Which Mixer To Choose – Tips and Recommendations

Every person at least once in their life faces a situation when they need to choose a mixer. Today, old taps with rubber gaskets are rarely used. And if you want to choose the right plumbing, then you need to study the different options and their design features.

Types of mixers

If we talk about well-known companies, they usually make plumbing fixtures from materials such as stainless steel or brass. Precious metals, nickel, and porcelain can be used as finishing. You can choose faucets of different styles – modern, classic, high-tech because everything depends on you and your preferences. But it is important to remember that you should pay attention not only to the design of the product. Faucets are divided by the principle of mixing water, and technical parameters.

Single lever mixer

In most cases, potential buyers choose exactly these models. Some cartridges can be replaced. Cartridges act as a liquid pressure distributor or seal. The parts of such a product are made of metal ceramics or ceramics.

As for the single-lever mixer device, it is reliable and simple. But if you want your system to work for a long time, then you need to install additional filters. They will remove dirt, rust, and sand. If the water is too hard, then experts recommend choosing mixers with large cartridges.

Two-valve mixers

When it comes to choosing a faucet, young people usually choose more modern models, while older people choose the usual options that have two handles. Why is it so convenient for them to use them? Here the design is quite simple, the price is affordable, and you can replace the parts if you wish. This type of plumbing will perfectly complement the retro style.

But compared to other options, two-valve mixers are slightly inferior. The valve boxes will wear out faster (if the water has impurities or is hot all the time), and there is no way to make quick adjustments without both hands.

Thermostatic mixer

When choosing a mixer, you should take a closer look at a device with a thermostat. Compared to analogs, its price will be higher, but such a product will provide you with safety and comfort. If we talk about the principle of operation, a thermostatic mixer resembles a car thermostat, which can maintain the temperature of the liquid that comes out. Old-style models had the usual levers, today the market offers more options. Many devices have appeared that have touch buttons and you can control the mixer using electronics.

Thanks to the thermoelement, the ratio of the liquid that flows out and flows in changes in an instant. And all this happens due to the reaction to the environment, its temperature. If cold water suddenly stops flowing, the thermostat closes the mixer. If the pressure decreases gradually, then the device maintains the temperature according to the mode that is set. If you buy such a mixer, you will ensure that your relatives do not get burned.

Touchless faucet

Wealthy people can now be offered modern contactless models on the market. They are very convenient to use, you only need to adjust the temperature and pressure once. After that, there is no need to unscrew the faucet lever. When human hands get into the sensor area, the water starts flowing itself. And when a person removes their hands, it stops. A contactless faucet is always a clean device (because it is not dirty with hands), saving water, and comfort for the owners.

Which faucet is best for the kitchen?

It is worth considering important points when choosing a mixer tap that will be installed in the kitchen:

• regardless of the sink, it is worth buying a mixer with a swivel spout;
• it is best to place the spout closer to the middle of the bowl;
• If you buy models with a pull-out spout, you will be able to fill a larger container without installing it in the sink itself;
• in the case of a classic kitchen, experts recommend taking a two-lever mixer made of copper or bronze;
• in the case of a modern interior, contactless, single-lever devices made of chrome are ideal;
• if you have a round bowl, then it is better to choose a round spout for it;
• If the kitchen sink is square, then it is better to use an L-shaped spout.

How to choose a bathroom faucet?

Here, two devices are usually used – a shower faucet and a separate washbasin faucet. Plumbing has its differences, taking into account its shape and purpose. In addition, such faucets need to be connected and fastened differently. Therefore, faucets are selected for them, which are not very similar in design to each other. If the bathroom is new, then it will be easier. But at the stage of repair, you need to adjust, because not all faucets are suitable for old plumbing. It is worth considering the type of water supply, and choosing the faucet itself based on the design of the room and its dimensions.

Some tips for choosing a bathroom faucet:

• the mixer must have a flexible pull-out shower;
• compared to built-in models, wall-mounted options will be cheaper. In addition, their installation is much easier;
• built-in plumbing has an aesthetic appearance, so the interior will not be spoiled by communications;
• If the bathtub is acrylic, then it is very easy to make a hole for installation. The mixer is mounted directly on the side;
• if the room is small, you can buy a common swivel mixer, which will have a long spout for the bathtub or washbasin, which are located nearby;
• compared to cork devices, the rotary shower-spout switch will be more comfortable and reliable;
• If you have children, then you should take a closer look at thermostats with fine temperature control. With such mixers, bathing children will be much more convenient.

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How to choose a sink faucet?

Here, various nuances must be taken into account. For example, the sink must have a certain width, depth, and dimensions, so that water does not get on the floor during hygiene procedures. When we talk about sink and washbasin faucets, they have one difference. We are talking about the height of the spout. A faucet with a small spout will do. The main thing is that you can comfortably wash your face and brush your teeth. If you need to fill a large container, you can use a hose or do it in the bathroom itself.

What material is best for faucets?

• brass, bronze. Such mixers serve the longest, they are not afraid of mineral deposits. Usually, the bodies are chromed or nickel-plated, this allows to provide them with a modern look;
• stainless steel. Compared to the first option, these devices will be cheaper, they are modern and practical. But not as durable;
• ceramics. Such mixers are distinguished by their beautiful appearance, style, and originality. As for the disadvantages, it is worth remembering their fragility and high price.

Mixer Buyer’s Guide

In addition to the design of the mixer, you should study its technical parameters. You also need to properly care for the device so that it can serve for a long time and reliably. That is, remove limescale in time.

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