Bellows connection for the mixer: pros and cons, installation and selection of the type

Bellows is a type of flexible connector for the mixer, it is easy to bend, and the section cut will not change. Due to the corrugated profile, a good transverse stiffness is provided. This, in turn, makes impossible the probability of hindrances and damage if you accidentally step on the hose with your foot.

Also specialists note the absence of the need for a special tool, professional skills in the installation of corrugated tubes. Therefore, the replacement of the element can be done on its own. In addition, the need for an accurate measurement of the length of the pipe to centimeters disappears by itself.

The advantages of various types of products influence the choice of one or the other. In terms of bellows, its strengths are as follows:

• High-quality stainless steel serves as a material for manufacturing;
• The product is not afraid of the consequences of a water hammer;
• The design is reliable, provides a long service life;
• Copes with lowering the ambient temperature without problems;
• Safe for health, made of hygienically pure materials;
• Products are not subject to combustion;
• Capable of operating when the water temperature rises to 250 degrees Celsius.

Alas, but even such piping as bellows has its drawbacks. The main negative sides are:

• There is a buzz and noise in the vibrations of the corrugated tubes;
• Vibration will only increase if several water consumers are turned on simultaneously.

Removing the problem of vibration is possible with the aid of large diameter bends. In addition, corrugated pipelines, whose sleeve is made of plastic, are completely devoid of such a shortage.

You can install the bellows connector as you already know, you can do it yourself. To do this, follow the simple instructions.

• Provide easy access to places where the fasteners are provided. If necessary, you will quickly carry out repairs, carry out preventive measures.
• Inspect the product, make sure it is intact, free from defects. Even if you bought in the store a normal podvodku, during transportation or during storage, problems may arise.
• Check how well the end fitting is crimped. Many Chinese low-grade products only look solid, although in fact the quality leaves much to be desired.
• Read the installation instructions supplied by the responsible manufacturers. You also need to know about the outer diameter of the liner, which is in the passport.
• Do not over tighten or twist the piping during installation and when it is complete. The product should be mounted as accurately as possible and neatly.
• After verifying the consistency of the new line, turn off the water on the main valves. Unscrew the old tube, install the purchased items. To do this, simply use a simple key.
• Start the system. Make sure there are no leaks. For this, it is necessary to leave the water turned on for a while. As a rule, factory seals are able to cope with the sealing task, but an extra layer of sealant has not harmed anyone yet.
• One more thing - do not use gas switches. They are theoretically suitable for mounting the piping, but they can damage the union nuts. It is unlikely that you will want to eliminate the consequences of such troubles.

As you already knew, bellows connectors are an excellent solution for plumbing in the bathroom. Their shortcomings can be easily eliminated, and strengths provide a reliable and long service.

Nevertheless, it is necessary to be able to choose the right podvodku. Consider several key points.

• Two connections are required to connect the mixer. Usually one comes bundled. Also, the manufacturer offers just two pieces - short and long. If all this is in the box, then most likely you are dealing with a responsible firm and quality products.
• Look at the technical documentation that must be provided with the product. If the inner hoses are not made of rubber EPDM, then take them not worth it. The EPDM is intended for use in the food industry, and is therefore ideally suited for domestic use.
• If you are in doubt, whether the liner is made of high-quality steel, arm yourself with a simple magnet. Magnet stuck, so you are dealing with ferrous metal.
• Read the markings. For cold water, the piping is braided with blue elements, for hot water - with red ones. There are universal, however it is better to take two specialized ones at once. Make sure you do not mix them up during installation. Otherwise, serious problems may arise.

Please note that there are certain problems that you may encounter when buying bellows saddles for mixers. Typically, this is based on low quality products.

Many manufacturers are trying to reduce the cost of their products, which on the one hand is positive for potential consumers. Another question is the price at which price tags are lowered.

Most often by reducing the cost and simplifying the production process. Saving on the assembly leads to the same result - on the output you get a connection of questionable quality. The consequences of such a problem are obvious - flooding the apartment, expensive repairs, compensation for losses to neighbors that you have flooded.

The problems often lie in the violation of such stages:

• Low-grade metal is used;
• Sleeves are made of steel of questionable quality;
• There is a slight reduction, which is difficult to observe externally;
• Rubber proves too thin;
• Braid is cheap, which means short-lived.

As practice shows, really worthy bellows connectors have the following features:

• The kit includes a passport with all the technical specifications;
• The warranty period is 24 months;
• The life of the liner is about 10 years.

Obviously, bellows connections for mixers can be called the best in their business. Nevertheless, here you should be careful in terms of choice. There is a very poor quality products, which can not be distinguished only by external characteristics.

The best way out of the situation is to contact the trusted stores, and also trust the products of reliable manufacturers that have gained authority in the market.