In small bathrooms, there is usually not enough space to accommodate everything you need. You have to constantly look for ways to save space. One good option is a flat sink siphon. It can be installed in the most inaccessible places, where there is not enough space for a standard drain device. Thanks to the flat modification, it became possible to install the washing machine directly under the sink. However, the distinctive features of this type of drain do not end there.
Flat siphon device
Siphon - an integral part of any drain device. On the one hand, it allows water to escape unhindered, and on the other hand, it prevents sewage odors from entering the apartment. Drains are installed under washbasins, bathtubs, kitchen sinks and showers. Compact siphons for the sink greatly expand the possibilities of using the bathroom, as they can significantly save space.
The device consists of many elements:
- corps;
- branch pipe;
- branch;
- adapter;
- protective grid.
Complete with it are special rubber and plastic gaskets that prevent the flow of liquid at the junction of the elements with each other and with the sewer. It is also necessary to have fasteners and decorative overlays, which give the whole structure a more pleasant appearance, make it complete.
The sink siphon may have an additional pipe to which you can connect the drain of the washing machine.
Working principle and application
The principle of operation of all siphons is similar: first, water from the sink and household appliances enters the pipe, through which it flows down to the drain body. Then it passes into the sump pipe, and from there flows into the sewer. At the same time, a water seal is formed in the siphon, which blocks the return flow of water from the sewer, and also prevents the smells of drains from leaking out.
The "aroma" of the sewer can appear only if the sink has not been used for a long time, and the water from the sump has evaporated. In this case, it is enough to drain the water for some time to restore the shutter, and the smell will disappear.
Flat siphons are used not only under the sink. Their areas of application include:
- shower cabins with a low tray;
- jacuzzi bathtubs;
- hanging wash basins.
Benefits of a flat siphon
Using a flat-type drain device has the following advantages:
- The flat siphon successfully copes with the creation of a water seal that prevents the "aromas" of the sewer from entering the living quarters.
- A flat siphon can be installed in any most inaccessible place, where there is a minimum of space and there is no physical possibility to use another type of drain.
- The use of this type of drain design allows you to use the space under the washbasin to good use by installing a front-loading washing machine or cabinet there.
- Despite the limited space, the drain does not interfere with the free flow of water.
- Due to the smooth walls and design features, dirt and mucus almost do not accumulate in the device, only large particles and small objects are retained.
- Modern models are easily disassembled and washed. The most important thing is to get to the siphon itself.
Flat models have one drawback: the difficulty of cleaning. The fact is that usually such plums are installed in the most difficult places, and if necessary, getting to the structure can be difficult.
Production material
Drainage devices can be made of various materials, on which the performance of siphons depends. Most commonly used:
- Plastic is the most popular material.It is lightweight, durable, cheap, has excellent performance, and is resistant to chemicals. There is almost no plaque or dirt on the plastic. Also, plastic siphons are the most compact.
- Brass. This material is strong and durable, but demanding to care for. An uncoated brass siphon in itself can become an original decorative element or part of a composition. But the most common chrome-plated brass products, successfully fit into the interior of most rooms.
- Bronze and copper are much rarer. Typically, such plums are installed in bathrooms where plumbing is installed from similar materials. A wall siphon made of bronze or copper will successfully complement the interior of a stylized kitchen. However, these materials require special care.
What to look for when buying a siphon
In order not to be disappointed in the acquisition, so that the drain lasts a long time and does not cause problems, its choice must be approached wisely. When buying, you need to pay attention to the following points:
- Availability of a quality certificate.
- Warranty period - the longer it is, the more the manufacturer is confident in the quality of its products. If there is no guarantee or it is with a short period, then this is a serious reason to think about whether it is worth buying such a product at all.
- throughput.
- Inlet and outlet pipe diameters.
- Appointment. What is this or that siphon intended for: for baths, sinks, showers, etc.
- The presence of an additional pipe. If you plan to connect a washing machine or any other household appliances, then you need to choose model with additional outlet.
- Material. Here the choice is entirely up to the consumer, since the solution to this issue depends on the capabilities and ideas of the buyer.
- Color is a matter of interior design.
A few important points
In addition to all of the above, when buying a siphon, you need to pay attention to the color and quality of the gaskets, as well as the material of the fasteners.
Black rubber gaskets are used in cheaper siphon models. The thing is, they are quite noticeable. Therefore, they do not look as aesthetically pleasing as white ones. However, this is where the difference between the types of rubber ends. Both black and white rubber can serve for a long time and with high quality.
It is advisable to see what the fasteners are made of. Stainless steel bolts and nuts are considered the most durable. They are more resistant to moisture.
