Faucet aerator - device functions, how to choose by type, material of manufacture and cost

Smart people have come up with a device that saves water without reducing its flow. The aerator for the mixer (diffuser, sprayer) is not just a mesh filter, but a very convenient nozzle. Men and women who consider it unnecessary are thinking wrong. What is the device and why do knowledgeable housewives seek to purchase it?

What is an aerator in a mixer

The water divider on the faucet is a small nozzle mounted on the spout. The body of the aerator is made of plastic, pressed metal, ceramic or brass, inside there is a plastic module with a filter system and a rubber / silicone gasket. Without these nets, the water consumption can be 15 liters per minute, with them the figure is almost halved.

Functions

All modern faucets are equipped with diffusers. In addition to saving water, the aerator contributes to:

  • improving the quality of the jet - without a sprayer, sprays fly in different directions, the pressure is too strong and sometimes difficult to regulate;
  • saturation of water with oxygen and a decrease in the concentration of active chlorine;
  • purification of water from large particles;
  • reduce the noise level during the operation of the mixer.

Principle of operation

The meshes in the body are placed in a certain sequence. The first two direct the jet of water from the inside and act as a coarse filter. The outer nets are equipped with holes of the same or different sizes, through which air is sucked in and mixed with water. As a result, a foamy, milky jet emerges from the central hole. With good water quality, you need to change the metal nozzle every year or less (depending on the quality of the atomizer), bad water requires more frequent replacement. The diffuser needs to be cleaned every few months.

Types of aerators for mixers

The simplest faucet sprayer is a small round nozzle with metal meshes that is threaded (screwed) to the faucet spout. A standard atomizer comes with any faucet. Over time, it must be replaced with a model with a similar external or internal thread. If you want to buy an aerator for a faucet "with options", take a look at the following types.

Turning

Still such aerators are called flexible. The appearance of the device is different:

  • In the form of a flexible hose that is attached to the spout of the mixer. The design regulates the strength of the water flow, provides the ability to collect water in large containers that do not melt under the spout.
  • In the form of a soul. The sprayer is equipped with movable watering cans, due to which it moves within the sink. Works in two modes: jet or spray. The hostess can easily adjust the slope of the watering cans and the intensity of the water flow.

backlit

Technology does not stand still, and leading plumbing manufacturers present unusual models. Faucet aerator with LEDs colors the water jet depending on the temperature:

  • up to 29°C - green;
  • 30-38°C - blue;
  • more than 39 ° C - red.

This is possible due to the presence of thermal sensors inside. A special nozzle for the mixer does not require additional sources of electricity, it is autonomous. The rotation of the built-in turbine feeds the LED bulbs. Maximum operating temperature: +60°С. A backlit water aerator is convenient when there is a small child in the house - you can immediately see by the color of the stream what temperature range it is in. Also, a bright jet will interest the baby and make bathing more joyful. The device looks especially attractive in the interior of modern and high-tech style.

Vacuum

If you want to reduce water consumption by more than half, choose vacuum devices. In Moscow, they are found in almost every good plumbing store. The price of nozzles is noticeably higher than that of conventional models, but it quickly pays off. Buying an aerator to save water is a great solution, because the vacuum system makes the flow very low (1.1 l / min.). Models are equipped with a special valve that strongly compresses the water for a further release of a powerful jet.

Faucet aerator

Online stores sell a variety of models: cheap plastic and expensive premium brass / ceramic. You can also buy an aerator for a mixer online, you just need to choose the right thread diameter. From the photo, you will determine whether the product will suit you outwardly or not, and by the characteristics, evaluate the capabilities of the aerator. If everything suits you, you can order the goods. The cost of a sprayer will most likely be lower than in real stores, however, mail-order shipping often exceeds the price of the product itself.

Timo Cobra SV-10

Timo has been producing sanitary products for many years. The goods are developed and made in Finland, differ in high quality. The Cobra SV-10 model is popular among users. Features of this faucet aerator:

  • Price: 481-990 rubles.
  • Characteristics: two modes of operation - jet and watering can, brass material, chrome color. Rigid hose, connection diameter 1/2". Designed for faucets with external thread. Guarantee 5 years.
  • Pros: simple installation, easy operation, excellent quality, several operating modes. If you get on a promotion or sale, you can buy goods relatively cheaply.
  • Cons: not found.

Kaiser-M16

The aerator nozzle on the faucet from a German manufacturer is as simple as possible, but of high quality. Filter meshes do their job perfectly - they trap large impurities and mix water with air. The product is often found on sale, it is not scarce. Features of the Kaiser M16 model:

  • Price: 46-59 p.
  • Characteristics: small aerator made of brass, plated with chrome. Female thread, 3/8". Suitable for Kaiser 11055/50 faucets.
  • Pros: laconic design, good quality, low cost.
  • Cons: the aerator is designed for only two mixers, the meshes clog quickly.

Remer M28

The Italian holding has been producing high quality goods since 1965. Consumers fell in love with Remer sanitary ware due to its optimal prices and comfortable operation. The presented aerator is not designed for a kitchen faucet, but for a bathtub. Description of the device Remer M28 (model 84):

  • Price: 239-277 rubles.
  • Characteristics: the body of the nozzle is made of chrome-plated brass, the mesh material is stainless steel. The inner part is represented by heavy-duty innovative plastic. External thread M28.
  • Pros: simple design, reliable aeration system, durable housing and high-quality internal filling, saves up to 15% of water consumption.
  • Cons: not found.

How to choose a faucet aerator

The most important thing is not to make a mistake with the diameter of the product and the method of fastening. There are models with internal and external threads. The first have a diameter of 22 mm, the second - 24 mm. If you have an exclusive faucet, choose an aerator specifically for it (for example, for a rectangular or figured spout). Leading manufacturers produce aerators suitable for specific models. It happens that the mixer is not equipped with a thread, then it is necessary to replace it.

A significant role in the choice is played by the material of manufacture. Aerators are made from the following raw materials:

  • Chrome-plated, stainless steel. The metal case is cheap, but it quickly breaks down under the influence of water and impurities.
  • Plastic. Aerators are optimal in terms of performance and price. However, they are not very aesthetic, they are not prescribed for every interior.
  • Non-ferrous metals (brass, bronze). Expensive, but the best for faucets.
  • Ceramics. Durable and high quality, the most expensive. The internal parts of the aerator are made of ceramics, and the body is made of non-ferrous metals.

The quality of this device directly affects its performance and service life. Very good companies producing aerators, faucets and plumbing in general: Oras, Timo (Finland), Grohe (Germany), Jacob Delafon (France). The average cost of products is 6-8 dollars, however, the service life is long - 7-10 years. The diffusers of these companies have earned the best consumer reviews.

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