Bathroom faucets: an overview of the best manufacturers

Plumbing store counters offer us a wide range of bathroom faucets. On the one hand, this is a great opportunity to choose what really suits you, taking into account personal preferences and financial capabilities. On the other hand, to understand the abundance of the proposed models can be a serious challenge.

The long service life and quality of the product depends on many characteristics, such as the country of origin, the material used in the manufacture and much more. In order to choose the right mixer model, you need to get an idea of ​​their types and the best manufacturers in the plumbing industry. First, let's figure out the characteristic features and criteria that you should pay attention to when buying this product.

The mixer is the product that is chosen for long-term operation. Therefore, you should be extremely attentive to such details as ease of use, durability, versatility and manufacturer's guarantees. Giving away a large percentage of the value for a brand and unique aesthetic is a waste of your wallet.

Given the structure and the presence of certain functions, the product is divided into the following types, each of which has its own advantages:

• Classic valve models are the simplest designs. Often, in the manufacture of a two-valve system, a ceramic axle box with rotating mechanisms is used. In the old model of the valve mixer, the only drawback is the crane box. Due to long-term operation, the seal is pressed through, which allows the valve to scroll, provoking a leakage of the valve in the future. In the current models, the manufacturer installs a ceramic crane box, which is pre-equipped with rotating mechanisms. In the case, however, there are two plates with holes, and if one of them is displaced, they either turn on the water or turn it off.

• Ball (single-lever) - extremely convenient and compact model, which is equipped with a lever-handle. It freely rotates 180 degrees, which makes it possible to regulate the required temperature regime. In order to turn on the water, the lever is moved up and down. This model is highly demanded for installation in residential premises.

Today the single-lever mixer is produced in two formats - with locking mechanisms similar to a ball and with removable cartridges. This is the most popular model due to the fact that the regulation of the supply and shutdown of water is carried out with a single movement. The same applies to the intensity of the pressure and temperature conditions. As for the probable risks of leakage, in this model they are reduced to zero. Many top manufacturers exclusively promote faucets with removable cartridges.

• Thermostatic model with automated control of temperature and water supply intensity. There is a thermoelement inside the mixer body, which controls the connection of hot and cold water flow. Regulation is carried out by means of two rotating handles.Accidentally scalding with hot water or falling under a stream of ice water will not work, which significantly increases comfort during operation.

A valve is built into the body of this model, which reacts to any minor changes in the pressure of the water flow in the two pipelines. When the flow force changes in one, the valve instantly changes it in the second pipeline in accordance with the specified mode. The temperature is controlled by adjusting the mode, in the future you will not have to do it again. It will be enough just to open and close the water.

Nevertheless, this model has one very significant drawback - if one of the pipelines is faulty and there is no water in it, then the other pipeline will cut off the water supply automatically. In other words, during the summer period, when hot water is turned off, access to cold water will also be closed.

• Non-contact model - an innovation from manufacturers of sanitary ware. Not the most demanded model when it comes to installation in a residential area with an inside-mounted water on / off sensor. The faucet is operated from household electrical networks or specialized lithium batteries with a long shelf life. The sensor intercepts the movement of the hands and turns on the flow of water, after which it stops it after a certain period of time. This design is very practical and easy to use, but it can alienate the consumer with its high cost. The sensor model works with an infrared sensor, which differs from model to model in how it works.

Some models will block the water flow instantly after you take your hands outside the sensor's range, while other models give water for some more time period. Fans of original solutions will like the mixers that can change the shades of the water jet depending on the temperature regime. Of the significant disadvantages, special requirements for water can be distinguished. If hard water passes through the mixer body, the contactless model will not function.

Most consumers claim that the best manufacturer is the one who produces a quality product with a reasonable price, while providing a guarantee for a long service life. As you know, a domestic-made mixer is not so in demand than a product from European countries such as Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Czech Republic and many others. In addition, there is still no reliable Russian brand that has managed to show itself on the positive side.

It is not so easy to find high-quality mixers made by a domestic manufacturer on the shelves of plumbing stores. And the product that we are offered often has low quality indicators, low functionality and primitive design. Nevertheless, they have certain advantages that distinguish them from the background of imported counterparts:

1. They are several times cheaper than a product from a foreign manufacturer. But it is worth mentioning that their service life is also short. But there are situations when it is urgent to replace the mixing structure, and the budget does not allow purchasing an expensive product.
2. It will be much easier to find the required spare part in the event of a breakdown for a domestic product. Service departments at any large plumbing store are located exclusively in large cities, while in provincial towns it is almost impossible to find imported spare parts.

Domestic mixers are prepared in advance to work with the water that flows through pipes in our country.A mixer made in Russia will provide high-quality work for water supply, while an imported model will require an additional purchase of a fine filter, a guarantee to which is attached if all requirements are met during operation, otherwise it will not be provided.

But in general, for many consumers living in Russia, the imported product will be much more practical and convenient in the process of use. First of all, this is due to the aspect of ecology, comfort in operation, durability of fasteners and locking devices and high aesthetic characteristics.

The most famous mixer manufacturer in Belarus is "Snabstroyservice". Having released the first line of sanitary ware back in 2007, the company is dynamically improving and expanding. The construction is made of high quality brass, which ensures a long service life. Externally, the models do not differ in their original design.

All models meet the requirements of GOST 25809-96. In addition, the manufacturer provides a two-year warranty for all released models. The fact is that "Snabstroyservice" has insured all its products in advance. Therefore, in the event of a breakdown or an unpleasant incident, for example, flooding (it is necessary to prove the manufacturer's fault), without fail, all costs incurred will be reimbursed to you.

The quality of German products has been rightfully recognized as the world standard for many years. Products Hansgrohe for a long time it has been on domestic counters of plumbing stores and these products are in great demand in our country. This brand specializes in the manufacture of structures for small bathrooms. Most of the presented models are compact in size, strong and reliable mount, minimalist design. The assortment includes a large number of lines with valve and single-lever mixers, thermostats and with various types of fasteners for the most demanding consumers.

Speaking of German quality, one cannot fail to mention such a brand as Grohe... This is another striking example of German quality. This manufacturer has factories in all major countries, and in each he is in demand and loved by consumers. The manufacturer's guarantee for the Grohe mixer is one of the most impressive - ten years. During the manufacture, the emphasis is placed on the versatility and ergonomics of the product. You won't be bothered by the extra noise or splashing water that is common with lower quality faucets.

The manufacturer has released models with all possible types of construction and fastening methods. Most of them are presented in the form of a set, the products of which are made in the same style and design. The main advantage of Grohe products is a significant reduction in water consumption, since the mixer was originally produced with the aim of economical water consumption.Products for fasteners are of high quality and easy to use; installation does not require the involvement of specialists. Brass is used in the manufacture of the mixer, but a small part of the elements are made of aluminum alloy.

Finnish production of sanitary ware and accessories accompanying them has the best quality / cost ratio. The most popular brand in Finland is Oras... Its products focus on high levels of strength and reliability. Also, consumers will be attracted by the original design and a large number of different models. The produced lines include all mixer formats in terms of designs and fastening methods. The valve and single-lever mixer is presented in a classic form. It has a standard design and simple shapes.

Despite all the variety of models, this manufacturer is focused on the production of more expensive mixers - contactless and thermostats. Brass and modern ABS plastic are used in the manufacture. These materials can reduce the cost of the product, while not changing the quality characteristics during the entire service life.

Despite the widespread opinion about the low quality of sanitary ware made in China, there are faucets of decent quality, which are inexpensive. Many factories in China produce stunning mixers that match European counterparts in appearance and internal design. Do not forget that a large number of manufacturers have opened their subsidiaries in the south and east of Asia and are themselves involved in the control of the production cycle. It is worth noting that the products produced by them are distinguished by high indicators of strength and quality, moreover, they are offered to consumers at a lower cost.

The most famous manufacturer today is Ledeme... In general, this manufacturer duplicates the European original, but, nevertheless, the products of this manufacturer have decent quality characteristics. Brass and cermets are used in the manufacture.

Another brand worthy of attention is Frap... It is a Chinese manufacturer specializing in water folding construction, which is a subsidiary of a European company. Under this brand, cranes are produced in a variety of formats for different functional areas. For example, a thermostatic mixer is very popular in Russia.

As with any purchase, the choice of a plumbing product can be made based on a kind of rating of the most trustworthy manufacturers. As stated above, to date, German companies can boast of the highest quality products... They are famous for their high durability of products and a wide range of products with different price segments. By purchasing a German mixer, you will become the owner of decent equipment for your bathroom or shower. Therefore, it is worth starting the rating with representatives from Germany.

The products are practical, durable and perfectly adapted to work with domestic water supply systems. Most models are equipped with a ceramic cartridge that optimizes water consumption. In addition, you have the opportunity to choose a mixer for the installation method you need (wall-mounted, hidden, vertical).

The manufacturer offers a solid range of single-lever mixers that are equipped with a thermostatic device. Products of this brand stand out due to the use in the manufacture of high quality metals and chrome plating.

A bright representative of French elegance and lightness. Smooth lines and high quality assembly, a huge assortment with minimalistic original design solutions - all this has attracted consumers for many years.

The modernity of the mixer is primarily evidenced by its design. In this case, the emphasis is on the decor of the furniture, the bath itself and, of course, the mixers. Despite the fact that for many people the faucet is purely practical, do not neglect the opportunity to add zest to your bathroom.

For example, futuristic ribbon decor, joystick-style water control knob and water jets like a tiny waterfall. Many models are equipped with modern sensory technologies, which will allow economical use of water resources and add a fashionable design to the bathroom interior.

Models for matte bronze are quite popular now and those that have flexible eyeliners.... All that remains is to decide what your bathroom needs. Be sure to also purchase eyeliners and gaskets, as well as other necessary tools.

For information on how to choose a bathroom faucet, see the next video.