German kitchen faucets: varieties, brands and choices

A mixer is that item or, say, a device, on the operation of which the whole process of cooking depends. German sanitary ware manufacturers are considered to be the leaders in quality kitchen faucets. These products are time-tested and prove their distinctiveness and originality.

Good mixer performance is as follows:

• ease of opening and closing the tap;
• smooth adjustment of the temperature regime of water;
• intuitive tuning sensitivity;
• absence of extraneous sounds during work;
• jet thickness, its transparency;
• no splashes;
• softness of the flow;
• efficiency of water consumption;
• long service life.

The main advantage of large German manufacturers is a well-organized and well-organized service department, which works in the field of warranty service. It is she who ensures the uninterrupted delivery of both finished products and components or spare parts for repair. The most famous and proven German manufacturers include the following:

• Grohe;

• Franke;

• Blanco;

• Hansgrohe, in particular their premium Axor range;

• Kludi;

• Keuco;

• Dornbracht;

• Jorger.

Their main positive qualities are manufacturability and innovation. They really strive to keep up with the times, try to offer consumers new, more functional products, the equipment is periodically updated.

German kitchen faucets their appearance and design can be divided into three main categories.

• Valve kitchen mixer - This is the classic and most budgetary option.It is a curved spout with two taps for hot and cold water. The weak point of the cranes is the rubber gaskets. Of course, they can be changed if necessary, and everything will work as before. Modern models are equipped with ceramic spacers. They last longer than rubber ones, but this also noticeably affects the price of the product.

• Single lever model, according to the housewives, is much more practical and convenient than a valve. The demand for such a design is due to its simplicity and reliability. One control element regulates both the water pressure and its temperature. The push mechanism works on the same principle, but is more modern. Despite the fact that the cost of a single-lever mixer is much higher, it is more comfortable and durable in use.

• Touch mixer - one of the latest inventions of scientists, brought to life by German manufacturers of sanitary ware. This design has no levers or valves. It consists of a crane equipped with a motion sensor. The water turns on automatically, you just have to bring your hands to it. Some models are equipped with a touch screen, with its help, the water temperature and pressure level are regulated. The display can be customized and used as a clock, timer or thermometer.

With Select technology, the user-friendliness of the push mixer is taken to a whole new level. This option provides for the removal of the control handle to the corner of the sink. There is an additional button for turning the water on or off at the top of the tap. This model is usually equipped with a pull-out spout. The advantage of this mixer is a soft stream without unnecessary splashing.

Another type of similar multifunctional crane from German manufacturers is with a long spout. The stream of water emanating from it is laminar - transparent and does not make any noise at all, as it is formed without air leaks. Pressing a button at the top of the body activates a jet in the shower option, which is convenient for washing vegetables, herbs or fruits. The shower has a pull-out system.

The S-box module provides easy and smooth sliding of the retractable hose. This innovative system, developed by German kitchen plumbers, was even awarded the 2017 Significant Contribution to the Kitchen Industry. Ease of use and sophisticated technology are the hallmarks of a Hansgrohe company that cares about its customers.

The design contains many colors, original decorative elements that are harmoniously combined with the interior of the kitchen and comfortable use for its intended purpose.

The shape and curve of the spout is different for all kitchen taps. It depends on the model and manufacturer. Some German manufacturers only produce mixers with a characteristic patented shape. This is a kind of guarantee of the originality of the product.

The choice depends on the specific needs of the buyer and the depth of the sink. If the sink is quite deep, then in combination with the high spout when washing dishes, splashing water cannot be avoided. A short or low tap will not allow high-quality washing of large dishes.

Imported models have different designs. They differ in assembly methods and functionality.

• Cast mixer design - the most reliable protection against unwanted water leaks. The one-piece metal body strengthens it, but makes it immobile.
• The assembled crane mechanism indicates the mobility of the spout. If the structure is assembled correctly, then it is no worse than a cast one and leakage is also excluded.
• Built-in switch serves to connect to household appliances, the use of which requires water supply (washing machine, dishwasher, coffee machine). Recently, almost all German mixers contain this function.
• Filtration systeminstalled in the spout tube, makes the water much cleaner and allows you to immediately use it for food. Mixers with this function are equipped with a double spout. The faucet containing the filter usually has a bizarre or unusual shape.

In Germany, the production of mixers from several materials has been established.

• Metal. German technology for the manufacture of sanitary ware excludes the use of silumin and other low-quality alloys. In order for the mixers to serve as long as possible, bronze and brass are used to cast parts. Kitchen taps made of these metals are considered the most reliable and attractive in appearance.

• Ceramics or granite. The positive side of ceramic sanitary ware is its resistance to corrosion and beauty, but this cannot be said about strength. Any mechanical impact on the faucet can lead to chipping or cracking. Granite spraying extends the life of the mixer, as this material is not as brittle as ceramic. Thanks to the granite coating, this type of mixer can also claim durability.

• Plating with chrome, nickel, bronze, gold. Additional coating of the tap and other elements of the device with nickel, chromium or precious metals protects it from the harmful effects of hard water. In humid environments, the spray acts as a repelling barrier to prevent corrosion. The visual appeal of these products is also not in the last place. They look elegant, fashionable and expensive.

Before buying, you need to decide on the design of the mixer and its color performance so that it fits harmoniously into the overall interior of the kitchen. When choosing the best option in a suitable price range, you need to pay attention to the type of installation, the structure itself and the materials from which it is made. The main thing is not to chase after fashion. Popular and highly publicized models often turn out to be not the best Chinese copies.

A high-quality imported mixer must be made of metal, which means it must have an appropriate weight.

An overview of Kraus kitchen faucets in the video below.