What is the difference between a water tap and a mixer?

The variety of plumbing fixtures and the terminology used is quite extensive. In some cases, this can be misleading and raise many questions.

For example, inexperienced people sometimes confuse the two concepts “faucet” and “mixer”, considering them to be different names for the same product. To avoid awkward situations when purchasing a plumbing fixture, you need to find out what the difference is between a faucet and a mixer.

What is a faucet

A water tap is a plumbing device designed to supply water and regulate the intensity of the flow pressure.

According to the type of constipation, all products are divided into three types:

1. Valve type. The design of the device includes a crane-box with metal-ceramic plates in which small holes are located. If you turn one of them, the holes will match. This allows water to flow through. As soon as the plate is moved, the hole will move again and the water supply will be stopped.
2. Ball or shut-off. The most common option. The locking mechanism has the shape of a ball, in the central part of which there is a small through hole. The mechanism itself is attached to the “lamb” of the crane. When you turn the handle, the ball rotates, as a result of which the hole coincides with the channel located inside the body.As a result of this process, water begins to flow from the tap. When the ball returns to its original place, the channel will be blocked and the water supply will stop. The undeniable advantage of this design is reliability and durability. However, it is not suitable for pressure control. Therefore, it is used in cases where it is necessary to completely block the flow of water.
3. Cork. A cone-shaped plug is responsible for supplying and shutting off the water flow. It is driven by a worm rod. Rarely used for domestic purposes. It is usually used to drain water from various containers.

Reference. Classic versions of ball models can be found in any water supply system. More often they are equipped with one or two handles, painted red or blue.

As you can see from the description, water taps are designed to organize and regulate water flows passing through one pipe. Therefore, products installed in bathrooms or kitchens can hardly be called a faucet.

Design features of the mixer

A mixer is a plumbing device that not only supplies water, but also regulates its temperature and pressure intensity.

Mixers are divided according to several parameters:

• purpose - for the kitchen and bathroom;
• the direction of the water stream - it can be directed towards the shower head or towards the spout;
• manufacturing material - metal, brass, bronze, polymer materials, natural stone are used to make faucets;
• the principle of mixing liquids - electronic, two-valve, single-lever, thermostatic;
• designs - rotating, with a fixed spout, with a spout of different lengths, with and without an aerator.

Reference. Modern models of mixers often do not have separate tap boxes. Regulation of the intensity and temperature of the water flow is carried out using a single mechanism.

The main thing you pay attention to when choosing is the design. Therefore, it is worth paying special attention to this parameter. The most common are:

1. Two-valve models. The main distinguishing feature is the presence of two “lambs”, with the help of which the intensity and temperature of the water flow is regulated. Their disadvantage is the rubber structural elements, which require regular replacement.
2. Single lever. The most popular. They have an attractive appearance and are easy to use. Even with a slight turn of the lever, the intensity and temperature of the incoming water changes. The operating principle is based on a ball mechanism and a special cartridge.
3. Thermostatic. The advantage of the model is the ability to preset the temperature. When using, the consumer will only need to monitor the water pressure. However, it has a significant drawback - in the absence of hot or cold water, the device completely blocks its supply.
4. Electronic. The most modern and technologically advanced option. Its design includes infrared sensors. They start dispensing water the moment you raise your hands. And they block it immediately as soon as the hands are removed. They are usually installed in public places.

Reference. Single lever mechanisms are demanding on water quality! Repairing them can cause certain difficulties.

What are the differences between a water tap and a mixer?

The main difference between a faucet and a mixer is that the second device can work with water from one pipe or mix it from two pipes.

The mixer is a more functional product. Therefore, it is installed in bathrooms and kitchens. With its help, you can not only regulate the intensity of the water flow, but also its temperature. Therefore, such a product has a more complex design compared to a water tap.

In addition, the mixer is more difficult to install and maintain. This is explained by the fact that it needs to be connected to two pipes. Water taps are mounted on one pipe.

When choosing a suitable device, it is necessary to take into account not only the cost and design of the product, but also the functions that it will perform. Knowing the design features and scope of application of the tap and mixer, making the right choice will not be difficult.