Comparison Grohe Essence 30503000 vs Omoikiri Kanto 4994015

Types of application provided by the design of the tap.

Modern taps can be designed for bath, shower, washbasin, bidet, kitchen, drinking water filter only and with the possibility of connecting to a filter. At the same time, many models are designed for several application formats at the same time — for example, functioning with a bathtub and a washbasin at the same time; and there are models without mixing water at all (with one connection pipe) — only for cold or only for already mixed water. More details in the separate paragraphs below.

— For bathtub. Taps used to fill the bathtub. Traditionally provided for wall mounting (see "Installation"), although there are exceptions in some specific models. In addition to a bathtub, such a tap can be used for a shower and/or a washbasin; in the first case, the design provides for the connection of a shower set, in the second, a long swivel spout that can be turned from the bathroom to the sink of the nearby washbasin.

— For shower. This option means that a shower set can be connected to the tap; sometimes such units are even supplied as a set (see "Spout design"). Specialized shower taps are exclusively wall-mounted or built-in (see "Install...ation"). At the same time, in addition to “shower-only” models, there are also “multi-purpose” products designed to be used simultaneously with a bathtub, and sometimes also with a washbasin (see “For bathtub” above).

— For washbasin. Specialized taps designed only for washbasins and have a relatively short spout, usually fixed, and can be installed in almost any way (except that floor models are a rather exotic option that has not gained distribution). Due to the similarity of washbasins with kitchen sinks, some models of a similar design can also be used as kitchen taps. Another, quite common, option is a hygienic shower for use with a bidet. Also note that the “washbasin” assignment can also be provided as an additional function in taps originally designed for bathtubs (see above).

— For kitchen. Taps for this purpose can be both highly specialized and provide other applications — for a washbasin (see above) or for a drinking water filter (see below). Anyway, such products are mounted mainly on a wall or tabletop, and the spout can be made quite high so that a pan or other large dish can be placed under. Also, in kitchen taps an interesting feature as a spring spout can be found (see "Spout design").

— For bidet. A bidet is a device in the form of a hygienic bath for washing the external genitalia and anus after going to the toilet. The classic bidet tap is installed directly on such a bath in a horizontal way (see "Installation"); the shape and design of the spout in such models is selected in such a way as to ensure effective ablution. However, in addition to this, the “bidet” category also includes specialized taps for a hygienic shower — a similar procedure carried out using a separate shower set. Such taps are built into the wall and do not require a separate bidet — a hygienic shower can also be used with a conventional toilet.

— For drinking water filter. Taps designed to supply drinking water from a tap filter, usually located under the kitchen sink. They are installed exclusively on the tabletop (see "Installation"), most often on the sink itself. Specialized models with only this equipment are distinguished by their small size and single-valve design (see "Tap type"). In addition, the possibility of connecting a drinking water filter can be provided as an additional feature in kitchen taps (see above). In such models, the spout has two holes — for "common kitchen" and for drinking water; each flow is controlled separately by its own valve (set of valves) or by a joystick.

— No water mixing. Taps that are designed to supply water at the still temperature. Outwardly, such models are no different from the classic ones: some are made with levers, others with a cross handle. But the key to them is the presence of only one pipe for supplying water. Accordingly, you can connect only cold, only hot or already mixed water.

Another feature that is typical for kitchen taps: spout in the form of a nozzle on a flexible hose, often supplemented by a spring. By purpose, this function is similar to the retractable spout described above: the working nozzle turns out to be very agile, it is convenient to wash dishes, especially large ones, with it — the dish itself can be put motionless and rinsed from all sides with a manual nozzle. At the same time, a spring spout looks more original than a retractable spout, and is great for kitchens in a modern technological style. On the other hand, such a design is more expensive than a retractable spout, and therefore is used less frequently.

Distance from the fixing point (for vertically mounted taps) or from the centre of the mounting hole (for horizontally mounted taps) to the middle of the spout. It is a characteristic that determines the "reach zone" of the tap.

The jet height is usually specified for taps with horizontal installation (see "Type of installation"). It is measured from the base of the tap to the spout outlet. The large height of the spout is important primarily for kitchen models (see "Suitable for"), because it allows you to place large dishes in the sink. This parameter is directly related to the height of the spout (see above): the height of the jet cannot be greater than the height of the spout. Thus, in fact, one has to find a compromise between the height of the jet and the dimensions of the tap, especially if there is little space for its installation.

The number of modes supported by spout.

This information is specified only for mixers having multiple operating modes. The adjustment of the modes is carried out by changing the size and number of holes through which water flows. Almost all models with this feature belong to the kitchen (cf. «Purpose»); and the general sense of the adjustment is to optimally adjust the flow of water to the characteristics of the situation. For example, for washing greenery and other delicate products, careful treatment is desirable, and to remove dried dirt from the dishes is better suited intensive water jet.

The functions of the tap are mainly design features, among which the are check valve, bottom valve, cold start, LED backlight, temperature adjustment lever, display, auto-drain (hygienic flush), washer/dishwasher switch< /a>, shelves for accessories. In more detail:

— Check valve. The non-return valve prevents the flow of water through the tap in the opposite direction — for example, when there is a large pressure difference between hot and cold water. This function will be relevant for those who are going to install water metres: the presence of check valves on mixers is often a prerequisite for fulfilling an application for installation, because such valves prevent counters from spinning in the opposite direction. In addition, you should pay attention to the presence of a check valve in the tap (especially a single-lever tap, see "Tap type"), if there are interruptions in the water supply of your house — such taps behave much better in case of pressure surges in the water supply.

— Drain valve. A device that allows you to close the drain hole in the sink, kitchen sink or bidet (depending on the purpose of the tap). There are two types:

— Lever drain valve....To control the operation of such a valve, a small lever is used, located behind the tap, on the side of it or in front of the body. Raising and lowering it opens and closes the drain plug in the sink.

— Pressing drain valve. Valves of this type are locked and unlocked by pressing the drain plug, for which you need to wet your hand.

— Cold start. A feature found exclusively in single-lever models. The general principle of operation of the “cold start” is as follows: if you open the tap with the initial position of the joystick, it will not bring out mixed warm water (as in more traditional single-lever devices), but only cold water. To add hot water and raise the temperature, you need to deflect the lever from its initial position. Such a format of work can provide significant savings: by default, cold water comes out of the tap, and hot water is added to it only if necessary.

— LED light. Lighting system based on LEDs — an efficient and economical source of illumination. The purpose and functionality of such a backlight may be different. So, in some models, it is installed on the spout and directed downwards, which allows you to clearly see the space under the spout even in low ambient light. Sometimes such illumination also illuminates the stream of water, giving it an unusual appearance. There are also quite original systems — for example, with a transparent spout and LEDs at its base, which creates the effect of a tap glowing from the inside; and in some models, the lighting also changes color depending on the temperature of the water. However, anyway, this feature significantly affects the cost, so it is typical mainly for premium products.

— Autodrain (hygienic flush). Such a system is equipped with taps with additional electronics — mostly contactless models, as well as products with a thermostat or a button switch. The autodrain works as follows: at a certain rate (for example, once every 12 hours or once a day), the automation briefly turns on the water. Due to this, harmful bacteria are washed out of the device, which tend to multiply on the inner surfaces of the spout and in “stagnant” water inside the tap itself. At the same time, the consumption of water for hygienic washing is small, usually it is practically not noticeable against the background of general consumption.

— Temperature adjustment lever. A function found in taps, which design initially does not imply a temperature controller — primarily non-contact models, as well as in products with one main lever or with button activation (see "Tap type"). As the name implies, the temperature control lever allows you to use such a tap not only to control the pressure, but also to change the temperature of the water.

– Display. Taps that display temperature and/or current water flow. The display provides a clear visualization of the settings and allows you to see what kind of water and how much is flowing from the tap. However, the presence of the screen significantly affects the cost of the tap.

— Washer/dishwasher switch. A function that can significantly facilitate the connection of a washing machine or dishwasher to the water supply system. Taps with a washer/dishwasher switch have a separate pipe for connecting the dishwasher, as well as the switch itself, which allows you to open and close the water supply to this pipe. Thus, to connect a washing machine or dishwasher, you do not need to install additional bushings, splitters, etc. — just connect the device to an existing output. And you can control the water supply directly from the tap body, for this you do not need to get under the sink or into another hard-to-reach place.

— Shelf for accessories. Most often, the role of such a shelf is played by the upper part of the body, specially made flat. This feature is found mainly in bath and/or shower taps (see “Suitable for”): it is convenient to keep shampoos, gels, soaps and other cosmetic/hygiene products on the shelf.

Note that this function is rare — mainly in high-end taps (in particular, thermostatic ones), which initially have large body sizes. In more traditional models, it makes no sense to include this design element — it is wiser to purchase a shelf as a separate accessory for the bathroom.

The diameter of the cartridge used in the tap.

The cartridge is called the "heart" of the tap — the part directly responsible for adjusting the pressure and/or temperature of the water (in some models — also for switching between spout and shower). The main dimension of this part is precisely the diameter. However, in fact, this size becomes relevant only if it is necessary to replace the cartridge. But when choosing a tap, it does not really matter — from the point of view of characteristics, only the overall dimensions of the device depend on the diameter of the cartridge, and then quite approximately and without a fundamental difference between individual models.

The diameter of the holes required to install the tap. This dimension allows you to assess whether the tap will be compatible with a sink, wall, etc., what dimensions the additional parts should have to install it, and whether the holes will need to be widened or narrowed.

Type of additional finishing provided in the tap. This item can specify several options — this means that this model is available in different design options. And if the finishing material coincides with the body material, this means that there is virtually no additional coating; this is found, in particular, among taps made of stainless steel, which itself is quite resistant to corrosion.

In modern taps, the following types of finishing are used: granite, chrome, chrome with granite, chrome with gold, matte chrome, stainless steel (glossy or brushed), brass, nickel, copper, bronze, gold, as well as brushed in one color or another. Here are the features of each option:

— Granite. Granite is characterized by a pleasant appearance, moreover, it is available in an abundance of different colours, allowing you to choose a tap for the design of the kitchen. Of its advantages, it is worth noting high durability, absolute resistance to corrosion and good sanitary characteristics (prevents the growth of bacteria). The main disadvantage is the high...price.

— Chrome. Chrome plating is applied to metal surfaces primarily for corrosion protection; it has a characteristic shiny (almost mirror-like) appearance. Chrome provides high resistance to oxidation and damage, yet looks good and is inexpensive — as a result, it is one of the most widely used coating materials. Its main disadvantage is the tendency to get imprints on it over time; their removal is associated with certain troubles.

— Chrome/granite. The combination of chrome and granite finish in one product. See above for more details about the features of each of these materials, but here we note that their combination implies the presence of different types of finish in different parts of the tap. Thus, the design acquires a more original and stylish appearance, greater hygiene and resistance to contamination than pure chrome, while being cheaper than pure granite. And from the point of view of the overall design of a bathroom or kitchen, it is this combination that in some cases turns out to be the best option.

— Chrome/gold. The combination of chrome finish with individual "gold" sections. The features of chrome are described above, and the "gold" elements give the product a rich appearance, while a fairly large number of buyers prefer this combination to the “solid gold” finish.

— Matte chrome. A matte variation of chrome finish (see above). On such a surface, dirt, and prints are much less noticeable than on a classic glossy; in addition, it may be more suitable in design or simply more pleasing to the eye than glossy. At the same time, the creation of matte surfaces is associated with certain difficulties, and therefore they are relatively uncommon.

— Stainless steel (glossy). Stainless steel finish is generally similar in characteristics to chrome — it is durable and resistant to corrosion. However, such a surface is somewhat different in appearance and for a number of reasons it is used mainly in premium-class models — including taps made entirely of "stainless steel" (such models, in fact, have no finish).

— Stainless steel (brushed). Similar to matte chrome, such steel is more resistant to dirt than glossy (see above), otherwise it is completely identical to it.

— Brass. Brass coating is most often combined with a body made of the same material (that is, there is actually no special finish in such a tap). One of the advantages of such a surface is a pleasant golden hue, which is especially suitable for retro-style taps. At the same time, the cost of such products for a number of reasons turns out to be quite high, besides, they are prone to the appearance of hard-to-remove prints. Therefore, they are quite rare.

— Nickel. In terms of characteristics, nickel finish is similar to chrome and is used for the same purposes, however, for a number of reasons, it is much less common than chrome.

— Copper. Finish of characteristic reddish color. Copper can give an “old” look even to a modern product, and for retro-style taps, it can be simply irreplaceable. On the other hand, this material is expensive, in part because it is difficult for copper to provide sufficient corrosion resistance.

— Bronze. Bronze is an alloy based on the copper described above and is used similarly — mainly to provide an authentic look to retro-style taps. The main difference between the two materials is the color — the bronze is somewhat darker, and the red colour is not as pronounced in it (although specific shades in different models can also be different). In addition, this material is easier to make resistant to corrosion, so bronze products are much more common than copper ones.

— Gold. Yellow alloy finish to imitate the look of gold. It is used to give the tap a rich appearance, while at the same time it is expensive in itself, as a result of which it is used mainly in premium models — in order to emphasize the level of the product even brighter. On the practical side, like any material of this level, it is characterized by high resistance to oxidation, but resistance to pollution and ease of cleaning can be different (although in most cases these indicators are also on top).

— Brushed. A brushed finish that is applied specifically to give the product a certain color — most often black or white, but other options are also found. Accordingly, the main advantage of this option is a non-standard appearance: with paint, you can achieve colors that are not available with other types of finish. At the same time, any paint perfectly resists corrosion, and the differences between different models of taps with such a finish are mainly in durability and scratch resistance. These characteristics, usually, directly depend on the price category of the product.