Shower racks with mixer: what are they and how to choose?

Shower racks are a convenient alternative to standard boxes. Their popularity is primarily due to their ergonomics and versatility.

Shower racks are a type of shower systems with a mixer. The latter also come in the form of panels (those, in turn, have a larger set of options, but require more space for placement). The shower column is a simpler design that looks like a bar, in the upper part of which a shower head is fixed, in the lower part there is a mixer. Often, the mixer is equipped with another shower head with a flexible hose.

Such a set is a compact system that does not take up much space and is designed for receiving water procedures. This simplistic design makes it possible to organize a shower enclosure in almost any part of the bathroom. One has only to take care of the drain on the floor (it should be located at a slight angle so that water quickly collects to the drain hole) and close the resulting space with a curtain. A shower column with a tap can also be fixed above the bathroom.

Modern models have many functions, which allows you to turn the shower process not just into a hygienic procedure, but into a real spa session.... In addition, modern designs are equipped with shelves and hooks, so you can easily and in the same style organize a functional space in the bathroom.

As already mentioned, the simplest design of the shower rack is the rack itself, the mixer and the shower head fixed at the top. However, other options are also possible, we will consider each of them in more detail.

• Rack with thermostat. Includes a rigid shower head and mixer, and a thermostat. The task of the latter is to regulate the temperature of the water, eliminating the risk of burns or hypothermia.

• Stand with bath spout. Allows you to use both the shower and fill the bathtub with water. The latter is made possible by the presence of a small spout and a switch on the counter (transferring water to a shower or spout).

• Stand with 2 types of watering cans. This view has already been described - one watering can is fixed at the top of the bar, it is motionless. The second is mounted on a flexible hose, so that the water jet can be directed to any hard-to-reach place. The overhead shower is usually equipped with many functions, the ability to adjust the pressure.

Many models have different shower options - tropical rainfall, waterfall, relaxing drip shower, etc. To switch from one mode to another, such products are equipped with a special panel or levers. Sometimes replacement shower heads are included.

Shower racks can differ not only in the configuration and a set of additional options, but also in the installation method. They can be fixed to the bathroom floor, installed in the shower cabin, but more often they are mounted on the bathroom wall (that is, in the font itself). Longer racks are designed for self-assembly against the wall and in shower cabins. They are also suitable for installation near the bathroom, if the font is not close to the wall. If the stand will be located above the bathroom bowl, and the bath itself is installed close to the wall, then the stand needs to be shorter.

The shower racks can be divided into 2 types, depending on the features of the mixer.

• Valve. They have 2 valves connected to hot and cold water pipes. By adjusting the valves, you can achieve the optimal water temperature. Such systems are easy to use, allow you to more accurately regulate the water temperature, and are durable.
• Single-lever. Control of cold and hot water, as well as their "mixing" occurs with the help of one lever. This does not allow the temperature setting to be as precise as when using the valves. The locking mechanism is represented by a cartridge equipped with an aluminum or ceramic plate. In general, the linkage is also durable, however it is susceptible to grains of sand in the water. It is best to operate a single-lever mixer in combination with deep water filters.

Non-contact water supply systems are becoming more widespread. Water begins to pour out automatically when a person enters the shower. Although such devices are more expensive, in the end their use turns out to be more economical, since they do not lead to excessive consumption of water.

A variety of materials can be used for the counter and overhead shower, however, they are all united by the main requirement - to be resistant to corrosion... Products made of stainless steel are considered classics. Such products do not rust for a long time, they are characterized by strength and durability. To provide them with additional strength and give a more attractive appearance, steel surfaces are coated with a nickel or chrome layer. This gives the product its characteristic shine. Stainless steel uprights are universal - suitable for both classic and modern interiors.

Brass models are more durable and expensive. The material also resists corrosion and has a high margin of safety. Such products are characterized by a noble appearance and harmoniously fit into retro interiors.

Plastic models have a more affordable price and a variety of designs. There are models coated with chrome or nickel, due to which the material manages to imitate a metal surface. Plastic is not afraid of moisture, but even its most durable version cannot boast of reliability and durability. If you are looking for high-end and unique models, you might want to consider the rack option. made of durable steel or tempered glass. Often, the product is supplemented with elements of stone, forged metal. Undoubtedly, such a structure will be durable and will bring notes of luxury, aristocracy to the interior, however, such a rack will cost a lot.

Products are considered the leaders of the modern plumbing market. from Italy and Germany. They demonstrate reliability and durability, stylish design. However, the cost of such structures, as a rule, is high. They are practically not inferior to these racks in quality, but they have a more affordable rack cost from Finland and the Czech Republic. Plumbing is considered to be of lower quality. from China, Korea, Russia.

It should be understood that many eminent European brands have production facilities in China and the countries of the former Soviet Union. It is at such factories that products with manufacturing defects are most often created. However, this is not a rule of thumb.

If you are looking for a premium product, check out the Italian racks Cezares. They are made of stainless steel and can be coated in bronze, chrome, gold. Another famous Italian manufacturer of luxury racks is Novellini. Most models are equipped with a thermostat. Minimum functions and maximum quality are about racks from a German manufacturer. Grohe. Material - stainless steel, the rack has a round shower with two modes of operation.

The model can be considered convenient Wasser Kraft А005 from the brand of the same name. In addition to the standard elements, the stand has a flexible hose. Material - chrome plated stainless steel, also has a special anti-lime coating. The overhead shower can be operated in 3 modes. This model is functional and affordable. The product is also equipped with two watering cans. Lemark LM8801C. True, the overhead shower already has 6 operating modes. The wall model is made of chrome-plated stainless steel with the ability to change the height of the overhead shower. In general, the product has a lot of positive reviews. However, there is an opinion that the price of the rack is high for such a modest functionality.

A more functional model can be called River River 11. It is equipped with a top and hose and a bath spout. It features a stylish design that combines acrylic and tempered glass. Refers to wall stands, mixer - single-lever, cartridge type. It is in high consumer demand, however, some users note an increased noise level of the device in some modes.

The rack has a similar configuration. Timo Polo SX-1100. Separately, it is worth talking about the materials used - these are stainless steel, brass and a special enamel coating of high hardness. Thanks to this, the components are characterized by strength and visual appeal, no limescale deposits are deposited on the surface, even with mechanical stress, no scratches appear.

You should immediately decide where the rack will be mounted. Its appearance depends on it.It is imperative to decide on the method of installation of the product - it will be open or hidden. Pay attention to the quality of the product, preference should be given metal structures... An alternative but more expensive option is tempered glass racks. However, it is worth remembering that such a model may not fit into all classic interiors.

As for the material of the mixer, the models with brass "filling" more durable. If a flexible hose is provided in the product, then the option with a metal braid will be more reliable. It is worth deciding whether you need additional options, since the price of the product depends on this. The standard stand is a bar with a mixer and an overhead shower. It is enough to take water procedures. However, if you plan to get maximum relaxation and massage effect, it makes sense to pay extra for a set of options.

If the shower rack is mounted in the bowl of the bathroom, then it is recommended to choose a product with bath spout and additional shower with flexible hose... This will save money on the purchase and installation of a separate bath mixer.

Decide right away whether the rack will be mounted open or hidden. The second option looks more attractive, but the installation process is more laborious. This option may not work if the bathroom has already been renovated - there are tiles or panels on the walls. They will have to be disassembled for a flush-mounted system, in addition, some part of the bathroom space will be "eaten up".

Despite the fact that the hinged watering cans are slightly more expensive than the stand, which has it fixed, it is a reasonable waste. Especially if the product will be used by several family members of different heights. The watering can itself must have a diameter of at least 15-20 cm. If we are talking about a shower with a tropical shower function, then the diameter of the watering can is from 20-25 cm. The most convenient shapes are a circle and a square.

It cannot be argued that the larger the size of the watering can, the better. It is much more important here to find a balance between comfort while taking water procedures and economical water consumption.

In the next video, you will find an overview of the Frap F2434 shower column with mixer.