How to choose a bathroom faucet with shower: types, characteristics + manufacturer ratings
To understand the issue, how to choose a bathroom faucet with a shower, it’s not enough to ask a consultant at a plumbing store for help. It is necessary to study in more detail the design features of these devices and understand the operation of their mechanical part.
In order not to make a mistake, it is worth getting acquainted with the manufacturers whose products are recognized as the best in this area.
The content of the article:
Rules for choosing plumbing fixtures
The variety of models offered by equipment manufacturers is impressive. Therefore, before purchasing, you need to clearly understand exactly what functions the future mixer should have. Having become acquainted with the characteristics of bathroom fixtures and having examined each of them in more detail, it is easier to choose the right option.
First of all, you need to decide on the number of mixing units - often they are purchased of a similar or identical type (design, color, material). The designation of the installation location also plays a significant role - the type of installation depends on this.
After determining all the above parameters, you can proceed to the analysis of the manufacturers on the market.An advertised brand may not always represent high-quality products. In some cases, recently released products represent worthy competition to branded ones, favorably differing from the latter with a more favorable price.
Depending on the type of fastening, mixers are divided into devices for showers, washbasins, bathtubs and bidets. In the first case, it would be better to purchase a wall-mounted version equipped with a watering can.
For sinks, water supply products are wall-mounted or shelf-mounted with three or one connector. In the latter case, it is better to give preference flexible liner, which does not depend on the location of the connection pipes.
Bath devices have several types of spout, differing in diameter: long, medium and short. They can also be distinguished by their installation location: on the side or vertically.
There are also different ways to attach a shower with a shower head: to a bar, body or holder. They also produce models of mixers with individual connections - floor mounting is possible.
Often, if the bathroom is adjacent, a ceramic device – a bidet – is installed next to the toilet. The faucet used for this bowl is similar in its technical characteristics to the device for the washbasin. There are single-lever models that can additionally be equipped with a thermostat.
Read more about how to choose a bidet faucet Further.
Classification of mixers with shower
Faucets differ from each other not only in control details, but also in the complexity of the mechanisms designed for mixing water.
Depending on the control method, they are divided into the following groups:
- with two valves;
- with lever;
- contactless;
- with thermostat.
Numerous options offered by manufacturers fully satisfy consumer demand not only for classic options, but also for interesting modernized mechanisms that independently support a given operating mode.
Types of products with two valves
Valve mixers are the most popular devices. They are equipped with two crane axle boxes. When the valves rotate, the speed and temperature of the water stream are supplied and adjusted.
Additionally, depending on the mechanism used, the system with two valves is divided into two more subtypes: worm and ceramic.
For a bathroom in classic, retro or country styles, it is more advisable to opt for a device with a ceramic faucet-axle mechanism.
However, if tap water does not meet the standards, a special cleaning filter is inserted into the supply pipe to eliminate the problem of rapid breakdown of ceramic plates.
Lever models of locking devices
The central element of the device is the cartridge, and the additional elements include the body, handle and spout.
By rotating the lever part to the sides, the parameters are adjusted:
- turning left/right – adjusts the water temperature;
- up/down – the jet pressure increases/decreases.
To achieve the required temperature conditions and the required intensity of the water jet, it is necessary to operate only one handle. When the grip is rotated, the ceramic plates, less often metal ones, move relative to each other. As a result, the water channels either narrow or widen.
The mechanism of such a mixer is distinguished by exceptional precision - each part is adjusted relative to the other. Any speck that gets into the shut-off valve disrupts the operation of the entire system. To eliminate leakage, the valve can be easily disassembled and the cartridge replaced with a new one.
Among the advantages of such mechanisms, it is worth noting that the supply and adjustment of water with one hand is faster, and accordingly, the water consumption will be less.
The model range is quite wide, so you can choose the right option without much difficulty. If the water quality is poor, it would be advisable to install a coarse filter. We also recommend reading the article where we described in detail the operating principle of lever models. More details - go to link.
Touchless or sensor faucets
The most modern in terms of regulating water supply are sensor types of devices. Due to the operation of an infrared sensor that reacts to the heat emanating from human hands, water is supplied. The temperature and pressure of the supplied liquid are adjusted using a special screw located in the device body.
More modern models are equipped with an automated mode for changing temperature indicators. In different models, it is triggered when performing certain actions, for example, when moving your arms to the side.
The time for which water is supplied can be fixed or unlimited. In the first case, the feed is carried out for a certain time, and in the second it will flow until you remove your hands from under the gander.
Decorative elements are unusual for a touchless faucet. The most common options have a simple design and small dimensions. For a high-tech bathroom, this faucet is simply irreplaceable. But it has a complex internal mechanism, so repairs will be expensive.
Type of device with thermostat
Every year the use of thermostats becomes more and more popular. During operation, they respond to the intensity coefficient of two water flows.
This premium class is divided into 2 types:
- With LCD screen. Equipped with a special panel on which a comfortable temperature mode and water flow rate are set.
- With mechanical. The fluid supply parameters are adjusted using two levers.
Such products are the safest for use by small children - regardless of the water supply mode, the temperature at the outlet will never be higher or lower than the specified settings.
Among the many advantages of such a device, there is also a significant drawback - when the water supply in one of the pipelines is turned off, the mixer automatically turns off. In this case, the water supply will be completely stopped.
However, the technological process has not stopped and some manufacturers have already managed to present innovative models with thermostat, equipped with additional mechanical control.
Differences between switching mechanisms
To switch from using a shower to a spout, a special mechanism is used.
Depending on its technical structure, the following types are distinguished:
- eccentric;
- cartridge;
- with ball diverter;
- with plug diverter;
- push-button or pull-out.
The first mechanism is activated by the rotation of a handle connected to an eccentric, which, in turn, drives the double-sided rod. Based on the desired mode, one of the connectors is blocked.
This mechanism has a low price category. It can be mounted on any mixer. The main requirement is that the diameters of the spout fasteners and the part itself match.
Minor disadvantages in the form of rapid wear of rubber gaskets are easily eliminated. If you turn the tap frequently, the connections become loose, so they need to be tightened periodically.
The cartridge device consists of a part of the same name, which is considered more reliable compared to the previous type. However, if it breaks, it needs to be completely replaced.
In a ball diverter, the main assembly is formed by a ball with holes placed between two rubber washers.
This is a stationary device that operates on the principle of a shut-off valve - water enters the side hole of the ball and exits into the shower/spout through the other. Among all those presented, it is considered the most reliable mechanism.
The plug type switch is characterized by a similar operating principle to the eccentric type. However, the mechanism can be activated by pulling or lowering the cap, rather than by turning a lever.
It is quite difficult to obtain parts for such a diverter, so repairs are not always possible.
The push-button mode switch can be automatic or mechanical. An automatic exhaust mechanism can be found in expensive faucets with a cartridge.
Its installation is provided on a rotary cast crane or is presented as a separate block. When installing an automatic diverter, if the water supply is stopped, it independently takes its original position.
Simple push-button designs do not differ in appearance from the first type, however, to return to the starting position, the button must be pressed by the user. The disadvantages of such devices include the principle of their operation - in the “on” mode, a noticeable resistance to switching is created.
Choosing the best material for faucets
When arranging a bathroom, not only the operating principle of the faucet is important, but also the design of the device itself. Long gone are the days when exceptional quality products were required.
Today, consumer demand is based on a combination of quality, price and original design. First, you should carefully understand: what is the difference between the materials used to make bathtub and shower faucets, and which one is better to choose?
Metal alloys as the best option
Bronze and brass are traditional types of alloys used for the manufacture of faucets. They are highly waterproof and are not susceptible to deposits formed from constant contact with water.
Products made from alloy steel also have an impressive design, but they tend to become dirty during use. The use of hard water with impurities results in breakdowns. The technology for processing the material is more complex, so the price will be higher.
And the last metal alloy option is silumin (aluminum and silicon). It is easy to cast.The main disadvantages include a short service life and unpresentable appearance. The most tangible advantage of this category is the low price of products.
If we put quality, design and convenience on the same line of importance, the option that best suits the needs of users is an alloy of brass or steel.
Plastic feeding units
The advantages of plastic products are based on the following indicators: low weight of technological material, resistance to mineral deposits formed when parts interact with water, low degree of heat conductivity, and reasonable price.
The service life of plastic feeders is much lower than that of metal ones. It is important that only valve flywheels or levers are made of this material. In this case, the plastic parts do not reduce the service life of the kit.
The grace and fragility of ceramics
The ceramic type of faucets has increased fragility. As in the previous case, such devices are equipped only with individual ceramic elements. They play more of a decorative role and do not affect the quality of the product. But they require more careful care, just like caution during operation.
Tactile sensations when touching ceramic products leave only pleasant sensations - ideal smoothness, gloss and cleanliness of shape are the main advantages of such products.
Which coating is more reliable?
Various types of compounds are used to coat each plumbing fixture. Their main task is to prevent mechanical damage and the formation of corrosive deposits.
Chrome or enamel compounds are used as the outer layer of metal faucets. This is a fairly durable coating with high hygienic characteristics. The surface is easy to maintain and is not subject to corrosion.
When using an enamel composition, the product acquires a matte and granular structure. Choosing this type of feeding installation allows you to get rid of defects in the form of fingerprints after touching and white deposits from water drops.
Rating of popular manufacturers
The question of choosing the optimal mixer for a bathroom with a shower, so as not to regret it during operation, has practically been resolved. However, it is also worth touching on the topic of good manufacturers, whose ratings we will present below.
It is no secret that Russian-made faucets on the market are less popular compared to foreign ones. This is due to the fact that many domestic companies have already proven themselves to be bad, and therefore the credibility of buyers has decreased.
Leader - Hansgrohe (Germany)
The first place is occupied by high-quality products from the German company Hansgrohe, a world leader in the field of plumbing fixtures.The most widespread are faucets designed for bathrooms with a small area.
This line is represented by mechanisms of compact parameters, with high-quality fastening elements.
The range of products is very wide: both valve and single-lever units, thermostats and devices with different types of fastening are presented. Preference in production is given to chrome-plated brass. The warranty on the feeding mechanisms is 5 years, but in reality the service life is much longer.
Second place for Kludi (Germany)
The quality of faucets from this German brand meets the highest international standards. Among the many advantages, it is worth noting durability, multitasking, as well as the unique design of the devices - they combine innovative solutions and classic shapes.
Design solutions in Kludi models are varied, so finding a suitable option for any interior will not be difficult. Stainless steel with chrome coating was chosen as the material for manufacturing the product. In addition to classic options, products can be made in white and black colors.
Third place went to Oras (Finland)
You can also list a lot of fairly high-status companies with luxury products. However, if we take the price-quality ratio, then in third place we can safely place Finnish plumbing from Oras.
The products produced are of no less high quality than those of their German counterparts. The range of models presented by the company is so extensive.
The company prefers ABS plastic as the main material for making faucets. Due to this, the cost of products is significantly reduced, while the quality of the devices does not deteriorate.
The only negative noted by users is color fading during use. But this problem is typical for models made in non-standard color shades.
Conclusions and useful video on the topic
Selection principle the best mixer. The main characteristics that you need to pay attention to are shown in the video:
Review of a budget version of a high-quality Haiba mixer in the video:
GROHE Eurodisc Joy bathroom faucets with innovative controls are shown in the video:
To sum up, we can confidently say that for a washbasin it is better to choose a two-valve model with a short spout. This will result in more precise temperature control. For a bathtub, the spout of the appliance must be at least 20 cm.
Please write comments in the block below. Perhaps you managed to purchase a new model of bathroom faucet? Tell us, which model did you choose? Are you satisfied with his work?
I have a faucet with a lever in my bathroom; it is much more convenient than old systems with two valves and is not as complicated and expensive as ultra-modern touchless ones with sensors and thermostats. Very convenient, easy to open and adjust with one hand. This is especially true when, for example, you wash your hair. Plus it’s much easier to set the water to flow at the desired temperature.
For an ordinary bathroom in an apartment, where the sink and bathtub are located back to back, the most reasonable and economical option would be a faucet with a watering can placed on the wall between them. The long spout can be easily turned onto the sink or bathtub as needed; the watering can can be mounted either on it or using special fasteners nearby. I myself prefer single-lever faucets; they are easier to repair.
Do you mean a faucet with a pull-out shower head? This is the same option for the kitchen. I've never seen something like this put in a bathroom. For me, the good old mixer with shower is the most reliable and convenient. But I agree that single-lever ones are better, and not because they are easy to repair, they are simply more practical. This is especially true for the bathroom, where sometimes you have to turn on and regulate the heat of the water with one hand, for example, with a soapy head.