The device of the mixer for a bathroom with a shower: what are

Each modern bathroom is equipped with different fixtures. A bath or shower takes a special place in it. For full functioning they are equipped with a mixer. It is designed to give the water a comfortable temperature. In addition, it performs the function of switching the water supply from the tap to the shower head.

But, like any other product, the mixer is not immune from breakdowns. Therefore, you should know its structure in order, if necessary, to make repairs without the involvement of specialists.

What is a bathroom faucet, its purpose

In most countries hot and cold water is served separately. With this option, in order to obtain water at a comfortable temperature, you would first have to fill the bath with hot water and then dilute it with cold water. But this is not only inconvenient, but also uneconomical. Therefore, a special device was invented - a mixer. Its functions are as follows:

1. Giving the water a comfortable temperature. The device mixes cold and hot, and water of the required temperature is supplied from the tap. This saves time and money.
2. Formation of a jet of water. The water is supplied under pressure. This avoids the appearance of splashes that would fall on the walls and floor of the room.
3. Redirecting water from the tap to the shower head. An additional function that makes the use of the mixer more convenient is the switching of the water supply from the tap to the shower and vice versa.

Reference. In some European countries, mixers are not used. For example, residents of Foggy Albion, in order to get water at a comfortable temperature, have to turn on cold and hot separately.

What are bathroom faucets, features of their device

Of course, the bathtub is the most comfortable sanitary ware, allowing you not only to wash, but also to completely relax. After all, it is sometimes pleasant to soak up the warm aromatic water after a hard day.

But there are situations when there is not enough time for this. The shower comes to the rescue. In addition, the shower stall has become a full-fledged alternative to the bathtub in rooms with a small area. Each shower is equipped with a mixer. At the same time, there are several models that differ from each other depending on the design.

On sale you can find the following options:

1. Valve. One of the most common mixer options. Regulation of flow power, water temperature is carried out using valves. Inside the structure there is a small chamber in which water of different temperatures is mixed. Perhaps this is due to the presence of a crane-axle box. The popularity of this type is due to the reliability of the design, ease of use. The disadvantages include the fact that it is quite difficult to accurately adjust the required temperature.
2. Single-lever. This is a more modern version of the plumbing device. The design assumes the presence of one "lamb". To adjust the flow rate and the required temperature, it should be turned in the desired direction. If you move it in the vertical plane, the flow rate will be adjusted, if in the horizontal plane - the water temperature. Mixing is carried out using a ball mechanism or a small ceramic cartridge, which is located inside the structure.
3. Sensory. Most modern model. A built-in photocell is responsible for switching on and off. Despite the convenience of the design, it has a significant drawback - in the event of a breakdown, you will have to use the services of a professional plumber.
4. Thermostatic. The mixer is able to maintain the required water temperature. You only need to make the necessary mode setting once. This is achieved using a thermostatic element installed inside the structure. The device reacts sensitively even to small fluctuations in temperature and, if necessary, restores the required heating level. Regulators can have the appearance of handles or be stylized as the usual "lambs". On the market you can find touch control models equipped with a small LCD display. The screen will display temperature information and, on some models, flow rate data.

Types of switch faucets with shower

Like any other product, the mixer is not insured against breakdowns. The switch fails more often. Therefore, you need to know its structure. There are four types of switches in total:

1. Zolotnikovy. One of the oldest switch options. The main design feature is the presence of a plastic or metal handle, which is located between the "lambs".
2. Suberic. Despite the fact that such switches have already been discontinued, they can be found in some apartments of old buildings. A massive swing arm is located between the valves. The main feature is the presence of a massive cork made of brass. It carries out the function of redirecting the flow from the tap to the shower head.
3. Button. The main distinguishing feature is a button with a valve located on a long pin. To shut off the water supply, press the button. The reverse process is carried out by a spring.
4. Cartridge. The most common option. The main element is a cartridge equipped with Teflon O-rings. The principle of operation is similar to the usual crane-axle box. It is quite easy to determine that the cartridge version is in front of you - the mixer lever turns a full turn.

Knowing the design features of the mixer, if necessary, you can repair it yourself. But in order for the mixer to serve you for many years, remember: you need to regularly clean it from accumulated dirt, change the gaskets in time.