An indispensable element of plumbing is a mixer. Today, a wide range of products is open to the consumer, which has not only multifunctionality, like German faucets, but also has a great aesthetic appearance that complements the interior of the bathroom or kitchen. For their manufacture, metal with high strength and anti-corrosion characteristics is used. Special coating prevents plaque formation. Most models are additionally equipped with water filters.
German faucets: advantages and disadvantages
Mixer taps for German-made kitchens occupy the top of the podium among healthy competition. Like any technique, these devices have their advantages and disadvantages.
- German products have always been famous for their excellent quality. The manufacturers of this country have always been distinguished by their pedantry towards the choice of materials and the assembly of goods, regardless of the sphere of their consumption,
- German-made bathroom faucets are available in a wide range
- Optimally adapted product design stands out for its concise and at the same time modern forms,
- Thanks to the quality, the manufacturer gives the maximum guarantee of his products, at least 10 years.
German-made faucets have practically no drawbacks:
- The high cost of the goods is due to the use of more expensive materials in the manufacture,
- A limited number of service centers makes it sometimes unacceptable to repair a failed device,
- Not all devices are suitable for domestic standards.
The lineup
German faucets for the bathroom are classified based on the internal configuration:
- Two-valve devices. The main element in them is the axle box, which allows you to adjust the incoming water. However, this place is considered the weakest, since it is in it that a leak often forms. It is rather difficult to find a spare part in domestic stores. Preference should be given to products made of ceramics. The two-valve mixer is considered the most budget design.
- German kitchen faucets are presented in the form of single-lever devices resembling a conventional faucet, the difference of which is in adjusting the supply of cold or hot water with movements to the right or left. The pressure is regulated by pressing the lever up and down. They are popular in the kitchen due to their simple design, mounted on only one leg.
- A special category is thermostatic devices. They allow you to choose the temperature regime of water and maintain it without resorting to additional settings. The design consists of two knobs, in which one controls the pressure, and the other sets the temperature.
- Faucets for a bathroom with a non-contact shower are the last refinement in creating interiors. Water is supplied to them only if hands are brought directly to the tap. You can also adjust the temperature with hand movements. Many models of this line are equipped with LED illumination of the water jet. Contactless products are very sensitive to water quality.
German manufacturers
Mixers in the bathroom with shower Germany are presented on the domestic market by several manufacturers at once. The leader among them is Hansgrohe, which has become the progenitor of many subsidiaries.
This company has existed for over a hundred years and has three areas in the production of faucets designed for the bathroom:
- Classic,
- Vanguard
- Modern.
For the kitchen there are four series:
- Focus
- Talis,
- Pura vida,
- Metris
About 20 years ago, another brand was born under the auspices of the above company - Axor. Faucets of this brand differ in their authorial design and are represented by whole name collections. For example, the Uno series represents only wall-mounted devices developed by a duet of eminent designers.
Grohe
This is one of the large-scale manufacturers whose products are scattered in homes around the world. You can choose any model you like, with adjustable water pressure, temperature control and so on.
In addition, Grohe presents the entire range of existing mixers, touch, valve, lever. The company does not lag behind the latest innovations in this industry. Recently, models of mixers with a thermostat, in which water is preheated before being fed, have begun to enjoy popularity. You can choose devices in which there are no handles or valves at all, and the supply or shutdown of water is carried out using a balloon.
The advantage is that its production lines are located in almost all major countries, not to mention service centers. Among the models, you can equally choose both exclusive expensive items and those with a budget value. On average, the price range of products remains acceptable for products of excellent quality.
Elghansa
The most affordable producer. True, there are models intended only for exclusive use. At average prices, for example, bathtub faucets have decent quality.
Simplicity of design, availability of spare parts in case of failure are the main advantages. The manufacturer skillfully combines high-tech chrome or bronze parts in its products, giving the taps retro motifs.
Kraft, Kaiser, Kludi
Moderation of prices and the design of Kraft mixers adapted to different styles attracts a domestic consumer for a rather long time. Products are popular due to the presence of many service centers.
A reference to the wishes of the client, combined with increased quality. Kludi products are characterized by increased functionality and the use of high-quality materials that extend the life of the product.
Kaiser products cause mixed opinions among domestic consumers. Unfortunately, the eminent brand is copied by everyone.
However, the price per copy matches the value of the original. The reason for this is perhaps an insufficiently competent control service. Despite such epithets, the original Kaiser products have all the advantages of a German manufacturer.
How to choose the right one?
Slightly high prices should not be alarming, because quality products cannot be cheap. In addition, there are a number of criteria. Given them, you can choose a really decent plumbing:
- Any product must be accompanied by supporting documents, quality certificates from the manufacturer,
- Experts recommend purchasing products in the middle price range, which will avoid overpaying,
- A correctly selected model, for example, kitchen faucets can only be vertical, which are mounted on the washbasin. German faucets for the bathroom are available only with a wide spout, thanks to which the filling of the tank is much faster.
Preliminary consultation with the designer will allow you to choose the right model. When choosing, it is also worth considering the quality of accessories, because the smallest detail is able to visually change any interior.
Classification
All the models currently sold in stores can be divided into 4 main groups according to the control method:
- Dual valve
- Single lever
- Touch faucets.
- Mixer thermostats.
Two-valve German sink faucets in the bathroom, presented in the form of a faucet and 2 valves designed to regulate the supply of hot and cold water, dominated the plumbing market in the recent past. But single-lever models, which are more advanced in design, were able to squeeze outdated competitors. At present, single-handle mixers are popular with buyers, noting the beauty of the design, ease of installation and ease of use.
In the design of single-lever bathtub taps made in Germany, the regulating mechanism is called a cartridge. This technical node is considered the most vulnerable place in the device, because due to the poor quality of water it can break down over time. The presence of rust in water, scale and metal particles, sand due to insufficient cleaning and worn out networks. Installation of water purification filters will extend the life of a single lever mixer.
Benefits of Touch Faucets and Thermostats
Recently in the Russian market single-lever models also have competitors called thermostatic mixers. They stand out from the rest of the devices due to:
- design reliability
- stylish design
- operating comfort level,
- safety of use.
Such German bathroom faucets are made in the form of a panel on which there are handles. At the same time, one of them makes it possible to adjust the temperature of the water supply, which will remain until the moment the settings are changed again. Another handle is needed to turn the water off and on.
The main function of the thermostats is considered to be a safety stop - users of the device, when turned on, are protected from possible burns, since it is impossible to get water with a temperature of more than 38 degrees. And turning off this function, you can get hot water. In addition, the thermostat protects people from too cold water coming from the tap. These features are especially interesting for families with children. At the moment, safer and better faucets at an affordable price simply can not be found.
Touch models
The next advanced model is considered to be sensory, in which the design does not provide for the presence of levers and valves. However, if you are interested in how to disassemble a German bathroom faucet, then in this case it is almost impossible.
Due to a special sensor, which is built into the housing of this device, water is turned on when an object of a certain size is near the crane. In this case, after the disappearance of the object from the coverage area, the water is turned off. Such faucets are usually installed in the toilets of cinemas, hypermarkets, offices, restaurants and other institutions.
Using this type of mixer can provide a fairly economical flow of water. Moreover, for homeowners who have installed flow meters for cold and hot water, this device will significantly reduce the cost of housing services.
The advantages of a universal mixer
In small bathrooms, plumbing is often installed at close range. It is convenient to use a universal German bath mixer with a long spout (30 centimeters or more).
Basically, they can be used simultaneously in the bath and sink, you just need to turn the spout in the necessary direction. But the demand for this type of faucets falls every year, since new models of this equipment come with strictly separated functionality, which ensures the proper quality of work and the comfort of using the device.
What material to prefer?
Most of the models offered by manufacturers are made of brass and chrome. Devices created from these metals, as well as their combinations, are considered the most convenient and reliable.
Often brass models are coated with special enamel or nickel, while the product acquires a brilliant beautiful shade. But you must understand that the enamel coating during operation can be damaged, and this will adversely affect the appearance of the mixer. Nickel causes allergies in some people. Therefore, experts advise you to buy chrome-plated devices produced by the best European companies.
Brands
Among the high-quality models, the top positions are occupied by German manufacturers of bathroom faucets: Grohe, Hansgrohe, etc. Caution should be taken in Chinese cheap models, since the materials used to make these devices can ruin the quality of the water.
Once in the plumbing store, be sure to consult with managers what mixer is best to buy for the bathroom. Take the time to choose, as the device is purchased for more than one year of use. If the installation will be done by professionals, it is better to entrust them with the selection of equipment.
German faucets: advantages and disadvantages
German bathroom faucets, judging by the reviews, are considered the best. But, like the rest of the technique, these devices have certain disadvantages and advantages.
So, the advantages include the following:
- German bathroom faucets are presented in a huge lineup.
- The products of this country have always been famous for their high quality. Manufacturers have always been meticulous in the selection of materials, as well as the assembly of goods, regardless of the sphere of consumption.
- Due to quality, the manufacturer provides a maximum guarantee for products - at least 10 years.
- The adapted design of the models stands out for its modern and at the same time laconic forms.
German bathroom faucets have practically no flaws, although consumers note in the reviews:
- A limited number of service centers sometimes makes the repair of a failed device unacceptable.
- Not all models are suitable for Russian standards.
And the high price of the goods, which customers complain about, is due to the use of more expensive materials in the manufacture.
Hansgrohe
German bathtub faucets with shower in the domestic market are represented by several companies at once. Among them, the leader is Hansgrohe, which has become the progenitor of most subsidiaries. This company has existed for over 100 years. It has 3 directions in the manufacture of mixers:
- avant-garde
- classic,
- modern.
About 20 years ago, another brand was born under the auspices of this company - Axor. The products of this brand are famous for their author's design. It is represented by entire collections. So, for example, in the Uno series there are only wall-mounted devices created by a duet of famous designers.
Kaiser, Kraft, Kludi
Adapted to any style, the design and moderate prices of Kraft faucets have been attracting domestic consumers for quite some time. Judging by the reviews, these products are very popular due to the presence of a large number of service centers.
Kludi mixers also feature high functionality and the use of high quality materials that extend the life of each product.
But Kaiser products from domestic consumers cause mixed opinions. The fact is that a famous brand is often copied. At the same time, the price of copies is no lower than that of the original, but quality can seriously fail a reckless buyer.
Mixer selection
According to experts, a little overpriced prices at German faucets should not be alarming, since high-quality products cannot be cheap. There are a number of criteria that must be considered when choosing a decent plumbing:
- Most often, they are advised to buy products in the middle price range, which makes it possible to avoid overpaying or buying low-quality products.
- Each product must be accompanied by various supporting documents, as well as quality certificates.
- German mixers are always available with a wide nose, due to which the filling of the tank is much faster.
- The right model will allow you to choose a consultation with the designer.
- It is also worth considering the quality of accessories, since the smallest detail can visually change the interior.
In addition, it is necessary to choose a mixer, understanding the difference between all existing types of locking mechanisms. Because it is these elements that control the flow of water. Once again we will dwell on each of them.
Single lever mixers
Today, the most reliable and convenient are single-lever German bath faucets with shower. Here, water flows are controlled by a ball mechanism or a special removable cartridge. The selection of such a mixer allows you to adjust the temperature of the water and its pressure by moving the handle left-right and up-down. In this design, it is possible to instantly shut off water.
Valve mixers
They were incredibly popular in Soviet construction. These are lamb cranes, known to everyone since childhood. Here, for any supply of hot or cold water has its own separate faucet. Their principle of operation is based on twisting the holes of the screw device through which water enters. When the tap is loosened, a hole begins to open, and water enters the bathtub in a stream. When tightening, the feed access is blocked.
Thermostatic Mixers
It is worth noting that the models of this series have long been produced by well-known manufacturing companies. Thermostatic faucets are equipped with two handles, one of which regulates the water pressure, and the second has a scale for setting the required temperature.
The main task of a thermostatic mixer is to supply water of a given pressure and temperature, which are independent of the temperature in the networks and pressure parameters. Automatically, the thermostat in the housing, as well as the pressure sensor, are responsible for performing these tasks in the control unit.
Electronic faucets
Such models of mixers belong to innovative sanitary fittings, which differs dramatically from mechanical counterparts. They do not have ordinary taps, handles or valves. It is enough to bring your hands to the device, and the water will pour from the tap by itself. This is due to the built-in infrared sensor that responds to any foreign object. It gives a command to the shut-off valve located here, while the water pressure and temperature are automatically regulated.
Varieties of mixers from Germany
The mixer has a practical and aesthetic purpose. On the one hand, it provides water with the right temperature and pressure, and on the other hand, it serves as a decoration of the room. Plumbing from Germany successfully copes with these tasks, which is regularly updated with new collections.
Depending on the design, the mixers distinguish:
- single lever
- two-valve
- with thermostat
- sensory.
The two-valve mixer is a familiar model that has not lost its popularity due to its practicality and universal, classic design. The adjustment of the water supply is carried out by a crane box, which can be with a ceramic insert or a rubber seal. Ceramics are more durable, but sensitive to the quality of tap water. From the accumulation of particles of rust, sand and salts quickly fails. These parts are subject to periodic replacement and are sold as parts.
In a single lever mixer, the pressure setting and switching between hot and cold water is done with one knob. The lever has a smooth stroke and to enable a fairly easy movement. Such devices are convenient to use, in addition, the position of the handle with the optimal temperature regime is maintained.
The thermostatic design has two regulators for adjusting the pressure and temperature, which is maintained during subsequent starts. They look stylish and attractive.
Touch cranes with proximity switches have already become a fashion trend. It is triggered by a signal from a built-in sensor that responds to infrared radiation. Just put your hands up and water will pour. The temperature here is regulated by shifting the arms to the right and left.
The water supply time, pressure, working distance and other parameters are set on the control panel. Models with additional jet illumination with LEDs look beautiful and luxurious. However, such designs are sensitive to water quality and capricious in operation.
According to the installation method, the faucets are divided into built-in, wall-mounted and attached to plumbing.
Advantages and disadvantages
The advantages of German sanitary products include:
- impeccable quality, time-tested,
- a variety of models in styles, forms and functionality,
- an abundance of innovative and design solutions,
- long term factory warranty - over 10 years.
Among the shortcomings, users name the high price, insufficient number of service centers, difficulties with original spare parts and non-compliance with Russian standards, which leads to problems during connection and operation.
Material
German manufacturers pay particular attention to the choice of material for the manufacture and coating. The mixer must be resistant to corrosion and contamination, aesthetically pleasing and easy to maintain. Plumbing is made of stainless steel, bronze or brass.
The stainless steel is the most short-lived, but still popular. A decorative coating of nickel, chrome, enamel or a design drawing is applied to the metal. The most high-quality and esthetic chrome coating is recognized. Enamel looks spectacular and beautiful, but it is easily damaged and the tap gradually loses its quality.
Kitchen faucets
German kitchen faucets come in wall-mounted and with a sink mount. The crane on the wall is an opportunity to choose the best place and location in height to get more work space.
The sink mixer is compact and ergonomic. The main thing is that the height of the spout is sufficient to wash the dishes. Both types of designs have a rotary gander, which is important when working in the kitchen.
Additional features provide products with a retractable, flexible watering can. They are especially convenient when there is a two-section sink, where you can wash dishes and vegetables at the same time.
Kitchen faucets with a watering can are made in two versions: compact and professional. In the first case, the hose is hidden inside the spout, and in the second it is located nearby.
The devices support two modes of water supply “Blue” and “Red” with the corresponding markings on the case. In a separate category, products with built-in water purification filters are presented, which allows to extend the life of household appliances and use tap water for cooking.
Manufacturers and popular models
Mixers from Germany are represented by a number of well-known brands.
Hansgrohe has been at the forefront of the market for over a century. The company offers classic, avant-garde and modern style mixers from eminent designers. The kitchen appliance series is represented by several collections: Focus, Talis, Pura Vida and Metris.
The large and world-famous Grohe company produces all types of faucet designs for bathroom and kitchen, not forgetting to delight with new products. For example, push-button or built-in models controlled by a balloon.
Bath faucets with shower (Germany) are equipped with a short or long spout, a switch and a flexible hose with a watering can. The package remains classic, but the performance will please the most demanding customers. For example, Axor Montreux is made in retro style with a characteristic horn holder and cross-valves. Hansgrohe Focus E2 has a modern design and additional protection against reverse current, a self-cleaning and aeration system is integrated.
Elghansa brand mixers, made in different styles from retro to hi-tech, are affordable in price. A variety of mid-range devices is Kraft. The company has the largest number of service centers, which greatly simplifies maintenance.
The German manufacturer of faucets Kludi offers functional and high-quality sanitary ware, presented with products for sinks, sinks, bidets, bathtubs and showers. The collections of Medi-Care, Standard, Scope and Joop in a modern style are made in a minimalist design with strict lines. Attractive and elegant are the classic MX and Q-Beo series. Clear lines, conciseness and style are Zenta, Bozz, Bingo Star and L-Ine.
Right Buying Criteria
Faucets (Germany) for kitchen and bathroom are presented in almost all retail outlets. They differ in cost, design and device. When choosing a model, you need to consider the installation location, product purpose, frequency of use and the general style of the room.
In order not to fall for a fake with an attractive price, you need to check the documents and certificate for the goods that are with the seller. It should be remembered that the original mixer from Germany cannot be cheap. But still, branded companies produce several models of the budget category. They are not inferior in quality, but do not have an additional set of options. This option is quite acceptable when the main criterion is functionality.
Monocranes with one switch for flow and temperature are most popular with consumers. Compared with the double-crane system, they consume less water and are convenient to use. Connoisseurs of comfort and families with children should pay attention to the taps with a thermostat. Thus, burns can be avoided and there is no need to worry about the temperature of the water flow at the time of switching on.
A practical and convenient wide spout nozzle on bathtub taps (Germany) significantly reduces the filling time of the bowl. Electronically controlled constructions allow you to not worry about open taps and save water.
Customer reviews
Anton, Moscow: «I use the Grohe Eurosmart Cosmopolitan sink mixer with a switch-on. Minimum water consumption and always the right temperature. Modern, stylish and comfortable.».
Vladimir, Moscow: «He put the Grohe Grandera faucet in the shower without spout and with one lever. It has an unusual cubic shape with smooth lines. There is nothing superfluous, everything is compactly placed on the wall. "
Types of German faucets
All mixers, regardless of who they are made of, are divided into vertical and horizontal. They are also classified by internal structure into the following types:
- two-valve
- thermostatic
- single lever
- non-contact.
Let's consider them in more detail.
Two-valve mixers are one of the most popular among buyers. In some cases, this is due to the fact that new models of mixers are quite difficult to choose for interior design, and their cost is slightly higher. The same cannot be said for the dual-valve mixer, which fits very easily into the overall look. Additionally, it is worth saying that the classics will always be held in high esteem.
The basis of two-valve mixers is a crane box. It makes it easy to regulate this or that water, which is already coming out. But it is worth saying that this place is also the most vulnerable. It is here that various leaks most often appear. When buying this type of cranes, it is recommended to give preference to ceramic models.
Single-lever mixers manufactured in Germany have appeared on the market relatively recently, but have gained great popularity in a short period of time. By their design, they very much resemble an ordinary faucet, only here the adjustment of hot and cold water is carried out by turning the knob left or right, and its pressure - by movements up and down.
It is also worth noting that single lever mixers are usually not difficult to disassemble and repair on their own. They are very often still used in kitchens, as they have one common leg for mounting on a washbasin.
Looking at thermostatic faucets, you begin to understand what the technique has come to. They allow, having set the temperature regime only once, to maintain it constantly without additional adjustments. Such mixers are equipped with two handles, one of which regulates the pressure of water, and the second - temperature.
Contactless faucets are one of the latest fashion trends, as they fully meet their name. You just need to raise your hands, and the water itself will begin to flow from the tap. In this case, you can adjust the temperature by movements of the hands to the right or left. Additionally, in some models, it is possible to highlight the water in different colors using a special LED. It looks very beautiful and luxurious. But such units are quite picky about water, and not all apartments will work correctly.
Advantages and disadvantages of German mixers
If we take into account all the presented manufacturers of mixers in our market and German products, then the latter have several advantages. Consider them:
- high quality. There is no doubt if this is a genuine German-made mixer. This country is famous all over the world for its pickiness in quality and the desire to create everything only high-quality,
- a huge number of models. Also, in addition to high quality, the Germans also have a unique taste. Designers create the most rigorous, and at the same time futuristic forms. It’s worth appreciating,
German washbasin mixer
Naturally, there are also drawbacks. The first of these is high cost. Not everyone can afford to buy a quality faucet at a frankly overpriced price. Also here can be attributed the very small availability of service centers in our country that will serve you. The third point is the frequent inconsistency with our standards. But this is nothing compared to what you can get in return.
The correct purchase of German faucets
German faucets for the bathroom in our country can be found on almost every counter or on every shelf in the store. Naturally, they differ in price and, accordingly, in quality. For this reason, you need to be especially careful not to purchase a fake under the guise of a real exclusive.
First of all, when choosing, ask about the availability of documents and certificates of the manufacturer. Each outlet with overseas products must have such papers. If they refuse to provide them to you, then it’s better not to risk it, you can easily purchase products that will fall apart already during installation.
German faucet in the Russian bathroom
Further, if you have been provided with all the papers, you can proceed with the selection of a mixer. It should be remembered that German manufacturers of faucets are trying to maintain value at the quality level. This means that when you purchase a relatively cheap product, you may be disappointed in it. Another thing is an expensive exclusive. It is beautiful and reliable. That's just the cost of "biting." Not everyone can afford this item for a lot of money. For this reason, experts recommend dwelling on options with an average cost. It is both high quality and affordable.
Additional products
In addition to bath faucets, the Germans also produce kitchen attributes. They are the same quality and beautiful. By installing German kitchen faucets, you can easily emphasize the individuality of the room. There are exactly the same models as for the bathroom. The only difference is that there are no horizontal views, as they are all mounted on a wash basin. Also, the kitchen faucets are non-contact faucets. But they only recently appeared on sale and have not yet been able to get decent recognition from the population.
It is also worth mentioning about accessories from German manufacturers. These are, first of all, reflectors on mixers.They are all made of high-quality metal, which does not rust, does not change its brightness and luster. These elements will easily add completeness to the room.
Output
Drawing a conclusion from the foregoing, it is worth recalling that you need to be as careful as possible when buying this piece of plumbing. An assortment of fakes abounds in the market, and at the same time up to 3 fake units are found for every single original. They are easily distinguished by cost, availability of certificates and the provision of a guarantee.
Also, be sure to consult with a designer before buying. This will allow you to choose exactly the products that are suitable for the room and make it complete not only functionally, but also visually.
