Rating of the best shower faucets for 2020

Late or early, but there always comes a time when the owners of an apartment living space have to change the plumbing equipment, which has either already served its due date, or is outdated and does not meet modern trends in appearance or functionality.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 concern the arrangement of the bathroom, namely the selection of a mixer for the shower. The overwhelming majority of compatriots will choose this element of plumbing, focusing solely on the price. However, it will be necessary to take into account both the design and the installation method, 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 the water is supplied. On this basis, they can be conditionally subdivided into three groups:

• Single-lever control;
• With double-lever control (they are crane-axle boxes);
• Thermostatically controlled.

Single lever mixers

Such models are known to everyone. They are a handle that regulates the force of the jet and the temperature of the supplied water. The basis of the mechanism is a cartridge consisting of two plates with holes. The jet supply head and its temperature will depend on the area where they are combined. But, as practice has shown, the acceptable setting of such a mixer sometimes takes a lot of time. Moreover, the cartridge is an extremely fragile part of the structure. It is most affected by the quality of the water, and the resulting plaque and corrosion lead to its breakdown. The main disadvantage: due to a failed cartridge, the entire mixer will have to be replaced. But still, the low price of these models, as well as the ease of their installation, allow single-lever equipment to remain in trend until now.

Double-handle mixers

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

In turn, they can be divided into two types:

• Ceramic - such valves can only be rotated 90 degrees or 180 degrees, they are considered durable mechanisms. However, their service time will directly depend on the quality of the water - with harder water, the tap will last less. In addition, in ceramic samples, in the event of a malfunction of at least one element, the entire system will have to be changed. However, this type of faucet significantly saves water;
• On a rubber locking collar (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 consumption. The advantages of this system include a low price, ease of installation, unpretentiousness in repair (cuff-gaskets can be changed as many times as you like until the metal parts wear out).

Thermostatic mixers

They can be called a technological innovation in the plumbing market. They themselves represent a panel with a pressure / water temperature regulator and buttons for switching it. There are mechanical and automatic models - the former are manually controlled, the latter are equipped with an LCD screen. It is worth mentioning non-contact views - they are equipped with a photocell, which is installed in the spout of the faucet and reacts to the obstruction of the view by foreign objects (hands) and produces 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).

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 THERMOSTAT. And here are the reasons:

• The water supply can be set in advance, for example, not higher than +37 degrees Celsius, so that a person can not be afraid that he will be unpleasantly doused with very cold or very hot water. This is especially true in cases when very little ones take a bath.
• Thermostat equipment significantly saves water: where a standard mixer will give out 4 liters, the thermostat 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, a layman is unlikely to cope with their installation.

Varieties of shower-spout switching types

The plumbing in question may also differ in the way you switch between a shower head and a simple spout. The following switching systems exist:

• Eccentric - by turning the knob of the switch, a rod with a rubber cuff moves, which closes the opening for a spout or for a shower. The advantages of such a system include low cost, versatility of installation and ease of repair. The latter can be a decisive factor in the choice, because it is quite possible to replace a worn out gasket on your own, without having special skills.
• Cork deviator - the principle of operation is a little similar to the one discussed above, with the only difference that the mechanism is activated not by means of a switch, but by means of a special cap. Its main advantages: small size and convenience.
• The cartridge is a little like a single lever valve 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 structure is integral; in case of breakdown, it will require a complete replacement.

The considered options for switching between a shower and a conventional tap can be installed both inside the general mixing system and outside.The former 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 simpler to install and easy to repair.

Smart choice of spouts

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 you do not have to install an additional tap.

When choosing a model, you need to pay attention to the angle of movement and the swivel mechanism - this is the most flawed part of the structure, as well as the length of the crane - 30 centimeters is considered a normal length.

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

Smart 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 trickles or drops. Everything here will depend on personal preferences and financial capabilities.

Types of fasteners

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

• Wall fixation - this option can be called traditional, because it is used most often 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 stream of water 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 for its installation, the bowl itself must have special technological holes for integrating the mixing system. This 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 the aesthetic advantages and complex installation, this method does not carry any functionality.
• Floor mounting is another purely design option. Very difficult to install.

Materials used for the manufacture of mixing equipment

No matter what expensive and functional model a potential buyer would prefer, he should 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 and tear of all seemingly new plumbing. Below will be considered the most commonly used materials and their main qualities.

• Silumin is an alloy of silicon additives and aluminum, its only advantage is its low cost. Of course, this is, as it were, a metal, but its structure is extremely porous and fragile. It happens that some parts of the silumin can be easily broken with the effort of your 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, plumbing made of such a material can successfully disguise itself as 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 having an excellent chrome finish. The only negative is that such products are extremely massive.
• Copper alloys are the leading 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 passed water. 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. Rather, they have more an aesthetic function than a practical one. Although the parts come out quite hard, they are fragile and are afraid of strong mechanical stress. In the case of careful handling, ceramics will last a long time, because they are weakly sensitive to high humidity.
• High-strength ABC-plastic - usually used in modern designs with thermostatic regulation. It is not used in traditional single-lever and crane-axle box products.

Consumer polls show that people in the post-Soviet space prefer brass or bronze (i.e., copper alloys) most of all. The reasons are usually the following:

• A bronze product does not need to be "hidden" - it already has a presentable appearance (mirror polish, matte shades, possibly slightly tinted with patina). In addition, it has an extended service life.
• Brass sanitary ware is good for applying various decorative coatings on it - from matte to shiny gold with an original tint filling. This metal is perfect for design projects. And his service life is not nearly worse than that of bronze.

Practical tips for choosing mixers

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 the riser for the watering can, when installed into which, the stream of water will not spill outside the bathroom bowl. Standard risers are produced at an angle of 110 and 135 degrees, however, an adjustable version can also be purchased (preferably for showers and small baths);
3. It is necessary that the shower mixer and the bathroom 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 design specialists.

General overview of popular brands

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

• Firm 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 stylish designs. 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 of high quality metals and alloys. The entire line is distinguished by its reliability and durability with a fairly easy installation.

IMPORTANT! Asian manufacturers should be mentioned separately - their equipment is the most short-lived and cheapest, although it can be packed in a beautiful wrapper. Public confidence in such products is very low.

Rating of the best shower faucets for 2020

Axle-mounted crane

3rd place: Decoroom DR49055

Reliable model made of brass with minimal lead inclusions. It is very popular due to its low price. The body is reliably protected from rust, the smooth running of the handles is ensured by rubber seals. 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, millimeters	300
Type of shell	Turning
type of instalation	Wall
Material	Alloy
Colour	Chromium-plated
Price, rubles	1800

• Extended service life;
• Application of an aerator;
• Smooth movement of the 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 in conditions of poor-quality hard water can cause breakdown. At the same time, the design does not require a complete replacement, which is a definite plus.

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

• Unpretentious to repair;
• Traditional design;
• Affordable price.

• Sensitive to hard water.

1st place: Bosfor MILARDO BOSSB00M03

An excellent model from an 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 exploited surfaces are coated with a special nickel-chromium compound for increased abrasion resistance.

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

• The material used is in accordance with Russian GOST;
• Crane swing angle - full 180 degrees;
• Nickel-chrome plated.

• 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% from the standard due to the use of a ceramic cartridge of 35 mm. To soften and balance the water flow, a proprietary Perlator aerator is installed. He is also responsible for setting the temperature. The design provides for vertical mounting.

Name	Index
Spout size, millimeters	400
Type of shell	Turning
type of instalation	Special rack
Material	Bronze
Colour	Chromium
Price, rubles	3900

• Simplified installation procedure;
• Long lasting cartridge;
• Quality material of manufacture

• Hard shower hose.

2nd place: IDDIS VIOLA VIOSB00I03

A very small sample in terms of its dimensions, however, it fully meets the basic needs of the consumer. Outwardly, it looks very futuristic, quickly mounts in an upright position, takes up very little space in the bathroom. The design provides for 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, millimeters	Is absent
Type of shell	Stationary
type of instalation	Wall
Material	Bronze
Colour	Chromium
Price, rubles	4500

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

• The hose is only 1.5 meters long.

1st place: Grohe Eurosmart 33556002

This sample from a German manufacturer provides a built-in mechanism, which allows the entire structure to be built into the wall. The design of the flowing lines of the mixer will add aesthetics to the ambience of the bathroom. The case is made of high-strength alloy, the inner parts are made of hard ceramic. The regulation of flow and temperature is extremely smooth thanks to the soft hinges.

Name	Index
Spout size, millimeters	Is absent
Type of shell	Stationary
type of instalation	Wall
Material	Bronze
Colour	Chromium
Price, rubles	7800

• Eastern European assembly has reduced the price;
• Aesthetic high-tech look;
• 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 on a mechanical level by means of two valves and a ceramic plate.Aerator with a special mode is responsible for saving consumed water resources. Installation is carried out using eccentrics strictly horizontally. The chrome finish is easy to clean.

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

• Simple controls;
• Retainer at 38 degrees;
• Minimal noise during operation.

• The need for additional filters for water purification.

2nd place: Hansgrohe Ecostat Universal

One of the best thermostatic mixer taps according to the owner's reviews. The device implements the "AIR Power" system, which adds small air bubbles to the water. With the pressure increased several times, the water consumption remains small. Flexible silicone gaskets are used to prevent limescale deposits. The hygienic coating prevents harmful bacteria from growing.

Name	Index
Spout size, millimeters	180
Type of shell	Horizontal
type of instalation	On a special rack
Material	Bronze
Colour	Chromium
Price, rubles	18000

• Comfortable ergonomic handles;
• Fuse for water temperatures 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 configurable and operates at 38 degrees Celsius. The average consumption is 22 liters per minute. You can switch from bath to shower using the dedicated button.

Name	Index
Spout size, millimeters	90
Type of shell	Horizontal
type of instalation	Wall
Material	Bronze
Colour	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 of sanitary faucets for the shower, the following conclusion can be drawn - the single-lever model remains the most popular in the middle class, where the switch between shower and spout is regulated by a cartridge. The preferred material is stainless steel, despite its heavy weight. Crane-axle models are already in less demand - they were almost replaced by thermostatic ones. Western firms are leading among manufacturers, domestic ones are slightly inferior to them, while the Asian manufacturer is hardly considered seriously. In terms of the frequency of purchase of mixers, retail chains are still leading, because the price between them and Internet sites does not differ much.