Faucets for bathtub and shower, which type is better to choose?

• Operating principle of a bathroom faucet with shower
• What are bathroom shower faucets made of?
• How can I install a faucet in the bathroom?
• Note the gander (spout)

Experienced homeowners know: the bathroom is one of the most expensive and difficult rooms to furnish. To provide your family with comfortable water treatments, you need to pay due attention to the choice of each element of the bathroom, including a bathtub mixer with a shower. Let's remember that it performs 3 tasks:

• Adjusting the water pressure.
• Mixing hot and cold water until an acceptable operating jet temperature is obtained.
• Switching mixed water flows between two consumers.

Manufacturers offer devices of different operating principles, made of different materials and designed for different types of installation. Each model has its own advantages and features, and once you understand them, you can choose the device that is ideal for you.

Which type of bath and shower faucets is best to choose?

All bathtub faucets can be divided into two large groups - axle-box faucets and single-lever faucets. These devices differ from each other both in the controls and in the mechanisms that ensure water mixing.

Bath-shower faucet-axle mixers

Crane-axle mixers are the most popular and easiest to manufacture, and therefore cheaper. They received their name from the name of the main structural element with the help of which the water flow is supplied and regulated.

Axle-box bath-shower mixer tap.

There are two types of devices:

1. Worm - with a rubber locking collar. The cuff is attached to the stem; when the valve is turned, the worm gear extends the stem, closing the hole from which water flows.

Worm-type crane axle boxes

• 1. Rod;
• 2. O-rings;
• 3. Slip ring;
• 4. Piston;
• 5. Locking gasket (rubber, silicone);
• 6. Body;
• 7. Fat chamber;
• 8. Protective shell;
• 9. Screw for fastening the locking gasket.

+ Pros: The main advantage of this type of crane axlebox is the low cost of the product and the reliability of the metal mechanism. In addition, repairing such a mixer is very simple. It all comes down to replacing the locking cuff, made of dense rubber or silicone.

– Cons: Among the disadvantages, it should be noted that it is not very easy to use. To obtain water at the required temperature and flow rate, you need to turn the valve 3-4 times. All this time the water will be wasted, so the efficiency of the tap is quite doubtful. The locking cuff periodically begins to leak, but if you do the replacement yourself, then this is not such a big problem.

2. Ceramic - have two plates with oblong holes, one of them is fixedly fixed in the body, and the other is attached to the rod. By turning the valve and moving the movable plate, you can align the holes and open access to water flow.

Ceramic crane axle boxes

• 1. Bracket;
• 2. Rod;
• 3. Silencer;
• 4. Top ceramic plate;
• 5. Axle box body;
• 6. Bottom ceramic plate;
• 7. Rubber ring;
• 8. Ceramic crane-axlebox assembly.

+ Pros: The advantages of a ceramic crane axlebox are, first of all, ease of use. The rod is rotated only 180º (half-turn) or 90º (quarter-turn). The mechanism is reliable and durable, does not make any extraneous noise and does not require excessive force when opening.

– Cons: Disadvantages are the high cost of the product. Sensitivity to water with solid impurities, which lead to rapid wear of ceramic plates. The crane axlebox itself is almost impossible to repair; it has to be completely replaced.

IMPORTANT! To prevent rapid failure of ceramic faucet axle boxes, a coarse filter is cut into the water supply pipe.

CONCLUSIONS . If financial capabilities allow, it is advisable to purchase a ceramic faucet, but if the tap water is dirty and minor plumbing repairs are not a problem, then it is much cheaper to purchase a mixer with worm-type axle-box faucets.

To independently determine the type of axle-box mixer, just turn the flywheels. In ceramic handles they turn only half a turn, in worm handles the rotation continues further.

Bath and shower single lever mixers

Achieving the required temperature and the required pressure of the water jet in these mixers occurs using a cartridge. People call such mixers one-armed - all processes are controlled with one handle.

Despite its different appearance from the previous mixer, the principle of operation of the cartridge is similar to the operation of a ceramic faucet. Mixing and water pressure are carried out by the same ceramic plates, rotating relative to each other, with all the ensuing advantages and disadvantages.

Cartridge mechanism

It has the same principle of operation and fundamental design as the ceramic crane axle box.

Consists of two ceramic plates with holes. The lower fixed one (A) through which hot and cold water flows and has a drain hole and the upper movable one (B).

The water temperature and its pressure depend on the area of ​​alignment of the holes on the two plates.

Thermostatic mixers

Thermostatic mixers appeared quite recently, but have already found their consumers. The device is a panel with buttons for turning the water off and on, a regulator for switching temperature and water pressure, and a hole or tap for the jet outlet.

Thanks to the built-in software device that maintains the intensity of the jet pressure and water temperature, the thermal mixer is the safest of all the previously listed devices.

Thermostatic mixers are:

Electronic – equipped with a liquid crystal screen. The operation of such devices requires the connection of an AC adapter or regular batteries.

Mechanical - regulating the process using handles and valves. No additional power supplies are required.

The operating principle of such a device is as follows. The flow of water into the mixing chamber is controlled by a valve that responds not to temperature, but to flow intensity. If the pressure of one flow becomes greater or less, the capacity of the second gateway will change accordingly.

List of the best

Our list today includes:

• single lever – ARGO 35-S35 STROY;
• two-valve – OLIVE'S 01221GR;
• thermostatic – LEMARK LM7834C.

Let's take a closer look at the selected models.

ARGO 35-S35 STROY – single lever

High-quality mixer with brass body in modern style. Chrome-nickel coating protects the device from corrosion. Equipped with a convenient single-lever control, shower head and aerator to save water.

Cost: from 2549 to 3000 rubles.

mixer ARGO 35-S35 STROY

OLIVE'S 01221GR – two-valve

The device is equipped with two valves that regulate the supply of cold and hot water. The faucet has ceramic axle boxes, as well as a divertor (switch between shower and curve). Extended spout (35 cm). The model has two shower head holders: one on the top of the mixer body, and the second attached to the wall.

Price tag: from 3492 to 3500 rubles.

mixer OLIVE'S 01221GR

LEMARK LM7834C – thermostatic

The model is made in the Czech Republic and is a universal thermostatic mixer with a flat swivel spout measuring 35 cm. It is equipped with a thermocouple with a lock, with which the water temperature is set.

Buy: from 11990 to 12500 rubles.

mixer LEMARK LM7834C

Difference and choice of shower switch mechanism - spout

According to the type of shower-spout switching design, bath-shower mixers are:

1. With an eccentric shower-spout switching mechanism . Due to the rotation of the handle, through the eccentric, a double-sided rod with rubber gaskets on the edges moves. Depending on the required mode, one of the holes is closed - into the shower or into the spout.

+ Pros:

• The mechanism is quite reliable and cheap. Repairing it, let alone completely replacing it, will not be difficult.
• It can be mounted on any type of faucet, the main thing is that the diameters of the spout mounting and the mechanism match.

- Minuses:

• Rubber gaskets wear out quickly.
• Significant dimensions of the product if the faucet must be mounted high above the bathtub.
• When the spout is turned frequently, the connections become loose and need to be constantly tightened to prevent leaks.

2. With a cartridge shower-spout switching mechanism . The mechanism is represented by one device – a cartridge.

+ Pros:

• The mechanism is the most reliable and durable, it is easy and quick to replace.
• It has an attractive design, simple convenient controls, and small dimensions.

- Minuses:

• The cartridge itself cannot be repaired; after failure, a complete replacement is required.
• There may be compatibility problems with some “universal” cartridges from repair kits. It is recommended to purchase parts only from the same manufacturer as the mixer.

3. With a ball deviator for shower-spout switching . The main unit is a ball with holes located between two o-rings. Water entering one of the side holes of the ball exits into the spout or shower through the other.

+ Pros:

• It is considered the most reliable and durable today.

- Minuses:

• The deviator mechanism is integrated into the mixer body and is non-separable. If the switch fails, it cannot be repaired; the entire mixer must be replaced.

4. With a cork deviator for shower-spout switching . The operating principle of the device is similar to the eccentric one. But the locking mechanism is not activated by a rotary handle, but by raising or lowering a kind of cap.

+ Pros:

• Externally, the device looks very compact and stylish.
• The dimensions of the mixer do not increase.
• Shifting is fairly easy, provided the design includes raised ridges.

- Minuses:

• Difficult to repair, very difficult to get the necessary spare parts.

Based on the type of mechanism, shower-spout mixers can be built-in or external:

1. Mixers with built-in mechanisms.

+ Pros:

The advantages of built-in mechanisms include the compactness of the mixer itself, reliable operation and the absence of leaks. In addition, most models with a built-in mechanism are controlled in one motion: by pressing a button or turning a lever.

- Minuses:

The main disadvantage can be considered the difficulty of repair, the only exception is the cartridge mixer, where you simply need to replace the entire mechanism. For some models, after the deviator fails, the entire mixer must be replaced.

2. Faucets with external mechanisms.

+ Pros:

External mechanisms are attached between the mixer and the spout, with an additional outlet for the shower hose. Their main advantage is ease of installation, maintenance and replacement.

- Minuses:

They are quite inconvenient to use, faucets with them do not have a very aesthetic appearance, and to install them the faucet must be at a considerable height above the bathtub. If the faucet is located between the bathtub and the sink, and the spout is constantly moving, the use of an external deviator is rather doubtful, since it quickly begins to weaken the joints and leak from frequent movements.

Varieties

Faucets differ in the method of water supply, shower-bath switching mechanism, installation option, and purpose. According to the method of water supply, they can be divided into the following types:

• single lever;
• two-valve;
• thermostatic;
• non-contact (touch);
• cascading.

Touchless faucet

Double valve mixer

Cascade mixer

Single lever mixer

Thermostatic mixer

Single lever

This is one of the most popular types of ball devices, equipped with one lever that provides temperature and water pressure control. Single-lever mixers, the working mechanism of which is a special cartridge, are gaining great popularity.

Single lever devices have the following advantages:

• accessibility of installation: they are easy to install without outside help;
• ease and reliability of use: even an inexperienced user can set up the plumbing kit;
• stylish design, ergonomic body: such sanitary ware will fit well into any bathroom interior, especially if a wall-mounted installation option is provided;
• efficiency, practicality: single-lever devices regulate the flow pressure, which allows you to reduce the consumption of water used and save on utilities.

Disadvantages include:

• difficulty of repair: if any part of the mechanism breaks down, the single-lever unit must be replaced with a new one;
• high price.

Two-valve

The two-valve mixer continues to successfully compete with its lever counterpart due to its practicality and affordability. This is a classic type of plumbing fixture. Such faucets have a simple design - a spout of different heights, often long, two valves for hot and cold water. Round and cross-shaped valves. The desired temperature regime of the water flow through the spout is obtained by rotating the valves. Most models can be produced with rubber, polyurethane or ceramic gaskets. Ceramic seals are considered the most durable.

The two-valve mixer set with shower has the following advantages:

• simple, affordable wall mounting;
• reliable operation;
• easy repairs;
• attractive appearance.

Among the disadvantages are: the need to replace seals and the lack of adjustment of the jet pressure.

Thermostatic

A new product on the plumbing equipment market, which has managed to win the sympathy of consumers. Such devices are special panels equipped with buttons or control levers - setting the optimal water heating temperature, turning the water pressure on/off.

This type of shower set has special advantages that set them apart from their main competitors:

• high safety, reliability, accessible wall mounting, practicality in operation;
• the ability to automatically maintain a given temperature for a long period;
• bright, stylish design, ergonomic body.

The disadvantages are the difficulty of repairs and the high cost of a mixer with a thermostat.

Non-contact (touch)

Innovative development in the modern luxury plumbing market. This set for a bathroom with a shower set does not provide for manual control; the water pressure is supplied by sensitive infrared sensors, which are activated if you bring your hands to the mixer.

Cascade

Such units differ from other devices in the design features of the spout. The devices do not have an aerator, and the opening is flat and wide to ensure a powerful and even water flow. This type of plumbing has a high throughput due to large diameter pipes. The mixers are powered by electricity and built-in autonomous batteries.

Spouts - which ones are most convenient for bath and shower faucets?

The most popular model of bathroom faucets is with a long spout. In cases where the bathtub and washbasin are located close to each other, installing an additional faucet above the sink is not required. A swivel spout saves money during installation of devices, but requires additional investment during operation. Frequent turning movements lead to loosening of the connection between the spout and the mixer. When buying a faucet with a swivel spout, pay attention to the angle of movement of the device and the length of the tap. The optimal option is more than 30 cm with a wide range.

Short spouts appeared in bathrooms later than long ones, but managed to occupy their niche. The main advantage of such models is the small area of ​​​​the required space and the ability to install directly on the edge of the bathtub. In small rooms, a short faucet spout will come in handy.

The choice of tap length depends on the placement of the washbasin and bathtub, on the square footage of the room itself, and on the planned installation location of the mixer.

Advantages and vulnerabilities

The advantages of the options are paid for by their characteristic features and difficulties.

A wall-mounted model with a shower is the easiest to install, but the finish will inevitably be splashed due to its high location, and you will have to stretch to adjust the flow. A fairly large faucet is not always harmonious with the interior of the room. The connections of a moving gander “cry” over time, and sometimes the tube breaks off in the hands of an unlucky owner. The inconvenience is usually offset by the lower cost of samples.

Single lever cast from LEMARK

Elghansa ECOFLOW BETA with swivel jib

Classic minimalism

The causes of problems are often due to careless installation: deviations in the center distance; eccentric skew, ends out of one plane; pinched gaskets - contribute to the violation of the tightness of the joints.

A built-in mixer is the best choice for a shower. Nothing extra that takes up space, just a cover with a small handle, an ergonomic hose, and a shower head. The shut-off and control unit is located inside the box (i-box), which is placed in the wall, taking into account the connecting dimensions of the overhead group. There are built-in modifications that represent an entire body recessed into a niche.

The need for wiring under the cladding complicates the application. Minor leaks are invisible, so unexpected breakdowns are likely. It is difficult or impossible to maintain or repair the system without completely removing the hidden components. High reliability costs money; little-known budget brands do not guarantee it.

Placing a built-in unit with a thermostat in the partition.

Installation operations require qualifications and special tools. Upon completion, it is recommended to check the network by hydraulic testing in accordance with SP 73.13330.2016, paragraph 7.2.

Explanatory videos:

From GROHE:

Domestic masters:

Fashionable acrylic bathtubs allow fittings to be inserted on any side. The tap on the side is always at hand for those who like to soak in some water. The design is small-sized and practical.

Laconic valve design.

The cast, non-rotating spout is free of potentially leaking moving joints and will withstand significant loads. However, there is no need to grab onto it, because the lambs are separated. The gander does an excellent job of filling the tank: a smooth, powerful stream, minimal splashes without the risk of breaking off the rotating part.

The shower head is inserted into the socket, the hose is wound under the side, and is easily pulled out to the length desired by the user. There are no twists that reduce the service life of the headset, the corners are free from loose sleeves.

Washbasin models with a fixed spout dominate. Companies offer a range of standard sizes of different heights; an innovation is a jet tilted by an aerator.

The highest hygiene is provided by sensor modifications, activated by moving the palm near the sensor.

Collection M2 Roca

Kludi contactless sample

The connection is made from below, using rubber-metal, corrugated stainless steel hoses; copper tubes; metal-plastic. It is inconvenient to tighten the housing studs under the sink; the angle of rotation of the key is limited. Oxidized hardware cannot be disassembled, so stainless steel fasteners are preferable.

Floor solutions are the elite of the world of faucets. In addition to their direct purpose, they emphasize class and give compositional completeness to the interior. Products of excellent quality are not affordable for everyone: brands start from hundreds of thousands of rubles. A floor stand needs a spacious open plan; a flagship is cramped in a typical bathroom of a multi-story building.

Roca Loft series

The supply of water through pipes laid in the floor requires a serious approach to waterproofing, assembly and testing. Warm electric floors impose additional restrictions.

Spout nozzle: savings or convenience

When choosing the right model, pay attention to the spout nozzle. There are two types of nozzle design: aerator or shower head.

The first option somewhat saves water consumption. The so-called “cavitation effect” occurs in the aerator: mixing of the water flow with air. When the tap is not fully open, a good amount of water comes out.

The second is used in two modes: shower or jet. The water flow is divided into many streams, eliminating the splashing effect.

The second option is more convenient, the first is more economical.

Control type

The mixer is used to mix cold and hot water from the pipes to the desired temperature, and also to switch the water between the shower and spout.

When regulating water, the following control systems are used:

1. Two-valve. Until recently, the control system, consisting of two valves located to the right and left of the spout, was the only one. Each of the taps is responsible for its own water flow and mixing occurs in a separate chamber of the device. This type of circuit is simple and easy to repair. Cranes are used as locking devices - axle boxes with a rubber gasket or with two ceramic plates ground into each other.
2. Single lever. Popular control system. The lever on the mixer moves in two planes: up - down and right - left. This makes it possible to regulate the pressure and temperature of the water in a special cartridge.
3. With built-in thermostat . With this control, the mixer has two flywheels. One sets the exact temperature on a pre-marked scale, and the second is responsible for water pressure.
4. Sensory. The device is turned on when the sensor responds to the heat of the user’s hand.

To switch between shower and spout, a simple two-position switch is usually installed on the device.

Choosing a shower head

The choice of shower heads is huge. When wondering how to choose a bathroom faucet, check out the types and functional features of a shower head. Various functions, design, irrigation area, material - how to make the right choice?

The most popular materials are plastic or metal. A metal watering can is stronger, more durable and more expensive. Plastic is cheaper, but has a shorter service life and breaks easily.

A modern shower head must have several modes of water supply and spraying. The jets can be intense, drip, massaging - pay attention to the number and variety of modes.

Watering can without adjustment

Watering can with adjustable modes

Shower head installation type: wall-mounted, ceiling-mounted or hand-held. If you choose a manual one, take care of the holder.

What materials are faucets made from?

For this use:

• an alloy of copper and zinc with the addition of tin and other alloying elements (brass);
• carbon steel with alloying additives or stainless material;
• heat-resistant plastic with external decorative coating;
• ceramics (natural or a mixture of mineral powder with epoxy resins).

Brass

For the manufacture of equipment, brass with different percentages of zinc and tin is used. The material is resistant to water.

To improve the appearance, the surface is coated with a layer of chrome or special enamels. Brass faucets have a large mass, so if they are installed inaccurately, threads or thin edges may become jammed.

Alloy steel

Steel (both carbon and stainless) is sometimes used to make cases. The material has a lower cost compared to non-ferrous metals.

Due to the increased strength, the technological process of processing workpieces becomes more complicated. Products made from carbon steel are susceptible to corrosion, but alloy steel can withstand exposure to water for decades.

Chromed plastic

Synthetic materials with decorative coating are used for the manufacture of additional elements (for example, valve handles or shower heads).

Plastic allows you to cast parts of complex geometric configurations and can withstand heating up to +80°C without loss of strength. When struck, the chrome coating peels off and the synthetic material cracks.

Ceramics

It is used for the manufacture of decorative elements. Low specific gravity allows you to reduce the weight of the mixer. The production uses natural or synthetic materials that can withstand heating and cooling cycles. Ceramics are used in the construction of cartridges. The smooth surface of the movable plates ensures reliable shutoff of water supply pipes.

Types and types of mounting structures for bath and shower faucets

Mounting options for bath and shower faucets can be as follows:

On the wall

The classic and most often used method of installing a structure. The recommended height is 20-30 cm relative to the edge of the bathtub. When choosing the length of the spout, make sure that the stream of water does not fall on the edge, but into the bath itself.

On a special stand

Used when the bath is located away from the wall. The complexity of installation is justified by the interesting interior of the bathroom.

On board the bath

An increasingly popular fastening method. It is used for bathtubs of complex design with ready-made holes for installing a mixer. If desired, you can make the holes yourself.

On the floor

A rare and expensive installation method used in design projects.

Comparison of models

The comparison table of the above presented models will help you more clearly see the characteristics of the mixers and make your choice.

Steel, brass, ceramics or silumin - choose the best

When arranging a bathroom, pay attention not only to the principle of operation, design and method of fastening the mixer. Be sure to check with the sellers what material it is made of:

• Stainless steel is the most practical and most popular option. A steel faucet is reliable, durable, inexpensive, and looks good in any interior.
• Brass or bronze have a longer service life, look stylish, but are also more expensive.
• Ceramics attract people with their varied designs and interesting shapes. Disadvantages include fragility and high price;
• Silumin is a cheap, but most unreliable material. The service life of a mixer of any configuration is 1-2 years.

If you need a high-quality faucet that works accurately and without failures, choose brass or steel.

Plumbing manufacturers: which one is better?

Let's start with the last one.
Most of the plumbing fixtures presented in showrooms and construction markets are made in China. These faucets are made from cheap materials, but they are not very expensive. It is precisely because of their cheapness that Chinese plumbing fixtures have so flooded the market. Russian manufacturers of bathroom faucets also occupy a large segment of the market. In terms of quality, they are better than Chinese ones, but still do not reach the world leaders. And the leaders are traditionally Finnish and German plumbing (for example, Finnish ORAS or German Grohe). It costs an order of magnitude more than Russian or Chinese, but these manufacturers guarantee a long service life of their products. When buying a Finnish or German faucet in a showroom, ask the seller about guarantees. Original models are guaranteed for 5 years or more. If there is no such guarantee, most likely they are offering you a fake.

The most famous brands of sanitary ware manufacturers in the world are the already mentioned Grohe and ORAS, as well as Hansgrohe (Germany), Kraus (USA), Geberit (Switzerland), Teka (Spain), Damixa (Denmark); Fima (Italy), Herbeau (France).

Faucet coating

For the external coating of faucets, enamel, chrome, stainless steel are used, and various coatings are used.

• Enameled coatings give the product a matte or grainy texture. There are no traces left on the enamel surface from touching fingers or drops of water.
• Chrome coating increases the durability and hygiene of the faucet. They are beautiful and easy to care for.

The question of how to choose the right bathroom faucet so as not to regret the purchase has almost been resolved. But there is one more criterion that it is advisable to take into account when purchasing plumbing fixtures.

Choosing a bathroom sink faucet

Separately, they consider the question of which bath faucet is best to buy for the sink. Options with a long tap that turns onto the bathroom are almost never used due to low mechanical strength. Separate nodes are more profitable. True, then you will have to look at models that fit the installed sink.

The following criteria influence the choice:

• design - you need cranes that are identical in appearance
• sink dimensions - the more compact it is, the shorter the spout will be
• the shape of the washbasin - the angle of fall of the water should correspond to the curves of the walls of the sink, so as not to create too much splash.

It is optimal when you select all the plumbing fixtures at the same time or buy the same type that was previously installed. So, if there is a tap hole on board, purchase a mortise model, otherwise a wall-mounted or built-in solution is suitable. Massive sinks require a large-looking faucet and vice versa.

Manufacturers and brands

Grohe

If you want to get famous German quality and relatively inexpensive prices, pay attention to Grohe faucets. The company appeared on the market in the late 90s of the twentieth century and continues to maintain a strong position among manufacturers and exporters of mixers.

Product advantages:

• Careful control over every stage of production.
• Strict adherence to the percentage of materials for the production of taps.
• Corrosion protection.
• Analysis of the quality of drainage of every hundredth plumbing fixture.

DAMIXA

The Danish manufacturer of stylish bathroom faucets combines quality and recognizable unique style in its devices. Over more than 80 years of existence, the brand has been appreciated by many customers - almost 50 thousand faucets arrive on store shelves every day.

Product advantages:

• Use of the latest innovative technologies in production.
• Official five-year warranty.
• Significant reduction in water consumption.
• Stylish design and full compliance with the requirements.

ORAS

Mixers manufactured at Finnish factories are an ideal combination of model design, electronics, modern materials and alloys.

Product advantages:

• Passing mandatory bench tests eliminates the possibility of leakage or breakdown of plumbing products.
• Automatic compensation of pressure and temperature differences in the water supply system.
• Reliability, durability, ease of use.
• Economical use of water resources.

Some tips from us:

• The most important indicator of quality is the material used to make the faucet. Traditionally, the best plumbing fixtures are made from centrifugally cast brass. This production method ensures uniformity of composition and strength.
• You can distinguish a quality product by its weight. German faucets hansgrohe, Grohe, Bulgarian Vidima and Italian-made plumbing fixtures are several times heavier than the products of numerous Chinese companies.
• Authenticity will be indicated by instructions printed on white paper, color packaging and a warranty card. Sellers are required to issue a warranty, the period of which is 2-5 years, depending on the manufacturer’s policy.
• Remember that you should not prioritize cheapness. Practice shows that buying a cheap faucet is almost always more expensive than purchasing a high-quality one.

Major breakdowns and their elimination

Let's look in more detail at what kind of breakdowns can occur during the operation of a faucet with a shower, as well as how to fix the faucet in the bathroom yourself. Malfunctions may be of the following nature:

Leak at the junction of the gib with the mixer body

This is the most common failure, since the gooseneck constantly rotates in different directions, which leads to wear of the round rubber gasket . This gasket is located in the groove of the gooseneck, so to replace it, the gooseneck must be disconnected.

Actions are performed in the following sequence:

• the fastening nut is unscrewed;
• the gander is removed;
• the remains of the old gasket are removed from the groove of the gander;
• a new gasket is installed;
• the gander is installed in place;
• the thread onto which the fixing nut will be screwed is wrapped with 2-3 layers of FUM tape;
• The gander fastening nut is tightened.

Leaking from under the control lever

This failure is typical for single-lever faucets and is caused by a broken cartridge. It is necessary to disassemble the mixer and replace the cartridge . In addition to this failure, there are several other signs of cartridge failure:

• the lever became difficult to operate;
• the temperature of the supplied water changes spontaneously;
• no supply of either hot or cold water;
• the tap does not close completely or does not open completely.

In this case, the cartridge needs to be replaced. Repairing a bathroom faucet with your own hands is done in the following order:

1. The red and blue plug is removed from the mixer body. Removing the tap lever
2. Using a Phillips screwdriver with a small tip, unscrew or loosen the fixing screw.
3. The lever is removed and the decorative cover is unscrewed.
4. Using an adjustable wrench, unscrew the nut holding the cartridge inside the housing.
5. The old cartridge is removed.
6. A new cartridge is inserted inside the body, after which the mixer is assembled. Self-replacement of the cartridge on the mixer

Important: There are protrusions on the cartridge body that must align with the recesses inside the body. Combine them carefully. If they don't match, the faucet will leak.

Two-valve mixer valve leaking

The cause of leakage in a two-valve mixer is wear or destruction of the sealing washer located on the faucet box. The crane box itself may also be destroyed. If your bathroom faucet is leaking, how can you fix it quickly and inexpensively? Only on your own, replacing the faucet axle box or the washer on it . There is nothing complicated about it.

All work is carried out with the water supply shut off:

• remove the plug from the leaking valve;
• unscrew the screw that secures the valve to the mixer body;
• using an open-end or adjustable wrench, unscrew the axle box;
• the valve axle itself or the sealing ring on it is replaced;
• a new or repaired crane axlebox is installed in the old place.

Faucet-shower switch leaking

There is another gasket between the faucet-shower switch and the housing that can be damaged. How to fix a bathroom faucet with a leaking switch? Just disassembling the switch itself:

• the button (switch) is removed, for which the rod is held in a stationary position with pliers;
• the valve with the stem is removed;
• the damaged oil seal is removed;
• a new oil seal is installed in its place ;
• the switch is assembled together.

Repair of a mixer with a flag switch is shown in the video.

Malfunction of the button or valve “faucet-shower”

If the button does not return back after turning off, then its spring is faulty. It is necessary to disassemble the switch as described above, and then remove the broken spring. A new spring is installed in its place .

Replacing the pushbutton switch spring

If the switch does not operate and water flows from the shower and tap at the same time, the cause is a cracked oil seal located on the switch rod . Necessary:

• remove the button (switch);
• remove the rod;
• replace the oil seal;
• assemble the switch.

Leak at the shower hose connection

This problem occurs due to damage to the hose gasket. If your bathtub faucet is leaking, do-it-yourself repair will involve replacing this gasket. To do this, simply unscrew the hose nut by hand and then remove the worn washer. A new paronite washer is installed in its place . Before tightening the nut, it is advisable to wrap a couple of layers of FUM tape around the thread.

Nowadays, a hygienic shower for a toilet with a mixer is becoming increasingly popular. Read more about it in our separate material.

Do you know how to remove limescale from a toilet? The problem is quite common, and there are several ways to solve it.

Main water filters help extend the life of plumbing fixtures. We talked about their types here.

Leak where the watering can connects to the hose

How to fix a bathroom faucet if there is a water leak at the junction of the hose and the shower head? Very simple. There is a round insulating gasket under the nut located on the hose. It is easy to replace even without the use of tools.

Weak water pressure

If the water pressure through the mixer has noticeably weakened, but the neighbors have remained the same, you should suspect, first of all, that the aerator filter located at the tip of the gander is clogged. You should unscrew it by hand or with pliers, and then check the pressure. If the pressure increased without an aerator, then the reason lay in its contamination. You need to carefully rinse it under running water, and then screw it back into place.

Tip: Often it is not the aerator itself that gets dirty, but the cleaning filter located at the entrance to the room. Therefore, if cleaning the aerator did not give anything, then unscrew the filter and check the cleanliness of its mesh.

We found out how to repair a bathroom faucet with a shower with your own hands. When using higher quality consumables, such problems will occur much less frequently.

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Other types

Using a thermostat in the design allows you to obtain the desired temperature of the water stream and maintain it constantly. But faucets of this kind are more expensive than conventional options. Thermostat sensors are the weak part of these devices. It is quite difficult to replace a failed element yourself: it is usually installed in the internal part of the structure, and therefore you will have to completely disassemble the mixer.

The use of electronics, infrared radiation or ultrasonic sensors allows you to save water, since the locks on the faucet are activated and allow a stream of water to pass through only if a person places his hands under the spout of the device. But such devices have not yet become widespread due to their high cost. They are mainly used in luxury hotels and inns. If such a device fails, you will need a highly qualified plumber who is familiar with electronics.

If you need to replace a faucet in the bathroom, then to dismantle the old one and install a new unit you need the following tools and materials:

• adjustable wrench and wrench;
• figured and simple screwdrivers;
• pliers;
• Teflon tape or tow.

It is necessary to know the structure of the mixer in order to promptly change worn out rubber gaskets and failed shut-off valves during its operation (if a standard device with one or two valves is used). If the lever version has deteriorated, then the cartridge may need to be replaced. To do this, clean the seat from lime particles (plaque) and install a new one.

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Lever lock

Such devices have gained wide popularity in recent years. This happened because in such designs it is possible to almost instantly regulate the temperature and water pressure by simply turning the lever. Such mixers are divided into the following two types:

• units with a vertical joystick;
• devices where the lever is fixed along the spout.

To correctly install lever structures, you need to consider the following:

1. An eccentric is used to strengthen the apparatus. A union nut and a decorative conical-type rosette (flange) are placed on top of it.
2. A special sealing gasket with a mesh filter is used. It serves for rough water purification and seals the joint between the union nut and the eccentric.

The central part of such lever-lock faucets consists of the following parts:

1. Lever mounted on a fixing screw.
2. A special cartridge is pressed to the installation site with a nut (this is the weakest part of such mixers).