If you need to install a faucet in the bathroom or toilet that comes out of the wall, then it is convenient to use an eccentric for this purpose. It helps connect hot and cold water pipes to the corresponding outlets of the plumbing fixture.
Externally, a metal eccentric for a mixer looks like two small connected cylinders, the axes of which are shifted relative to each other, which is why the central part of the part is slightly at an angle.
Eccentric sizes
According to plumbing standards, the center-to-center distance of the eccentric between the inlets of water pipes is 150 mm. If this parameter does not match, it is enough to slightly turn the eccentric for mixers by simply turning the adapter along the axis to the required position, achieving the best result. Using this method, you can install any type and size of mixer on pipes installed according to the standards, and even regardless of their connections. But there is a small limitation - the distance between the ends of the pipes.
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If the size of the hole in the tile is smaller than the standard one, you need to either widen it, or you can buy elongated eccentrics for the mixer. The main dimensions of the arm at the center of the eccentric are 40 mm, 60 mm and 80 mm. Not only do they differ in size, but also in shape; the longer the shoulder of the product, the greater the distance their ends are separated. In most cases, when purchasing a mixer, eccentrics are already included with the plumbing fixture. But perhaps the length of the adapters is not suitable and therefore you often have to buy them separately.
First meeting
Let's start with the fact that an eccentric furniture tie is one of the types of furniture fittings that is used for assembly.
Structurally, the element consists of:
- racks;
- eccentric;
- futorka
The stand is also called the stem. Its role is played by a self-tapping screw or screw. And the foot in this mount performs the tasks of a nut.
Some kits, including eccentric couplers from Hettich, also include a bushing. It is also called a coupling. Allows you to screw the rod not into plastic, wood or chipboard, but into the bushing itself.
If the screed has a large diameter, then a decorative plastic plug for the front side is added to the kit.
Thanks to the bushing, wear resistance and strength can be increased. Due to the use of metal, the structure will be less loose than a hole made in chipboard. So I advise you to take accessories that have a coupling. With such a screed, the furniture will last much longer, and it will also be possible to avoid damage.
The operating principle is simple. This is a double-sided fitting. A coupling is inserted into a round hole made in the furniture. The stands are screwed into it. And the eccentric already connects them from the side. If a visually unsightly element remains on the top side, then it is simply closed with a plug.
One more thing. Eccentric furniture tie has 2 other names. These are rastex and minifix.
That's sorted out.
We can move forward according to plan.
Manufacturers and prices
As a rule, manufacturers of sanitary faucets complete their models for the bathroom or kitchen with such parts as adapters for pipes. But, if you need to buy spare or better quality ones, you can pay attention to the following models from well-known manufacturers:
- RUBINETA – 200-500 rubles;
- INGENIUS – 3000-5000 rubles;
- SD FORTE – 400 rubles.
Such a small detail as an eccentric is an indispensable component of the design for attaching the faucet to the wall near the bathroom. Once you choose a high-quality adapter, you will not need to worry about replacing or repairing it.
What you need to know
The nuts have a chrome-plated surface, which is easy to damage when fixing, so it is advisable to apply a soft cloth to them when tightening.
Sometimes, after fixing the nuts, the reflectors themselves leak; in this case, it is necessary to install an additional gasket or replace it with a thicker one. In this case, you should not apply excessive force; it is enough to tighten until slight resistance appears, since gaskets made from modern materials are highly airtight and do not require strong compression.
In order to simplify further installation, the shower hose should be secured to the structure before its installation. Fixing the shower head does not require the use of special tools; it is easy to screw it on by hand.
The gander itself has two gaskets inside the structure; all that remains is to connect the attachment points and tighten the threaded connection. As noted above, do not over-tighten the threads to avoid damaging the gasket.
Installing a faucet adapter on the side of the bathtub
The mixer, installed in the side of the bathtub, is connected to the hot and cold water pipes using half-inch adapters . This process includes several steps:
- is wrapped with a sealant (jute or fum tape) before screwing it into the pipe The seal is wound only along the thread - this makes the process of screwing the system easier.
- One by one, the eccentrics are screwed into the pipeline manually. And then they are clamped with a special adjustable wrench. At the same time, the position of the eccentrics is adjusted: the parts must coincide with the holes in the tap. If a misalignment does occur, the whole process will have to start again .
- The mixer is connected ; to do this, it is screwed onto both adapters . If there are rubber seals, they will also need to be positioned correctly when attaching.
Attention! Do not clamp the extension cords too tightly, otherwise the device will crack and will have to be replaced immediately.
Fitting
To assess the general situation, you must first try it on. Eccentrics are screwed into water sockets, reflectors are screwed onto eccentrics, and a faucet without gaskets is screwed onto eccentrics.
What are we assessing? The first point is the alignment of the water sockets, or in other words, the screwed-in eccentrics should not stick out in different directions, their ends should be in the same plane. If the deviation is too large, the union nuts of the mixer will be screwed on with force - this is bad!
There are two ways to solve the problem of poor alignment of water sockets: correct the position of the water sockets themselves (which is very problematic when the tiles are in place) or tricky by “sawing” one eccentric to another (more on this below).
However, unevenly aligned water sockets are a rare occurrence, considering that the deviation can be leveled out with a threaded connection and gasket. The problem will be obvious only if the eyeliner is installed very carelessly.
During fitting, you should pay more attention to the position of the reflectors. If the water sockets are flush with the wall or stick out, the reflectors may not press tightly against the wall
The size of the eccentrics and the depth of the reflectors greatly influence here. If the reflectors are not adjacent to the wall, there are two ways - shorten the eccentrics or look for deeper reflectors in stores. If there are leads sticking out of the wall, you will have to do both.
Digressing a little on the topic of installing water sockets, I’ll note: the optimal position is when the internal thread of the outlet is slightly recessed into the wall (into the tile), about 5-7 mm. There is no answer with exact dimensions; different faucets have different sizes.
The ideal position would be when, during fitting, the reflectors are pressed tightly against the wall, and the mixer union nuts (without spacers) are screwed to the base of the reflectors with virtually no gaps. Keep in mind that when sealing the threaded connections, the eccentrics will screw in a little less, and the rubber gaskets will fit into the mixer.
Dismantling and installation of plumbing fittings
To install plumbing equipment, you will need a set of wrenches, FUM tape or tow. Installation of eccentrics for the mixer is carried out in the following order:
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- A sealing material is screwed onto the external thread.
- The eccentrics are screwed into the fittings of the water supply system and tightened.
- The position of the free pipe is set so that they coincide with the connecting surfaces of the mixer.
- The plumbing fixture is attached to the pipelines using union nuts.
You can buy a short eccentric for a mixer without any problems and it allows you to quickly perform this operation. This kind of work can be done by any man who has minimal skill in handling tools. Installing the mixer using eccentrics takes no more than half an hour. In this case, the design features of the devices should be taken into account.
When installing a mixer with pipes, you will need an appropriate adapter. An eccentric with an internal thread for the mixer must be purchased in advance so as not to delay the work. Such devices allow the use of sealing gaskets instead of tape. Reliable installation of the mixer using such an element will eliminate the occurrence of leaks from the water supply system.
Some background information
For many years, in the domestic production of furniture made from laminated chipboard, a screw tie was used. In our country it is called “kon”, and in Europe it is called single-element or Einteilverbinder. Despite the low price of this screed, it has one significant drawback - the confirmation heads, even under the plugs, are very noticeable on the walls of the case. And this, in turn, makes it not of very high quality and attractive. Furniture assembled without visible fasteners looks more solid and beautiful and automatically belongs to a higher segment.
With the growth of the manufacture of cabinet furniture with one's own hands and the use of modern technologies, other types of high-quality ties began to appear on the market, differing in the principle of connection from the usual confirmation. Furniture eccentric screed is one of them. Among its advantages, it is worth highlighting the following:
Tips for choosing
Inexpensive faucets from China or products from a domestic manufacturer of dubious quality are equipped with the same unreliable eccentrics. Such parts can be used during work, but there is no need to talk about the duration of operation.
By following the tips on making the right choice, you can install the eccentric on your bathroom faucet once and for all and not worry about the need to replace it quickly.
Recommendations for selection:
- Always pay attention to the weight of the product. Inexpensive low quality parts are thin and light in weight. It is better to choose adapters with thick walls.
- Solid brass adapters are preferable to pressed brass, which can crumble.
- You should not pay attention to the copper tint of the product, it may just be a coating; you should ask about the composition of the part in advance.
Materials
Plastic
Plastic products are lightweight, easy to install, and come in a variety of colors. They are not afraid of corrosion and fit tightly to the mixer. The most in demand are plastic products that look like metal. However, the coating quickly deteriorates and becomes unsightly. In addition, when exposed to hot temperatures, bowls quickly lose their shape, and the plastic begins to release odors and toxic substances. Consequently, plastic reflectors cannot be called practical and reliable.
Chrome or nickel plated steel
With proper care, such products do not lose their appearance and do not peel off. Their weak point is their low resistance to corrosion and after some time the product will begin to become covered with brown spots of rust. Conscientious manufacturers apply thick layers of topcoat to protect products from the harmful effects of moisture. However, such bowls will cost an order of magnitude more.
Stainless steel
Durable and practical products with an optimal price-quality ratio. They can last for many years without deformation or rust. They tolerate high humidity well and do not lose their shine.
Alloys of bronze, brass and copper
Non-ferrous metals are rarely used for the production of reflectors and, as a rule, such products are more often found among limited editions of famous brands.
Installing an eccentric coupler
Compliance with the installation dimensions is the main condition, the fulfillment of which guarantees the correct installation and the coincidence of all elements of the screed. The installation dimensions are the same for any type of screed. They are summarized in the table.
Purpose of the groove | Size | Where is it performed? | What it does | |
Diameter | Depth | |||
under the eccentric | 15 (12) mm | 12.5 mm | On the surface of the part to be fastened | Forstner router and depth gauge |
screw-on | 8 (6) mm | Determined by stem length: 24, 34 or 41 mm | From the end part of the part to be fastened, perpendicular to the hole for the eccentric, the center of the hole is at a distance of 8 mm from the edge of the part | drill with 8 mm drill bit |
under the base of the screw | 5 mm | 11 mm | on the surface of the second part | drill with 5 mm drill bit |
under the bushing (futorka) | 10 mm | 11 mm | on the surface of the second part | drill with 10 mm drill bit |
Installing an eccentric coupler involves three main steps:
- Marking grooves for screed elements.
- Addition of holes on the joined elements.
- Installation of minifixes - installation of an eccentric coupler.
Making a passage for the rod
When the holes for the fasteners are made, begin preparing the passage for the rod. It is performed on the surface of the workpiece where the eccentric is located. The passage for the rod should be located on the end side. To perform this step you will need an 8mm drill bit. It is important that the passage is centered relative to the eccentric groove.
Therefore, at this stage, use a ruler, tape measure or template. If this recommendation is neglected, the prepared grooves may not match. As a result, the furniture will be assembled crookedly.
The use of eccentrics for different types of mixers and their sizes
It is to facilitate the tasks of installing plumbing that such devices are used.
According to the principle and purpose, these are adapters that have offset axes with threaded parts 3/4″x1/2″ (15x20 mm). One end is screwed into the water supply, and one of the pipes of the plumbing product is attached to the other. The material used is usually brass or bronze. According to standards, the center-to-center distance between the pipe inlets is 150 mm. In cases where this parameter is slightly mismatched, simply turning the adapter can achieve complete alignment. Thus, with the help of eccentrics, you can adjust the dimensions of any mixer to the pipes established according to the standards.
Sometimes “crooked” plumbers or maybe tilers make the standard size of 150 mm a little smaller. In this case, a regular adapter with an arm length of 40 mm will not help and you will have to look for a product of a different model in specialized stores. Manufacturers have taken care of the common consumer here too; if desired, you can find the following shoulder sizes by center:
- 40 mm;
- 60 mm;
- 80 mm.
A faucet from a reputable manufacturer always comes with a 40 mm eccentric along with decorative reflectors that will neatly cover the hole in the tile made during construction. Depending on the length of the arm, a reflector of the appropriate diameter should be installed to completely cover the hole and adapter.
Conclusion
Drawing a conclusion, we can say that the telescopic reflector is not only a decorative, but also a functional element of plumbing. It not only hides unwanted technical holes that cannot be avoided, but also allows you to maintain the rigidity of the installed faucet. But in order for this element to fulfill all its purposes, it is recommended to select them very carefully. First of all, this is quality control and packaging.
The applications for reflectors don't end with bathroom faucets. They can be found wherever they want to beautifully hide technological holes.
It is imperative to remember that the cheaper the product, the poorer the quality of the material from which it is made. The seller can easily mislead you in order to sell unnecessary, stagnant goods. For this reason, try to focus on the price yourself, understanding that if it is cheap, then, accordingly, it is of poor quality. It is also recommended to understand that very expensive and exclusive models will have a high cost, since they are made almost on an individual basis.
By following the above rules, you will definitely be able to purchase a telescopic reflector that will serve you for many years.
Consecutive stages of work
The next operation is to manually screw the long eccentrics to the structure. Make sure that the device is correctly aligned with the thread itself, only then screw it tightly using an adjustable wrench or wrench. It is better to perform several successive rotational movements with the tool. Carefully check that the flax threads that were wound directly onto the threads do not wrap around - this will disrupt the functionality of the entire structure. If this still happens, it is better to dismantle the entire system, remove any remaining flax from the threads, and then re-wrap it with a sealant.
Install the eccentrics in such a position that it is easy and convenient to screw the mixer body nuts to them. In this case, the structure itself must be mounted evenly and not warp.
Things to remember
- Before starting work, you must ensure that the crane is complete. Check for defects in parts and their dimensions.
- Make sure the eccentric dimensions are correct.
- Remember that flax or insulation should be screwed only in the direction of the thread.
- Check the tightness and reliability of the fastening of the insulation. It should not scroll along with the thread.
- Be sure to use a lubricant over the flax. An excellent option is silicone sealant or oil paint.
- First, you need to tighten the eccentric manually, then use the key.
Typical sizes of eccentrics for mixers
In some cases, adapters are supplied with the device. Such eccentrics for the mixer, the dimensions of which on one side correspond to the equipment, may not coincide with the water supply. Then the part will have to be purchased separately. Adapters for faucets of popular models Lemark Comfort LM3061C, Hansgrohe Ecostat 13114000, Grohe BauEdge 31367, Hansgrohe Ecostat 13116000 and Grohe BauLoop 31368 are selected taking into account the following parameters:
- The distance between the device pipes is 150 mm.
- The shoulder between the centers of offset tubes is from 40 to 80 mm in increments of 20 mm.
- Material: brass, bronze or stainless steel.
An elongated eccentric for the mixer may be required if the difference in size is significant. Before selecting an element, you should take measurements using a regular ruler. The short eccentric for the mixer allows you to compensate for the total deviation between the installation units of 80 mm. In this case, it is necessary to pay attention to the compatibility of parts. If there is a pipe on the mixer, then the eccentrics should have an internal thread on one side and vice versa.
Theory of the issue
When a master independently installs a mixer, he is faced with the following problem: the indicator of the distance that separates the pipes through which water is supplied and the same parameter for the corresponding tap pipes do not correlate. This leads to the fact that it is impossible to connect the mixer directly to the pipes.
It is for this purpose that this article discusses the question of what eccentrics are, since such devices, when rotated from one side to the other, allow the master to adjust the distance between two bushings.
Often, designs of this kind are already included in the purchased kit along with the mixer itself, so the installer does not have to “reinvent the wheel” - he just needs to read the instructions and act according to the recommendations specified in it.
It happens, however, that the kit is sold without such devices or the dimensions of the eccentrics are incorrect. In such a situation, you will have to purchase the installation mechanism separately.
Eccentrics included
If the design turns out to be shorter than you would like, you can purchase an additional adapter - it will help adjust the dimensions of the product.
How much do eccentrics cost?
It all depends on the brand; the more well-known ones traditionally differ in quality, but at the same time in price. Here is an example of the cost of Italian products with different arm lengths:
- Remer 90 by 40 mm – 410 rub.;
- Remer 90 by 60 mm – 440 rubles;
- Remer 90 by 80 mm – 550 rub.
The Timo company sells the same eccentrics for the mixer and sizes at a price starting from 600 rubles, but together with telescopic reflectors.
It is possible to buy adapters cheaper - from 35 rubles, but the quality of such products has always been in doubt. First you need to find out the thread sizes on the plumbing fixtures; imported manufacturers may have discrepancies.
Reflectors for heated towel rails
The reflectors are made in such a way that their internal diameter coincides with the thread diameter. But they rarely have to be put on the thread itself. Much more often - on the very surface of the extension cords. Therefore, 3/4" collapsible reflectors fit perfectly into the outside diameter of 1/2" threaded extensions. But to fit them onto 3/4″ threaded extensions, you need to trim and fold the inner edge slightly, as in the photo.
This is done with metal scissors and pliers with thin jaws. Try not to unnecessarily bend the thin edge of the junction of the two halves of the circles. It will withstand two or three bends, but no more, and with a high degree of probability it will break.
This is what happened in the end. Heated towel rail with eccentrics and reflectors.
Installing eccentrics and mixer
Using the detailed instructions included with the product, you can easily figure out how to install the eccentrics for the mixer; it’s not difficult. First of all, the flax or fluoroplastic thread should be wound carefully and as tightly as possible along the thread. Apply silicone sealant or oil paint on top of it; it is permissible to use a paste intended for threaded connections. However, this action is desirable, but not required.
The eccentrics must first be installed manually, carefully observing that there is no misalignment. Only after making sure that the connection being made is high quality can you use a wrench or adjustable wrench for final tightening. The eccentrics should be level and without distortion, and their position should ensure a convenient connection with the mixer nuts. It is best to check horizontality using a level. The included decorative screens are screwed on by hand.
Often paronite, silicone or ordinary rubber gaskets are included with the purchased plumbing product. When using the first type, it is recommended to soak them in cold water for a few minutes before use. First, you should “bait” the mixer by carefully tightening the nuts by hand. After making sure that there is no distortion and that the threads are well threaded, use an adjustable wrench to tighten the nuts to the end.
If after installation and turning on the water a slight leak is detected - the nut is not tightened enough, you should use the tool again. If the leak continues, the cause should be looked for in the gaskets.
Using additional devices
Most often, eccentrics are purchased complete with a mixer, and if additional gaskets are included with them, then you don’t have to think about insulation. If the gaskets are made of paronite, then before use, it is recommended to immerse them in a container of cold water for several minutes. If they are made of materials such as silicone or rubber, then they can be attached without resorting to any additional preparation.
After this, the tap can be tightened manually by tightening all the nuts using an adjustable wrench. This is necessary to ensure correct installation on the thread. If necessary, you can not only lengthen the eccentrics of the mixer, but also adjust, tighten and adjust its location in every possible way.
For example, if after installation a leak is detected in the water connection, this indicates that the nut is not tightened well enough. If the leakage does not stop after fixing the problem, the cause should be looked for in the quality of the gaskets used.
How to choose the “right” eccentric?
Inexpensive faucets made in China or Turkey are often equipped with shiny chrome-plated adapters. The quality of such products usually raises doubts, and deservedly so.
This is due to the fact that, despite their attractive appearance, inexpensive chrome parts also have several negative qualities. During the operation of such products, rust often appears.
But this is the case if it comes to operation in principle, since even during installation work the unreliable eccentric head often breaks off. Therefore, experts recommend that you still purchase an eccentric separately, making sure that it is made of brass and using solid cast technology.
The cost of a product made from pressed brass is too fragile and will break and fall into pieces at any time. Solid brass adapters are much heavier and more expensive. But the characteristic golden color of the eccentric does not at all indicate the quality of the material from which it is made.
Kinds
Modern manufacturers present a wide range of products. On sale there are deep and flat, small and large, standard and designed for an individual line of mixers.
Conventionally, all reflectors can be divided into three types:
- simple;
- detachable;
- double
Simple ones are monolithic products and are attached even before installing the mixer. They do not interfere with installation work in any way.
Detachable products are considered more practical. They also do not interfere with the installation process at all and can be put on before or after they begin. Detachable ones are distinguished by the presence of a cut, which conditionally divides the reflector into two parts and allows you to put on the bowl after installing the mixer. Despite the fact that this cut is visually noticeable, it does not in any way harm the aesthetic properties of the product.
Double reflectors are used for cold and hot water supply. They feature a monolithic design with two holes. They are not as popular as the previous two types, and are produced for a specific type of mixer.
Installation method
Product installation
Before starting installation, you should pay attention to a few tips:
- the presence of the entire mixer package is necessary;
- correspondence between the standard sizes of the eccentric and the mixer;
- fum tape or other sealant is screwed in the direction of the thread;
- To seal over the seal, gel sealant or oil paint is used.
If there are plastic pipes, the material used to make the eccentrics does not matter. If metal, then adapters are used exclusively from the same metal. Different coefficients of thermal expansion of materials can lead to rapid wear resistance and leakage.
In order for the installation or replacement of eccentrics to proceed efficiently and quickly, it is necessary to prepare the following tools and materials:
- pliers;
- Adjustable wrench;
- set of wrenches;
- fum tape or tow;
- material for sealing connecting nodes.
Before carrying out work, it is necessary to ensure that the water is turned off to avoid flooding. Installation procedure:
- Assemble the entire structure of the mixer; no seal is used. This is necessary to check the product for distortions and smooth connection of all components.
- After carefully dismantling the old eccentric, carefully wind the sealant onto the threads. This must be done tightly so that the fum tape or tow does not scroll on the base.
- Apply sealant to the seal.
- Manually screw the eccentrics onto the structure.
- After making sure that the adapters are seated on the threads, tighten them using a wrench or an adjustable wrench. You should not squeeze the product: this will not make it more airtight, but there will be chances of breaking it.
- When using a wrench, make sure that the seal does not turn around, otherwise it will break the seal of the connection. If this happens, it is better to dismantle the entire system, replace the seal and start installation again.
- It is advisable to install the eccentrics so that it is convenient to screw the mixer nuts to them.
The structure itself is fixed evenly using a level. Then the overlays are installed, they are also called decorative screens.
After the mixer is completely installed, it is necessary to open the water and check the connections for leaks.
If a leak is detected after turning on the water, it is necessary to disassemble the structure and check the integrity of the seal and sealant on the threads of the fittings. If necessary, change parts.
Non-specialized concepts
This part has a round shape, in which the geometric axis and the axis of rotation coincide.
Application of eccentrics other than plumbing:
- for fastening furniture structures,
- in astronomical studies.
The device allows you to adjust the distance between two bushings. In some cases, it is not possible to complete the process without a device.
How can he help?
During the independent installation of the mixer, you may encounter a problem such as misalignment between the tap pipes and the pipeline. As a result, it is impossible to directly connect one to the other.
Often such devices are included in the kit together with the mixer. It is enough just to study in detail the instructions offered by the manufacturer and carry out the installation normally. If there was no eccentric in the kit, the part of the required diameter can be purchased separately, its price is completely affordable.
Tip: if the device in the kit is not the right length, you have the opportunity to buy an additional adapter that will allow you to adjust its dimensions.
How to install an eccentric
Installation of the faucet fixture is divided into two operations, performed sequentially:
- structure fastening,
- tap connection.
Advice: before starting installation work in an apartment building, make sure that you have shut off the water riser.
- We recommend that you first assemble the entire structure without seals and make sure that all mounted connections are not distorted among themselves . For example, if you have too small eccentrics in your kit, you can replace them with suitable ones before starting the main work.
The device consists of two parts – narrow and wide. If you were able to carefully remove the old eccentric from the mixer during installation, replace the seal on its thread. Use hemp or fum tape, making sure that they do not roll around the base during the connection.
Tip: for hemp, use a special paste designed for threaded connections or silicone pipe sealant. As a last resort, use oil paint.
- Screw the long eccentrics to the liner, making sure that they correspond correctly with the thread . Tighten them well using an adjustable wrench or wrench. Make sure that the threaded seal does not turn around, otherwise it will impair the functionality of the structure.
- The instructions recommend installing the eccentrics so that the nuts of the mixer body can be comfortably and easily screwed to them . Make sure that the installation occurs smoothly, without distortions.
- At the last stage, attach decorative screens that will hide the junction.
Tip: if the kit contains or you decide to install sealing gaskets, you have the option of not using the thread seal.
Material
There are different types of eccentrics for the mixer, but the main thing along with this is what they are made of:
What they are made of and the disadvantages of inexpensive models |
|
note | Choose only solid brass eccentrics. On sale now you can also find yellow products, but made from pressed brass powder. Their price is much lower than cast ones, but we do not recommend buying them because of their fragility. There is a high probability that at the moment of tightening the product. Do not forget that when installing an eccentric made of pressed bronze, there is always a danger that if there is accidental pressure on the faucet during operation, it may fall off the wall together with the mixer. |
The right choice | This expert advice is suitable for selecting both an eccentric and a crane. “Weigh” the product in your hands – one of the most basic indicators of quality. Know that brass is a fairly heavy metal. Based on this, take the expensive option in one hand, and the one you want to buy in the other. You should not take the seller’s words on faith at a time when doubts have crept into your mind. The yellow color of the surface may turn out to be a simple coating, under which sintered aluminum chips or cast iron can hide. |
Choosing a new eccentric
When choosing new eccentrics, the following parameters should be considered:
- Material:
- The most common are eccentrics made of brass. They are characterized by low cost, corrosion resistance and durability in the absence of external mechanical influences;
- It is recommended to purchase solid brass products. Eccentrics can also be made of bronze, copper and other alloys. The use of such devices is advisable when installing a mixer and pipes made of similar materials.
- Adapter sizes:
- a short eccentric, 3–4 cm long, is capable of leveling a gap whose size is no more than 8 cm.
- an elongated eccentric 4–5 cm long is selected when the gap is 8–10 cm.
- a long adapter (more than 5 cm) is installed to equalize larger gaps or the need to move the mixer higher or lower relative to a given level.
If the installation of the mixer does not require displacement of the pipes, then a straight eccentric is installed.
Types of eccentrics depending on size
- Input diameters. The standard cam has a diameter of ¾ inch for connecting the device to water pipes and ½ inch for connecting the device to the faucet. On sale you can also find products with other sizes in accordance with similar parameters of pipes and mixer.
Eccentric with standard parameters
Characteristics
Thus, an eccentric is a plumbing adapter for installing a faucet in a bathroom, allowing you to match the dimensions of the parts. These products are always sold in pairs, and the price is usually indicated per set.
Based on operating conditions, its most important characteristics will be:
- dimensions;
- design features (internal or external thread arrangement);
- corrosion resistance;
- a distance that the installation of an eccentric can help compensate for;
- rigidity and strength, allowing its installation without the risk of destruction;
- aesthetic qualities (how well the selected detail fits into the overall design of the bathroom).
It is these characteristics that you should pay special attention to when choosing the desired model of this fitting. The price range for products is from 200 to 2000 rubles, depending on the material, manufacturer and size.
Technological features of the procedure
Installation of eccentrics for the mixer is an important component of its installation. The process is divided into two sequential operations:
- direct fastening of structures;
- tap connection.
Before you begin installation work, you must ensure that access to water is blocked. This will help prevent the possibility of unintentionally flooding your neighbors.
First, carefully assemble the structure completely without using a sealant. The procedure is necessary to make sure that the finished product will not have any distortions, and all mounted connections will seamlessly connect to each other. In a situation where you come across too short eccentrics, you can replace them with other analogues or purchase screens designed for structures.
Connecting the tap via eccentrics
Any device consists of two parts - a wider and a narrower component
During the installation process, after you have managed to carefully unscrew the old eccentric on the mixer, be sure to carefully wrap the short thread with flax
Such threads can be replaced with a fluoroplastic product - it can be a tape. In any case, the product must be wound so that it cannot under any circumstances scroll around the base.
A special paste is applied to the threads, intended for use when working with threaded connections. A sealant made from silicone is also suitable. If neither the first nor the second means is available, oil paint will do. As a last resort, leave the mixer untreated - by and large, nothing should happen.
Varieties
There are different types of elements, primarily they differ in the materials used in production. A budget eccentric for faucets, made of metal or brass and chrome-plated, has become quite widespread. Brass products, despite their less attractive appearance, are more preferable, since they do not form rust in threaded connections. Among the disadvantages of inexpensive eccentrics, it is worth noting the high probability of breaking off when unscrewing from water pipes. This leads to additional expenses and complicates the progress of work.
The best option is a solid brass eccentric. Low-cost bathroom faucets are often equipped with yellow-colored products that are made from pressed powder material. They often burst when tightened, are highly fragile and have the only advantage - low cost.
During operation of the faucet, even under slight pressure, it can break off from the wall due to the use of powdered brass products.
Advantages of QR eccentrics
- The prevalence of frames and bushings, forks for eccentric clamping from Africa to Alaska.
- Eccentrics are extremely cheap, easy to use and versatile.
- Eccentrics are almost always sold as a set along with bushings.
- Quick releases have been around for about 100 years, and over that long period of time they have proven their reliability in most situations a cyclist might encounter.
- Bearings in eccentric bushings, as a rule, have a larger diameter, as a result of which they last slightly longer than bushings for an axle.
Attaching the shower head holder
How to attach the holder to the wall depends on what material it is made of. If it is concrete, then dowels and screws will be required. Installation steps:
- Mark the location of the fasteners on the wall. A pencil or marker is suitable for this. The holder must be placed at the installation site at the required height and marks must be made through the holes for fasteners. To prevent the drill from sliding on the surface of the tile, you need to slightly damage the smooth coating of the tile using a self-tapping screw or a pobedit drill. It should be placed in the center of the mark and knocked down with a hammer.
- Drill holes and insert dowels into them.
- Secure the watering can holder with self-tapping screws.
Installing a holder in a plasterboard wall lined with tiles is more difficult - you need to know the location of the rack profile or mount it in advance, at the stage of constructing the partition. Only in this case is the secure fixation of the holder guaranteed. The first two stages of installation in drywall are similar to mounting on a concrete wall. You only need to drill the tiles and the adhesive layer. In this case, the holder is attached to metal screws with fine threads.
This completes the self-assembly and installation of the faucet in the bathroom. All that remains is to turn the water supply valve and use the device for its intended purpose. If all the work is done correctly, the tap will not leak for a long time.