Which faucet is better - single-lever or double-valve?

A wide range of products can sometimes make it difficult to choose the most suitable device. Buyers often have questions about which faucet is best to buy. After all, the choice of model is influenced not only by the appearance of the plumbing fixtures, but also by ease of use and durability. Therefore, in order to make the only right choice, you should know the main characteristics of the presented models, their features, advantages and disadvantages.

Features of two-valve mixers

Despite the emergence of more modern single-lever models, double-valve ones are not losing ground and remain the most popular faucet options.

The main design element of such a product is a special crane axle box. This element is necessary to regulate the flow of hot and cold water.

Modern models are equipped with a crane axle box with a rotating mechanism. The element responsible for regulating flows is made of sanitary cermet - aluminum oxide.

The design provides for the presence of two metal-ceramic plates with special holes. With the help of technological holes, the flow of water entering the tap is regulated.

The main feature of aluminum oxide is its high strength. Thanks to this property, the product is resistant to the formation of various defects: chips, scratches, microcracks. This increases reliability and increases service life.

A ceramic faucet has an undeniable advantage over a product with a rubber seal. Modern models open and close easily. Old-style mixers have to be “pressed” with a few additional turns of the valve. This leads to rapid wear of internal structural elements. Therefore, options with a rubber seal cannot boast of a long service life.

The operating principle of ceramic crane axle boxes is different. It is based on the displacement of plates made of composite materials. When water is supplied, the plates diverge, resulting in a hole through which water flows. Likewise, the flow of water stops.

A high-quality device consists of the following elements:

• body made of non-ferrous metal alloy;
• stock;
• rod clamp;
• top rotating plate;
• body plate, which is located at the bottom of the device;
• gasket to ensure tightness.

Despite the design differences, both versions of double-lever mixers have both advantages and disadvantages.

The positive aspects of cranes with a rubber crane axle box:

1. The cost of such models is lower than options with a ceramic element.
2. If necessary, rubber elements can be replaced with ceramic ones. The main thing is that the valve must be produced by the same manufacturer as the mixer.
3. Convenient temperature setting.
4. Doesn't require any getting used to, as everything is done intuitively.

Negative qualities include:

• short service life compared to the ceramic model. In addition, rubber gaskets need to be changed periodically;
• To fully open the faucet, you will need to make two full turns of the knobs.

Advantages of products with ceramic elements:

• long service life;
• ease of setting a comfortable temperature - the design allows you to do this with one valve;
• The turning radius does not exceed 180 degrees - so you will need to make fewer movements to get water at a comfortable temperature.

Reference. The first device that allowed mixing hot and cold water appeared in the 19th century. The inventor of the “progenitor” of modern mixers is William Thomson, better known as the theoretical physicist Lord Kelvin.

Characteristics of single lever mixers

The main distinguishing characteristic of these models is the lever that performs the functions of two valves. It not only regulates the temperature, but also the intensity of the jet pressure.

In the first case, you will need to move the lever to the right or left. In the second - up or down. To make it convenient to use, manufacturers have combined these processes.

The design of the devices is quite simple:

1. Frame. It can be made of thin metal or polymer materials.
2. Spout. Depending on the purpose of the plumbing, it can be high, medium or low.
3. Switch. With its help, the temperature and water pressure are regulated.
4. Cartridge. It is analogous to the crane axle box installed on valve models.

Single-lever models are in steady demand among consumers. This is explained by a number of advantages:

• attractive appearance;
• ease of installation and maintenance;
• functionality and ease of use.

Don't forget about the disadvantages:

1. Demanding on water quality.They are sensitive to limescale, rust particles, and various impurities. Over time, they can become clogged and fail.
2. Unrepairable. It is almost impossible to carry out repair work at home. Only replacement of some elements is allowed.

Reference. To increase the life of your single lever faucet, you should install water filters and perform regular preventive maintenance.

Which mixer is better

Having assessed the positive and negative aspects, we can come to the conclusion that the choice of the optimal option depends on the installation location of the mixer, the overall design of the room, and individual requirements. So, in a classic interior, double-valve models will be more appropriate, while single-lever models will fit well into modern design.

Both options have advantages and disadvantages. When purchasing a mixer, first of all, you should take into account personal preferences and do not forget about a reasonable price-quality ratio.