Mixer "Herringbone"

The Yolochka mixer is unpretentious, from the point of view of the device, but it is quite popular equipment, despite its relative reliability. Today you can choose from a large assortment of double-lever models in different price categories and in different designs, suitable for any bathroom or kitchen interior.

A feature of the Yolochka device is the presence of valves on both sides of the tap.

Depending on the type of spout, there are several plumbing fixtures:

1. High (arched) spout provides a length of 160-250 mm. Such a mixer with a height of 350 mm is more suitable for washing in the kitchen: it makes it possible to use comfortably when washing pots and large containers. Usually the device is equipped with a slewing crane.
2. Short spout assumes cranes with a length of 75-200 mm and a height of 90-280 mm. If the washbasin is deep, it is better to use a curved faucet spout.
3. There are mixers direct spout with 2 handwheels and the ability to turn. They are mainly intended for baths.
4. Short spout have devices with a rotary aerator and a mesh that protects against splashing water. Their length can vary from 90 to 115 mm, and their height - from 70 to 120 mm. As a rule, this type is used for bidets, and due to the impossibility of placement in standard bathrooms, it is not very popular.

A modern mixer has two types of water mixing devices, the properties of which depend on the difference in the parameters of the handles. In this regard, the devices have different technical characteristics:

• For double-lever mixers with a worm gearbox, the locking mechanism is a special sealing gasket made of elastic material with silicone additives. The basic principle of operation is the reciprocating movement of the crane-axle box. When the valve is closed, this tight fitting part creates a tight seal and prevents water from leaking out. However, the gasket remains the weak link of such mixers: it quickly wears out and becomes unusable. Foreign analogues of Yolochka are significantly superior to their Russian counterparts: the connection of the stem and the gasket in them is based not on rotation, but on uniform movement, so the equipment needs less repairs.

• Group II two-valve devices are equipped with a ceramic shutter, consisting of two plates with holes, one of which is movable. When the handle is opened, water comes out due to the alignment of the holes. This is the most reliable version of the device, so its cost is higher. The advantages include convenient temperature control. In addition, the equipment has a tilt angle of 180 and 90 degrees, which allows you to quickly (almost instantly) adjust the required water flow.

When choosing a mixer, it is important to look at what material it is made of, as this directly affects its functionality, appearance, durability and even safety:

1. Brass is considered the most acceptable. The product from it is durable, reliable, it is not subject to wear, abrasion and erosion. At the same time, this technique belongs to the budget category (it costs around 2.5 thousand rubles).
2. Plumbing made of bronze is in second place in terms of its technical characteristics and durability. By the way, the threads on these mixers are made of brass.
3. Mixers made of silumin and other light alloys based on beryllium, aluminum, magnesium are not distinguished by high strength, so there is no need to talk about durability in this case.
4. Plastic products are the most unreliable and may not last long. Despite the fact that they are quite resistant to water, there are always many problems with them during use.
5. Today, the fashionable trend is the purchase of ceramic models. Their main advantage is their attractive appearance. However, in reality, this is a fragile technique that often breaks down and fails.

Of no small importance is the coating applied to the metal elements. This is done not only for the aesthetics of the model's perception.

• Nickel plating provides corrosion protection. It is usually applied to the outer surfaces of the brass parts of the device.
• Chromium prevents the reproduction of pathogenic bacteria, the deposition of salts, however, and the cost of chrome parts is higher.
• Colored enamel gives the product a beautiful appearance, but such a coating does not have strength: very quickly, cracks and other defects can appear on such a mixer. And all this despite the fact that such plumbing is more expensive than other types.

The device is widely demanded, it is used in the kitchen and in the bathroom, if the requirements for the dimensions of the sink are met. Of course, this popularity is due to certain advantages:

• the equipment is easy to install and dismantle;
• the cost of the product, excluding some models, is available to almost everyone;
• use is convenient and simple, and the temperature regime can be adjusted using one valve;
• such mixers have a rather long service life - at least 10 years;
• the equipment is easy to repair, quick replacement of components;
• there is a possibility of using a ceramic crane-axle box, if this element is from one manufacturer;
• the materials used for manufacturing are highly durable and reliable;
• the device has a pleasant appearance and design.

The products also have disadvantages. First of all, these are gaskets, although sometimes other low-quality parts may come across, but this should be attributed, rather, to defective products that have not been tested for compliance with GOST standards.

During operation, problems arise not only with gaskets, but also with valves, but they, like other elements, must be replaced. The successful and long-term service of the mixer also depends on the next reason - water, or rather, on its quality.

When choosing a mixer, it is important to pay attention not only to the material, but also to the placement options, the type and parameters of the sink. In the latter case, this is necessary for the device to be convenient for use. In general, equipment is considered suitable if it is compact and equipped with a pivoting function.

For people who are not versed in the mounting workflow, it is wiser to use the services of qualified specialists.

Installation is carried out in the perforation in the sink.

The procedure is as follows:

• first you need to turn off the water;
• then, using an adjustable wrench, the old mixer is disconnected from the water pipes;
• install the equipment by means of a collet - a threaded sleeve;
• this segment is twisted with a nut, as a result of which the device is fixed to the sink;
• further, fasteners are made to the water pipe.

Unfortunately, this mount looses later, so the nut will have to be tightened periodically.

True, professionals can carry out installation immediately on the outlets of the water supply system, usually after that they are closed with a partition or other structure for camouflage. As a result, only the tap and valves remain outside, and the mounts are hidden in the wall. The disadvantage of this installation is the need to disassemble the wall if the mixer starts to leak.

How to install the herringbone mixer, see the next video