The arrangement of a hygienic room hides many subtleties and nuances. We are talking not only about the purchase and installation of plumbing fixtures and fittings, but also about externally almost invisible, but important devices. One of these devices is a bathtub drain and overflow, the operating and installation features of which are worth familiarizing yourself with.
The article we have presented describes in detail the principle of operation of a drain with overflow, and examines the varieties used in everyday life. We will tell you everything about the selection criteria and the leading manufacturers in the segment. Our recommendations for care and operation will help you avoid problems and extend your service life.
The overflow drain removes used liquid and prevents the bowl from overflowing due to uncontrolled water supply. The structure provides two holes - at the bottom and in the wall of the bathtub. They are supplied with interconnected hoses connected to the sewer drain.
Features of mechanical devices
There are three options for drain and overflow systems on sale. The difference between them lies in the method of removing the plug blocking the drain hole. If you are planning to buy a bathtub drain and overflow and are not sure which one is better to choose, you should pay attention to the model of your bathtub and its location in the room.
The simplest type of device is determined by the traditional design, found in almost every apartment. It has no moving components or levers. Water is drawn in when the plug is closed, and released when it is opened.
Mechanical products rarely break down and last a long time. The plug is attached to the drain grate on a chain, removed and placed in the opening manually
- Drain neck. Installed in a hole made in the bottom. It consists of a chrome funnel that “catches” large particles of debris, and an expanding pipe with a built-in nut. The parts are joined with a reinforced metal screw. A rubber ring seal is responsible for the impermeability.
- Overflow neck. Inserted into the wall of the bathtub. The design is similar to a drain, but is adjacent to the general contour of the network through a lateral, rather than direct, drainage system.
- Siphon. An arched removable pipe designed to act as a water seal. Blocks attempts of unpleasant sewer odors to enter the bathroom. Connects mechanisms with each other and with the sewer network. Available in a variety of configurations. Models with a deep shutter that holds at least 300 ml of liquid are considered optimal.
- Connecting corrugated tube. Diverts water entering the overflow to the siphon. Connects to other components with pipes.
- Auxiliary pipe- soft or hard. Provides drainage from the siphon into the sewer pipe.
The kit also includes connecting parts that increase the tightness of the system. These are flat and conical gaskets used together with a union nut. Conical products are mounted from the nut with a sharp edge so that the thin part goes inside the opposite element.
Devices not equipped with mechanisms are produced in universal sizes and are designed for bathtubs with an average distance from the center of the overflow to the drain not exceeding 57.5 centimeters
Advantages of manual strapping: budget price, simplest assembly/installation algorithm, rare breakdowns, reliability. Among the disadvantages, rapid wear of the seals should be noted.
Characteristics of semi-automatic devices
A later modification of the traditional design is a semi-automatic system. It contains the largest number of components. It is supplemented by a control unit that raises/lowers the plug, a shutter valve, and a cable that controls its position.
The control unit is implemented in the form of a handle, valve, rotary ring, button. You can operate it by turning the lever 90 degrees or pressing a button without bending over to the bottom of the bathtub. Thus, the shut-off rod rises and falls, opening or closing the valve
The system is activated by tightening and releasing an auxiliary cable located inside or outside the overflow pipe. The first option looks more aesthetically pleasing, but is much more difficult to repair.
Advantages of semi-automatic machines:
- Convenience of closing the drain (without having to bend over or wet your hands);
- comfortable management and operation;
- stylish design.
The disadvantages of the device include a complex structure with a mass of moving and connecting components and the risk of the cable jamming over time. In semi-automatic systems, the overflow holes are hidden behind the control unit. Visible details perform a decorative function in the interior thanks to a thoughtful design.
What are the benefits of automatic drains and overflows?
A distinctive feature of automatic systems is their complex structure with a click-clack valve button, equipped with a latch and a built-in spring.
In automatic systems, the button, as in mechanical ones, is operated manually (or by pressing the heel of the foot while in the shower). When pressed, the plug lowers, closing the drain opening. If you repeat the manipulation again, it rises, starting the drainage of water
The buttons are designed in elegant high-tech, modern, and retro design styles. They are made from brass and copper, coated with chrome or nickel plating.
Advantages of automated devices:
- ergonomics and presentable appearance;
- compactness;
- convenient drainage.
There are also many disadvantages: the high cost of the proposals, the vulnerability of the spring holding the valve, difficulties in replacing the button, painstaking installation, often requiring professional intervention.
The automatic drain can be equipped with the functionality of collecting water. It is considered if it is impossible to rationally place a faucet in the bathroom.
The diagram includes pipes for the liner, which are connected to the overflow hole. The bowl is filled through the top connector, which eliminates flooding, since the flow automatically stops when there is an excess of water.
In addition to the usual types of fittings, there are separate products adapted to the characteristics of specific bathtub models
What are drain systems made of?
In the production of devices, materials are used that are resistant to corrosion, alkaline and acidic substances, and hot water. In the last century, when the range of plumbing equipment was quite narrow, drainage systems were made mainly of ferrous metal.
Although this material quickly loses its original aesthetics, it serves well for a long time, bravely withstanding high pressure and temperature changes. Despite its advantages, now manufacturers still give preference to non-ferrous metals and plastic.
Plastic harnesses are attractive at an affordable price. They are appropriate in bathtubs equipped with. Their universal dimensions adapt to non-standard sewer outlets and drains.
Plastic products are light in weight, easy to assemble, and are not subject to deformation due to the interaction of moisture and impurities contained in it
Metal objects are significantly ahead of plastic in terms of strength, service life and design. The most common products are made of brass, bronze, and copper. Chromium or nickel is applied to the drain grids and certain parts in them using electroplating techniques.
Provided that the devices are cleaned in a timely manner and the washer joints are disassembled, unlike plastic, they are unlikely to fail even after decades.
You can understand what kind of metal the structure is made of by carefully examining the pipe connecting the drain and overflow holes. Copper is recognizable by its reddish tint, ductility and softness. Brass is a durable yellow alloy of zinc and copper. Bronze is a fairly hard, dark brown material containing copper and tin.
Bronze and brass trims look great in classic and retro interiors. They look very elegant and neat, which is especially valuable when the bathtub is in the center of the room
Main selection criteria
When choosing a device, buyers are guided by personal requirements and wishes. It is no less important to evaluate the product you like taking into account other serious criteria.
For example:
- Price category. For a low budget, plastic equipment with manual draining is optimal. A more expensive device with automatic/semi-automatic mechanisms is suitable for those who are looking for a solution with an original style and a convenient modern design.
- Material. The quality indicator of propylene is a dense shell, brass is a perfectly smooth surface, cast iron is the absence of the slightest cracks, since they cannot be repaired.
- Additional options. Siphons may have several inlets for connecting other consumers in addition to the bath. They may not be used by closing them with a nut. In the future, this thoughtful step will give you a chance to save money on branching drains under the sink, washing machine and dishwasher.
- Diameter matching- at the siphon and. If the sections are incompatible, you need to select rubber or plastic adapters.
- Completeness. The kit of any system must include all elements for connection, O-rings, gaskets for pipes and overflows to prevent leaks.
Another criterion, which is far from least important, is the manufacturer of sanitary fittings. The service life and proper operation of the selected drain-overflow system depend on it.
Rating of the best manufacturers
In order not to get into trouble and not suffer with a problematic product of dubious quality, you should purchase products from well-known and trusted European companies. They produce equipment according to generally accepted international standards and norms.
Geberit. A high-quality Swiss brand with a wide range of products at mid-range prices. The product is easy to use and adapts well to non-standard sizes.
Most designs have an adjustment plug near the overflow hole that opens the drain plug
Alcaplast. One of the largest manufacturers of sanitary ware in Eastern and Central Europe. The Czech brand produces devices with a special design and simple construction, which stably and silently perform their functional tasks throughout their entire service life, regardless of the influence of aggressive environmental factors.
Kaiser. Manufacturer from Germany, producing trims for modern bathtubs. The company's products allow you to adjust the length of the siphon over a wide range, which makes it possible to easily install it, including in deep bowl models.
The assortment includes drain-overflow systems with different shapes, materials, and color variations. They are characterized by a relatively low price and simple installation.
Many Viega models have a water filling function. They are convenient for rooms where there is not enough space to install a faucet.
Hansgrohe. Another representative of good German quality. The company's harnesses are reliable, efficient, and feature a complex, high-tech structure. In interiors they are valued for their functionality and excellent decorative performance.
Rules for installation work
Having experience installing a mechanical type drain in a bathroom, you won’t need a circuit for a semi-automatic one - it is almost identical. Even without the skills, you can master it with your own hands, but first, it is advisable to read the instructions and documents that come with the kit.
Manufacturer's recommendations should be followed with precision. Otherwise, the device may not work or function incorrectly. It is not recommended to take on automatic systems: after installation without the participation of a specialist, the warranty on the device ceases to apply.
At the first stage, the old siphon, if any, is removed, and the insides of the pipe and the junction areas are thoroughly cleaned. Then the lower overflow is installed. A sealing collar is put on the outlet, after which it is placed against the drain opening.
Before installing the overflow drain, it would not hurt to make sure that the bathtub is positioned correctly, stable and level and that the gap from the drain hole to the floor is at least 15 centimeters
Another gasket is placed on the inside of the hole, the lid with the grill is screwed on and secured with a screw. Cone-type cuffs are placed with the thick edge towards the nut, and the narrow edge towards the neck.
After checking that the connection is correct, tighten the screw with a screwdriver. The top overflow is installed using a similar method.
Tying under the bathtub is quite difficult. Most likely, you will have to take an awkward position to get to the right places. To fasten the inner and outer parts of the drain structure, it is advisable to work with a partner
The next stage is attaching the overflow to the drain. To do this, it is more convenient to use a flexible corrugated hose that stretches to a size that will easily fit into the pipe. Each joint is crimped with a nut and spacers.
At the end, the siphon outlet is connected to the sewer with a drain pipe. This is done through the sealing collar or directly into the socket. To avoid leaks that occur due to cuff wear, they are treated with silicone lubricant.
When performing installation, do not use excessive physical force. Because of this, the strapping elements may burst, and you will have to buy new parts.
When the installation work is completed, you need to check the quality of the assembly by covering the drain with a stopper and opening the water. The floor under the bathroom is covered with paper, the drain and connections are inspected. When leaks are detected, the nuts are tightened.
All drain and overflow systems require appropriate care. This is the only way to preserve their original condition and performance, ensure durability and high efficiency. Devices must be inspected regularly to ensure there are no mechanical damage or leaks.
Also, we must not forget about additional events:
- to prevent the accumulation of deposits and scale, the siphon is washed every three months with hot water with the addition of citric acid or suitable chemical oxidizing agents;
- approximately every six months, thin rubber gaskets that have lost their elastic properties are replaced;
- The water seal is periodically cleaned, collecting various contaminants and debris.
If chips and cracks are detected during a visual inspection, the siphon must be replaced. Such malfunctions provoke flooding of premises and cannot be repaired.
You will be introduced to the intricacies of installing a conventional siphon on a bathtub, the contents of which we advise you to familiarize yourself with.
Conclusions and useful video on the topic
Operating principles of automatic systems in video:
In the video there is an overview of the semi-automatic drain and overflow:
A competent choice of drain-overflow system guarantees complete, comfortable and high-quality functioning of the bathtub. Its installation is not difficult to cope with, the main thing is to correctly assemble the parts and properly seal the junction areas. If strange problems still arise, it is always better to turn to professionals.
The purchase of a new bathtub is always accompanied by the purchase of a drainage system, which is why many people ask the question: which drain-overflow is better - automatic or semi-automatic? To give preference to one system or another, you need to familiarize yourself with the features of their design and the differences from traditional bathtub fittings.
How does a drain and overflow work?
The drainage system serves to discharge water into the sewer and prevents the bath from overflowing. The traditional design contains:
- Drain neck located at the bottom of the bathtub;
- Plug for closing the drain hole;
- Overflow neck installed on the wall of the bathtub;
- Siphon with water seal;
- Tubes connecting the necks, siphon and drainage system.
What is the difference between semi-automatic and automatic drain-overflow
The only difference between the improved bathroom piping and the usual one is that the drain hole is closed not by a removable plug, but by a valve. In a semi-automatic system, it opens and closes with a special mechanism with a steel cable. The control unit is mounted in a stylish housing and located above the overflow. It allows you to conveniently raise and lower the valve shut-off element by turning the chrome ring.
The automatic drain valve has a button and a spring-loaded moving part that locks in the open and closed positions. To open the valve, you need to press the button, and when you press it again, the drain hole closes.
Which drain and overflow is better - automatic or semi-automatic?
Each system has its own advantages, so it is difficult to give a definite answer to this question. On the one hand, a semi-automatic device allows you to open the drain without getting your hands wet, and on the other hand, the automatic system is more convenient due to the ability to control the valve with both your hand and foot. From the point of view of durability, we can still recommend a semi-automatic valve, since the automatic valve has a more complex design and its parts are made of plastic. Whatever your preference, we advise you to purchase waste and overflow from well-known manufacturers - Geberit, Kaiser, Viega, etc.
We don’t often think about how the most basic and familiar things in the house work, until we are faced with the question of repairing or replacing this thing. However, having understood the operating principle of this or that equipment, we can not only easily choose the most suitable option among dozens presented in stores, but also extend its service life on our own.
Today we will look at the bathtub drain and overflow system, learn about its structure, operating principle and the available varieties.
A drain-overflow or piping is a system that allows water to drain from the bathtub into the sewer system and protects the bathtub from overflowing. In other words, the drain-overflow consists of two holes - in the bottom and wall of the bathtub, which are connected to each other and to the drainage system using a system of tubes and hoses. We will talk in more detail about the various modifications of drains and overflows below.
Traditional system
Traditional drain-overflow we have been observing in our apartments for many decades. This system allows you to fill the bathtub with water by closing the drain with a stopper on a chain. It consists of the following elements:
- Drain neck installed in a hole at the bottom of the bathtub and connected to the rest of the network using a direct water outlet;
- Overflow neck installed in a hole on the wall of the bathtub and connected to the water supply network via a side drainage system;
- Siphon– this is a curved pipe that acts as a shutter and prevents unpleasant odors from the sewer from entering the room;
- Connecting hose– this is a corrugated tube that serves to drain water from the overflow into the siphon;
- Outlet pipe– drains water from the siphon into the sewer system.
This is a standard set of elements that make up a traditional drain and overflow system. Any person who does not have special knowledge in the field of plumbing can assemble and disassemble such a structure. The most common procedure that sooner or later almost every owner of a traditional drain and overflow will have to carry out is replacing the connecting parts of the structure, in other words, the sealing gaskets.
Semi-automatic
A later modification of the traditional drain and overflow are semi-automatic systems. These systems retained the drain siphon and drainage pipes from their predecessor, but otherwise the design has undergone some changes. It consists of:
- Control unit– a system that allows you to raise and lower the plug. This could be a button, a rotary ring, a handle or a valve;
- Traffic jams, which acts as a valve;
- Trosika, controlling the traffic jam.
Impact on the control unit: pressing the button and turning the valve activates the cable, which, when tensioned or loosened, raises or lowers the plug. In this design, the overflow hole is hidden behind the control unit. The external, visible elements of drains and overflows often have a beautiful and stylish design, which will certainly add a certain amount of aesthetics. Another advantage of this design is that raising and lowering the stopper becomes very convenient, so you don’t even have to bend over the bathtub and wet your hands.
The disadvantage of this system is its very relative reliability. If you save money and buy an inexpensive model, it will not serve you for very long, so it is better to opt for more expensive products or get by with a traditional drain-overflow system.
Machine
The automatic bathroom drain is not much different in structure and principle of operation from the designs we discussed above. The main innovation is a special automated plug valve. This plug is equipped with a spring with a lock. When pressed, the plug lowers and clogs the bathtub drain hole. When pressed again, it rises and the water drains. Bathtubs for bathing children are often equipped with an automatic drain. The presence of a valve button allows you to empty the bath without turning it over.
Automatic system - the most ergonomic of all. Control can be carried out not only with your hands, but also with your feet. In addition, the visible part of this structure takes up very little space. Buttons are available in a variety of designs - among them you can find brass, antique-style, or chrome-plated, high-tech style.
Disadvantage of an automatic drain system The problem is that replacing the valve button is very difficult. If it fails, you will have to replace the entire drain and overflow system. However, this problem can be avoided if you purchase a device from a reliable, trusted manufacturer that works only with high-quality materials. We will talk about what materials are used in the production of bathtub drains and overflows in the next section.
Materials
For the manufacture of bathtub drains and overflows, plumbing plastic or metal is usually used.
Plastic the option is always cheaper, but not always of lower quality. Thus, plastic is less susceptible to corrosion, which can be caused by water and the impurities present in it. In addition, the plastic waste overflow is very easy to install.
The disadvantage of plastic models is their not entirely aesthetic appearance. Meanwhile, if a screen is provided under the bathtub, then the main part of the structure will remain invisible, so there is no need to worry about what impression the “insides” of your bathtub will make on guests.
In addition to plastic models, the market offers options for drain-overflow systems, made of ferrous or non-ferrous metal. Metal structures look very elegant and, at the same time, solid. They are indispensable if you have a bathtub that does not require a closing screen.
The most beautiful overflow plums are made from an alloy of non-ferrous metals - bronze, copper and brass. An additional coating is applied on top of the product, which determines its color - chrome, nickel and others. Metal structures are more expensive, but also stronger and more durable than plastic ones.
Manufacturers and prices
It's no secret that the highest quality plumbing fixtures, like many other groups of products, are produced in European countries. The drain-overflow system is no exception, so when purchasing it, special attention should be paid to European manufacturers.
The German company Kaiser took its first steps in the field of production of automatic drain and overflow systems. Today, a drain and overflow from this manufacturer will cost you 2000-2500 rubles.
The Swiss company Geberit has also proven itself very well, engaged in the production of high-quality sanitary ware, including metal drain and overflow systems. The drain design of this company costs about 2000-4000 rubles, depending on the material from which it is made. You can be confident in the quality of the products of this company, since it provides a ten-year guarantee on its products.
The Grohe company, also German, produces high-quality overflow plums. The products of this company are quite expensive. So, a plastic drain-overflow costs on average 5,000-6,000 rubles.
Good drain-overflow systems made of plastic are made by the Italian company Vega and the Czech company Alcaplast. The products of these companies can be purchased for 2000-3000 rubles.
DIY installation
Installing a drain and overflow is a responsible matter, since the tightness of the bathtub will largely depend on the quality of the work performed. However, despite the apparent complexity of the task, even a non-professional can cope with installing a drain and overflow on a bathtub.
Work can begin only after the bathtub is installed on the support, leveled and secured. It is necessary that the gap between the bathtub and the floor be at least 15 cm.
To begin with, attach a tee to the drain hole, not forgetting to lay the sealing gasket, and secure everything with a screw. Then attach a siphon to the outlet of the tee, secure the structure with a nut and seal with a conical rubber cuff. Next, take the overflow neck and attach it to the siphon outlet running on the side. At the end, attach the spout tube to the siphon and take it to the sewer. Don't forget about the gaskets at each stage!
After installation, be sure to check the entire system for leaks. Fill the tub and see if water droplets appear at the joints. If leaks are detected, tighten connections or use sealant.
Overflow drain systems do not require special care. If you have a semi-automatic or automatic system, periodically treat external metal parts with glass cleaners or special cleaning products to maintain the original shine. The internal parts of the structure must be periodically inspected for leaks. In case of depressurization, it is usually enough to change the sealing gaskets or tighten the connection.
The main cause of concern associated with the drain-overflow system is a clogged siphon. This happens when a lot of hair or dirt accumulates in the drain. In this situation, a plunger or a homemade device consisting of wire and a thin brush usually helps. You can also try various chemicals that contain alkali to remove blockages. These products can also be used to prevent blockages.
Now you know a little more about the principle of operation of the bathtub drain and overflow system and its varieties. We hope that our article will help you not to get confused in the store and make the right choice!
The installation of a new bath is accompanied by the replacement of plumbing fixtures and. They also install a new siphon with a drain-overflow system for the bathtub - a necessary element that will protect the room from flooding.
Bath overflow drain device
Overflow drain for a bathtub or sink, in simple terms - a piping is a structure that redirects excess water that enters the bathtub or sink into the sewer system, preventing it from overflowing. The design of this drainage system is almost the same for both a bathtub and a sink or kitchen sink. It is a little more difficult to install the harness on a bathtub, so we will consider this option, and we will consider the option of installing a siphon on a sink or sink in more detail in another review.
Structurally, the bathtub overflow drain consists of:
- siphon with water seal;
— two gratings – on the outlet and on the overflow receiver;
- drain tube
— outlet for connection to the sewer;
The set of devices that have an additional bathtub spout includes hoses for connecting to the water supply. It can be installed on bathtubs of any type; the holes for it are prepared initially by the manufacturer.
For bathtubs with individual design and design features, the overflow drain can be supplied as a kit.
Attention! The overflow drain cannot always cope with the pressure of water that is poured into the bathtub. If water comes in faster than it leaves, flooding is inevitable.
Depending on the principle of operation, the drain-overflow can be of several types:
- ordinary (consists of a corrugated tube connected to a siphon, the intake hole is closed with a simple plug);
- auto;
- semi-automatic;
- bath spout with drain-overflow system.
Material of manufacture
The choice of material for making the trim largely depends on the personal preferences of the bathtub owner.
Conventionally, all materials can be divided into three groups:
1. Plastic or polypropylene. The most commonly used material. The choice in favor of such models is made when a screen is installed on the bathtub, which hides all plumbing wiring.
The advantages of polypropylene strapping include:
— absence of corrosion and plaque formation on the inner surface;
— ease of installation and dismantling. Their design includes a corrugated pipe, so the length can be easily adjusted;
- low price. Of all types of strapping, this is the cheapest, but in terms of service life it is in no way inferior to its analogues.
Important! Despite its good performance, the overflow drain can become damaged or clogged. Therefore, when installing the screen, it is necessary to leave access to it in case of unexpected repairs.
2. Ferrous metal. It does not have a very presentable appearance, so to use it, it is also advisable to cover the bathtub with a screen. But, this drawback is justified by its reliability and long service life.
3. Non-ferrous metal (copper, bronze, brass). The harness made from such materials is often chrome plated and has a rather attractive appearance. Due to its relatively high cost, it is also used as a decorative element - for bathtubs that do not include a screen. For example, on beautiful carved legs or irregular shapes.
Advantages of models made of non-ferrous metals:
— high corrosion resistance (especially for copper);
- attractive appearance;
— reliability and long service life.
Disadvantages - the installation process is more complex than, for example, polypropylene.
Types of strapping
Automatic strapping system
The operation of any harness is based on the same principle, which means they have almost the same design.
The automatic drain overflow for the bathtub is distinguished by the design of the plug with which the outlet hole is equipped. Pressing it either opens the drain hole or closes it. This design (click-clack) allows you to take a bath by simply adjusting the water level - when the level rises, open the plug with your foot and release the required amount.
The automatic system also has its drawbacks - if you choose it not on the principle of quality, but on the basis of the lowest price, there is a high probability of the automatic plug failing. In this case, the entire bathtub overflow drain will have to be replaced.
It is better to choose bronze or brass from the materials used to manufacture such a system, since, for example, polypropylene will quickly require replacement.
Bath siphon - automatic and semi-automatic
Semi-automatic strapping system
The semi-automatic bath overflow drain has a design similar to the automatic one. But to drain water, it does not use a plug, but a special connecting cable.
The peculiarity of such systems is that water is drained by turning the lid of the hole located not on the bottom, but on the wall of the bathroom. The lid is connected with a plug by a connecting cable and, when turned, closes or opens the water drain.
The design of this cover can be different - handle, valve, lever, etc., depending on the design of the entire device.
Important! The connecting cable may run inside or next to the drain hose. When choosing the first option, remember that if the cable is damaged, the entire drain system must be replaced.
The convenience and practicality of the semi-automatic device lies in the fact that when using it there is no need to put your hands in the water to drain the water.
Bath spout with flush-overflow-fill system
A bathtub spout included in the overflow drain system is a rather rarely used option, but in some cases it is convenient.
A bath spout is used when there is no possibility or desire to install a regular faucet. The pipe is led directly to the overflow hole, through which water flows. That is, the work is carried out in two modes - filling and draining.
Such a bathtub spout is guaranteed to prevent the room from flooding, since when it overflows with water, the water drain at the bottom of the bathtub is automatically triggered.
Another design option is when water is supplied to the bottom hole of the bathtub, this allows you to draw water almost silently.
Installing a bathtub spout and connecting it to the water supply is quite difficult on your own, so you may need the help of a specialist.
Installation of a bathroom drain and overflow
It is quite easy to install the strapping system yourself, even without special skills. This work is carried out after the bathtub is installed in its place and securely fixed.
Installation is carried out in several stages:
- installation begins from the bottom of the structure - a drain grate is installed, a siphon is attached to it - a tee, which leads to the sewer, directly to the bathtub and to the upper drain hole;
Important: Do not forget to lubricate the fastening parts (drain grid and siphon) to the drain hole with silicone.
— a grate and a tube are installed in the upper drain hole;
— a corner is installed that combines the drain and overflow holes.
When assembling the entire structure, it is necessary to ensure that all connections are securely sealed. The harness comes with sealing gaskets, but for reliability, all connections can additionally be treated with silicone sealant.
Such an important task as choosing a bathtub must be approached with careful preparation and all the nuances of the upcoming installation must be taken into account. In addition to the bathtub itself, legs and other parts are included in the kit. Special attention should be paid to the drain-overflow system, which will be discussed in this article.
What it is?
Few domestic consumers are unfamiliar with the good old siphon along with a stopper on a chain. This, in fact, is the basic design of the drain-overflow system. Nowadays, these systems are increasingly automated, and now it is possible to drain the water without pulling out the plug yourself.
These days, plumbing stores sell many types of similar designs. Most often, they are included immediately with the bathtub, but it is best to purchase it separately on your own.
Structural features
The bathtub drain-overflow system is divided into two types according to the type of design: automatic and semi-automatic.
The siphon machine is quite easy to use. It has another name - “click-click” and is launched by simply pressing the plug located at the bottom. After this, the drain opens, followed by pressing it closes. The main part of such a mechanism is a spring attached to the plug. The entire structure is located in such a way that it is very convenient to drain the water while lying down only by pressing your foot after a bath procedure.
Moving on to the topic of the siphon of a semi-automatic device, it is important to note that, unlike an automatic machine, it is not so susceptible to breakdowns and if problems arise, reasonable and timely repair of the mechanism will correct everything. In this case, the design of the machine will have to be completely changed to a new one.
The semi-automatic drain and overflow is also started manually. A special rotating head closes the hole on the wall of the bathtub, and it is also connected to the drainage mechanism. They are connected by a cable mechanism, which allows you to open the drain mechanism when unscrewing the head on the bathtub wall. The main disadvantage of these designs is the jamming of the mechanism.
The main difference between these two designs is the price. Which option suits you best is just a matter of taste and comfort.
The design of mechanisms, their advantages and disadvantages
Let's analyze the device of each design in more detail. As noted earlier, the good old black stopper in the bathroom can be replaced by either an automatic siphon, or a semi-automatic drain-overflow or, as it is also called, a bathtub fitting.
While the principle of operation of the machine’s siphon is quite clear, the design of a semi-automatic machine is somewhat more complicated. A plug (swivel head) with a plastic or chrome-plated plastic cap closes the hole on the wall of the bathtub. Another plug with the same chrome cap is located on the drain hole. These two plugs are connected to each other by a cable drive.0
The bottom plug is a pin with a hat that closes due to its gravity. The bottom plug opens if you turn the top one half a turn. The entire structure works thanks to a cable drive that transmits impulse.
At their discretion, buyers can purchase plastic plugs or chrome-plated plugs for greater durability.
The semi-automatic drain-overflow system has significant disadvantages, which most often consist of breakdowns of various parts of the mechanism. Over time, the drive cable begins to jam, the plug may fall too deeply into the drain hole, and it also happens that the pin becomes shortened and its length becomes unsuitable for further use.
All these small malfunctions can be easily repaired; it will be enough to disassemble the structure and adjust it yourself. Therefore, it is logical to assume that the cable on the outside will be easier to repair than the cable on the inside.
An electronically controlled siphon, in addition to being more expensive than a semi-automatic one, will also be difficult to repair. Most often, if it breaks, it will need to be replaced.
Another important point is that designs with a water seal are always preferable to models without it. A water seal is a special curved section of pipe that accumulates water. The water is changed every time the bathroom is used. Thanks to this, unpleasant odors from the sewer do not pass through the pipe into the bathroom of the living space. As a rule, today almost all models are equipped with a water seal with liquid release in the form of a strangely curved pipe.
Whatever your choice turns out to be, you are unlikely to want to go back to a cork with an elastic band.
Manufacturing materials
Such systems can be made from various materials. As a result, models may have different prices and have different characteristics. Most often, manufacturers choose those materials whose processing process has been established for centuries, mostly avoiding the use of new technologies. A striking example of this is the manufacture of these plumbing fixtures from various metal alloys.
Several traditional materials are often used to make a siphon.
- Brass, bronze. Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, and bronze is an alloy of copper and tin. Such models always have a high price, but are also of good quality. A brass or copper siphon is used when decorating a bathroom in a special antique style.
Such systems are very resistant, unpretentious in operation, durable, and can withstand high temperatures. If chromium is used for sputtering, the structure acquires a pleasant metallic color, and its service life is further extended.
Separately, it is worth noting the difference between brass and bronze. The main difference is that bronze can be in contact with water for a long time, while brass cannot; for this it will require treatment in the form of various sprayings.
- The most common option is cast iron(an alloy of iron and carbon). This alloy has been traditionally used for several centuries for the manufacture of various sanitary equipment. One of the striking advantages of cast iron is its strength, but its disadvantage is its extreme susceptibility to corrosion.
Despite the fact that various plumbing fixtures are most often made from cast iron, installing such a siphon for a bathtub is very rare. Such a siphon is usually installed only on a cast iron bathtub.
Such cast iron structures quickly become overgrown with various deposits, are difficult to clean and cannot be repaired. If such problems occur, they must be replaced. The bulky dimensions of the structure and the small space under the bathtub can complicate this process.
- Plastic. It has gained wide popularity in the modern market. The production of such models does not cost too much, and, therefore, the price for them is also not overpriced. They are resistant to corrosion and aggressive chemical compounds in the form of powders, detergents, and chlorine bleaches.
Of the obvious shortcomings, there is one significant one - it must be regularly replaced, as it becomes thinner over time, thereby becoming unusable.
How to assemble and install?
At the final stage, you need to close the drain hole and fill the bath with water. Then, when water flows through the drain pipe, carefully inspect the entire structure for holes. You can place a dry cloth or paper on the surface under the system. Drops on it will immediately show the result.
As a rule, different designs have their own special requirements for installation, therefore, following the attached instructions, you can correctly install this or that type of siphon.
Manufacturers and reviews
Drain and overflow systems from Viega and Geberit have proven themselves as products of average quality and average price category. Their systems are made from copper, brass or chrome. According to buyers, Viega systems are slightly better in quality than Geberit.
A luxury product is the automatic flush and overflow Abelone. The material of manufacture is copper with various coatings. Such a system can withstand up to 50,000 opening and closing cycles. This pleasure costs a little more than a semi-automatic machine, 3200-3500 rubles. The model received high marks, but is not as popular as semi-automatics.