The arrangement of shower cabins, especially modern versions with maximum equipment, is quite complex and differs depending on the configuration and type of construction. The latter may include a variety of functional additions, including lighting, radio, hydromassage. Let us consider in more detail the features of these plumbing fixtures.
general description
Hydromassage and modern shower boxes are characterized by a complex device and multifunctionality. They are focused on the most comfortable adoption of massage, water and steam treatments.
Among the most popular sizes are showers 80x80, 120x120, 90x90 centimeters. According to the configuration, the devices under consideration are round, oval, rectangular, asymmetric, and are also made in the author's version with various shapes and dimensions, taking into account the wishes of the customer.
Design features
The device of shower cabins of a prefabricated configuration includes a closed design with three wall panels and a door. Plumbing "corners" are mounted in the corner of the room, can have one or two doors (without a rear partition).
Monoblock analogs vary in overall dimensions, are distinguished by the simplicity of self-installation, have the widest model range.
Modern sanitary cabins are equipped with a variety of accessories. Among them:
- hangers with shelves;
- handles and mirrors;
- shower heads of various configurations;
- massagers for legs;
- remote controls that make it easy to control the functionality of the device.
The electronic “stuffing” of plumbing boxes includes main lighting and decorative lighting, a fan, an extractor fan, a radio, telephony, and a diffuser. Mechanical equipment includes a diverter and mixer.
Models with a pallet
Corner shower enclosures with a tray are a multifunctional plumbing fixture that is easy to use and easy to install. Such modifications are optimally suited for small rooms, save usable space.
The main structural elements include:
- pallet;
- enclosing panels;
- special fasteners and roller wheels;
- siphon;
- shower enclosures;
- faucet with hoses;
- water fittings with a watering can.
When buying the modification in question, special attention should be paid to the choice of the pallet. The material for its manufacture can be artificial stone, ceramics, reinforced plastic, acrylic. The pallet has a deep, medium or flat configuration, depending on the height of the device. The design of these plumbing includes frame enclosing panels or special elements mounted directly on the pallet. Monoblock versions are simpler and easier to assemble, have an excellent sealing performance, which is achieved through the use of silicone seals.
Options without a pallet
This design of the shower is a simpler, but less reliable version. The objective advantages of such designs include:
- low cost;
- the ability to create any configuration and dimensions of a plumbing fixture;
- simplicity in leaving.
Among the disadvantages is the increased likelihood of stagnation of water, which leads to the formation of puddles and unpleasant odors. In addition, if the shower cabin is not properly drained without a shower tray, a liquid leak is caused with the risk of flooding of apartments located on the lower floors. The option under consideration is relevant for private homes and small bathrooms.
Closed versions
The design of a closed shower cabin involves limiting the height of the fixture due to the presence of a similar roof. To install such a model, you will need to correctly determine its location in the room, while the pallet is installed on a concrete "pillow" or special feet-stands.
As a rule, such versions are more expensive, equipped with modern functionality. Closed modifications often have electronic control with a regulator; activation and deactivation of all options is carried out simply by pressing buttons.
Open boxes
The design of this type of shower cabin is distinguished by the absence of any ceiling element. Open models are simpler in design, easy to assemble and assemble. After installation, the floor pallet is connected to the sewage system, after which the side panels of glass or plastic are attached around the perimeter.
Among the main advantages of this modification:
- compact sizes, giving the opportunity to save usable space;
- acceptable price;
- long operational period;
- reliability and durability;
- unpretentiousness in service and leaving;
- simplicity of self-arrangement.
Installation of a sanitary corner
Installing a corner shower will not cause any problems if you first familiarize yourself with its device. Installation of plumbing fixtures is carried out in several steps:
- Prepare a place where the installation of a plumbing is provided. The selected corner of the bathroom must be tiled.
- If a modification with a pallet is purchased, it must be installed on the floor first.
- They connect a watering can or a special panel to the water supply, on which all functional elements are placed.
- At the last stage, the doors are fastened. They come in two types: swing or sliding configuration, made of various waterproof materials.
Assembly and installation of a shower cabin
After studying the device of the selected type of shower cabin, you can proceed with its independent installation. As a rule, all high-quality models from trusted manufacturers are completed with instructions that specify installation recommendations.
Among the basic assembly rules for most types of models, the following are noted:
- It is necessary to find a spacious place for the assembly process.
- First mount the pallet.
- Adjust the foundation using the building level.
- The side walls are fixed using special bolts that come with the kit.
- The shower panel is mounted on the side walls with self-tapping screws.
- The resulting frame is installed on a pallet.
- The backs are fixed with silicone sealant to the walls of the room.
- Proceed to the arrangement of the roof, which is mounted on self-tapping screws.
- At the final stage, they are installing shower doors.
Turkish or Finnish variations may include a steam generator or rain shower.
Connection Features
The steam generator is a special device that makes it possible to ensure the optimum temperature regime in the sanitary unit. If it is above normal, the generator simply shuts down. On some modifications, activation of the specified unit is provided in case of insufficient pressure of the supplied water.
The connection of the shower cabin in the apartment to electricity should be trusted by specialists with relevant knowledge and experience. It is worth considering that the most modern and equipped versions have special players and other electronic "bells and whistles". In this regard, it must be remembered that during installation, it may be necessary to equip a separate wiring.
Principle of operation
Even knowing everything about the design of showers is useful to learn how they function. For the correct operation of the plumbing box, a supply of hot and cold water should be provided. The fluid must flow through a mixer, which happens with one lever (valve) or two-valve (thermostatic). If you are not sure that you can handle the installation procedure of this site yourself, it is better to contact professionals.
Most experts consider the single-lever configuration to be the best option for a shower mixer. The design of the device includes an aerator, which significantly saves the water used. An analogue with a pair of valves belongs to the classic version, it makes it possible to quickly adjust the temperature of the liquid, regardless of the pressure in the system.
Used water is discharged by a drain, which is mounted directly from the bottom of the sump. Without fail, after connecting the structure to the sewer, it is necessary to check the reliability of the assembly. To do this, place a sheet of paper under the drain. If after the first bath it remains dry, then all the manipulations are carried out correctly.
Varieties of watering cans
Next, we consider the design features and the arrangement of shower heads. If there are many holes on the element that differ in shape and size, it can perform work in several feeding modes, with different strengths and dispersion of the jet. Typically, the positions are switched by means of a special rotary lever. Watering cans in modern design can have up to 20 channels, providing several operating modes. Some modifications are equipped with filter elements that purify water.
The watering can is attached to the plumbing hose. Its length varies from 1250 to 2000 millimeters. For a shower cabin of 80x80 centimeters, an indicator of 1600 mm is considered the best option. These elements are made of different materials, rubber modifications are strengthened with metal foil or kapron threads.
Hydromassage nozzles
In the design of showers, a hydromassage option is sometimes found. The work of this system is carried out through special nozzles. Their number ranges from two to eight pieces. There are several varieties of these devices, namely:
- Hydromassage versions that supply fluid under increased pressure.
- Aero massage variations. These devices create an air stream that, when it enters the water, forms bubbles.
- Combined models that combine both of the above features.
For uniform massage of the user's body, nozzles are often placed over the entire area of the plumbing box. At the same time, the degree of intensity of the jet supply can differ at different levels. As a rule, in the area of the neck and face, the water supply is softer, and in the lower part of the body - as strong and rigid as possible.
The nuances of operating pallets
The basis of most showers is a tray. The specified structural part must have high strength and anti-slip characteristics. The last parameter is provided by the presence of a grate or special corrugation at the bottom.
Users note that the enameled steel structure makes excessive noise during operation, while the enamel is prone to cracking. Among the shortcomings of the ceramic pallet is a high degree of fragility, which requires accuracy during use.
Brief summary
Thanks to their compact dimensions, economy, tightness, spaciousness and modern design, showers and hydromassage boxes have become an excellent alternative to traditional bathing appliances. The device of this plumbing unit is not very complex, which makes it possible to independently perform the installation of multifunctional equipment without special knowledge and skills.
Naturally, budget shower enclosures can hardly be called a complete replacement for a large bathtub or a multi-system closed cabin. Nevertheless, they are very popular among users due to reasonable cost, ease of installation and maintenance. I would like to hope that the information provided was interesting and useful for you.