Most bathroom faucets are equipped with an inexpensive kit that consists of a hand shower and a flexible shower hose. Sometimes hoses fail and have to be replaced. And since the modern market offers the buyer a wide choice, it is sometimes difficult to figure out what to choose in order for the device to work efficiently.
Over time, during operation, you can observe how the hoses leak at the joints. Also, if handled carelessly, they are torn. Some change the mixer entirely, but this is the wrong approach. It is much cheaper and easier to replace only one flexible element. The problem is also that modern manufacturers do not offer universal products that would fit any type of connection. Therefore, each mixer needs its own hose. What types it comes in and which one to buy - we will consider further.
Characteristic
The shower hose is one of the components of the bath faucet. Structurally, this element is a tube made of flexible materials that connects the mixer with a watering can nozzle.
As materials for the manufacture of components such as plastic and rubber are used. To give this element rigidity, manufacturers cover the hoses with various windings. They protect the tube from damage caused by high temperatures and water pressure, as well as from external stress if the hose is kinked.
The edges of the product are equipped with straight or conical (depending on the model) end-nuts. On the one hand, a narrow nut with ribs is screwed to the mixer. Another, longer one - to the shower head.
Universal models have a standard specification. These are threads that allow you to connect the product to almost any mixer. The optimal size for comfortable use of the shower is about two meters. But different manufacturers produce products of different sizes - these are 1.25, 1.5 and 1.6 meters.
Main products
If the shower hose is leaking or worn, it is recommended to replace it. For this, the most suitable element is selected from a huge number of available models. But in order to choose, you need to understand the issue a little. Shower hoses have different outer wraps:
- Metal.
- Plastic.
Metal wrapping
Modern models with a metal winding are a tube made of plastic, rubber or other polymeric materials. This tube is placed in a metal case. Such a body is slightly springy, due to which the hose is protected from kinks. It is not uncommon to find modelswhere the winding is not steel, but only imitates metal.
Choosing from these options, it is better to purchase a product two meters long. This will reduce stress where the product will connect to the bathroom faucet.
Lacking great reliability and durability, these solutions are characterized by low prices. This is where the merits end. The metal winding breaks after a short time, unwinds, and then breaks the tube. The price allows you to change these products often, but this is not a rational approach.
Plastic winding
Such solutions can be completely plastic, or only the winding for the rubber tube can be made of plastic. These models can withstand exposure to water temperatures up to 80 degrees.
Unlike metal counterparts, these hoses have excellent performance - so say the reviews. There are models with metal wire - they are strong, flexible enough, durable.
The disadvantages of the reviews include the ability of the material to dry out and then crack. It is not recommended to wind these hoses around the taps of the mixer after taking a shower. Also, do not load the product with hot water for a long time.
Plastic components are produced both with a smooth surface and with a spiral coating. The product can be transparent, colored, chrome-plated. It must be said that during operation, transparent windings withmay turn yellow over time. Impurities of calcium s alt, dirt, rust are deposited on them.
Innovative Solutions
Now the sanitary ware market is constantly offering new and improved models that are a great alternative to most traditional shower hoses.
The special silicone layer on the metal braid protects the metal from damage and significantly improves performance. Therefore, many prefer silicone hoses. Judging by the reviews, they have significant flexibility and elasticity.
Some products are even protected from twisting with special bearings that are built into the fittings at the ends of the hose. This allows such a shower hose to rotate as you like. To increase strength, manufacturers reinforce products with nylon or metal thread. Manufacturers from Germany, Hungary and Italy are among the leaders.
How many hose lengths are available in stores
Manufacturers supply hoses in four basic sizes. So, a product with a length of 125 centimeters is a hose for a hygienic shower. The size of 150 centimeters is standard. 175 is a rare oversize. And finally, two meters long models are accessories for tall mixers.
If a hose of a different length was previously installed, it is better to purchase a standard size. It is neither long nor short. This product is very comfortable to use.
Plastic or metal?
We looked at the main types of shower hoses. Now we can say which is better. Metal hoses are often bought out of habit. But they are not very flexible, covered with limescale, the braid breaks and unwinds. This is a poor quality product, and you should not buy such products. Plastic is more durable, but not as common and cannot be repaired if it fails. For lack of extra funds, it is better to purchase just such a model.
What to look for when choosing?
When purchasing hoses for a shower head, the first and most important thing to pay attention to is the quality of the connections. Well, if they are not pressed in the place where the product will be connected to the mixer. A reliable option is models with swivel joints or equipped with bearings.
It is better to give preference to solutions in a silicone braid on a metal case. This increases the level of protection against water hammer. You can also take care of your he alth - bacteria-resistant hoses are available.
Grohe Silverflex fittings
This Grohe shower hose is made of plastic. Its surface is smooth, and it is a really comfortable hose - it has increased flexibility characteristics. It is very comfortable to use. You can not be afraid of the destruction of the hose and wash with a watering can in your hands. Long enough to bring the watering can to any place on the body.
The edges of the hose are well protected from kinking, and the rotating cone will not allow it to twist. The surface of the product is chrome plated. The length of the model is 150 centimeters. That's more than enough for peoplemedium height with standard faucet position.
Hansgrohe Isiflex fittings
This is a German shower hose. Hansgrohe produces plastic hoses. Their surface is smooth. The level of flexibility is increased - this allows you to wash in showers or boxes. Due to the rotating cone at the attachment point, the product is reliably protected from creases. The surface imitates metal. The line includes models of standard length, which we have already considered above.
Zegor WKR 007
This is a Shanghai brand product. The flexible shower hose is made of plastic. Its surface is smooth. There is a chrome-plated metal corrugation. Despite this, the product has a sufficient level of flexibility. The watering can can be freely twisted as you like - the risk of creases is minimized. The hose is equipped with a swivel cone.
As for the available sizes, you can purchase a hose with a length of one and a half to two meters. The company took care of people of any size.
