Cartridges for shower cabins: characteristics, types, selection rules + instructions for replacement
Owners of a small bathroom or those who prefer maximum space when arranging a bathroom opt for shower cabins. A wide range of models, versatility and interesting design solutions - all this is embodied in a vertical box.
However, there are also weaknesses, the failure of which will lead to the failure of the entire water system - cartridges for shower cabins.
In this material we will talk about the types of cartridges for shower cabins, outline the main criteria for their correct selection, and also give a rating of the most popular manufacturers of accessories for shower cabins.
The content of the article:
Types of replacement cartridges
The main structural element of a mixer in a shower stall is a diverter, which mixes water flows of different temperatures and switches to the mode required by the user. Its breakdown disables the entire supply and adjustment system.
The classification of the main element of the crane is carried out depending on the optional device and the operating principle.
Collapsible and non-collapsible modifications
There are collapsible and non-separable models of cartridges for shower faucets.In the first option, the part is subject to partial repair, namely, lubrication and cleaning of the component elements. It is because of practicality that it is better to opt for this type.
In the second option, there is no possibility of opening and determining the cause of the breakdown; accordingly, it will not be possible to extend the service life.
However, such models fail much less frequently than previous ones. But they belong to a higher price category.
Ceramic and ball models
All types of faucets are equipped with ball or ceramic (disc) replaceable cartridges. They all have their strengths and weaknesses. Let's look at each type in more detail.
The spherical sample is represented by a round control head made of stainless steel. The one-piece spherical-shaped element has three holes: cold and hot water flows into the two lower ones from the water supply lines, and a mixed flow passes through the third and is supplied to the faucet spout.
The mixer adjustment handle is placed on the rod. When the ball rotates, the channel passages shift, thereby opening access to cold or hot water, or mixing is carried out inside the ball, and the output will be a warm stream.
All grooves are sealed with rubber gaskets. This ensures complete tightness. Therefore, if the faucet leaks, most likely, depressurization has occurred and you will need to check the condition of the o-rings.
We described how to act in the event of a breakdown and a list of the most common breakdowns of ball mixers in this material.
A mixer with a ball valve has the following structural elements: one or two levers, a rod, a body, a cartridge with holes for the outlet of water of different temperatures. The ceramic type device is a cylindrical prefabricated part based on two disk-type working elements. Metal-ceramic (oxide with aluminum) plates fit tightly to each other.
The lower one is stationary, and the upper one rotates and is controlled by a rod. There are also samples with three plates - in this case, the last one plays a supporting role.
The turning action of the lever sets the brass rod in motion. There are models that can rotate 360 degrees around their axis.
The rod, in turn, engages discs that move relative to each other, opening access to water at the required temperature. By tilting the handle, you can control the force of the jet pressure.
In the review version there are three or more mixing positions, depending on the number of mixer modes. For example, a hydrobox has a 5-position cartridge.
Unlike its ball counterpart, the disk diverter does not have a rubber cuff that is subject to constant friction. Therefore, periodic replacement of the gasket is not required; accordingly, the cartridge is deprived of the most vulnerable area.
Thermostatic water-saving fittings
The function of the thermostatic model is to maintain the required temperature indicator. Through this product, contrasting water flows are mixed and adjusted.
Due to a special anti-burn system in the form of a sensitive thermoelement, the water cannot exceed 38 °C, which is ideal for a family with growing children. This way, parents do not worry that the child may get burned by opening the tap.
The design of such a cartridge is not distinguished by a complex device: a body, a rod with a spring mechanism and a sleeve with small radial holes.
The operating mechanism differs significantly from previous analogues and provides the device with a long service life.
The main part of the cartridge is a thermostatic element that converts temperature changes into mechanical movements. Expanding material is a combination of several types of wax and other components. The composition is selected for each mixer model individually.
When heated, the polymer contents of the housing cavity expand and press on the diaphragm; movement in the longitudinal direction is transmitted through the plug to the moving part of the capsule.
The movement then reaches the damper and activates it. It regulates the flow of water at different temperatures.
To avoid strong pressure on the element, if there is a large difference between the compression forces in the water pipes, the diverter design contains a check valve.
The safety device supports the diaphragm and allows the plug and stem to slide freely. The retaining spring returns the rod when the temperature drops.
Universal recommendations for selection
When choosing a replacement for a faulty diverter for a hydrobox, you should take into account its main parameters. First, pay attention to the diameter of the device and the dimensions of the rod. The wrong choice of size can lead to such troubles as noise during operation, tight turning of the valve.
Pressure control with such violations will be reduced, and the quality of operation of the crane will be impaired. Because of this, problems arise in the form of a burst shower hose or the threaded elements of the mixer quickly become unusable.
The main aspect of choice is the number of modes on the mixer. According to this value, the divertor model can have three or more slots. If there are discrepancies, the part will not be able to be installed on the tap.
The main parameters of the seating surfaces of the cartridge and the brass slot, as well as the length of the latter, must be taken into account. The diameter of the housing (drum) is also subject to measurements.
According to the technical characteristics, the following parameters of diverters are presented in plumbing accessories stores:
- with case diameter 26, 33, 35, 37 and 38 mm;
- The length of the rod can be from 37 to 82 mm, including the height of the splines.
Quite often in shower stalls you can find faucets with two different types of cartridges. The first device regulates temperature and pressure. According to standards, such an element has a rod length of 40 mm.
The second is responsible for switching modes. Based on how many functions the hydrobox is endowed with, the water shut-off valves will have the same number of grooves.
If you are purchasing a new mixer, you need to ask what kind of diverter it is equipped with and whether there are similar devices on the market.
Also pay attention to the type of construction - collapsible or cast. In the first case, in case of breakdowns, the part can be disassembled and repaired, in the second, only replacement is possible.
Despite the extensive model range, it is not always possible to select the right sample - this applies to older models of shower cabins with a non-standard square-shaped seat.
However, in some stores these kinds of parts can be ordered. Therefore, you should not dismantle the mixer prematurely and rush to buy a new one; you may be able to find a suitable control element.
The easiest option for selecting the right model is to remove the unsuitable part from the mixer and select it with a visual example.If you are unable to disassemble the faucet yourself, you should refer to the user manual for the shower stall.
In the manual, the manufacturer describes all the characteristics of not only the main devices, but also auxiliary accessories.
Rating of popular manufacturers
It is also worth paying attention to the manufacturers represented on the plumbing fixtures market. It is advisable to give preference to official representatives of the company who have all the quality certificates for the parts offered. Which of them is trustworthy and, of course, the price-quality ratio of their products will be considered further.
Having decided on the manufacturer and choosing the required diverter model, you need to visually evaluate it for chips and the presence of all components. For convenience, all companies produce elements of water shut-off valves in transparent packaging.
Oras – accessories for luxury boxes
The Finnish manufacturer of sanitary accessories Oras presents premium products. Cartridges of this brand are used to equip shower cabins with thermostatic mixers.
The discs of the product are made of high-quality ceramics, which allows you to achieve a long service life due to the reliability of the design.
Quite often, plumbing fixtures and accessories from Oras are found in the equipment of another Finnish manufacturer - IDO, focused on the production of shower cabins.
For example, the entire range of IDO Showerama hydroboxes is equipped with Oras thermostatic taps and diverters.
Grohe, Hansgrohe and Hansa – German quality
German manufacturers are represented by three popular brands: Grohe, Hansgrohe and Hansa. They successfully combine original design solutions in the arrangement of shower cabins and their functional equipment.
The quality and reliability of faucets is guaranteed for at least 5 years, but for some Grohe models the period is 10 years.
The quality of Hansgrohe fixtures is practically the same as the previous brand. The main feature is considered to be small-sized sanitary products - mainly single-command (single-lever) mixers.
The price range is quite wide – from economy series to premium exclusive models.
The unique design of Hansa mixers distinguishes the company from its analogues. The priority direction is the introduction of technological innovations in plumbing mechanisms and parts for them.
Components produced in Hansa workshops have an optimal price-quality ratio. In their production, unique technologies are used that allow them to maintain factory lubricant throughout their entire service life.
Thus, lime deposits and rust do not accumulate between the ceramic discs of the product.
Ravak – affordable Czech manufacturer
The Czech company Ravak has been producing sanitary ware since 1991, but wide distribution of products became possible only in 2004. The popularity gained during this period indicates the high quality of the products.
This brand produces baths, shower cabins and hydromassage boxes, as well as the entire necessary line of water shut-off valves.
The products of this brand combine all the characteristics that a user usually requires: quality, attractive design and, most importantly, a long warranty period.
It is worth noting that Czech democracy is reflected in the price of products, so people with any income can afford the devices of the review company.
Causes of cartridge malfunctions
Despite the high warranty periods provided by manufacturers of water shut-off valves, there are factors that negatively affect their operation and cause premature failure.
These include:
- Poor water quality. In order to eliminate this problem, filter elements are additionally installed, which must be cleaned periodically.
- Mechanical impact. If you press hard on the faucet handle, damage may occur in the form of a broken rod or a crack in the cartridge body.
Since the first negative factor is manifested by plaque formations inside the cartridge device, you can try to clean it yourself.In this case, it does not matter what type the part is - collapsible or cast.
It will be enough to put it in boiling water with citric acid and boil for several minutes. If after this procedure, the diverter installed in place continues to leak, then replacement will be required.
Let's look at the obvious characteristics of breakdowns that require changing the control unit in the shower stall:
- The shaft on the switch is leaking. In this case, the cause may be a weak fastening in the niche and you will need to tighten the nuts more. If the problem persists, only changing the cartridge will help.
- Modes cannot be switched. Most likely, a distributor wedge occurred.
- When the valve is hard to turn and at the same time an uncharacteristic crackling sound is heard.
If, when dismantling the faucet from the shower stall, any defects are found in the cartridge: cracks, pores, this is also a reason to purchase a new mechanism.
Replacement instructions
To change the diverter that switches modes in the hydrobox tap, you must follow the sequence of actions. And the first priority is to cut off the water supply.
Next, remove the trim and unscrew the decorative plate located under the lever. It is better to grab it with a damp cloth underneath so as not to damage the shiny chrome layer.
In addition to its decorative role, the part presses the tap block to the mounting location. Unscrew with a flat screwdriver or a 2.5-3 mm hexagon.
The same principle of operation applies to the lower ring, which can be threaded or slip-on type.After removing it, if there are no more fixing elements, the mixer can be easily dismantled.
You can use the second option - without dismantling the crane. All steps to remove the decorative plug and the screw securing the handles on the cartridge rod are performed similarly to the previous method.
Using a wrench, disassemble the switch. If the mixer has been in use for a long time, the metal may stick and it needs to be treated with a special compound WD-40 and wait for some time. Then, if it does not give in, deepen the screw groove with a regular hacksaw and remove the front part.
Having reached the cartridge, to remove it from the valve body you need to unscrew the large brass nut. Then you can easily remove the part and install a new one.
However, before doing this, evaluate the mounting location for the diverter. If the brass bottom is covered with a corrosive coating and the surface is not smooth when touched, it will need to be cleaned and treated with a sealant, after drying it.
Reassembling the tap is performed in the reverse order. It is also necessary to monitor the work performed by starting the crane and sequentially switching modes.
Conclusions and useful video on the topic
The main types of cartridges installed in hydroboxes, as well as do-it-yourself replacement of water shut-off valves, are discussed in detail in the story:
Practical tips for repairing and replacing a diverter in a shower stall:
Drawing conclusions, we can say that replacing a diverter in a bathroom is not a difficult task.You can carry out the process yourself by dismantling the mixer or leaving it in place, which significantly reduces the time spent on repairs.
However, the main task remains the correct choice of device. To do this, it is better to remove it and select it according to the illustrative example.
If you have any questions or can give practical advice on the topic of this article, please leave your comments, share your experience, and ask questions in the block below.
A shower cabin is indeed a salvation for those who have small apartments with a small bathroom. But sometimes you want to lie down for a while, we took a shower stall with a tray, so you can get water if you turn off the drain. And the cartridges fail all the time, they last for about a year of active use, the water is very hard. My husband buys Hansgrohe, the price suits us.
I have an Aquarell shower cabin, almost new, only 4 months of use. The cartridge began to leak, right from under the lever. He pulled out the cartridge and tried to tighten the clamping nut harder. Everything seems to fit tightly, but there is a leak, it flows directly from the inside. Will I have to change it or is there something else I can try?
I had the same nonsense. I tried 4 cartridges from different manufacturers and they all leak. I gave up and completely replaced the mixer, so far everything is fine.
Hello, Ilya. I advise you to turn off the water, remove the cartridge from the faucet, and take it with you to the hardware store to buy a similar one. Often the cost of these parts is in the range of 5-10 dollars.
You can also try to “save” the old cartridge; to do this, you need to clean the water supply holes, check the sealing elements and tighten the nut securing the cartridge well. But in any case, keep a new one in stock.
If the cause of the leak was caused by blockages in the water supply holes, then I also advise you to remove and clean the filter mesh on the mixer itself.