Ranking of the best shower faucets for 2022

Late or sooner, but there always comes a time when the owners of apartment living space have to change plumbing equipment that has either already served its due date or is outdated and does not meet modern trends in appearance or functionality. And most of the questions here will relate to the arrangement of the bathroom, namely the selection of a shower faucet. The vast majority of compatriots will choose this element of plumbing, focusing solely on price. However, it will be necessary to take into account the design, the method of installation, and, in fact, the design of the mixer itself. It is quite possible that the plumbing has already been purchased, and it is simply impossible to connect it due to design features.

Existing types of mixers

They differ in the way they supply water. On this basis, they can be divided into three groups:

• With single lever control;
• With two-lever control (they are also crane-box);
• With thermostatic control.

Single lever mixers

Such models are known to everyone. They are a handle that regulates the strength of the jet and the temperature of the water supplied. The basis of the mechanism is a cartridge consisting of two plates with holes. The pressure of the jet and its temperature will depend on the area of ​​their combination. But, as practice has shown, an acceptable setting of such a mixer sometimes takes a lot of time. Moreover, the cartridge is an extremely fragile part of the design.It is most affected by water quality, and the resulting scale and corrosion lead to its failure. The main disadvantage: due to a failed cartridge, you will have to change the entire mixer. But still, the low price of these models, as well as the ease of installation, allow single-lever equipment to remain in trend so far.

Two-lever mixers

They are a crane. Equipped with two levers - one for cold water, the other for hot. With their help, both the pressure and the temperature are simultaneously regulated (by increasing the supply or cold / hot water to the general flow). This type of equipment also has other names: “faucet box”, “crane box”, “two-valve”, “valve head”.

In turn, they can be divided into two types:

• Ceramic - such valves can only be rotated 90 degrees or 180, they are considered durable mechanisms. However, their service time will directly depend on the quality of the water - with harder water, the faucet will last less. In addition, in ceramic samples, if at least one element fails, the entire system will have to be changed. However, this type of faucet allows you to significantly save water;
• On a rubber locking cuff (gasket) - they are easy to recognize by the possible number of twists - you can turn such a valve for a very long time, while increasing the water flow. The advantages of this system include low price, ease of installation, unpretentiousness in repair (cuffs-gaskets can be changed as many times as desired until the metal parts wear out).

Thermostat mixers

They can be called a technological novelty in the plumbing market. They are a panel with a water pressure / temperature regulator and buttons for switching it.There are mechanical and automatic models - the first are manually controlled, the second are equipped with a liquid crystal screen. It is worth mentioning non-contact types - they are equipped with a photocell, which is installed in the faucet spout and reacts to blocking the view by foreign objects (hands) and gives out a predetermined volume of water of a certain temperature. Such samples are usually installed in cafes, government agencies, in transport engaged in mass transportation (railway, air, long-distance buses).

A small summary

Summing up the review of existing models, the question immediately arises: which mixer is better? Based on modern realities, it is possible to say for sure that THERMOSTATIC. And here are the reasons why:

• The water supply can be set in advance, for example, not higher than +37 degrees Celsius, so that a person may not be afraid that he will be unpleasantly doused with very cold or very hot water. This is especially true in cases where the bath is taken by very young children.
• Thermostatic equipment significantly saves water: where a standard mixer will give out 4 liters, a thermostatic mixer will give out one liter, without reducing the pressure.

IMPORTANT! It is always worth remembering that thermostatic models will cost 3-4 times more than their younger counterparts. Moreover, it is unlikely that a non-professional will be able to cope with their installation.

Varieties of types of switching "shower-spout"

The plumbing fixtures in question may also differ in the way they switch between a showerhead and a simple spout. The following switching systems are available:

• Eccentric - by turning the knob of the switch, a rod with a rubber cuff moves, which closes the hole for the spout or for the shower.The advantages of such a system include low cost, versatility of installation and unpretentiousness in repair. The latter can be a decisive factor when choosing, because it is quite possible to replace a worn gasket on your own, without having special skills.
• Cork deviator - the principle of operation is slightly similar to the one discussed above, but with the only difference that the mechanism is activated not by means of a switch, but with the help of a special cap. Its main advantages: small size and convenience.
• Cartridge - a bit similar to a single-lever faucet device. In operation, it is more reliable than an eccentric due to its smaller dimensions. However, in the event of a breakdown, again, you will have to change the entire system, it cannot be partially repaired.
• Ball switch with two gaskets - the system is considered the most reliable, because, depending on the position of the balls, the unnecessary channel is tightly locked, and the desired one opens completely. Thus, simultaneous leakage in both directions is completely excluded. However, the design is integral, in the event of a breakdown, it will require a complete replacement.

The considered options for switching between a shower and a conventional faucet can be installed both inside the general mixing system and outside. The first ones take up less space and are easier to manage, but if they fail, they will require a complete replacement. The latter look rougher, but are much easier to install and easy to repair.

The right choice of spout

The most popular at all times was the long type of spout. This option is very good when the washbasin is located next to the bathroom, because in this case it is not necessary to install an additional faucet.

When choosing a model, it is necessary to pay attention to the angle of movement and the turning mechanism - this is the most flawed part of the design, as well as to the length of the crane - 30 centimeters is considered normal.

A shortened type of spout appeared later, when in the USSR they began to build small-sized housing, where there was no washbasin in the baths. And nowadays it looks good in small bathrooms.

Good choice of shower heads

The watering can is one of the main elements of the entire system. The comfort of a person in the process of taking a shower directly depends on it. Watering cans can be metal and plastic. The latter are much cheaper, but the former have a long service life. They can also differ in the type of water supply - it can flow in streams or drops. Everything here will depend on personal preferences and financial capabilities.

Mounting types

The bathroom faucet with shower can be fixed in the following ways:

• Wall fixation - this option can be called traditional, because it is most often used for installation. Plumbing experts recommend installing equipment using this method at a height of about 30 centimeters from the edge of the bath bowl. It is also worth deciding in advance on the length of the tap: when turning from the sink to the bathroom, the water jet should fall into the bowl, and not hit its sides.
• Mounting on the side of the bath bowl - this option has gained popularity relatively recently, because to install it, the bowl itself must have special technological holes for integrating the mixing system. Such an option does not have any special functionality, except for purely aesthetic ones.
• Mounting on a special rack - this option is absolutely necessary when the bath bowl is located at some distance from the wall.Again, apart from aesthetic advantages and complex installation, this method does not carry any functionality.
• Mounting on the floor is another purely design option. Very difficult to install.

Materials used for the manufacture of mixing equipment

Whatever expensive and functional model a potential buyer would prefer, he must definitely look at what material it is made of and what material it is covered with. Often the wrong choice can lead to rapid wear of all, seemingly new, plumbing. The most commonly used materials and their main qualities will be considered below.

• Silumin is an alloy of silicon additives and aluminum, its only advantage is low cost. Of course, it is, as it were, a metal, but its structure is extremely porous and fragile. It happens that some details from silumin can be easily broken with the force of the fingers. In addition, it cannot be protected from oxygen corrosion, therefore, with each year of its use, the risk of breakage will steadily increase. At the same time, sanitary ware made of such material can be successfully disguised as high-quality products by applying various and short-lived decorative compositions to the surface, imitating, for example, brass. This is especially true for products from China.
• Stainless steel - performs well in everyday use, often with an excellent chrome finish. The only negative is that such products are extremely massive.
• Copper alloys are leaders among materials for sanitary products. Bronze or brass samples successfully resist corrosion, perfectly withstand various temperature loads (including mechanical ones), and do not have a negative chemical effect on the water being passed through. They are considered "long-livers" in relation to competitors.All of the above will be true only if a high-quality metal was used in the alloy.
• Ceramics - individual parts and mechanisms of mixing plumbing can be made from it. They are more likely to have an aesthetic function than a practical one. Although the parts come out quite hard, they are brittle and are afraid of strong mechanical stress. In the case of careful handling, ceramics will last a long time, because it is slightly sensitive to high humidity.
• High-strength ABS plastic - usually used in modern models with thermostatic control. It is not used in traditional single-lever and axle-box products.

According to consumer surveys, in the post-Soviet space, people most of all prefer brass or bronze (i.e. copper alloys). The reasons are usually the following:

• A bronze product does not need to be “hidden” - it already has a presentable appearance (mirror polished, matte shades, perhaps somewhat covered with patina). In addition, it has an extended operational resource.
• Brass plumbing is good for applying various decorative coatings on it - from matte to brilliant gold with original tint content. This metal is perfect for design projects. And his service life is not slightly worse than that of bronze.

Practical tips for choosing faucets

1. First you need to decide in what position (standing / sitting) the shower will be used and what design features the bathroom has. From here it will become clear what length and height the mixer will need;
2. Based on the size of the bathroom, you need to decide on a riser for a watering can, when installed in which, a stream of water will not spill outside the bathroom bowl. Standard risers are available at 110 and 135 degrees, however, an adjustable version is also available (preferably for small showers and bathtubs);
3. It is necessary that the shower faucet and the bath bowl complement each other, so it is better to choose them from the same manufacturer so that there is no aesthetic dissonance. If this condition cannot be met, you can seek advice from specialist designers.

General overview of popular brands

From a large list of manufacturers, the following brands can definitely be distinguished, which are deservedly popular with buyers:

• Grohe - the products of this company are of very high quality at relatively affordable prices.
• The Danish company DAMIXA is considered a manufacturer of sanitary ware for the elite and specializes in the production of exclusive samples with a stylish design. However, the Danes do not forget about the high manufacturability of their equipment - their products are famous for their low water consumption.
• Modern Finnish ORAS equipment is made only from high-quality metals and alloys. The entire line is reliable and durable with a fairly easy installation.

IMPORTANT! Separately, it is worth mentioning Asian manufacturers - their equipment is the most short-lived and cheapest, although it can be packaged in a beautiful wrapper. The confidence in such products among the population is very low.

Ranking of the best shower faucets for 2022

Crane box

3rd place: Decoroom DR49055

Robust model, made of brass with minimal inclusions of lead.It is very popular due to its low price. The case is reliably protected from rust, rubber seals provide smooth running of the handles. The water flow is soft, which is achieved through the use of a silicone aerator. With its help, water consumption is reduced by 30%.

Name	Index
Spout size, mm	300
Type of shell	Turning
type of instalation	Wall
Material	Alloy
Color	Chromium-plated
Price, rubles	1800

• Extended service life;
• The use of an aerator;
• Smooth running handles.

• Harmful substances (lead) in the alloy.

2nd place: Rossinka Q02-41

The traditional design of the product is successfully combined with increased functionality. The sample is still considered a budget option, because the valve heads are made of ordinary stainless steel and have standard wear resistance, which can cause breakage in conditions of poor-quality hard water. At the same time, the design does not require a complete replacement, which is a definite plus.

Name	Index
Spout size, mm	150
Type of shell	Turning
type of instalation	Wall
Material	Alloy
Color	Chromium-plated
Price, rubles	2200

• Unpretentious in repair;
• Traditional design;
• Democratic price.

• Sensitive to hard water.

1st place: Bosfor MILARDO BOSSB00M03

Excellent model from the Italian manufacturer. Ceramic parts are used in the crane box, which means an extended service life. The set is completed with a stainless steel hose and a wall holder. All operating surfaces are covered with a special nickel-chromium composition, in order to increase resistance to abrasion.

Name	Index
Spout size, mm	300
Type of shell	Turning
type of instalation	Wall
Material	Brass
Color	Nickel-chrome
Price, rubles	2900

• The material is used, corresponding to the Russian GOST;
• Crane rotation angle - full 180 degrees;
• Nickel-chrome plating.

• High price (for its segment).

Single lever

3rd place: Vidima Orion B4225AA/BA005AA

The popularity of this model is due to its relatively low price. The service life of the equipment is increased by at least 30% of the standard due to the use of a 35 mm ceramic cartridge. To soften and balance the water flow, a branded aerator "Perlator" is installed. He is also responsible for setting the temperature. The design provides for vertical mounting.

Name	Index
Spout size, mm	400
Type of shell	Turning
type of instalation	Special stand
Material	Bronze
Color	Chromium
Price, rubles	3900

• Facilitated installation procedure;
• Durable cartridge;
• Quality manufacturing material

• Rigid shower hose.

2nd place: IDDIS VIOLA VIOSB00I03

A very small sample in its dimensions, however, it fully meets the basic needs of the consumer. Outwardly, it looks very futuristic, quickly mounted in a vertical position, takes up very little space in the bathroom. The design includes a reinforced locking mechanism, which is a definite plus. The flexible hose is made of stainless steel, which means it can successfully resist rust.

Name	Index
Spout size, mm	Missing
Type of shell	Stationary
type of instalation	Wall
Material	Bronze
Color	Chromium
Price, rubles	4500

• Extra long warranty - 10 years!
• Aesthetic exterior design;
• The hose is made of stainless steel.

• The length of the hose is only 1.5 meters.

1st place: Grohe Eurosmart 33556002

This sample from a German manufacturer provides a built-in mechanism that allows you to mount the entire structure inside the wall. The design of smooth lines of the faucet will add aesthetics to the surroundings of the bathroom. The body is made of high-strength alloy, the internal parts are made of hard ceramic. Flow and temperature adjustment is extremely smooth thanks to soft hinges.

Name	Index
Spout size, mm	Missing
Type of shell	Stationary
type of instalation	Wall
Material	Bronze
Color	Chromium
Price, rubles	7800

• Eastern European assembly allowed to reduce the price;
• Aesthetic look in the style of "hi-tech";
• Ceramic internal components.

• Difficulty in maintenance (placement of working parts inside the wall).

thermostatic

3rd place: AM.PM F7550000

This plumbing fixture is designed for installation in a small bathroom. Ease of setting the temperature and pressure is provided at the mechanical level by means of two valves and a ceramic plate. An aerator with a special regime is responsible for saving consumed water resources. Installation is carried out with the help of eccentrics strictly horizontally. The chrome finish is easy to clean.

Name	Index
Spout size, mm	90
Type of shell	Horizontal
type of instalation	Wall
Material	Bronze
Color	Chromium
Price, rubles	15000

• Simple control;
• 38 degree lock;
• Minimum noise during operation.

• The need for additional filters for water purification.

2nd place: Hansgrohe Ecostat Universal

One of the best thermostatic faucets, according to owner reviews. The device implements the AIR Power system, which adds small air bubbles to the water. With a pressure increased several times, the water consumption remains small. Against the occurrence of limescale, flexible silicone gaskets are used in the design. The hygienic coating does not allow harmful bacteria to multiply.

Name	Index
Spout size, mm	180
Type of shell	Horizontal
type of instalation	On a dedicated stand
Material	Bronze
Color	Chromium
Price, rubles	18000

• Comfortable ergonomic handles;
• Fuse for water temperature above +40 degrees Celsius;
• Pressure control.

• Overcharge.

1st place: KLUDI Zenta 35101 0538

This thermostatic mixing equipment has a unique function - it allows you to turn on / off the water saving mode at the request of the user. The safety stop, however, is not adjustable and is triggered at +38 degrees Celsius. The average consumption is 22 liters per minute. You can switch from bath to shower with a dedicated button.

Name	Index
Spout size, mm	90
Type of shell	Horizontal
type of instalation	Wall
Material	Bronze
Color	Chromium
Price, rubles	22000

• Smooth adjustment;
• Ergonomic design;
• Excellent quality of all parts and body.

• Very high price.

Instead of an epilogue

Based on the analysis of the market segment for sanitary shower faucets, the following conclusion can be drawn - the single-lever model remains the most popular in the middle class, where switching between a shower and a spout is regulated by a cartridge. The most preferred material is stainless steel, despite its high weight. Crane-axle models are already in less demand - they have almost been replaced by thermostatic ones. Among manufacturers, Western firms are in the lead, domestic ones are slightly inferior to them, while the Asian manufacturer is almost not considered seriously. In terms of the frequency of faucet purchases, retail chains are still leading, because the price between them and Internet sites does not differ much.