How to choose the right kitchen & toilet faucet?

When updating the interior of the kitchen or doing repairs, it is important to consider the use of parts that will make everyday life more comfortable. Choosing a quality faucet that does not splash water all over the kitchen, does not leave fingerprints on the surface, and does not require effort to turn on the water is an important step that will make the kitchen truly comfortable.

When choosing a faucet, it is important to pay attention to several important aspects.

Decide on the material

Most faucets are made of brass, a material that is durable, strong and affordable. Chrome plating or special enamel coating can be used as a decorative coating in production:

- chrome faucets are the most durable, but require more careful maintenance. Traces of water drops, food, and finger marks are visible on the surface;

- nickel coating has a matte sheen. It does not require special care and is also durable;

- bronze faucets get a special shine due to spraying. The material is durable, but is afraid of chips and scratches.

The most budget option are faucets made of silumin, an alloy of silicon and aluminum. Such products are inexpensive. However, they will not last more than a year. It is advisable to install a silumin faucet in a country house or other place where water will not be used regularly.

Silumin is destroyed by hot water. You should not choose brass faucets with silumin parts.

Stainless steel mechanisms will last a long time in any kitchen. However, they are much more expensive than brass ones, so they are not so popular.

To arrange a kitchen with elements of stone, ceramics or granite, you can choose the appropriate mixer. Manufacturers suggest paying attention to brass taps with a decorative coating. They do not require special care, they perfectly complement the interior. Traces of water and finger touches are almost invisible on the surface. Among the disadvantages, one can note fragility, as well as high cost.

To arrange a summer house or when looking for a very budget option, you can pay attention to a plastic mixer. It is not subject to rust and is not afraid of water. However, such a tap looks very specific.

Different types of control

Traditional faucets with two valves located on the sides of the spout can be chosen for decorating an interior in the country style, Provence or the ever-fashionable classics. They reduce water consumption and are also easier to repair. However, to turn on the water on such a faucet, you need to use two hands. In addition, you will have to adjust the temperature each time.

Two-valve mixer

A more convenient option is considered to be single-lever faucets, which are easy to start with one hand. On faucets with a high spout, such a lever is located on the side, on compact models it is located on top. Using such a faucet is especially convenient during cooking. Also, single-lever faucets are slightly cheaper than similar models with two valves.

Single lever mixer

Another option that is gaining popularity is faucets with a thermostat, which are mounted in the body of the faucet or sink. Water of a pre-set temperature will flow if you bring your hand to a special sensor. It is important to consider that despite the economical water consumption, such faucets can cause slight discomfort. If you need to fill a large container, you will have to start the system several times.

Thermostatic mixer

What You Need to Know About Shut-off Valves

The operating principle of single-lever and double-lever mixers differs due to the use of different shut-off mechanisms - valves that are responsible for closing and opening the water.

Single-lever models are equipped with cartridges that can be made of different materials:

- ceramic, are durable, but can wear out due to large particles and impurities entering the system. To avoid failure, it is recommended to install additional filters;

- ball - the optimal price-quality ratio. They are durable, but over time they can start to jam;

- plastic, which are low in price and have a short service life.

Two-valve mixers are equipped with crane boxes and rubber gaskets. The operability of the tap depends on their condition.