spout in a thin stream even when the valve is closed. In addition, when opening the valve, there may be a lot of noise.

Most often, the locking gasket serves for several years, later requiring replacement. However, if the item is of poor quality, it may fail much earlier. Below we will look at how to replace it yourself.

Ceramic bush

This design is more modern and perfect. Due to the fact that there is no movable soft gasket, the durability of the ceramic valve head is much higher. However, the price of this product is higher.

I must say that the worm and ceramic valve heads are interchangeable, so even an old crane can be improved by installing a ceramic locking mechanism on it.

Valve repair

Gasket replacement

As mentioned above, the most common fault valve mixer - a failure of the gasket. Therefore, first of all, as an example, we will consider how to disassemble the faucet in the bathroom of two-valve type.

So, the instruction looks like this:

• If a two-valve sink faucet began to drip, then first of all it is necessary to determine which particular locking mechanism has failed.. To do this, alternately shut off the flow of hot and cold water with ball valves installed in front of the mixer. It must be said that in some cases, instead of a ball valve, valve 1 2x1 2 is used to connect the mixer, but in any case, if the water is turned off one by one, it should be noted at what point the valve will stop dripping. Of course, it is better not to wait until the second valve “flows”, and replace both gaskets. In this case, before disassembling the two-valve mixer, it is necessary to shut off the flow of cold and hot water.
• Next you need to gently podkovyrnut plastic plug flywheel. For some models, the decorative cap is unscrewed.
• Then you need to unscrew the bolt that holds the flywheel with a screwdriver.

• After that, you need to use the spanner key and unscrew the crane axle box.. If the head has not been dismantled for a long time, then it is possible, before removing the valve from the mixer, you need to apply a special tool - “WD-40”. At the same time, the threads on the head and body of the valve should be cleaned.
• After the locking mechanism is removed, the gasket must be removed.. It can simply be put on or fixed on the tip of the rod with a bolt.
• Next you need to cut or purchase the same gasket and install it in place..
• Then the valve is assembled in the reverse order..
• Similarly, this operation is performed on the second valve.
• At the end of the work, you need to turn on the water supply and make sure that the two-valve mixer works properly..

I must say that in the event of a ceramic valve leakage, it is unlikely to be repaired. Therefore it is necessary to completely replace the valve head.

Note! The valve can be made of stainless steel or brass. Choosing between them, it is better to give preference to the second variant, since sediment settles less on the brass parts.

Replacing oil seals

In some cases, water begins to flow not from the outflow, but from under the valve, and, more often, this fault appears when the valve is open. This phenomenon indicates a malfunction of the glands.

It is very easy to repair the leak - it is necessary to dismantle the handwheel of the valve and unscrew the packing nut. After that, you just need to replace the old seal with a new one. You can make it yourself, however, in order not to return to the repair of the crane in the near future, it is better to buy a compactor in a specialized store.

It should be noted that, although valve heads can be repaired, they are still not eternal. Therefore, over time, replacing seals or gaskets may not help troubleshoot. In this case, it is necessary to completely replace the locking mechanism.

Note! The valve head can have different threads, as well as different diameter and other parameters. Therefore, before you buy a new part, you should dismantle the old one and come to the store with it.

Here, perhaps, are all the main points that you need to know in order to repair yourself, for example, a two-valve mixer for a kitchen or bathroom.

Conclusion

One- and two-valve mixers often need to be repaired than other types of cranes, especially for worm locking mechanisms. However, they can be repaired independently by every home craftsman. The only thing you need to adhere to the above sequence.