The modern market offers a wide range of mixers for various purposes and designs. Which of them will successfully fit into the interior of the kitchen and will not cause problems during operation? This question interests many buyers. Mixers of the Russian company for the production of sanitary ware FLORENTINA have already managed to win a lot of positive customer reviews. This article discusses the most popular models with a description of their advantages and disadvantages.
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What are mixers? Their classification implies division into groups depending on various parameters. First of all, it is worth highlighting:
They differ not only in appearance, but also in the principle of operation. In a double-lever, it is extremely simple - a separate tube with hot or cold water is supplied to each tap. When the valve is turned on, the liquid begins to flow into the connecting tube, from which water flows with the necessary force. The spout is equipped with a special atomizer, depending on the shape of which the type of jet varies, it can be distributed into several streams.
Single-lever models are a more complex device. Mixing of water happens by means of a special cartridge. In it, the flow of water is limited by tightened ceramic plates. When the tap is lifted up, the valve opens, and when turned to the left or right, the water temperature is adjusted. Unlike the two-valve version, the connection of pipes of different water supply is carried out at one point.
A separate category is thermostatic mixers (or thermostats). Their main feature is the supply of water of a given temperature, regardless of the parameters of the water supply network. Such devices are equipped with two handles, one of which is responsible for the temperature, the other for the water pressure.
Touchless faucets are based on the operation of an infrared sensor to control a shut-off valve, which is triggered when a hand is brought close to the device.Temperature and pressure are controlled by a screw in the housing. Devices of this type are usually powered by mains or lithium batteries.
Also to be distinguished:
Kitchen faucets, as a rule, have a large spout height, as well as mainly only one type of installation - vertical on a sink or countertop. Kitchen faucets have special requirements for wear resistance, as this device is used more often than the others.
Basin faucets differ in the installation method and type depending on the installation location. By type of installation should be distinguished:
Their difference corresponds to their name. In concealed faucets, only the outer part is visible, with the help of which the user controls the water temperature and pressure. Such faucets practically do not take up space in the room and look neater and more elegant. The disadvantage of this type is the complexity of replacing the elements of the mixer in case of failure. One of the varieties of such devices is a cascade-type mixer, where water flows from the side of the bath like a waterfall.
Outdoor faucets also need to be divided into several groups according to the installation site. The most common options are vertical with installation on a sink or countertop. These models have a small height and spout length. The supply of hot and cold water is carried out under the sink from the wall. They are easy to use and easy to change - most often the diameter of such devices is the same.
The next type is outdoor wall-mounted faucets. Such models are installed in bathtubs and shower cabins.This option can serve both one and several consumers (spouts) at once. Switching between them is carried out using a special diverter.
Separately, you should consider mixers from the floor. As a rule, they are used for free-standing bathtubs and are completed with a manual watering can. In addition, this option is also applicable to sinks in case of their considerable distance from the walls. The placement of mixers from the floor should be approached especially carefully. Faucets from the floor are very beautiful, but extremely expensive.
Which mixer is better to buy? The answer to this question is quite complicated, since when choosing a new plumbing device, several factors must be taken into account at once, ranging from functionality to its price. So, what should you pay attention to when buying.
The first step is to determine what it is for, that is, the place where the device will be installed, as well as the supply of water supply pipes. This will determine the installation method and the number of spouts. For example, one consumer is enough for the kitchen, and there will be several for the bathroom, for example, a shower head mounted on a special wall holder with a bar.
The most common are brass faucets. They are durable and reliable, protected from the negative effects of moisture and relatively cheap. Such devices are additionally covered with a layer of decorative processing. The most commonly used chrome, nickel and bronze coatings. The use of special processing allows you to extend the service life and give the mixer a pleasant appearance.
Silumin mixers are not the most reliable option.Such products are made from an alloy of silicon and aluminum and are often of Chinese origin. The service life of such devices is no more than one year, and hot water has a particularly destructive effect on them. True, it is very practical to use silumin models for temporary solutions, for example, for giving.
Stainless steel devices are increasingly losing ground due to their high cost. However, they are still reliable, easy to use and unpretentious.
Faucets with ceramic, granite or stone coating should be placed in a separate group. Such faucets are perfectly combined with stone sinks and countertops, they are easy to clean, but they have a very high fragility of the decorative layer.
Single-lever models are distinguished primarily by ease of operation - you can control the pressure and temperature with one hand. Two-valve classic faucets are currently less in demand and slightly more expensive, but they are more economical in terms of water consumption, are easy to maintain and perfectly complement traditional-style kitchen interiors. Of the advantages of contactless devices, the minimum consumption should be highlighted. In this case, if it is necessary to collect a large volume of liquid, the hand will have to be applied several times.
The operational reliability of mixers is determined by the type of locking devices responsible for turning on / off the water flow. Models with one lever are equipped with special cartridges made of various materials. The most reliable of them is ceramics. Such devices can last up to 10 years, while it is worth remembering that ceramics are “afraid” of solid particles contained in water, so additional filtration must be used.
Ball cartridges are also quite durable, but periodically "stick", especially in cases of prolonged absence of use. As for plastic devices, this is an extremely unreliable material and can only be used in budget models. In two-valve models, a valve box and a gasket, which can be rubber or ceramic, are used as a locking device. Ceramic seals have the highest wear resistance, rubber seals are cheaper and easier to replace.
High spouts are most often used for kitchen faucets - it is more convenient to wash mountains of dishes and pour water into large pots. The required height is determined by the depth of the sink bowl. In the case of bowls with a depth of more than 20 cm, it is advisable to use a high spout, in other cases its size is not a determining factor - different models can be used. The spout of the mixer must be located in the center of the sink - otherwise water may accumulate behind the sink or drip onto the floor. For the kitchen, it is also necessary to provide a mechanism for turning to the maximum angle.
Special features include:
The mixer should effectively complement the interior of the room. It is best to choose it in the same series with a sink or sink.For high-tech interiors, chrome-plated single-lever mixers are best suited. For a classic style, the best option is double-lever brass devices. In the case of a Scandinavian interior, it is necessary to select appliances made of stainless steel or with a stone or ceramic finish.
Thus, the criteria for choosing a mixer are quite diverse. You should not focus only on how much it costs. A quality device is primarily determined by operational reliability, as well as the materials used in its manufacture.
Which mixer brand is best? Among the various options for high-quality top-end devices from the best world manufacturers, it is worth highlighting the plumbing devices of the Russian company FLORENTINA. The popularity of the models of this brand is due to the use of certified cast composites in the production, which ensure a long service life of devices, an attractive appearance and a relatively inexpensive cost.
FLORENTINA has been present on the sanitary ware market for over 15 years. During this period, a team of professionals managed to create the most modern and high-tech production in Russia. In the manufacture of FLORENTINA products, our own innovative developments in the field of inorganic chemistry and physics are used (the company has its own research center). High quality assembly of products is achieved by maximum automation and robotization of the production line.
The best models of this brand are popular with buyers not only in Russia, but also abroad.To help you choose the right option for this company, below is a ranking of FLORENTINA quality faucets based on user reviews in 2022.
FL-02 | FL-06 | Alpha AV | Delta-AV | Omega-AV | Vita-AV | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Material | Brass | Brass | Brass | Brass | Brass | Brass |
Stop valve | Ceramic cartridge 40 mm | 35 mm ceramic cartridge | Ceramic cartridge 40 mm | Ceramic cartridge 40 mm | Ceramic cartridge 40 mm | Ceramic cartridge 40 mm |
Spout shape | Traditional | Traditional | Traditional | Traditional | Traditional | Traditional |
Design | Turning | Turning | Turning | Turning | Turning | Turning |
spout height | 170 mm | 250 mm | 246 mm | 225 mm | 240 mm | 226 mm |
spout length | 210/235 mm | 220 mm | 174 mm | 200 mm | 198 mm | 168 mm |
Mounting | Horizontal | Horizontal | Horizontal | Horizontal | Horizontal | Horizontal |
Number of mounting holes | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Eyeliner type | Flexible ½'' | Flexible ½'' | Flexible ½'' | Flexible ½'' | Flexible ½'' | Flexible 3/8'' |
Pull-out spout | Not | Not | Not | Not | Not | There is |
Aerator | There is | There is | There is | There is | There is | There is |
Switch to filter | There is | There is | Not | Not | Not | Not |
The weight | 1.4 kg | 1.2 kg | 1.7 kg | 1.7 kg | 1.5 kg | 1.89 kg |
average price | 7900-12300 | 8500-11900 | 6000-8500 | 5900-9800 | 4100-8300 | 7300-11600 |
Top seller in 2022, a faucet that combines the functionality of a conventional faucet and a water filtering system. A rich choice of colors for granite coating - 8 different solutions from sand to anthracite. The model is equipped with a 40 mm ceramic cartridge. Among the shortcomings, it is worth highlighting the small height of the spout and not the most optimal installation scheme - the supply hoses are screwed in by the braid and cannot be tightened with a key.
No less popular model made of high quality brass. Successfully fits into the interior of kitchens of any style, truly creates comfort and convenience. The faucet is equipped with an aerator, which provides an even and economical flow of water. Easily mounted on a countertop or sink and connected to the water supply. In addition to the device itself, the kit includes a flexible piping kit and a set of fasteners
Reliable, time-tested model for the kitchen with a swivel spout. A high level of workmanship, quiet operation, good coverage - this is not a complete list of the advantages of this model. A large selection of colors allows you to choose the right faucet, taking into account the design features of the kitchen. The standard diameter of the connection to the water supply pipe and a set of fasteners in the kit will allow you to quickly install the device on the workplace.
An excellent option in terms of price-quality ratio. Quick installation with flexible hoses (everything needed included), wide angle of rotation, impeccable coating quality. Well suited to sinks and sinks of various colors. The fastening design is very strong - nothing dangles, the parts move smoothly, without jamming and moderately tight. The high spout allows you to wash dishes of various sizes.
Budget-level faucet coated with high-quality Florensil composite material with special strength and resistance to aggressive environmental influences and temperature extremes. Reliable and practical, will decorate any kitchen. The mixer is supplied with all necessary accessories for installation on a sink.
Bestseller of 2022. Model with a convenient pull-out spout. A real professional kitchen faucet.Unique design, various colors and high-quality non-staining coating - this faucet is falling in love with more and more housewives.
Tau AV | Ita AV | FL-05 | |
---|---|---|---|
Material | Brass | Brass | Brass |
Coating | Bronze | Granite | Bronze |
Stop valve | Ceramic faucet box | Ceramic faucet box | Ceramic faucet box |
Spout shape | Traditional | Traditional | Traditional |
Design | Turning | Turning | Turning |
spout height | 169 mm | 247 mm | 173 mm |
spout length | 235 mm | 174 mm | 200 mm |
Mounting | Horizontal | Horizontal | Horizontal |
Number of mounting holes | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Eyeliner type | Flexible ½'' | Flexible ½'' | Flexible ½'' |
Pull-out spout | Not | Not | Not |
Aerator | There is | There is | There is |
Switch to filter | Not | Not | Not |
The weight | 2.2 kg | 1.68 kg | 1.2 kg |
average price | 5800-12000 | 5000-10800 | 5700-8000 |
Double-lever faucet with swivel spout in retro style. Suitable for kitchens in classic and Provencal style. Durable and durable bronze finish. The faucet is equipped with a reliable ceramic faucet box and a flexible ½" hose.
Modern style swivel spout faucet with a wide variety of colors (9 types) and chrome fittings.A unique coating of the latest composite material with special strength, resistance to external influences and antibacterial properties. The necessary materials for connection are included in the package.
Classic model with bronze finish. Smooth-running ceramic faucets, a spout with a large angle of rotation, a unique aerator to reduce consumption and reduce the amount of deposits - the mixer has all the necessary functionality for installation in the kitchen of a modern housewife. The device is easily connected to the system using a flexible connection kit. A 35 mm mounting hole is required for installation on a sink or countertop.
According to customers, FLORENTINA faucets are the universal choice for any kitchen. The unique materials used in the production give the products a special appearance and durability. A wide range of color solutions, as well as device designs, allow you to choose a device for any interior - from high-tech style to classic or Provencal.
High-quality parts of the mixers ensure operational reliability and a long period of operation without breakdowns.Of course, the cranes of this company have a number of disadvantages, but in general there are much more positive reviews. You should not make mistakes when choosing, focusing on inexpensive devices of dubious origin. A good mixer will last a long time and will not cause significant trouble to its owners.