Types of faucets

The mixer first appeared thanks to the invention of Lord Kelvin (the one after whom the temperature scale is also named) back in the nineteenth century. Thanks to modern materials, as well as advanced industry and science, it has become possible to bring higher quality, elegant looking products to the market.

Kitchen faucets

In terms of their manufacturing technology, as well as their appearance, kitchen faucets are almost exactly the same as those found in bathrooms. But there is a small but... Options whose purpose is to be installed in the kitchen simply must be high. Otherwise, how to wash the pots and fill them with water? Especially if these are large pans.In addition, they are often supplemented with dispensers or an additional tap.

Great height, the ability to rotate the crane - this is the best option. And the larger the turning radius of the crane, the more convenient it is to use. Inexpensive devices rotate only one hundred and forty degrees, higher quality ones - one hundred and eighty. There are even more interesting models where the tap is flexible or even extends.

Kitchen faucets with axle tap

The familiar mixer with two valves is very easy to repair. If something happens, any master can easily cope with this. But if you do cooking, for example, making dough for pies, then these valves will no doubt get dirty. How else to open the water? And a lot of it goes down the drain in vain. In a word, there are both positive and negative in this model.

Kitchen models with one lever

A more convenient option. It's easy to press with your finger or just a clean part of your palm. Even if your hands are dirty, nothing will get dirty. That’s why people are increasingly acquiring such mixers. This “one-armed” miracle of technology is increasingly pushing aside taps with two valves. In this case, the device body can be solid, or it can have rotating elements.

Rotating body - convenience and practicality

With this design, you can not only conveniently wash plates and pots, but also easily clean the sink itself. The crane freely covers the entire area.

But with all the many advantages, we should not forget about the significant disadvantages. All these rotating elements rub against each other, and this leads to rapid failure. For a kitchen this is even more significant than for a bathroom, since there are much more loads.

One-piece body ensures durability

Of all the existing models, it is devices with a solid body that are most suitable for kitchen work. This design can be used for a long time, the only thing is that the spout and cartridge sometimes need to be changed. To avoid splashing water, the stream should be directed strictly to the center of the sink.

They have an inconveniently located handle on the side of the product, but this is the lesser of the evils. See for yourself what is a priority - longevity or ease of use.

Bath faucets - types and characteristics

What is the main difference between a bathroom faucet and a kitchen faucet? Of course, the possibility of connecting a shower. This is precisely why they have an additional outlet. There is also a special switch that makes it possible to redirect the water flow.

Bath and shower devices with faucet axle

Just like their counterparts located in the kitchen, these products have two valves and a single body. But the mechanics by which the water flow is redirected may differ. In fact, thanks to the differences between these mechanisms, it is possible to classify these products.

Mixers with eccentric switch

This option has become more widespread. What is the essence of his work? Everything is very simple. By turning the switch handle, we start the operation of the rod. It has rubber gaskets on both sides, the rod moves and closes one of the two holes.

Models with cartridge switch

Outwardly they resemble the cartridge that is found in faucets with one lever, only the dimensions are slightly smaller. The principle of operation is similar: ceramic plates rotate and block the hole, thereby supplying or shutting off water.

Ball mixer

The main working mechanism is represented by a ball mechanism. Essentially, it is a brass ball with machined perpendicular holes. By turning the switch, we move the ball to one of the positions, thereby directing the water to the desired hole.

Single Lever Bathroom Faucet

The structure of the mixer is similar to lever mixers. The difference is that for bathrooms the housings are made of casting, but the switching mechanism may differ.

Mixer tap with removable diverter

Can be made in the form of a plug or a rotary type. The most convenient one is the rotary one. In case of breakdown, the mechanism is removed and replaced with another one. It is impossible to disassemble it.

With built-in plug switch

Similar to the eccentric type, this device also has a rod with rubber plugs. It is carried out by moving the handle: towards you or away from you.

Faucet with built-in cartridge switch

Faucets with built-in thermostat

Switches mounted on the handles allow you to quickly change the water temperature. Thanks to the limiters, it is possible to fix the necessary parameters in order to immediately obtain the desired pressure and the desired temperature in the future.

Faucets with sensor

Touch models are in other words called non-contact. You don't even need to use your hands to make water flow. An infrared sensor or sensor that reacts to movement is responsible for everything. We brought our hands to the tap and the water flowed.

By the way, the sensitivity of the sensor can be adjusted. The temperature can be adjusted with a small switch.

Classification of mixers according to installation location

Faucets can be divided into several types depending on the method of their fastening.

Built-in

Typically, such models are supplied together with not the cheapest bathtubs. For installation, there is a fastener that secures the device to the side. There are options for installation on a cabinet.

Central

They are located in a vertical position.Placed on the sink or sink. They are easy to install and do not require much effort for maintenance.

Wall mounted

Mostly designed for a bathroom with a shower, they are rigidly fixed. They are installed close to the plumbing fixture, the fastening elements are decorated. It happens that a niche is made in the wall for installation.

Types of spouts

There are:

1. Short spouts. They have compact dimensions, no more than eighteen centimeters. Can be installed on a small sink or on a shower faucet.
2. Long spouts. The length starts from twenty centimeters. Suitable for kitchen sinks. With a length of more than thirty centimeters, it can be installed as a single bath mixer with a sink.
3. Flexible spouts. A very useful option for the kitchen. Outwardly similar to all other models, but there is one hidden feature. By pulling the end, a hose is pulled out from inside, the length of which can reach seventy centimeters.

Faucets material

Faucets are made from several materials.

Brass and bronze

The most suitable and durable materials. True, the cost of products made from them is considerable. Typically a layer of nickel or chrome is applied over the brass. The end result is a practical and hygienic product. The main thing is not to confuse it with silumin - it is partly similar to brass. The cost of this material is lower, as is the service life.

Stainless steel

Not the worst choice, and the price is reasonable, unlike bronze or brass, but again it will last less. But you can’t really complain about practicality or beauty here. Will fit into any interior.

Ceramics

Stylish look, distinguished by originality. There are models similar to fountains. The problem is that the material is very fragile. For the price, this is the most expensive thing you can find.