How to disassemble a faucet (faucet) in the bathroom and in the kitchen
Just one subtle detail makes the bathroom a bathtub, and that’s a faucet. Huge volumes of water pass through this plumbing, and its elements withstand heavy loads. On the Web you can learn how to disassemble the mixer specifically for repair or replacement of parts, so as not to pay the craftsmen.
Old type water taps had many drawbacks, so new devices gradually came to replace them. Some of the "apartments" have completely got rid of primitive gates. This evolution in the interior as a whole did not affect the popularity of two-valve (double-lever) mixers. Only smart cranes will give a head start to the rest of the devices, and between all the models, a balance remains between the advantages and disadvantages, the price / quality ratio. Mixers have to be repaired once every several years, and if you study their structure and principle of operation, then you can carry out the actions yourself.
The body acts as the central element, and everything else is usually connected to it already. The spout (spout) is a part through which water flows out. Spout usually ends with an aerator. The three elements listed are a compulsory set of components.
Fastening to the base is provided by a nut with a sealing gasket, if it is located under the body. Wall options hold eccentrics, and in this case there are more washers in the design. Handles, handles, valves and other controls are connected to cartridges, or crane boxes, but instead of all these components, a touch panel can also be used. Bathrooms on taps almost always have a Bath / Shower switch. It is twisted or pressed, depending on the internal structure of the device.
Types of mixers: features of their device, pros and cons in operation
The list of main types of mixers should include:
double lever;
single lever;
Thermostatic
sensory, including “smart”, which are controlled through the display.
Two-valve “classic” was not so long ago the only option and implemented the simple principle of separation of flows. The version with one control lever was conceived as a technological innovation. The up and down movements were supposed to regulate the force of pressure, and the lateral ones - temperature. The placement of the lever on the structures has become the subject of design experiments. In turn, thermostatic and non-contact options are considered a big step forward, but even among new technological products there are models whose convenience is doubtful.
According to the switching mechanism, mixers are cartridge and ball. The second type, in fact, is also a cartridge, but in the design of such products there are no rotary disks. Cartridges are rotary and worm type. Two different devices can be considered taps for washbasins and bathtubs, kitchens and bathrooms - because of the switch to the shower.
Two-valve mixers
Cranes with two control elements retain their positions on a par with other models. The standard design of the valves is gradually becoming a thing of the past, because manufacturers are trying to make plumbing look modern. The practicality of the trend affected only positively, the speed of regulation of the device and the controllability itself increased.
Mixers for 2 valves are divided into two categories. In the first variety, the locking element is an elastic gasket. The reciprocating cartridge in this device overlaps and opens a hole for the movement of water. Durable to the mixer add silicone gaskets. In two-fan mixers of the second group, the locking function is performed by 2 ceramic plates. The top rotates around its axis, and the bottom remains stationary. The second type of crane is more expensive.
Single lever mixer
A plurality of holes for pipes and mounting elements are made in the body of a single lever tap.The spout of the single-lever version of the mixer is either movable or integral with the body. For products with a handle top placement, the second type of connection is used more often. A low lever usually paired with a high long spout. Aerators of modern single-lever taps saturate water with oxygen and reduce resource consumption.
In single-lever ball mixers, the role of the "center" of the design is played by an element with a rounded end, hollow inside and with 3 holes. Due to the rubber saddle in the circuit, the taps work smoothly and rarely break. In turn, the ball is fixed with retaining rings with cuffs, and the handle of the mixer, when in place, is in contact with the stem. Cold and hot water flows combine when the lever is turned, and stop when it is lowered.
Thermostatic mixer
The model is considered advanced. This is what a thermostat does to maintain the water temperature at the same level. The device is hidden in a crane box, and the condition of the water flow is regulated with handles on the sides. For reasons of convenience, manufacturers made the following scheme: one handle is responsible for the pressure, and the other controls the temperature. In this form, the device is known to most consumers.
Thermostatic taps are installed on walls and washbasins. With a rarer second version, the devices are equipped with ceramic cartridges, which play the role of a locking mechanism. Devices are always equipped with locks to limit the maximum flow temperature. Minor repairs of the thermostatic mixer will be possible for anyone who is more or less versed in the instructions. It is better to entrust the smallest elements of the thermostat to masters.
The thermostatic mixer should be chosen among electronic ones with a battery and great functionality.
Contactless mixer
Touch-sensitive, including non-contact, mixers include devices with automatic water supply.The process is activated when a person puts his hands close to the sensors. Activation-stop cycles save time and effort on similar movements. Besides simple touch options, there are also smart taps. The latter hold the leadership in functionality. The basic set of contactless taps includes a sealed one-piece body-spout, battery and electronic unit.
Other device names:
auto;
infrared.
Sensors of a contactless mixer, by the way, are not only infrared.
Touch models use water efficiently. Some will not like it, and they will choose the option where the pressure can be increased. Everybody appreciates the high hygiene in contactless taps. They almost always maintain a clean look, and rarely break. Owners of devices and their neighbors are not at risk of flooding. Design features also have a good effect on service life.
Cartridge mixers and their varieties
In the vast majority of cases, water taps have a cartridge. They are ceramic, disc, spherical, for bathrooms and showers, for single and double lever mixers. The details are based on the principle of water supply, its suspension, interaction with flows and tubes. Water treatment in disk cartridges is regulated by the position of ceramic-metal plates. The latter simply change their location relative to each other. The pressure force depends on the compression density of the protrusions of the upper disk with the holes of the lower one. In two-channel cases there are 2 cartridges for cold and hot liquid separately. The conditions of the water flow are adjusted due to the fact that the nodes change their location in the sleeve. Cartridges like thermostatic are complex devices with sensitive instruments. Cartridge designs are being improved, so that mixers have fewer malfunctions.
Ceramic cartridge for mixer
The part is a unit with two ceramic plates.When the valve is turned, the dampers mix hot and cold flows. Changing the position of the upper plate leads to increased pressure. The cartridge device does not provide any gaskets between the plates, therefore, in potential, the life of the mixer will always be higher. About 10 years he is able to work without a single breakdown and replacement. Consumers get a silent device with smooth control in the form of this mixer. To maintain the condition of the crane, you only need to use Teflon or silicone grease.
Cartridges are classified by height, diameter and landing part, less often by the length of the rod. The wear resistance, service life and power depend on the diameter of the assembly. The larger the width, the better, and the price does not always depend on the diameter.
Cartridge for shower faucet
The main part of the shower faucet is a diverter, which mixes water of different temperatures and transfers the device between the modes Shower, Bath, Overhead shower, etc. The control and supply system will fail if the switching element breaks. Faucets differ in parameters and configuration due to the cartridge that regulates temperature and pressure. The latter are divided into types depending on the handle (toggle switch) Shower / Bath. The grooves for the distribution of flows in the shower cartridge should be from 3 to 5.
For showers produced cartridges of collapsible and non-collapsible type. Parts of the first type are easy to repair. Care procedures include cleaning components and applying ointments. Cartridges of the 1st type are more practical. Solid models are more expensive and much less likely to break. In this case, it will not be possible to fix the breakdown, to find out the cause of the malfunction too. The cartridge is not opened, but simply bought a replacement for it.
Single lever mixer cartridge
Streams of water of different temperatures fall through the holes in the bottom of this device and mix in a closed groove, after which the total flow goes through the third outlet hole.A percentage of hot and cold water changes the rotation of the plate.
This cartridge contains:
stock;
axis;
sleeve;
housing;
leash;
movable and fixed plates;
silencer;
upper and lower gaskets;
bottom.
The stem is a transmitter for the movement of the mixer handle. Using the axis, the rod is fixed in the sleeve, so these parts work in concert. The sleeve remains in place, and the stem moves between positions that provide the desired temperature and pressure. The body is supported by the bottom, and inside this space the leash is connected to the rod, the fixed plate “sticks” to the moving one. In the cavity for mixing is a noise absorbing part, which is performed in the form of plastic pins and a metal mesh. Tightness between the bottom and the fixed plate provides the upper gasket. The lower one maintains the integrity of the flows between the slots in the body and the bottom.
Cartridge for ball mixer
The ball valve cartridge has a rounded shape. In the lower part of the part there are holes: of the same size, if there are 2, and two smaller ones next to the big one, if there are 3. The locking ball changes position, blocks all or some of the holes, partially or completely. Durable fluorinated rubber improves ball flow in ball mixers. The fluid in the pipe presses on the ball, which, in addition, is supported by rubber saddles.
When exposed to the handle, a spherical figure can change its position. The holes in this case fully or partially coincide with the nozzles. The ball and saddles are usually connected in one design, but some models are assembled with seats on the inner walls of the body. Type 2 products are made smaller because they often fail. With prolonged downtime, limescale forms between the ball and the linings.
Thermostatic cartridge for mixer
The thermostat, a thermostatic cartridge, is undoubtedly a key element of the mixer with maintaining the temperature level. When changing the ratio of 2 water flows, the cartridge instantly reacts and changes the volume of the supplied resource in order to maintain the set temperature.In the center of the unit is a thermomechanical device that converts temperature changes into motion. If heated, the wax expands in the cylinder. It presses on the diaphragm and transmits a pulse to the rod through the plug. Sliding the last 2 elements as well as diaphragm support provides a protective device. A decrease in temperature will mean weakening of the spring and the return of the stem. The greatest accuracy of actions is observed for devices with a flat diaphragm. Thermostatic bathroom fixtures work to maintain temperatures between 15 and 45 ° C.
How to replace the cartridge yourself
The part may break due to the low quality of the mixer, water hammer, a large amount of impurities in water, salt and other deposits, as well as due to the end of its useful life.
Anyone who has worked with the main tools will be able to replace the valve on their own. First, they shut off the water, including from the boiler. Then, a decorative element is removed from the mixer, if any, and it may be a plug. The specified stage of work is performed with a thin screwdriver. Then, the fixing screw that holds the handle is removed. The handle is removed, and after that the protective ring is easily pulled out. Next, they take an adjustable wrench and unscrew the clamping nut. When the cartridge is removed, the mixer body is cleaned of salt deposits. So prevent damage in the future. Repair of the old cartridge is usually not done, since it will not be easy to install the most problematic part of it. The valve is simply replaced with a new one.
Single lever mixer disassembly
You should keep:
pliers;
knife;
spanners;
adjustable wrench;
screwdrivers.
The set of actions for disassembling differs depending on whether the ceramic cartridge is in the device or ball. In the first case, first remove the plug with a red and blue circle. Instead of a screwdriver, a knife is sometimes used at this stage.The next step is to unscrew the screw holding the lever. The handle is then removed from the housing and reaches the top of the cartridge with a clamping nut and rod. The faceted clamp is removed with a wrench, and the round nut with a shoulder and a recess is removed with a screwdriver. Then take out the cartridge. The housing is separated from the base, and the remaining parts are disconnected from each other.
Ball valve devices are disassembled differently. First loosen the fixing screw and remove the handle. Press the ring with a screwdriver and partially rotate it counterclockwise. The dome is removed with pliers, as carefully as possible so as not to deform the ring under it. Then unscrew the ring and remove the thyroid part. It remains only to get the ball and disconnect the housing.
Troubleshooting Bath / Shower Switch
Sometimes the toggle switch fails and does not change the Bath, Shower or Overhead shower modes, or does it with problems. Sometimes the switch sticks or moves with great effort. Less often, it happens that water flows simultaneously from the nozzle and shower head. In this case, replace the rubber bands, spring or cartridge, or simply find a replacement for the parts of the latter, depending on the nature of the problem.
To replace the cartridge, first remove the plugs, screw and spout. Then remove the fasteners holding the cartridge. The valve is inspected for breakage. Most likely, it will be necessary to replace the entire part, especially if there are no obvious malfunctions in its elements.
If water continuously flows from the mixer with the switch, the problem may be with the valve or small particles. The cartridge will need to be cleaned of dirt inside and out, and possibly even replaced.
Sealing Gum Replacement Steps
If water flows synchronously in a mixer with a slide valve in both positions, the gaskets should be replaced. Perform the following manipulations:
Shut off the water supply.
Disconnect the nozzle and hose.
Unscrew the adapter.
Remove the handle.
Remove the spool.
Old rubber rings are taken.
Insert new ones in their place, after moistening them with water.
Assemble the parts of the mixer in the working position.
In the case of leaking on a push-button mixer, we can talk about the unsuitability of the seal. First shut off the water supply and disconnect the spout. Hex wrench unscrew the adapter. Then remove the cap, pull out the button, remove the screw and cartridge. If the assumption of the unsuitability of the gum is confirmed, it is replaced. As a rule, this is what causes the breakdown.
With turbulent noise, the cause of the problem may lie in the worn edge of the gasket. It is cut off in a neat, slow motion.
If water does not flow, then the tap needs to be opened and slightly hit with a wooden object. If nothing has changed, then the gasket may have dried out. Then the water supply is shut off and the structure is partially disassembled in order to correct or turn the seal.
Switch Spring Replacement Steps
First of all, we shut off the water. We disconnect the hose and spout from the mixer, the adapter from the switch, we use an open-end wrench. We take out the hose and nozzle carefully so as not to spoil the thread. Then we remove the cap from the product, remove the screw and unscrew the button. We take the rod and spring so that instead of the old spiral, insert a new one. At the end, we assemble the mixer in the reverse order.
External parts of the structure will indicate a problem with the spring. If the toggle button does not take its initial position when changing the mode or turning off the water, then the problem is probably a damaged, stretched or weak spring. Slightly unbalanced parts means the same problem. Even at the acquisition stage, it should be remembered that the tension of the spring mechanism will weaken over time, so it is better to spend more effort installing it in the valve than to change it prematurely.
Dismantling and minor repairs of a two-valve mixer
They resort to a complete disassembly if they find a marriage, constantly dripping water or leaks. If none of the reasons suits and there are no visible malfunctions, and the mixer still does not work correctly, then, most likely, it will have to be replaced. First, it is disassembled and inspected.
For minor problems with one or both valves, it will be enough to disconnect them, check and screw them again.
First of all, remove the plugs from the handles. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws in the places where the decorative parts were. We take out the valve and unscrew the core from it. After that, we proceed to check the threaded joints and seals. Perhaps these elements have an offset or a violation of integrity. A little grinding and cleaning may be enough to make the mixer work again. To remove the spout from a two-valve device, it will be enough to unscrew the nut. Problems with the nose usually happen on the side of the body, sometimes in the aerator. For a complete analysis, you will have to unhook the mixer from the wall or washbasin and get cartridges.
For simple valves, a slight deviation from a level position is considered normal.
What to do if the tap is leaking
First, a simple increase in tightness is enough. All connections spin as tight as possible. If less luck, the crane will need to be partially or completely disassembled. To do this, use a wrench and adjustable wrenches, flat and Phillips screwdrivers.
To prevent the mixer from leaking, you have to replace the gland tabs and shower hose gaskets. Leakage between the nose and the stuffing box nut is a frequent occurrence and does not attract much attention, but if the volumes of useless water used are large, then the insert needs to be replaced. Then a new part is made from the sealing tape. The old liner is removed and the new tightly wound.
Before replacing the gasket of the shower hose, the latter is unscrewed with an adjustable wrench.Instead of the old gaskets, they have recently put new silicone ones. They proved to be more resistant to wear than rubber.
Dismantling the mixer with thermostat
First, remove the cover and remove the screw. Then we disconnect the handle and a lock ring. The screw is located on the thermostatic block below. It fits easily in the palm of your hand and can easily get lost, so we take out the part carefully and immediately find a place where it can be placed. Complete with a thermostatic mixer, a key is also sold, with which you need to unscrew the screw. Then we get out the block. At this stage, the disassembly can be considered complete.
The reverse process, the assembly is performed with a clear algorithm. We insert the block into the housing, leading the hole to the threaded recess. We screw in the screw there. Sealers will not interfere with the process of sanitary plumbing. After that, we set the handle on the “temperature” side of the mixer so that the temperature meets the set one. We turn the stem and combine the mark on it with the mark on the body. We put the circlip so that this value remains visible.
Mixer Prevention
Damage, repairs and replacements can be avoided if the faucet is not defective and if the equipment is used correctly. It is necessary to open and close the water without sudden movements. It is not worthwhile to turn the handles with all their might to the stop and hit them with internal rotating elements. Among the gaskets, modern models should be chosen, while silicone should be preferred. The mixer can not be disassembled several times a month. Otherwise, sooner or later screw connections will deteriorate. In turn, timely scheduled cleaning of parts will extend the life of the entire crane by 5 years. Moreover, any malfunction in the parts of the mixers will lead to more serious consequences if you do not inspect it in time. You should also not keep the old worn cartridge in the new plumbing, pick up disproportionate parts that will put pressure on the structure.
Conclusion
Mixers are single and double lever, non-contact and thermostatic. Install them on bathrooms, washbasins, walls in showers. Designs differ primarily in the way they work and their purpose. Devices with a shower switch alone have up to one hundred configuration options. Cartridges in water taps are disk and ball, in an amount of up to two. Recently, with the word faucet, a single lever design with one valve and a top handle position comes to mind. These devices filled toilets in public places and the bathrooms of apartments in a modern style. For the house, either technological options are bought, or those that are not difficult to repair manually. The mixer, in principle, is not a complex design. For disassembling and replacing parts, an intuitive understanding of the mechanism and a small set of tools in the form of adjustable spanners, screwdrivers and pliers are enough.
Just one subtle detail makes the bathroom a bathtub, and that’s a faucet. Huge volumes of water pass through this plumbing, and its elements withstand heavy loads. On the Web you can learn how to disassemble the mixer specifically for repair or replacement of parts, so as not to pay the craftsmen.
Old type water taps had many drawbacks, so new devices gradually came to replace them. Some of the "apartments" have completely got rid of primitive gates. This evolution in the interior as a whole did not affect the popularity of two-valve (double-lever) mixers. Only smart cranes will give a head start to the rest of the devices, and between all the models, a balance remains between the advantages and disadvantages, the price / quality ratio. Mixers have to be repaired once every several years, and if you study their structure and principle of operation, then you can carry out the actions yourself.
Content
What the mixer consists of
The body acts as the central element, and everything else is usually connected to it already. The spout (spout) is a part through which water flows out. Spout usually ends with an aerator. The three elements listed are a compulsory set of components.
Fastening to the base is provided by a nut with a sealing gasket, if it is located under the body. Wall options hold eccentrics, and in this case there are more washers in the design. Handles, handles, valves and other controls are connected to cartridges, or crane boxes, but instead of all these components, a touch panel can also be used. Bathrooms on taps almost always have a Bath / Shower switch. It is twisted or pressed, depending on the internal structure of the device.
Types of mixers: features of their device, pros and cons in operation
The list of main types of mixers should include:
Two-valve “classic” was not so long ago the only option and implemented the simple principle of separation of flows. The version with one control lever was conceived as a technological innovation. The up and down movements were supposed to regulate the force of pressure, and the lateral ones - temperature. The placement of the lever on the structures has become the subject of design experiments. In turn, thermostatic and non-contact options are considered a big step forward, but even among new technological products there are models whose convenience is doubtful.
According to the switching mechanism, mixers are cartridge and ball. The second type, in fact, is also a cartridge, but in the design of such products there are no rotary disks. Cartridges are rotary and worm type. Two different devices can be considered taps for washbasins and bathtubs, kitchens and bathrooms - because of the switch to the shower.
Two-valve mixers
Cranes with two control elements retain their positions on a par with other models. The standard design of the valves is gradually becoming a thing of the past, because manufacturers are trying to make plumbing look modern. The practicality of the trend affected only positively, the speed of regulation of the device and the controllability itself increased.
Mixers for 2 valves are divided into two categories. In the first variety, the locking element is an elastic gasket. The reciprocating cartridge in this device overlaps and opens a hole for the movement of water. Durable to the mixer add silicone gaskets. In two-fan mixers of the second group, the locking function is performed by 2 ceramic plates. The top rotates around its axis, and the bottom remains stationary. The second type of crane is more expensive.
Single lever mixer
A plurality of holes for pipes and mounting elements are made in the body of a single lever tap.The spout of the single-lever version of the mixer is either movable or integral with the body. For products with a handle top placement, the second type of connection is used more often. A low lever usually paired with a high long spout. Aerators of modern single-lever taps saturate water with oxygen and reduce resource consumption.
In single-lever ball mixers, the role of the "center" of the design is played by an element with a rounded end, hollow inside and with 3 holes. Due to the rubber saddle in the circuit, the taps work smoothly and rarely break. In turn, the ball is fixed with retaining rings with cuffs, and the handle of the mixer, when in place, is in contact with the stem. Cold and hot water flows combine when the lever is turned, and stop when it is lowered.
Thermostatic mixer
The model is considered advanced. This is what a thermostat does to maintain the water temperature at the same level. The device is hidden in a crane box, and the condition of the water flow is regulated with handles on the sides. For reasons of convenience, manufacturers made the following scheme: one handle is responsible for the pressure, and the other controls the temperature. In this form, the device is known to most consumers.
Thermostatic taps are installed on walls and washbasins. With a rarer second version, the devices are equipped with ceramic cartridges, which play the role of a locking mechanism. Devices are always equipped with locks to limit the maximum flow temperature. Minor repairs of the thermostatic mixer will be possible for anyone who is more or less versed in the instructions. It is better to entrust the smallest elements of the thermostat to masters.
Contactless mixer
Touch-sensitive, including non-contact, mixers include devices with automatic water supply.The process is activated when a person puts his hands close to the sensors. Activation-stop cycles save time and effort on similar movements. Besides simple touch options, there are also smart taps. The latter hold the leadership in functionality. The basic set of contactless taps includes a sealed one-piece body-spout, battery and electronic unit.
Other device names:
Sensors of a contactless mixer, by the way, are not only infrared.
Touch models use water efficiently. Some will not like it, and they will choose the option where the pressure can be increased. Everybody appreciates the high hygiene in contactless taps. They almost always maintain a clean look, and rarely break. Owners of devices and their neighbors are not at risk of flooding. Design features also have a good effect on service life.
Cartridge mixers and their varieties
In the vast majority of cases, water taps have a cartridge. They are ceramic, disc, spherical, for bathrooms and showers, for single and double lever mixers. The details are based on the principle of water supply, its suspension, interaction with flows and tubes. Water treatment in disk cartridges is regulated by the position of ceramic-metal plates. The latter simply change their location relative to each other. The pressure force depends on the compression density of the protrusions of the upper disk with the holes of the lower one. In two-channel cases there are 2 cartridges for cold and hot liquid separately. The conditions of the water flow are adjusted due to the fact that the nodes change their location in the sleeve. Cartridges like thermostatic are complex devices with sensitive instruments. Cartridge designs are being improved, so that mixers have fewer malfunctions.
Ceramic cartridge for mixer
The part is a unit with two ceramic plates.When the valve is turned, the dampers mix hot and cold flows. Changing the position of the upper plate leads to increased pressure. The cartridge device does not provide any gaskets between the plates, therefore, in potential, the life of the mixer will always be higher. About 10 years he is able to work without a single breakdown and replacement. Consumers get a silent device with smooth control in the form of this mixer. To maintain the condition of the crane, you only need to use Teflon or silicone grease.
Cartridges are classified by height, diameter and landing part, less often by the length of the rod. The wear resistance, service life and power depend on the diameter of the assembly. The larger the width, the better, and the price does not always depend on the diameter.
Cartridge for shower faucet
The main part of the shower faucet is a diverter, which mixes water of different temperatures and transfers the device between the modes Shower, Bath, Overhead shower, etc. The control and supply system will fail if the switching element breaks. Faucets differ in parameters and configuration due to the cartridge that regulates temperature and pressure. The latter are divided into types depending on the handle (toggle switch) Shower / Bath. The grooves for the distribution of flows in the shower cartridge should be from 3 to 5.
For showers produced cartridges of collapsible and non-collapsible type. Parts of the first type are easy to repair. Care procedures include cleaning components and applying ointments. Cartridges of the 1st type are more practical. Solid models are more expensive and much less likely to break. In this case, it will not be possible to fix the breakdown, to find out the cause of the malfunction too. The cartridge is not opened, but simply bought a replacement for it.
Single lever mixer cartridge
Streams of water of different temperatures fall through the holes in the bottom of this device and mix in a closed groove, after which the total flow goes through the third outlet hole.A percentage of hot and cold water changes the rotation of the plate.
This cartridge contains:
The stem is a transmitter for the movement of the mixer handle. Using the axis, the rod is fixed in the sleeve, so these parts work in concert. The sleeve remains in place, and the stem moves between positions that provide the desired temperature and pressure. The body is supported by the bottom, and inside this space the leash is connected to the rod, the fixed plate “sticks” to the moving one. In the cavity for mixing is a noise absorbing part, which is performed in the form of plastic pins and a metal mesh. Tightness between the bottom and the fixed plate provides the upper gasket. The lower one maintains the integrity of the flows between the slots in the body and the bottom.
Cartridge for ball mixer
The ball valve cartridge has a rounded shape. In the lower part of the part there are holes: of the same size, if there are 2, and two smaller ones next to the big one, if there are 3. The locking ball changes position, blocks all or some of the holes, partially or completely. Durable fluorinated rubber improves ball flow in ball mixers. The fluid in the pipe presses on the ball, which, in addition, is supported by rubber saddles.
When exposed to the handle, a spherical figure can change its position. The holes in this case fully or partially coincide with the nozzles. The ball and saddles are usually connected in one design, but some models are assembled with seats on the inner walls of the body. Type 2 products are made smaller because they often fail. With prolonged downtime, limescale forms between the ball and the linings.
Thermostatic cartridge for mixer
The thermostat, a thermostatic cartridge, is undoubtedly a key element of the mixer with maintaining the temperature level. When changing the ratio of 2 water flows, the cartridge instantly reacts and changes the volume of the supplied resource in order to maintain the set temperature.In the center of the unit is a thermomechanical device that converts temperature changes into motion. If heated, the wax expands in the cylinder. It presses on the diaphragm and transmits a pulse to the rod through the plug. Sliding the last 2 elements as well as diaphragm support provides a protective device. A decrease in temperature will mean weakening of the spring and the return of the stem. The greatest accuracy of actions is observed for devices with a flat diaphragm. Thermostatic bathroom fixtures work to maintain temperatures between 15 and 45 ° C.
How to replace the cartridge yourself
The part may break due to the low quality of the mixer, water hammer, a large amount of impurities in water, salt and other deposits, as well as due to the end of its useful life.
Anyone who has worked with the main tools will be able to replace the valve on their own. First, they shut off the water, including from the boiler. Then, a decorative element is removed from the mixer, if any, and it may be a plug. The specified stage of work is performed with a thin screwdriver. Then, the fixing screw that holds the handle is removed. The handle is removed, and after that the protective ring is easily pulled out. Next, they take an adjustable wrench and unscrew the clamping nut. When the cartridge is removed, the mixer body is cleaned of salt deposits. So prevent damage in the future. Repair of the old cartridge is usually not done, since it will not be easy to install the most problematic part of it. The valve is simply replaced with a new one.
Single lever mixer disassembly
You should keep:
The set of actions for disassembling differs depending on whether the ceramic cartridge is in the device or ball. In the first case, first remove the plug with a red and blue circle. Instead of a screwdriver, a knife is sometimes used at this stage.The next step is to unscrew the screw holding the lever. The handle is then removed from the housing and reaches the top of the cartridge with a clamping nut and rod. The faceted clamp is removed with a wrench, and the round nut with a shoulder and a recess is removed with a screwdriver. Then take out the cartridge. The housing is separated from the base, and the remaining parts are disconnected from each other.
Ball valve devices are disassembled differently. First loosen the fixing screw and remove the handle. Press the ring with a screwdriver and partially rotate it counterclockwise. The dome is removed with pliers, as carefully as possible so as not to deform the ring under it. Then unscrew the ring and remove the thyroid part. It remains only to get the ball and disconnect the housing.
Troubleshooting Bath / Shower Switch
Sometimes the toggle switch fails and does not change the Bath, Shower or Overhead shower modes, or does it with problems. Sometimes the switch sticks or moves with great effort. Less often, it happens that water flows simultaneously from the nozzle and shower head. In this case, replace the rubber bands, spring or cartridge, or simply find a replacement for the parts of the latter, depending on the nature of the problem.
To replace the cartridge, first remove the plugs, screw and spout. Then remove the fasteners holding the cartridge. The valve is inspected for breakage. Most likely, it will be necessary to replace the entire part, especially if there are no obvious malfunctions in its elements.
If water continuously flows from the mixer with the switch, the problem may be with the valve or small particles. The cartridge will need to be cleaned of dirt inside and out, and possibly even replaced.
Sealing Gum Replacement Steps
If water flows synchronously in a mixer with a slide valve in both positions, the gaskets should be replaced. Perform the following manipulations:
In the case of leaking on a push-button mixer, we can talk about the unsuitability of the seal. First shut off the water supply and disconnect the spout. Hex wrench unscrew the adapter. Then remove the cap, pull out the button, remove the screw and cartridge. If the assumption of the unsuitability of the gum is confirmed, it is replaced. As a rule, this is what causes the breakdown.
With turbulent noise, the cause of the problem may lie in the worn edge of the gasket. It is cut off in a neat, slow motion.
If water does not flow, then the tap needs to be opened and slightly hit with a wooden object. If nothing has changed, then the gasket may have dried out. Then the water supply is shut off and the structure is partially disassembled in order to correct or turn the seal.
Switch Spring Replacement Steps
First of all, we shut off the water. We disconnect the hose and spout from the mixer, the adapter from the switch, we use an open-end wrench. We take out the hose and nozzle carefully so as not to spoil the thread. Then we remove the cap from the product, remove the screw and unscrew the button. We take the rod and spring so that instead of the old spiral, insert a new one. At the end, we assemble the mixer in the reverse order.
External parts of the structure will indicate a problem with the spring. If the toggle button does not take its initial position when changing the mode or turning off the water, then the problem is probably a damaged, stretched or weak spring. Slightly unbalanced parts means the same problem. Even at the acquisition stage, it should be remembered that the tension of the spring mechanism will weaken over time, so it is better to spend more effort installing it in the valve than to change it prematurely.
Dismantling and minor repairs of a two-valve mixer
They resort to a complete disassembly if they find a marriage, constantly dripping water or leaks. If none of the reasons suits and there are no visible malfunctions, and the mixer still does not work correctly, then, most likely, it will have to be replaced. First, it is disassembled and inspected.
For minor problems with one or both valves, it will be enough to disconnect them, check and screw them again.
First of all, remove the plugs from the handles. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws in the places where the decorative parts were. We take out the valve and unscrew the core from it. After that, we proceed to check the threaded joints and seals. Perhaps these elements have an offset or a violation of integrity. A little grinding and cleaning may be enough to make the mixer work again. To remove the spout from a two-valve device, it will be enough to unscrew the nut. Problems with the nose usually happen on the side of the body, sometimes in the aerator. For a complete analysis, you will have to unhook the mixer from the wall or washbasin and get cartridges.
What to do if the tap is leaking
First, a simple increase in tightness is enough. All connections spin as tight as possible. If less luck, the crane will need to be partially or completely disassembled. To do this, use a wrench and adjustable wrenches, flat and Phillips screwdrivers.
To prevent the mixer from leaking, you have to replace the gland tabs and shower hose gaskets. Leakage between the nose and the stuffing box nut is a frequent occurrence and does not attract much attention, but if the volumes of useless water used are large, then the insert needs to be replaced. Then a new part is made from the sealing tape. The old liner is removed and the new tightly wound.
Before replacing the gasket of the shower hose, the latter is unscrewed with an adjustable wrench.Instead of the old gaskets, they have recently put new silicone ones. They proved to be more resistant to wear than rubber.
Dismantling the mixer with thermostat
First, remove the cover and remove the screw. Then we disconnect the handle and a lock ring. The screw is located on the thermostatic block below. It fits easily in the palm of your hand and can easily get lost, so we take out the part carefully and immediately find a place where it can be placed. Complete with a thermostatic mixer, a key is also sold, with which you need to unscrew the screw. Then we get out the block. At this stage, the disassembly can be considered complete.
The reverse process, the assembly is performed with a clear algorithm. We insert the block into the housing, leading the hole to the threaded recess. We screw in the screw there. Sealers will not interfere with the process of sanitary plumbing. After that, we set the handle on the “temperature” side of the mixer so that the temperature meets the set one. We turn the stem and combine the mark on it with the mark on the body. We put the circlip so that this value remains visible.
Mixer Prevention
Damage, repairs and replacements can be avoided if the faucet is not defective and if the equipment is used correctly. It is necessary to open and close the water without sudden movements. It is not worthwhile to turn the handles with all their might to the stop and hit them with internal rotating elements. Among the gaskets, modern models should be chosen, while silicone should be preferred. The mixer can not be disassembled several times a month. Otherwise, sooner or later screw connections will deteriorate. In turn, timely scheduled cleaning of parts will extend the life of the entire crane by 5 years. Moreover, any malfunction in the parts of the mixers will lead to more serious consequences if you do not inspect it in time. You should also not keep the old worn cartridge in the new plumbing, pick up disproportionate parts that will put pressure on the structure.
Conclusion
Mixers are single and double lever, non-contact and thermostatic. Install them on bathrooms, washbasins, walls in showers. Designs differ primarily in the way they work and their purpose. Devices with a shower switch alone have up to one hundred configuration options. Cartridges in water taps are disk and ball, in an amount of up to two. Recently, with the word faucet, a single lever design with one valve and a top handle position comes to mind. These devices filled toilets in public places and the bathrooms of apartments in a modern style. For the house, either technological options are bought, or those that are not difficult to repair manually. The mixer, in principle, is not a complex design. For disassembling and replacing parts, an intuitive understanding of the mechanism and a small set of tools in the form of adjustable spanners, screwdrivers and pliers are enough.