How to Choose a Mixer

Unlike cheap and little-known brands, they can guarantee stable operation of your new mixer and sufficient durability. This article will explain how to choose a reliable mixer, what criteria exist for selection, and what to pay special attention to when purchasing.

Modern mixers can be divided into several types. They may differ in design and ease of use, as well as in their purpose. Thus, the process of choosing a mixer is limited by both your personal preferences and the location where it will be installed.

Single-lever Mixers

This type of mixer is very popular among buyers due to its simplicity of use. Only one lever handle is used to turn the water on/off and adjust its temperature. The angle of rotation automatically controls the water flow intensity. This type of mixer is quite easy to install and can be set up by anyone following the instructions. However, despite its versatility and simplicity, single-lever mixers are less common than two-valve models.

Two-valve Mixers

This is a classic mixer type with two valves. One controls the flow of cold water, and the other controls hot water. Undoubtedly, to achieve optimal water temperature, you need to perform more movements than with a single-lever mixer. However, a two-valve mixer offers more precise temperature control and helps conserve water. This becomes especially important for apartment owners with water meters.

Two-valve mixers have some disadvantages. In particular, many have experienced the problem where the tap doesn't close completely. This happens because rubber washers are exposed to hard water and deform over time. In such cases, ceramic inserts are recommended. They are much more durable than rubber and less susceptible to chemical substances present in tap water.

Thermostatic Mixers

This type of mixer has recently appeared on the plumbing market but has already become quite popular. The reason is that such a mixer eliminates the need to adjust water temperature every time and protects against scalding due to unexpected delivery of excessively hot or cold water.

This mixer is fully automatic. It features a special control panel with several handles. One controls water flow, and the other regulates temperature. Moreover, it’s possible to save chosen settings and reuse them in the future. Such a mixer is especially useful for families with children, as it ensures their safety.

Classification of Mixers by Purpose

Mixers can also be classified by their intended use. You can distinguish mixers for bathtubs, showers, and sinks. Each has its own features that should be considered during selection.

Shower mixers are typically more compact. They lack a bath/shower switch and do not have a separate spout. Water flows directly into the showerhead, mixing inside the mixer.

For sink mixers, selection criteria are purely individual—both aesthetic and structural. Many prefer to match different mixer styles within the same room. Of course, a sink mixer must match the size of the basin, and its spout should reach the center of the sink and rotate easily.

Mixer Material

Mixers can be made from a variety of materials, including different metal alloys, plastic, and ceramic. Clearly, the material must withstand exposure to chemical compounds inevitably present in tap water.

Undoubtedly, the best material for mixer production is brass. These mixers are nickel-plated for corrosion protection, then chrome-plated and coated with enamel. They are less prone to mineral deposits, making them more durable.

Plastic mixers are more affordable. They are lightweight, relatively strong, and completely neutral to water’s chemical properties. Their thermal conductivity is significantly lower than that of metal constructions, so they heat up less. However, a drawback is their shorter lifespan due to lower plastic strength.

Ceramic mixers have several undeniable advantages similar to those of plastic models. However, they are quite fragile—any impact can cause failure. A clear advantage of ceramic mixers is their appealing appearance.

Proper mixer selection directly affects the quality of your apartment’s water supply. Buying a low-quality plumbing device may bring along a range of problems: short lifespan, frequent breakdowns, and constant leaks. That’s why choosing a new mixer is a responsible decision. It’s better to spend time finding a truly good option than to suffer daily from the consequences of a hasty choice.