Kitchen faucet

The kitchen is the most visited place in the house, where in a large family the opening and closing of a water tap for washing dishes, hands, vegetables and fruits sometimes reaches several dozen times per day. Thus, the purchase of a crane should be paid special attention, given the continuous process of its operation.

Kitchen faucet must be strong, strong, reliable and durable. Water taps should be selected based on their functionality, ease of use and ease of maintenance.

According to the method of water supply, the following types of mixers are determined:

• Single lever (one-armed) models are considered to be the most popular among buyers.The ease and ease of operation - just lower the lever in order to turn off the water - make this kind of successful acquisition.

There are two types of single-lever mixers:

1. Ball mixer got its name from the metal ball, using in its structure. Three holes with cold, hot and mixed water in the design of the ball make this model of the mixer very durable.
2. Cartridge cranes for washing, in which instead of a ball a cartridge with two plates is used.

• The double-lever mixer, having in its design two valves with hot and cold water, respectively, is increasingly being replaced by single-lever and automatic models. The need to scroll through the taps to achieve the right temperature makes such products not very comfortable. Most often, the two-valve option is chosen for a particular style of kitchen or furniture. Such models look good in a classic interior.

• Touchless faucets - a real find for the kitchen. Unfortunately, due to their high cost, models with a sensor are rarely found in Russian cuisine. And in vain! This option is very easy to use - just substitute the object or hand, so that the water poured.

Choosing the most functional and suitable type of mixer for you, you need to decide on the material from which it is made:

• Stainless steel faucets are incredible strength and durability. Qualitative model from a stainless steel is capable to serve to you nearly 25 years! The crane is unpretentious in care, and scratches that have appeared over time can be removed by yourself. Stainless steel - hygienic, safe material, resistant to impact,high temperatures, acids. Modern designs of stainless steel taps allow you to choose an accessory for any kitchen. It is worth noting that the cost of an accessory made of stainless steel will cost you dearly.

• Brass products. Brass is considered a traditional material for the manufacture of mixers. Such models are durable, quite heavy in weight, eco-friendly, durable. This metal is an alloy with an admixture of copper and chromium, which makes the coating smooth, durable and attractive in appearance.

The mixers made of brass, differ in the low cost calculated on a family of an average prosperity. The alloy with the addition of copper leads on sanitary and hygienic indicators, and models with a matte or glossy chrome finish will become a real decoration of the interior.

• Granite. Relatively new trend has become the use of hard rock in the production of mixers.Cranes, completely made of granite, onyx, marble are very expensive. In this article we will talk about artificial stone - granite or marble chips with the addition of various resins. So, granite models have the strength, durability, ergonomics. Thanks to various patterns and colors, such a faucet will fit into any interior, add to it refinement and style. You can choose a harmonious version of the color of the sink or countertop.

• Marble mixers are ideal for the countertop or sink of the same material to match. A single color design of the kitchen looks very stylish.

• Ceramics. More recently, ceramics was considered a fragile material for the manufacture of mixers.Modern technology has made it durable.

Ceramic accessories have the following advantages:

1. Easy to use - just wipe the product with a damp cloth;
2. There are no roughness on the surface of ceramics, it is very smooth, due to which it is not soiled and is not covered with bloom;
3. Ceramic taps are durable, do not stain over time.
4. A variety of colors allows you to choose an accessory to any kitchen.

• Porcelain tiles. As already noted above, the mixers made of natural stone are very expensive. To reduce the cost of the production process, porcelain stoneware products appeared. Ceramic taps, covered with a layer of granite chips, are not inferior to completely "stone" models.

• Plastic. In addition to stone, steel and various alloys from it, mixers are made of plastic. It is unlikely that such material can be considered durable, although plastic is not affected by water. Of the advantages of such material can be noted only low cost.For other qualities, such as strength, hygiene, environmental friendliness, durability, visual appeal, plastic loses.

The difference in the structure of taps and mixers is conditional: the tap organizes the supply of water of the same temperature, the mixer mixes hot and cold water flows at different temperatures. Depending on the method of installation, mixers and taps are divided into:

• Wall. This model is mounted on the wall using special tools. This type of installation of the mixer is called the classic and the most common for the installation of a faucet for the sink or in the bathroom. It is convenient because all unnecessary elements can be masked deep into the wall, which is very convenient from an aesthetic point of view;

• Mortise models are mounted in special holes in the sides of the sink. Looks like the finished design is unusual. There is one single minus for such an attachment - models of sinks with openings are produced by the manufacturer, it is almost impossible to find suitable fasteners in case of breakage;

• Models that are installed on the countertop or sink. This option is the most common for fixing the faucet in the kitchen.To fix the high rotary crane directly to the sink is very functional and convenient.

Depending on the types of gander, mixers are of the following types:

• A simple spout is considered the most popular form of gander for the kitchen. Most often, buyers prefer the gander with a high spout, while the tube can be not only round, but square and flat.

• Flexible spout is very functional despite its unusual appearance. In this design, you can adjust the height of the spout yourself. Some models of such mixers have from three or more segments and are called telescopic. Flexible swivel spout is also an excellent option for the kitchen. This design will provide access to the entire surface of the sink.

Another type of flexible model is the spout with exhaust hose - a very compact model in which the body of the gander is connected to the hose. Hoses are made of durable and reliable material. This model is suitable for a kitchen with two sinks. As a rule, the pull-out spout is equipped with a watering can-shower, this mode is ideal for washing products with a delicate surface, such as berries, fresh greens.

In general, a kitchen faucet is different in shape and size of a jet of water, which must fall exactly in the middle of the sink. The spout for the kitchen should also not be too high, but also not low, so that it is convenient to take water into deep containers, for example, in a saucepan. The newest models with two spouts, one for drinking water and the other for tap water, are recognized as very functional, with both spouts located in the same gander, and thanks to modern design, the water flows are not mixed.

Among the modern models can be noted and options with a switch for washing machine and dishwasher.

Especially worth it to highlight the mixers with the pedal. The mechanism works in such a way that when you press one pedal, either cold or hot water will flow depending on the selected pedal. Pressing both pedals simultaneously mixes the water.

Spiral spring faucets, recently used only in restaurants and cafes, have found their use in the ordinary kitchen. This design with a ring provides two options for water supply, which is perfect for washing fruits and vegetables.

For the kitchen in the style of "hi-tech" or "minimalism" is perfect unusual model with a flexible spout. Gander with a simple spout perfectly fit into the kitchen in a classic style.

In addition to practical mounting methods and functional types of spout, the kitchen faucet may have additional functions.

The main component of any mixer is a cartridge. Two-valve mixers are equipped with a disk-type water cartridge that resembles an old valve. Single-lever models are produced with more modern fillings: a ball or ceramic cartridge, and both options are the same for durability and functionality, the only difference is that the manufacturer needs a special license for the ball element.

Cranes with nozzles and hoses, models with a watering can for a crane no longer surprise anyone, much more spectacular models appeared on the plumbing market.

Three-channel mixer 2 in 1 has the ability to combine two functions - the supply of tap and drinking water by lightly pressing the lever. Moreover, such models are durable - the warranty on the product reaches 5 years.

The electronic mixer is suitable for modern people living with the times and loving automatic control. Such model of the mixer works from a network or from batteries. Now, in order to wash your hands, no need to touch the device. In addition, there is significant water savings.

For those who prefer to place the sink by the window or choose an angular design, the folding option will help with the problem of choosing a mixer. This model moves around its axis like a desk lamp, which makes it easy to equip a sink in any corner of the kitchen.

The thermostat tap is the perfect solution for families with children. This model allows you to maintain the desired temperature of the water, which means the child will not be able to get burned. Due to its built-in heater, a thermostatic faucet regulates a constant water temperature, regardless of pressure.It is enough to build the desired number on the handle, the valve with the thermostat will produce the required degree of water until you change the data.

With seasonal disconnection of hot water a heated tap would be a great solution! Now you do not need to install a bulky running water heater. Inside the crane is a heating electric element. Externally, the model is no different from a conventional mixer, except that it is slightly larger and has a wire for connecting to the network.

Consider the products of the most popular brands, based on customer reviews.

Of course, the best reviews endowed products of European brands. Among them, faucets of the French company Jacob Delafon, the impressive grace of their lines, Finnish products of the Timo brand, located in Sweden, received world recognition. Good reviews marked the Swiss accessories brand KorDi, striking sophistication of expensive models, made in black. Good reviews endowed Polish mixers.

Ideal Standard is a European brand of world domination. Plumbing and fittings of this manufacturer are the standard of quality and the embodiment of the most advanced and sometimes daring design ideas. This is not surprising, because the company has been on the market for more than 150 years! Collections of mixers of this brand are represented by single-lever models for the bathroom and kitchen with a chrome-plated finish and lever position on the side and top. Products Ideal Standard is famous for its quality and medium price range.

Among the Russian manufacturers of plumbing should be noted a positive characteristic of the mixer brand Rosinka, Aquaton, Iddis.

LEDEME is a quality brand of sanitary equipment, representing domestic manufacturing companies. The catalog of this brand includes two-valve and single-lever brass taps with a classic glossy matte chrome finish, with a silicone coating of different colors. Buyers love this brand for a calm design and adequate value.

Wasser Kraft and Florentina are another representatives of domestic plumbing, in the catalogs of their products you can find taps with an integrated filter for drinking water.The brand Florentina at the same time specializes in faucets with a matte finish in the color of champagne, gray, beige, anthracite, which will appeal to people who want to choose an accessory in the finished interior.

Among German brands, such as Elghansa, Bravat, Kludi, whose products are represented in Russia. The most reliable and stylish recognized German model company Kaiser. The products of this brand - a decent price-quality ratio. The catalog is represented by a wide range of brass mixers of different types coated with bronze, chrome, black marble.

A special niche in the world of plumbing is Italy. Italian mixers are represented by such brands as Smeg, specializing in single-lever and two-valve premium models, and Longran, the manufacturer of the best quality ceramic and stainless steel mixers.

Omoikiri professional Japanese faucets are produced in a sleek design and excellent quality. The only negative, the price of the products of this brand is very high.

China in the plumbing market is represented by brands such as Calorie, ARGO, producing brass faucets with a warranty of 5 years. According to customers, it is better to give preference to models of Russian or European production,because Chinese products are not the most reliable among water accessories.

Since the assortment of mixers is very diverse, it is easy to find a model that matches the style and design.

White color can rightly be called universal, it will look perfect in any interior. Gray, sandy shades, champagne, beige and other natural light colors are timeless classics.

Crane color of gold or bronze is the best fit for the kitchen in the style of "retro".

Original and fresh looks stylish color mixer in the tone of the facades of the kitchen set, sink or countertop: orange, red, green. Brown accessories are suitable for the kitchen. Decorated wood. The coating for this color can be both glossy and matte.

Elite faucets of unusual shape - a stylish detail in the interior design of your kitchen. A square crane of black or anthracite color despite the modest color expression will attract attention with its shape.Such accessory will harmoniously fit into the style of "minimalism" or "hi-tech".

To connect plumbing, you can call a professional master. If desired, you can supply and replace the mixer with your own hands, which will become a kind of economy option. For this, a schema is attached to any product.

1. The mixer needs to be connected to a water supply system by means of special tubes. When buying a mixer, pay attention to what length of tube you need to make a connection to the pipeline. You should buy material with a margin of 20-25 cm. If the hoses that come with the kit are short, they must be replaced. First you need to assemble a mixer.
2. Installing the faucet on the sink, you should skip the ends of the hoses into the hole in the sink, put the washer on the bottom.
3. Next, we connect the hoses to the pipes, so that the hot water comes from the right pipe and cold water from the left one. After checking the connection, alternately including hot and cold water.

There are cases when there are various problems in the mixer:

1. If the malfunction is serious, then you will need to replace the accessory. To do this, remove the old one and install a new one after the assembly.
2. Sometimes it is enough to replace the components so that the problem disappears.
3. If the mixer drips, a friction wear ring may be the cause. When replacing the gasket on the new fault will go.
4. The reason that the device does not mix well with water can be all the same pads or a filter that is out of order or clogged. It should be cleaned or replaced with a new one, while it is better to choose ceramic options.
5. Sometimes it happens that the crane buzzes. All because of the silicone gasket between the elements of ceramics. This part should be replaced and the noise will stop.