Rating of the best collectors for water supply for 2022

The reliability and power of the water supply system lies in the competent installation of all its main components. The quality of the functioning of the structure will also depend on the collector used (it is also a distribution unit or comb). This plumbing fixture will make the heating / water supply system extremely simple and convenient.

General information

The collector is a comb distributor made in the form of a hollow pipe. On one side of it there are special parallel outlets, and its inlet part differs from the outlet in diameter by 25-40% in a larger direction. Such a comb design is able to provide a uniform supply of hot or cold water to certain points. The type of plumbing unit under consideration is mounted in the riser of the main. For fastening it, special external and internal threaded joints are provided. A plug must be installed on the free end (or it may be a water hammer dampening device). Outlet outlets are provided with ball valves or valves that are required to adjust the flow pressure or completely shut off the water supply. Collectors are traditionally mounted on the wall in bathrooms. Access to them must be quick and constant, so they are usually closed in a plumbing box.

Distribution node (collector) functions

It should be noted that a system provided with such a device is somewhat more expensive than conventional trunk wiring. In any case, this node can simplify the use of plumbing components, as well as household and plumbing appliances connected to such a line. As a result, the collector performs the following functions:

• It regulates the pressure inside the system, ensuring a permanent temperature.In standard wiring, for example, opening a faucet in the bathroom will reduce the pressure in the sink in the kitchen and vice versa. If a “comb” is installed, then the pressure will be the same on all devices, regardless of the number of simultaneously used water sources.
• Reduces the risk of leaks. In systems provided with a collector, there are no additional connecting joints, which reduces the likelihood of accidents to almost zero. If the valve is damaged or the fitting is broken, the part is very easy to replace.
• It has several output channels at once, each of which can be blocked individually. This option will help to make plumbing repairs without completely turning off the water supply - you just need to block the desired branch.
• It has the ability to build and expand the functionality by attaching additional elements. However, only those extensions that match the make and diameter of the head comb can be installed. The installation process is carried out in the shortest possible time and it does not require completely shutting off the water supply.
• Also, it is worth mentioning that high-quality distribution units are almost not subject to rust formation, are able to work with a high temperature coolant, and can withstand high flow pressure. Their cost will depend on the material of production, the number of taps available and the brand of the manufacturer.

Modern types of collectors

The type of devices under consideration can be classified according to the number of outlets, the material of manufacture and the method of fastening. In total, there can be from 2 to 6 branches. If the maximum number is not enough, you can install several combs at the same time.

According to the type of raw materials used, the units can be made from the following materials:

• Brass is a material resistant to high temperatures and corrosion. Durable wiring based on it will easily last 10 years or more. However, the cost of such models is somewhat overstated.
• Stainless steel - this material is wear-resistant and can withstand exposure to open fire and let water pass through it at a very high temperature. Such samples are characterized by compact dimensions, so they can be very easily integrated into any water supply line.
• Polypropylene - it is durable with a fairly small mass. Rust never forms on it, and the connection can be made by simple soldering.

Also, it is allowed to classify switchgear units according to the method of their fastening. These may include:

• With a "Eurocone" - the best solution for highways built on metal-plastic / plastic pipes;
• With threaded fastening - it is very convenient to disconnect / attach them, which is achieved by simply screwing in, and this is important when carrying out repairs or scheduled maintenance;
• Soldering - this method involves working only with plastic pipes;
• Combined - can have functionality from all of the above methods.

In the process of installing a newly introduced water supply system, you need to purchase all the necessary components in advance. In the future, it will not be necessary to look for special fittings that must fully fit the selected manifold sample.

Basic differences of distribution nodes

Any device under consideration consists of a cast body, which is engaged in the distribution of water carrier flows over all outlets, and there are control shut-off and control valves on it. According to the type of valves used and their presence / absence, all these products are divided into:

• Distribution - do not have valves at all.
• Regulating distributing - they are able not only to mix the flows, but also to regulate the flow of waste by means of a shut-off valve box or by turning the flywheel.
• Shut-off distribution valves - not regulators are installed in them, but only shut-off valves. Such models can operate in two main modes - “fully open” and “fully closed”.
• Regulating manifolds - through them you can not only completely open or shut off the flow, but also at a delicate level adjust the pressure for each consumer point. Adjustment knobs make this very easy, without the need for a special plumbing tool.
• Shut-off distribution manifolds are used most often in industrial areas where fine tuning of the flow supply is not required. They work exclusively in the "open" / "closed" modes.

All of the above types can be distinguished quickly and purely by visual inspection - for example, locking models have characteristic "flag" handles on the valves. For regulating models, the flywheels are always made in the form of a barrel.

It is also worth noting that distribution units can be specially produced for water supply and heating only. Heating systems are used in “underfloor heating” constructions, they are supplied exclusively in collector groups (pairs), they have a wider gap between the outlets (36, 50 or 100 millimeters).For heating variations, combs can be of the following types:

• Thermoregulating;
• Shut-off valves with balancing with coolant flow indicator;
• Locking and balancing;
• Locking and regulating.

The latter type of heating can also be used for water supply.

Selection of location for the installation of the switchgear

When selecting the installation site of the comb, the following nuances must be taken into account:

• The space of the used premises should not be littered with unnecessary items;
• The room must maintain an acceptable level of humidity;
• The wall on which the distributor will be installed must be solid (preferably load-bearing);
• The room must be provided with permanent lighting for repair work or for maintenance of drain equipment.

Benefits of collector wiring

In general, such a wiring will give the entire system greater convenience, strength and economy in operation. Most professional plumbers note its following advantages:

• The comb provides the ability to shut off water in an exceptionally specific place, which does not affect the pressure for other consumers.
• All access to the adjustment of the water supply is at one point - this is either a sanitary cabinet or a specially provided separate room.
• High level of safety - the pressure will evenly diverge through the pipes, which is a guarantee of the absence of pressure drops. At the same time, the principle of uniform flow will be observed.
• Excellent reliability - the device is connected directly to the main pipe, without unnecessary bends, which reduces the risk of an accident.

Installation Features

Due to the low complexity of the installation itself, more attention should be paid to the preparatory work:

• First things first, you need to calculate how many consumers are expected in the system. Based on the final figure, it is required to select a model with the required number of outlets. It is better to choose devices with a “margin” - extra exits can come in handy, and while they are not in use, they are very easy to keep in a completely closed state.
• Select the required method of installation - the switchgear must correspond in terms of the material of its manufacture and the features of the fasteners to the type of pipes with which it will be directly integrated.
• Pick up water meters and filters in advance, because they are installed right in front of the switchgear.
• Calculate the location of all planned components in the plumbing cabinet. Devices should be placed ergonomically and in such a way that their repair and maintenance does not cause difficulties for the master.
• Prepare high-quality fasteners for installing the module on the wall.

The installation procedure itself involves the use of some consumables, which include gaskets, seals and adapters. It won't take long if everything is done consistently. Some craftsmen advise installing a separate light source in the plumbing cabinet to increase the convenience of work. Such lighting will not become superfluous, and inspecting the nodes for leak detection will become much easier.

Despite the variety of types of combs themselves, the same installation procedure is provided for all of them. To do this, the following steps are performed:

• Water shut-off valves are first mounted on the water supply riser;
• Filters, meters and check valves are attached in the right places;
• There is a direct connection of the device and at the same time it is immediately fixed on a nearby wall;
• From each outlet, a branch is mounted through pipes to specific consumer points.

IMPORTANT! When installing the entire system, it is desirable to additionally install a water hammer damping device. In this way, the wear rate of all parts can be reduced and the overall service life of the camshaft can be extended.

Difficulties of choice

The considered type of devices is more often used in private cottages and apartments, multi-level houses, commercial and public facilities, social and medical institutions. It, in principle, can rightfully be called one of the most important elements of the overall engineering system of the building. Accordingly, before choosing and buying it, you need to pay attention to the following nuances:

• For pipes that supply water with different temperatures, it is advisable to select samples from the same brand. Such switchgears will have a corresponding red/blue marking;
• Instruments having locking fittings for each outlet will allow more ease of repair when one element leaks;
• It is desirable to purchase fittings from the same brand. There are cases when seemingly the same type of products, but from different manufacturers, do not fit each other in terms of connection method or size;
• It is worth remembering that if the distributor is purchased for the water supply of a multi-level house, then for a uniform supply of water to a height, you will have to install a pump;
• The diameter of the tie-in to the pipeline riser must be larger than the diameter of the holes located near the sink or toilet.

Rating of the best collectors for water supply for 2022

Budget segment

3rd place: "LAMMIN PPR BP 32x1/2x2 Lm31082215032"

The model is the simplest polypropylene pipe, on which two ball valves of the same material are installed. The outlet of the taps has an internal thread made of brass, and the closing components of the taps (balls) are made of stainless steel. The product performs the function of connecting several distributing pipelines to a single source at once. Embedded component and ball valve are made of CW617N brass. The recommended cost for retail chains is 420 rubles.

• Durable manufacturing material;
• Possibility of full switching of streams;
• Democratic pricing.

• Not detected.

2nd place: "LAMMIN PPR 32x4 Lm31081004032"

The sample is a simple supply pipe with four polypropylene ball valves. The shut-off components of ball valves are made of stainless steel. The product is intended for connection to a single source of several distributing pipelines. The bookmark and ball valve are CW617N brass. The recommended cost for retail chains is 550 rubles.

• Four locking elements;
• Durable material;
• budget cost.

• Not detected.

1st place: "Leroy-Merlin" for 2 exits, 3/4″x1/2″"

This model is used for connecting multiple outlets in water supply systems, in radiator heating and underfloor heating. The device allows you to subdivide the water flow or coolant, while simultaneously controlling the flow of fluid into the desired circuit by means of ball valves-cut-offs. The collector has a pair of outlets located at a distance of 35 millimeters from each other.The product is made in China. Features: can be connected to a pipe through a 3/4″ threaded connection (external or internal thread). The recommended cost for retail chains is 654 rubles.

• The diameter of the outlets on the external thread is 1/2″;
• Made of brass - strong and durable material that is resistant to rust and wear;
• Able to withstand pressure up to 10 bar at carrier temperatures up to 110 °C.

• Not detected.

Middle price segment

3rd place: «Euros» for 3 exits, 3/4″x1/2″»

This sample with cut-off valves will be needed in cases where it is necessary to direct part of the transferred liquid medium to other branches of the system. The external thread allows connection to the outlets of additional hoses, and the control valves are able to open / shut off the flow. Suitable for equipment of heating systems, water supply systems, air pumping, liquid transmission. The recommended cost for retail chains is 860 rubles.

• Resistance to rust, thermal overload, exposure to aggressive environments;
• Suitable for working with steel, copper, polymer and metal-polymer lines;
• Wide scope;
• Easy installation;
• Democratic price.

• Not detected.

2nd place: "Valtec" for 3 outlets, 3/4″x1/2″ VTc.580.N.0503"

The model is used when creating multi-circuit heating systems or for water supply. It is necessary to separate the water flow or coolant into different circuits. Shut-off valves allow restriction of the liquid supply to each individual circuit. The base material for the manufacture of the collector is high quality brass.This raw material is strong, durable and resistant to corrosion, easy to machine. The recommended cost for retail chains is 1630 rubles.

• A device with dimensions 3/4 × 1 ″ is simply mounted in the line by means of an external thread;
• The collector divides the liquid flow into 3 points, access to each of them is controlled by a separate valve;
• Possesses a qualitative external carving.

• Not detected.

1st place: "STOUT 1" 2 outlets 3/4" EK SMB-6850-013402"

This product with shut-off and control valves is intended for heating systems (water supply), used to separate the transported flow of a liquid medium into consumer points by closing the valves on the corresponding outlets. It can be used on the mains of heating systems, cold / hot inlets, as well as for supplying liquids that are not aggressive to the materials of the collector components. It has a pair of 1/2″ external thread outlets, as well as a 3/4″ joint for the Eurocone, and 1/2″ for a flat seal. Connected according to the modular method. The main task of the product is to bring the water flow evenly to the desired point in a residential building, while eliminating possible pressure or temperature drops, with the simultaneous use of several plumbing fixtures. The recommended cost for retail chains is 1830 rubles.

• European quality;
• Durable material;
• Versatility.

• Not detected.

Premium class

3rd place: "Valtec" for 4 outlets 3/4″x1/2″ VTc.560.N.0504"

The product is used in heating or water supply systems.It is intended for the separation of the liquid carrier in several circuits. It is mounted in the highway through an external carving. The flow rate for each circuit can be adjusted with a valve. The model is made of brass, which is durable and resistant to corrosion. The recommended cost for retail chains is 2300 rubles.

• The lightness of the production raw materials guarantees an increased quality of the part;
• Manifold dimensions are universal - 3/4 × 1/2 ";
• An excellent alternative to a full-fledged collector group.

• Somewhat thin walls at outlet taps.

2nd place: "STOUT ¾" 4 outlets 3/4" EK SMB-6850-343404"

The model is used to divide the flow of the transported aqueous medium into consumer points by closing the valves on the respective outlets. They are equally used on heating lines, cold and hot water supply lines, as well as for transferring liquids that are not chemically aggressive. The main task of the distribution unit is to evenly bring the flow of water to the desired point in the building, to eliminate pressure or temperature drops when several plumbing fixtures are used at once. The recommended cost for retail chains is 3030 rubles.

• Four branches with strong walls;
• Guaranteed operation with coolant of any temperature;
• Warranty 2 years.

• Inflated price tag.

1st place: "SR Rubinetterie" 0054-2000N300"

This modular distribution manifold has integrated shut-off valves and is used for distributing through a beam system in water supply networks.The adjustment mechanism is fastened through a screw, which simultaneously fixes two rotating aluminum nameplates. The direction for turning the handle is marked on the top nameplate. The lower shield allows the owner to enter a name for the service point. Suitable for connecting copper and multilayer pipes. Acceptable media are plain water or warm glycol solutions. The recommended cost for retail chains is 3200 rubles.

• The maximum proportion of glycol is 30%;
• The maximum allowable pressure is 10 bar;
• The maximum allowable temperature is 100°С;
• The body is made of stamped brass;
• Adjustment Handwheel - ABS with size 3/4” x 1/2” (triple outlet).

• Too high price.

Conclusion

Collectors are needed to ensure a constant water pressure. They are also designed to reduce the risk of leaks, which makes it easy to use several plumbing fixtures at once. Therefore, their acquisition is not a waste of money, but is considered a good investment in creating a comfortable environment in a residential area.