How to choose a cartridge for the mixer

Screw the screw back. The screw hole is closed with a decorative die.

Installation of a decorative die

Popular cartridge sizes

Naturally, cartridge sizes are standardized for each mixer model. For the washbasin, sinks and shower, the most common sizes are 28 mm, 35 mm and 32 mm. At the same time, for the bathroom, parts from 40 mm to 46 mm are most often used (in particular, in Grohe and Kaiser). But why is there such a difference in almost the same mixers?

It is believed that the larger the ceramic mixer for a single lever tap - the better it is. In fairness, it is worth noting that in Chinese faucets (with the exception of FRAP), where the spout diameter is often larger than that of the branded ones, this rule is really true. But for branded models (Fiore Rubinetterie, Iddis, Sedal and others), a large cartridge is not always synonymous with quality.

Technical characteristics (diameters) of different mixer cartridges

Consider the technical characteristics of the example of a cartridge with a brass rod Touch-Z:

• Diameter - 45 mm
• Height with leg - from 60 mm to 65 mm,
• Cartridge height without rod - 47 mm - 50 mm.

Similarly, according to the characteristics, you can choose a cartridge for the mixer in the kitchen. As an example, consider Potato. The diameter of the swivel spout is important here - sizes from 26 mm to 30 mm are recommended. A hose from 38 mm to 40 is used to feed the hoses, depending on the model.

The listed sizes are considered standard, but for many original mixers they will not work because of too large a diameter. In such cases, non-standard components of 18 mm, 20 mm and 22 mm are used.Hose connections can also be made in holes of 25 mm up to 26 or more.

Varieties of cartridges for mixers

Cartridges are classified by device and operating principle. On the device there are such varieties:

Ball. Equipped with a ball with one or two holes. During operation, due to such a locking mechanism, the pressure and water temperature are controlled. When moving the lever, the ball closes one or both holes from the nozzles of cold and hot water, due to which mixing occurs,

This is how disk ball cartridges look. Act similarly to spherical, but here instead of a ball a special disk is installed. If ball can be installed exclusively in single-lever mixers, then disk are suitable for two-valve options.

The principle of operation of the disk cartridge

According to the material used, they are:

Ceramic cartridge for GROHE mixer

According to the principle of operation, as voiced above, cartridges are divided into two types:

For single lever taps,

Typical single lever cartridge

Shower Mixer Cartridges

Each type has its own design features. For example, the number of holes for the nozzles and the shape of the pads for installation in the grooves.

Cartridge for shower faucet

The cartridge for a shower faucet is also called a divertor. It is intended not only for 3 positions of mixing water, as standard parts, but for 4 positions and more. The quantity depends on the connected devices (for example, if a hydrobox is used, the divertor operates in 5 positions).

Cartridge for shower faucet

To switch positions, a brass rod with plates is used, which rotates 360 degrees around its axis. This angle allows you to combine several mixing modes - up to 6 lever positions.

Single lever mixer cartridge

A cartridge for a single lever mixer (GOST 25809-96) or a one-armed tap is the most common locking device. Its operation is provided by a lever that can rotate in different directions to change the position of the locking device of the cartridge. It happens spherical and disk.

Single lever mixer cartridge

Previously, it was used exclusively in bathroom sinks, but now it is also used for kitchen plumbing and shower cabins.

Cartridge for ball mixer

The cartridge for a ball mixer is a fairly simple design, where at the bottom of the device there are several holes of different diameters. They can be 2 identical and 3, where one of them is larger.

Water is mixed here by changing the position of the locking ball. It can block all holes at the same time or only half of them, changing the pressure of the water.

Thermostatic cartridge for mixer

The thermostatic cartridge is used for a mixer equipped with a thermostat. On one side of such a tap there is a special temperature scale where you can select the desired parameters. Thermostatic lock is constantly in the set position, keeping the temperature and pressure at a certain level.

Cartridge for thermostatic mixer

This device is often used in public places, such as washbasins or bidets.

Mixer cartridge repair

Cosmetic repair of the mixer cartridge can be done by yourself. But, we immediately note that this applies only to breakdowns associated with clogging of the working surfaces or wear of the thrust rings. If the plates or balls are worn out, cracks appear, etc., then the device must be replaced. Neither professionally nor independently repair it will not work.

Collapsible Cartridge Design

What can be done with redecorating a single lever mixer:

1. Lubricate the plates. Greasing ceramic plates in a cartridge is necessary to reduce friction and extend their durability. For this, various oil solutions or special sealants can be used,
2. Adjust the thermostatic cartridge. Sometimes it happens that the device, with frequent use, “resets” the settings. To resolve this problem, there is no need to contact specialists,

Thermostatic cartridge adjustment

Cartridge and mixer grooves

Naturally, it is better to buy high-quality models of European manufacturers. Good reviews about Grohe, Kaiser and Blanco. But, if necessary, you can pick up some good Chinese options. These are Potato, Frap and others.

What is affected by such a device

The main task of the cartridge is to provide the necessary pressure and temperature of the water when mixing hot and cold flow. Manufacturers often use ceramic disk parts for the reason that it is easier to manufacture and maintain. These products have no advantages over ball types. If the parts are identical in manufacturing quality and useful life, there are significant differences in the care and repair.

Ball or Disk

Balls are called so because of the presence in the locking mechanism of balls that cover one or two holes, thereby regulating the temperature of the water.

Disc ones are similar in principle to ball ones, but the difference is that instead of balls there are two tight-fitting plates (preferably made of ceramics), which, when turned, cover completely or partially the holes inside the mixer.

For a ball mixer or tap which is better?

The design feature of this model is also quite simple: at the bottom there are three holes of different diameters depending on the design of the crane. If there are two holes, then one of them is necessarily smaller than the other.

Ensuring the work of mixing water occurs by changing the position of the shut-off ball: when all openings are blocked, water flows with the highest pressure, if half - with a slight pressure.

Shower Faucets

Diverter - another name for the cartridge that is installed on the mixer in the shower in the bathroom. The main difference between this detail: there are several modes for mixing water. If in an ordinary tap there are 2-3 such openings, then there can be 4 or more. Also, the axial brass rod, due to which rotation occurs, spins 360 degrees around its own axis.

Sizes of different types of cartridges

To select a part for the kitchen, you need to take into account such features as the configuration of different models of the mixer. Since the dimensions of individual plumbing devices can be from 28 to 35 mm, the cartridge should be selected accordingly. The biggest parameters are 40 mm bathroom models.

The size of the mechanisms and the sanitary faucet is important, since such a parameter can affect the quality of use: the larger the cartridge, the higher the wear resistance characteristics. Therefore, the size of the locking mechanism is of great importance.

• washbasins in the bath or shower - 28/32/35 mm,
• faucet in the kitchen - 26 and 30 mm (hose inlet - 38-40 mm),
• rotary spout tap - 26-30 mm,
• non-standard sizes - 18-20 mm with a hole size for supplying hoses - 25-26 mm.

How to remove a defective cartridge

To remove the damaged locking mechanism, it is necessary to initially shut off the water. Further sequential actions:

1. To tuck a decorative button on which, as a rule, there is a designation of hot and cold water. It is not fixed, but recessed into the mixer, and therefore a thin screwdriver is required, which can be tucked up and not damaged the crane body.
2. Remove the screw located under the plug.
3. A decorative clamping nut is twisted from the thread.
4. The large nut under the decorative clamping screw is unscrewed.
5. The old damaged cartridge is removed.

Problems removing the sticky handle

Often there is a situation when the old cartridge "stuck" to the body of a pen or crane. In this case, you will have to make efforts in order to dismantle the part:

• wrap the lever with a thick cloth,
• set a key on top of the fabric and try to make a turn,
• if this still doesn’t help, hit the crane with a hammer so that the attached part moves away,
• apply heating fluid to the joint.

After dismantling, clean the thread by turning the special screw bolt inside the container.

Install New

The new cartridge is installed in the reverse order of dismantling:

• the part is installed inside, it is important to get the internal grooves of the part into the grooves of the mixer. If done correctly, hear a little click,
• put on a fixing nut with a ring,
• mixer lever is installed, leveled,
• screw decorative hole closes.

Tips for choosing cartridge types

When choosing a plumbing fixture, look at the specifications. If they are doubtful, the mixer may break, and the mechanism will rotate tightly around the axis. Due to breakdowns, the crane will also become unusable faster. Sometimes the eyeliner cracks, the thread wears out. This is due to poor quality materials used in the production of spare parts.

Having studied the shape and number of holes in the tap, you can also determine the main identification parameter of the locking mechanism. At the same time, remember that the number of grooves and protrusions is not always the same. Mechanisms with a different arrangement of holes cannot be installed in the device.

What it is?

The cartridge is one of the most important parts of the mixer and has a very important function. Without this detail, the system will not work. It is the cartridge that controls the pressure of the water supply and its temperature. Outwardly, it looks like a small plastic cylinder, from the bottom it has three holes, from the top - the rod. Hot and cold water flows through these openings.

There is a plate inside the cartridge, when it rotates, the water mixes. When the plate moves, the pressure of the water changes. Instead of a plate, a small ball can be used, which, rolling, closes the hole with hot water, then the hole with cold. The rod on top is a continuation of the tap handle. Such a cylinder is integrated in each washbasin or bathtub faucet.

Given the principle of operation, the following types of cartridges are distinguished:

• for a single lever mixer - water is regulated with a single lever, one-handed faucets are used in bathtubs, in kitchens,
• for the shower - only two-valve mixers are installed,
• for a thermostatic mixer - a person independently sets a constant temperature and pressure.

The device cartridges are of two types.

• Ball cartridge. Inside there is a ball that, under the action of the handle, rolls and closes either one hole or two at once. Water is supplied to these openings, one is for hot water, the other is for cold. This is how water is mixed. In addition, under the influence of the ball, the pressure of the supplied water changes.
• Disc cartridge. Instead of a ball, a disk is used, also called a plate. The disk itself is smaller in diameter than the diameter of the cartridge case, so it can rotate and move inside. When the disc rotates, it closes one of the holes, and hotter or cooler water comes from the tap. When the disk is shifted, the pressure of the supplied water is regulated. Only discs are installed inside the ceramic cartridge; ceramic ball cartridges do not exist.

The main difference between the two types of cartridges is as follows: the ball is installed if the mixer is lever type, and the disk one is perfect for both the lever and the two-valve mixer.

The inner part of the part is a metal or ceramic lock. Ceramic cartridges are considered durable. They have two or three ceramic disks built in, which are quite tightly fixed. These plates have three holes for adjusting temperature and pressure. There are fewer problems with a ceramic element, the adjustment of the water supply is smooth, and it works almost silently. But if sand gets between the plates and the ceramic cartridge stops working, then it will have to be replaced. The item is not repairable.

There are thermostatic cartridges that are most often installed on washbasin taps in cafes or in hotel showers. The thermostat maintains a manually set temperature and also maintains a constant pressure head. Thermostatic cartridges are very convenient to use in homes where there are children or the elderly. The design protects against burns, if suddenly the supply of cold water stops. There are special cartridges for shower faucets called divertors. The water dispenser operates in 4–5 modes. Accordingly, the part device is different from other cartridges.

Dimensions

For each mixer model, it is recommended to purchase certain models. When choosing a cartridge, you should always pay attention to its diameter, because it is the diameter that is taken for the size of the product. So, the most popular are sizes 28, 32 and 35 mm. They are great for taps in the bathroom for the washbasin or in the kitchen.In the bathtub for faucets, cartridges with a diameter of 40 to 46 mm are often used.

There is a misconception that diameter affects the strength of a part: the larger the diameter, the greater the strength. For branded models, the diameter has nothing to do with quality, the wear resistance of the cartridge does not depend on size. But most plumbing fixtures, in which the country of origin is China, the quality really depends on the size. It should be noted that standard sizes (28, 32, 35 and 40 mm) may not work.

Some manufacturers, whose products belong to the high price segment, make mixers for small cartridges, for example, 18 or 25 mm.

Accessories

The cartridge consists of different elements. It is worth considering them in more detail:

• It is important that the design does not get air and excess moisture, so most cartridges have rubber gaskets. They provide a snug fit between the elements and prevent liquid from entering.
• Ceramic parts quickly fail due to sand, because there is a lot of it in unfiltered water. The metal mesh mounted on the holes prevents particles from penetrating.
• The shower switch is an important part of the mixer. It redirects the flow of water either to the tap or to the shower. Cartridge switches are now more popular, although spool and cork switches also exist.

The cartridge itself consists of the following elements:

• plastic case
• sleeve with stem
• top drive
• washer under the upper disk,
• lower disk
• holes supplemented with rubber seals.

Manufacturers Overview

Currently, plumbing stores provide a large selection of various tools and parts. Mixer manufacturers are also involved in the production of cartridges. It is worth considering the popular manufacturers.

• Vidima. This company occupies one of the leading places in the market; it has existed for more than 60 years. Vidima produces excellent shower sets, faucets and their accessories. Products offered by a Bulgarian company are usually cheaper than plumbing fixtures of the same quality from another manufacturer.

It is important to note that all the details comply with the European standard of reliability, relying on customer reviews, we can say that this is indeed so. Cartridges from this manufacturer are only ceramic.

• AM. PM. Cartridges from this company have an increased throughput of approximately 43 l / min. Standard models have 2 times less bandwidth. These cartridges are well suited for installation in the bathroom. If you want to take a bath, then the required amount of water will be typed very quickly. AM. PM produces a large number of models with thermostat. A cartridge with a diameter of 35 mm is considered standard, so this company mainly produces parts of this type.

• Oras offers advanced plumbing equipment. Goods are purchased both for home installation and for use in public places. Many people trust this company, because it has long established itself in the market. The only drawback of this product is the price, it is quite high.

• Hansgrohe. The products of this manufacturer are considered reliable. Hansgrohe parts are easy to find in stores, often advised to purchase them. The price of cartridges is not the highest, but not budget.

• Among Chinese manufacturers there are many worthy manufacturers, for example, Tivoli and Santide. But usually there is no guarantee on products, which strongly repels buyers.

It is believed that imported cartridges are unsuitable for our water. This opinion is erroneous, because the products of famous brands are tested, and also comply with European quality standards. For example, Kohler is testing its product. By placing it in saline for 48 hours, the manufacturer checks the resistance of the material and mechanism to an aggressive environment.

Famous import companies usually produce quality products and provide a good warranty period, so you should pay attention to their cartridges.

How to choose?

If you decide to purchase a new mixer, then immediately you should buy a spare cartridge. Damage can occur at any time, then you do not have to run around and look for the right model in plumbing stores. If there is no spare part, then you will have to go to the store with an old cartridge. Without it, there is a risk of making the wrong choice, it is unlikely that the buyer knows the diameter, height and model. In a specialized department, sellers will help determine the choice of part. Sometimes it is not possible to remove the cartridge from the mixer. In order not to damage the plastic case, the surface of the part and the mixer should be treated with special grease. The oil that is part of this solution will act in 2–5 minutes, then without much effort you can remove the part.

When choosing a cartridge, it is recommended to pay attention to several points:

• Parts are collapsible and non-collapsible. Typically, stores are more often non-separable, but they can not be repaired, in such cases only a complete replacement of the cartridge helps. Collapsible elements can be cleaned and lubricated.
• It is worth paying attention to size. Size refers to the diameter, height and length of the stem. If the cartridge has a leg, then the height of the legs of the new and old cartridges should be exactly the same. Due to improperly sized water in the mixers can make a lot of noise or turn the lever can become too tight. And also a consequence of a wrong cartridge selection is a crack in the shower hose and leaking mixer connections.

• The grooves and tabs on the cartridge are needed in order to fix it in the mixer. Their location on the old cartridge should fully coincide with the location on the new one; otherwise, fixing this part will fail.
• Of course, it is better to purchase parts from well-known manufacturers. They are much easier to find in stores and the warranty period is rather big.
• Typically, large, established companies have an ISO 9001: 2000 certificate, the presence of which indicates compliance with production rules. If this document was provided, then most likely the products are of high quality.
• There is another document to consider when buying a cartridge. This is a guarantee that this batch of parts has passed a pressure test of 3.5 atm.

How to install?

Replacing the cartridge is easy. For dismantling, you will need the following tools:

• pliers
• screwdriver,
• adjustable wrench
• hexagon
• torch.

Of course, a new replacement part will also be required. When replacing a cartridge, the following step-by-step instructions should be followed:

• before starting work it is necessary to shut off cold and hot water,

• then open the tap and wait until the remaining water flows out,
• carefully remove the plug from the mixer, it usually indicates on which side the supply of hot and cold water

• do not rush, because it is very important not to scratch the part and keep its appearance,
• removing the plug, the fixing screw will be visible, which must be removed using the hexagon,

• if the mixer has been installed for a long time, then most likely the thread will be contaminated with rust, you can try to remove this deposits with special grease, which is used to remove the cartridge,

• you should remove the mixer handle, under it there is a protective ring, you need to unscrew it, you will not need tools for this, you can do it manually
• unscrew the clamping nut with an adjustable wrench or wrench,
• only then can the broken cartridge be removed,

• Before installing a new part, be sure to clean the inner surface and elements of the mixer,
• there should be no rust at the installation site of the new cartridge, the grooves and protrusions on the cartridge must match, otherwise this will damage the mixer,
• after changing the cartridge, you need to collect the parts back,
• first, using a wrench, tighten the clamping nut,
• the protective ring should be fixed manually and the mixer handle should be fixed,
• to install the fixing screw you will need a hexagon,
• the last is a stub.

Replacing a cartridge is a very easy task. The tools that are used in the work are found in everyone in the house. All that needs to be done is to remove the elements and after replacing them, reinstall them in their original place. A much greater difficulty is the choice of cartridge. But if you purchased a high-quality cartridge that matches the previous part in all respects, then you can be sure that the mixer will last a long time.

Recommendations for use

To the mixer does not break, you need to follow some rules:

• Often cartridges fail under the influence of too aggressive environment - water. It contains a lot of sand and other impurities. Ceramic plates in the cartridge stop working due to particles of sand. If the part is non-separable, then after a breakdown it will have to be discarded, repaired or replaced elements will not succeed. This will cause discomfort, because during the repair the water will be shut off, you will not be able to use it.

To avoid this situation, you can install a filter that will perform a protective function.

• Many people forget that you need to periodically rinse the mixer. At least once a year, clean parts with a special solution or dishwashing detergent. Vinegar does a great job with limescale. Wet a cloth with vinegar and carefully remove the coating. It is forbidden to use metal sponges and skins, because they can damage the protective layer.
• Cartridge locks are cleaned in exactly the same way, vinegar, a soft brush and detergents are used. It is recommended to grease the collapsible cartridge plates with special solutions that include oils. If there are cracks on the part or the rod breaks off, then you should not clean and use it.
• Cartridges with a thermostat can sometimes go astray, you just need to change the settings. This can easily be done independently.

• Sometimes after replacing the cartridge, the mixer leaks. The reason for this may be a grain of sand caught between the parts, or a nut that is loosely attached. Therefore, if a similar problem occurs, you will have to disassemble the mixer again and process it inside.
• Handle with care. Often the parts break due to the sharp pressure of the incoming water.

Correct cartridge replacement can significantly extend the life of the mixer. It is enough to carefully study the instructions that the manufacturer offers and follow the rules for the selection, installation and operation of the part.

A person who is not involved in plumbing will easily cope with replacing a cartridge, and will also be able to repair the faucet in the bathroom or in the kitchen.

How to change the cartridge in the mixer: sequence of work

Before replacing the cartridge in the mixer, you should prepare tools and materials such as a new locking mechanism, a flat screwdriver, an adjustable wrench, pliers, and heavy rubber.

At the first stage, the supply of cold and hot water is blocked, which will prevent flooding. Under the pivot arm is a decorative plug that is simply inserted into the hole. To dismantle it, you will need a screwdriver, with which you need to pull out the element.

Under the plug is a screw holding the lever of the ceramic locking device. It should be unscrewed, after which the lid is carefully removed. Under the lever there is a clamping decorative nut, which is easily twisted by hand. The tool should not be used to prevent damage to the outer surface and thread. A decorative ring and a regular nut are located under the nut, which is unscrewed using an adjustable wrench.

The lever and its elements can stick to the body of the mixer, which complicates its dismantling. This is a consequence of the oxidation of the element or the occurrence of rust. To solve this problem, you can pour hot water on the joint. In this case, oxygen-containing compounds or vinegar will also help. The threaded connection can be heated with a building hairdryer.

At the first stage, with the help of a screwdriver, a decorative plug is dismantled, which is simply inserted into the hole

You can unscrew the lever with the key. In order not to damage the body of the product, woven material must first be put on it. Sometimes they strike with a hammer on a crane at a certain point.

Now you can take out the cartridge itself and inspect it. To do this, perform light swaying effects on the element up and to the side. If cracks, chips, or other visible damage are found, replace it with a new device.

Before replacing the cartridge in the tap with a new mechanism, the inside of the mixer needs to be cleaned of dirt. A new cartridge is installed in the seat by inserting the protrusions of the device into the grooves of the mixer body. The correct installation of the element will be indicated by a characteristic click, to achieve which it will take some effort. Then it is necessary to fasten the fixing nut and ring. The final stage is the installation of the lever with its subsequent fixation using a screw. Next, the hole should be closed with a decorative cap.

The clamping decorative nut, which is under the lever, is easily twisted by hand

How to replace the cartridge in the mixer?

Before replacing the cartridge in the mixer, do not forget to shut off the supply of cold and hot water.

1.
Remove the decorative cap (there is a blue-red indicator of cold and hot water on it).

2.
Remove the locking screw located under the cap and remove the lever from the cartridge rod.

3.
Remove the decorative ring and unscrew the clamping nut.

4.
Remove the defective cartridge and replace it with a new one.

It is important that the tabs on the cartridge match the holes in the mixer housing. If the tabs and holes do not match, the cartridge will leak

5.
Then reassemble the mixer in the reverse order.

Cosmetic repair or full replacement of the cartridge in the mixer

The average period of operation of the cartridge in the crane is 4-7 years. The fact that the internal locking mechanism needs to be replaced will be indicated by the absence of a smooth movement of the lever, the difficulty in adjusting the intensity of the outflow of water, poor mixing of cold and hot flows and the presence of leaks in the device in the closed position.

The last symptom may indicate that the seal has worn out. To eliminate the malfunction it will be enough to replace it. If the leak from the device is then observed again, this state of affairs indicates the need to replace the mixer itself. The cartridge or the plumbing device itself needs to be replaced if significant damage to the mechanism body is detected.

Incorrect mixer operation is not always a reason for a complete cartridge replacement

If there is a creak or hum during the operation of the mixer after replacing the cartridge in the tap, this indicates that the locking device is not sized properly. Due to the fact that the diameter of the valve is smaller than its outlet or the stem is too long, the lever will not rotate normally around the axis. The situation can only be corrected by replacing the cartridge.

Incorrect operation of the locking mechanism is not always an occasion for a complete replacement of the device. If wear of decorative rings or clogging of work surfaces is observed, it is enough to carry out cosmetic repairs of the mixer cartridge.

It is possible to reduce the friction force and extend the life of the cartridge by lubricating the plates with a special oil composition or a sealed mixture. In the event of clogging of the working surfaces of the discs, the rubbish is removed using a conventional toothbrush or cotton swab moistened with vinegar. If incorrect operation of the thermostatic cartridge is observed, it is necessary to reset the settings and re-adjust its operation. Failure can occur as a result of frequent use of the device and the passage of poor quality water through it.

If the cartridge is not sized correctly, there will be a creak or hum in the mixer

Mixer cartridge device and design features

The cartridge for the mixer is a small plastic cylinder with a rod in the upper part and three holes in the lower part. Through them comes cold and hot water. The cartridge is designed to adjust the pressure and temperature of the water.

The ease of opening and closing the tap depends on how accurately the cartridge plates are ground and fitted.

Inside the mechanism there is a special plate, which, when turning, provides mixing of cold and hot water flows. In case of displacement of this disk, the pressure changes. On some cartridge models, a small roller may be installed instead of the plates. When the element rolls, it can close the hole with cold or hot water. The stem is a continuation of the tap handle.

The locking mechanism may be removable or integral with a mixer. The price of a cartridge for a removable mixer is higher. However, in the event of a malfunction of the system, which usually occurs due to a failure of the internal part, it is possible to replace the mixer cartridge, restoring the operability of the entire water supply system.

Any cartridge consists of a plastic case, a sleeve with a rod, upper and lower ceramic discs, washers for the upper plate, holes, which are supplemented with rubber seals, ensuring a tight fit between each other.

On the holes of the internal spare parts for the mixer, a metal mesh can be installed in the bathroom, preventing the cartridge from clogging with small abrasive particles that may be in the water. If the mixer is designed for a shower, it includes a switch, with the help of which the water flow is redirected to a shower or faucet.

Cartridge rod is a continuation of the tap handle

Ceramic plates are most likely to fail, which is due to the presence of fine sand impurities in the water. The life of the cartridge is determined by the adherence of these discs. Convenience when opening and closing the tap depends on how accurately fitted and polished the plate.

Important tips for long cartridge and mixer life

To ensure the longest possible period of operation of the mixer and the internal locking element, some rules should be followed. The cartridge first of all fails due to the constant exposure to an aggressive environment, which is water. It often contains a large amount of fine suspension and sand. Such impurities scratch and abrade the ceramic plates of the cartridge, causing system malfunctions.

If the part is not separable, its damage will cause the installation of a new element, which will bring additional financial costs. To prevent the negative impact of poor quality water, install filters for the rough mixer.

For the correct operation of the mixer, it is recommended that at least once a year, the entire system be flushed and the internal elements cleaned with a special solution or dishwashing liquid. Limescale will remove vinegar well.

Lubricating the cartridge plates with a sealed mixture will extend its life

Ceramic plates should be periodically treated with oil lubricants for the mixer cartridge. If significant chipping, scratches and cracks are observed on the body of the locking mechanism or its elements or the rod breaks, the part must be replaced immediately.

If after mounting a new cartridge leaks from the mixer are detected, the cause may be the presence of grains of sand between the parts of the device or a loose nut. You can fix the problem after re-disassembling the mixer and installing it back.

We remove the bottom

The device is the same as the usual one, only the plastic bottom differs: the water from it does not exit just into the hole below, but into a large chamber:

This design is slightly larger in size, but allows you to choose a place for water to exit all over the bottom or at the bottom of the wall surrounding the cartridge. Compare the mixer bodies for the conventional cartridge (left) and the biped (right):

Through hole in plate

It happens that the hole in the ceramic plate is not dull, but through and muffled from above by a plastic plate with an elastic band. This biped cartridge is just such a case.

Yes, pay attention to the plastic pins, they act as a silencer

Dovetail Lug

Some cartridges have a dovetail protrusion inside the case that fits into the groove on the leash (pictured: KCG cartridge).

The leash is located above the outlet. Due to this additional limiter, when changing the ratio of hot / cold water, the leash does not rotate around the axis of the cartridge, but around the axis of the outlet. It turns out that the plates move like car wipers.

Conclusion

By and large, almost all single-lever cranes are not much different in their structure, but some companies improve their products through the use of their own technologies. One such manufacturer is Kludi, which invented a miniature cartridge, which allowed the creation of thinner and smaller mixers. Another Italian manufacturer, Newform, guarantees that its products are capable of withstanding a water shock of 35 atmospheres.

Spanish engineers (Supergrif) have achieved an ultra-smooth surface of parts using ultrasonic polishing. Replacement parts from Ideal Standard are designed to work in a low pressure system. Also in the case there is a small camera buffer.

The German manufacturer under the name Grohe also does not lag behind its competitors. The plates that the ceramic cartridge for the mixer is equipped with (not on all models) have Carbodur carbon-crystal spraying. Due to this, their strength increases.

In conclusion, it remains to wish that the independent replacement cartridge replacement operation is always completed successfully

You should also be careful when choosing new parts.

Criterias of choice

When buying a mixer, it is necessary to pay a special role to which cartridge is installed in the housing, whether there are similar elements on sale, so that if it breaks down, you can easily purchase a new one.

When choosing a mixer, you need to clearly understand the situation, because the availability of components of the device on a free sale will allow you to repair the product at any time. It is necessary to ask the official representative of these products for the availability of all components in your area.

When buying expensive products, you need to know that they include high-quality ceramic discs. They differ from the usual one in that they have a high degree of pairing and a long application time.

Such positive qualities are achieved due to the use of high-precision equipment with further grinding when using ultrasound.

The video shows how to choose a cartridge for the mixer:

Cartridges for single lever mixer: what is it, principle of operation

Cartridge is the main part of any mixer. It is this part that ensures the reliable operation of the entire mechanism for supplying water.

There are two main types: ball and disk. Both are installed in mixers with one lever or valve.

Disk, it is ceramic, is suitable only for devices with two valves. In terms of quality and service life, both products practically do not differ.

Spherical cartridge

The main part of the device is a hollow sphere having two holes at the bottom and one at the top. Cold and hot water entering the inside mixes and exits through the top hole.

The ball is located in special rubber seats and rotates thanks to the lever on the crane. When it begins to move, the holes align to varying degrees and already mixed water exits through the tap.

Thanks to the special design and diameter of the holes in the ball, you can quickly set the desired temperature of the water flow.

Disc cartridge (ceramic)

In the domestic plumbing market, ceramic appliances vary in shape, size and number of holes in the bottom of the cartridge. Systems have a plastic case.

There are collapsible and disposable. The body of the first consists of two parts: the upper and lower.

In several holes in the lower part are rubber inserts that ensure the tightness of both parts of the product. However, such an element of the crane is practically beyond repair, spare parts are problematic to find.

Faster and cheaper to purchase a new design.

The cartridge for a single lever mixer is used to mix different temperatures inside water flows due to the position of ceramic-metal disks. Then, water enters the spout.

The plates are machined by precision mechanical grinding and, thanks to their perfect smoothness, fit snugly on work surfaces. This affects the smooth and silent operation of the mixer during operation.

A rod located inside the structure connects the crane lever and the upper disc holder. By controlling this mechanism, you can rotate and shift the upper disk. The bottom disc is stationary and located at the bottom of the cartridge.

Disks are stacked on top of each other. The upper one is responsible for the temperature of the water, blocking access to cold or hot pressure to a certain extent. If both surfaces coincide with the holes, then the water stops flowing.

In two-valve cranes two cartridges are installed. Ceramic disks are in a metal sleeve. Water passes through the displacement of the plates, which leads to the opening or closing of the hole.

All about the cartridge for the mixer

The main component of any mixer is a cartridge. It is the cartridge for the mixer that ensures the uninterrupted operation of the entire apparatus. There are various types of similar elements, each of which has its own characteristics. Ball or plastic.

There are two main types of cartridges for the mixer. One of them is ball type, and the second is disk type. Choosing a cartridge for a single lever mixer, you can apply both a ball and disk version, and only a ceramic disk cartridge is installed on a two-valve accessory (it looks like a regular valve with a gasket).

A ceramic cartridge is more common in use. This has nothing to do with its advantage over the ball - the quality and life of them are approximately identical.

Not all cartridge manufacturing companies are licensed to manufacture ball-type devices, so ceramic is easier and more practical to produce.

Cartridge Type Specifications

A ball or plastic cartridge has the following design:

• a hollow ball of metal is fixed on the axis of the lever of the mixer. During rotation or tilt of the lever, the holes of the ball are shifted and aligned with the holes of the cartridge. Cold and hot water flows through the holes, which mixes inside the system and exits through the holes in the tap.

The ball version for the mixer has its drawbacks: over time, it loses the smoothness of the mechanism, makes noise and is not particularly durable. The cost of this design is relatively low.

The single-lever disc cartridge is used as follows:

• water of different temperatures enters the system through pipes, it mixes with each other and ends up in the spout. The ceramic-metal disks in the cartridge change position and thus regulate indicators such as pressure and outlet water temperature.

Under the influence of the lever, the upper disk is shifted relative to the lower. In order for the water to stop flowing, it is necessary that the upper and lower discs are tightly aligned with the protrusions and holes.

In order to ensure the supply of water to the spout with a different degree of intensity, the upper and lower disc, by means of a lever, take a position with different degrees of immersion in each other.

The upper disk also plays a key role in what temperature of water will be at the exit: it blocks access of cold or hot water to the necessary degree.

In dual-fan type mixers, there are two identical cartridges, each for water of a different temperature. Ceramic plates are placed in a metal sleeve. Their displacement relative to each other leads to the opening or closing of the hole through which water flows.

Single lever components are produced by almost all well-known manufacturers. The mixing of water in a mixer of this type is carried out by means of a device with ceramic discs.

The device and principle of operation of the ceramic cartridge

Hot and cold water flows through the water pipes into the cartridge. Through the holes in the ceramic inserts, water passes further and, mixing, exits through the spout.

The ceramic cartridge for the mixer has differences in shape, size and number of holes located in its lower part.

• All ceramic systems have a plastic housing. There are both collapsible cases, and not collapsible. Collapsible consists of two parts of the case - the lower and upper. Tight connections between the cartridge and the mixer provide rubber inserts that are located in several holes in the lower part. Plastic rivets hold the bottom of the case.
• The handle of the mixer is attached to the stem, which is located inside the structure. The lower part of the drain is combined with the holder of the upper ceramic disc.
• The upper ceramic disc is controlled by a rod, which can rotate and displace it. The lower disk is fixed and located in the lower part of the ceramic cartridge case.

Mixing water and blocking the flow occurs according to this principle:

• the holes on the ceramic discs are aligned when the upper disc is rotated - thus mixing water. The displacement of the upper disk leads to an increase or decrease in the pressure of the outlet water. Overlapping water is the same.

Cartridges with ceramics are somewhat different from each other:

Diameter. A cartridge for a 40 mm mixer will be marked as d40 (most often products with a diameter of 35 and 40 mm are used)
Landing part (buying a new cartridge, it is better to take the old one with you - for a sample).
The length of the stock.

Whatever type of cartridge for the mixer is selected, each of them requires the installation of a cleaning system in the form of a filter on water pipes. This will ensure a long service life of the structure, since the most common cause of failure is clogging with grains of sand or other small particles contained in tap water.

Manufacturers of modern faucets have an integrated filtration system.

The ceramic cartridge is, in fact, a collapsible design, but cannot be repaired. Finding and picking up individual components is a rather difficult task; buying a new one is both easier and cheaper.
Problems that may arise during operation are usually associated with the wear of moving plastic parts.

Such damage leads to the fact that the parts do not fit tightly against each other, which leads to a water leak. In other cases, wear of the ceramic plates themselves may occur.

If the design of the mixer does not provide for a filter for water purification, then the ceramic cartridge may fail due to the ingress of grains of sand and large particles.

It is worth highlighting two types of cartridges:

is a ball with three holes and a pin. Through the holes, water enters the nozzle. The pin is in direct contact with the handle. Moving the handle of the mixer, we actuate the ball, regulating the pressure of water and temperature.

Ceramic cartridge (disk cartridge) consists of two plates in which holes are located. The material of the plates is cermet.

When you turn the handle of the mixer, the holes on the discs are combined, and water is mixed. Thus, the pressure of the water and its temperature are regulated.

If a disk cartridge fails, it must be replaced, as it is not being repaired.

Ceramic cartridges are distinguished by the following values:

• different cartridge diameters. The diameter is indicated by the English letter "d" and the value is written next to it, mainly 35 mm, 40 mm.
  The difference in diameter affects the throughput of the mixer. The smaller the diameter, the less liters of water per minute passes
• seat
• rod size (its thickness and length)

Ball and ceramic cartridges can fail due to poor water quality, the presence of abrasive particles. Therefore, to prevent damage to the cartridges due to poor quality water, a coarse filter must be installed for hot and cold water.

If the cartridge still fails, a leak of water from under the handle of the mixer will testify to this, then it must be replaced with a new native one, or an analog with the same dimensions should be selected. When buying a new cartridge, we recommend taking the old one with you to choose the right one.

Please note that the adjustment rod can be plastic or brass. It is better to opt for brass.

It is worth noting that kitchen faucets, as a rule, often fail, because in the kitchen we often wash dishes, cook, wash fruits, vegetables. Modern kitchen faucets are mostly one-handed and with ceramic cartridges, so below we will write down the replacement of such a cartridge in stages.

How to replace a ceramic cartridge in a one-handed mixer

1. First, shut off the water in the apartment
2. Find a red-blue cap on the handle of the mixer, which means hot and cold water, get it. It is very easy to do, just pry off with a screwdriver.
3. Unscrew the screw that is under the plug. Thus, we disconnect the lever (handle) from the cartridge stem.
4. Remove the lever from the mixer body.
5. Remove the decorative cap.
6. Loosen the nut to release the cartridge.
7. Change the old cartridge to a new one and assemble the mixer.