Dry shutter. Photo Petrovich
Systems for the reception and disposal of wastewater and liquid waste are an essential element of structures for various purposes. One of the components of the systems is the shutter. Until recently, the most popular option was water seals (wet, water or hydraulic seals).
But the requirements for plumbing equipment are constantly increasing, so consumers are offered new solutions with improved technical characteristics. One such solution is a dry shutter.
What is it, device, principle of operation, functions
A dry gate is a device that is an element of a system for collecting and discharging waste, melt or rain water. In shower drains, the valve is located inside the siphon, which is a tube with threads located on both sides, most often made of polypropylene or plastic. Threaded connections provide fastening to a plumbing fixture on one side and exit to the sewer system on the other. These elements are often called “dry siphons” .
Dry gate for vertical drains Viega. Photo Petrovich
Inside the valve there is a damper (valve) in the form of a membrane, float or pendulum, which works like a valve. The damper (valve) opens under the pressure of waste water, which goes into the sewer system, then the damper closes. The damper performs the main functions of the entire structure for collecting and draining water. First of all, it blocks the cross-section of the pipe and prevents the passage of odors from the sewer into the room.
In hydraulic valves, the function of the valve is performed by water , but its drying out during prolonged inactivity leads to the fact that the device ceases to perform its own functions. Therefore, hydraulic valves are only suitable for equipment that is in constant use . Dry valves are an excellent solution for any structure, which is why they are in high demand.
An important difference (and at the same time the main advantage) of dry valves in comparison with other types of equipment is that they do not allow drains to pass in the opposite direction , which eliminates flooding of the room. This is especially true for premises located on the lower floors of apartment buildings. In addition, dry seals prevent large debris from entering the sewer system.
Video, device example
And the next video shows how you can modify a purchased drain with your own hands and it will definitely be dry and frost-free.
Where they are installed: for drains, in bathhouses, under tiles and more
First of all, dry valves are installed in rooms in which the operation of plumbing equipment is not carried out on an ongoing basis, i.e. less than twice a week: drainage systems of washing machines and air conditioners, often in bath plumbing fixtures, shower cabins, bathtubs, shower trays and other appliances. Designs with dry shutters are perfectly combined with various floor coverings: tiles, tiles, etc. Installation of structures with dry shutters in rooms equipped with “warm floor” systems is relevant.
Attention! Dry valves should not be installed in kitchen sinks because the valve will not last long in such a system.
From the history of shower drains
There is no need to think that shower drains and trays are a new invention of mankind. In fact, drains came to the attention of the public and appeared in stores with the fashion for showers in apartments and houses. Previously, drains and shower trays were talked about only in the mention of public showers in swimming pools, bathhouses, and showers at work.
No need to think. That these ladders have gone into oblivion. They are actively used only not in apartments. Although I am sure that in dormitories and communal apartments, similar drains may remain in the showers.
Advantages and disadvantages of sewer valves
The demand for dry shutters is due to a wide range of advantages:
- efficient and unhindered collection and disposal of water;
- no need for frequent equipment checks;
- operation does not require constant presence of water in the system, so the device can be installed in unheated rooms without fear that the water may freeze. Therefore, dry siphons are suitable for installation, for example, in summer houses and cottages;
- good resistance to mechanical stress, unlike wet closures, dry ones are difficult to tear off;
McAlpine shower drain (MRFGC3SNRV-110) with dry seal. Photo Petrovich
- are compact;
- two connection options: horizontal and vertical - allow you to install siphons with a dry seal in various rooms, including small spaces;
- easy to use;
- valves are made from anti-corrosion materials;
- installation is a fairly simple process , which can be completed even by a contractor who does not have the appropriate knowledge in the field of repair;
- the design of the device prevents the accumulation and stagnation of water , and, accordingly, is able to protect the owners of the premises from unpleasant odors, as well as from the appearance and proliferation of bacteria and microbes;
- long service life;
- high resistance to sewer blockages;
- excellent noise insulation performance;
- compliance with the requirements of Russian state standards, availability of necessary licenses and certificates.
As a disadvantage, it is possible to note that dry valves are not very common; most siphons and ready-made structures, for example, shower drains, are provided with a wet valve. In addition, drains with a dry shutter have a more complex design when compared with their analogues.
In conclusion
Installing a shower stall in your home is not a difficult task. Particular attention should be paid to connecting the pan to the sewer; communications will be hidden, so it is better to do everything correctly right away than to correct minor defects later. The proposed material will allow you to correctly connect the pan to the sewer.
Sources:
- https://sovet-ingenera.com/santeh/vanna/sliv-dlya-dushevoj-kabiny.html
- https://stroyday.ru/remont-kvartiry/ustanovka-i-remont-santexniki/sliv-dlya-dushevoj-kabiny.html
- https://stroy-podskazka.ru/vannaya/dushevye-kabiny/sliv/
- https://stroitelniportal.ru/stati/santehnika/vybor-i-montazh-sliva-dlya-dushevogo-poddona-svoimi-rukami/
- https://gidroguru.com/vnutrennyaya-kanal/razvodka/dush-kabiny/2557-sliv-dlya-dushevoj-kabiny
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Comparison with a water seal
Siphons with a water seal are a traditional solution, but in some aspects they are inferior to their dry counterparts . The devices function in different ways: in a wet shutter, water acts as a barrier against odors. However, the water may freeze or evaporate , leaving the door open for sewer odors to enter the room. This is a significant disadvantage of devices that dry valves do not have. They work on the "nipple" principle.
There is a damper inside that acts as a check valve . As a result, such a gate also performs regulatory work, i.e. prevents wastewater from moving in the opposite direction. A dry shutter is more functional; it can work either independently or in tandem with a hydraulic one. Dry valves are easier to install and operate, compact, and durable.
Types: vertical and others
In accordance with the connection option to the sewer system, horizontal and vertical types of drain structures are distinguished. The latter are more versatile, suitable for installation in rooms of various sizes. Space is required for installation of vertical devices.
Vertical siphon McAlpine with dry seal ø50 mm polypropylene MRNRV50-PB. Photo by Leroy Merlin
Among the list of manufactured dry sewer valves, three types are distinguished according to the type of construction, which differ in their own characteristics and some features:
1) Membrane. The role of a damper (valve) in structures of this type is performed by a spring-loaded membrane. The operating principle of the devices is as follows. Under the pressure of water, the spring is compressed, the membrane opens and the water flows freely into the sewer system. Reducing the pressure brings the membrane to its original position, which ensures the tightness of the system.
2) Float-type or float-type. This type of device can be made independently, at home. Gates of this type are a combination of water and dry types. The principle of operation of the device is simple: if the valve is filled with water, then the float is on the surface of the water, i.e. is located in a floating state and does not interfere with the drainage of water into the sewer. After the water leaves, the valve is lowered and the hole is sealed.
3) Pendulum valves are equipped with a valve fixed at one specific point. When a flow of water hits the surface of the valve, it deviates from its own axis and opens paths for the discharge of liquid into the sewer system. The valve returns to its original position under the influence of gravitational forces.
4) With molecular memory . Gates of this type are rarely mentioned, they are high-tech devices, and their cost is much higher than their analogues.
Gates are also classified according to brand and manufacturer. Among the most famous brands are Tece, Viega, Hepvo, McAlpine. Models of these brands are the highest quality product options. Some businesses offer dry siphons for various needs, e.g. suitable for installation in the design of various plumbing fixtures.
How to choose
To make the best choice and not make a mistake when buying a shutter, you need to take into account a number of factors, the main ones are:
1) Diameter. Depending on the type of device to which the siphon with shutter will be connected, and in order to ensure optimal throughput, the device should have one or another diameter. For example, the best option for a shower cabin and bath is a shutter with a diameter of 100 mm, for a sink - 50 mm.
2) Height. Horizontal type bends have indicators of 70-100 mm, vertical ones - 150-180 mm. Therefore, in conditions of limited space, horizontal (or side) dry siphons are the best choice.
3) If there are several plumbing fixtures located nearby in a room, then each one must be equipped with a separate device.
Siphon for sink WIRQUIN Senzo dry 40 mm. white. Photo by Maxidom
4) High-quality installation of a siphon for a dishwasher or washing machine is only possible when choosing a horizontal device that can be mounted sideways .
5) It is recommended to purchase dry siphons from trusted suppliers , official partners of manufacturers, or directly from the manufacturer.
6) You also need to keep the design of the device in mind. For example, shower drains with a dry seal are sold in a large number of decorative removable grilles, which allows you to choose a product for a room designed in any style.
Installation method
The last parameter that distinguishes the types of shower drains is the installation method. Here are the differences:
- Point ladder. It is located anywhere in the shower, usually closer to the middle. Requires multi-plane slope.
- Wall-mounted (usually a tray). The design is more suitable for installation against a shower wall. Requires sloping of entire shower floor.
- Angular. Shower in the corner. Requires a conical floor slope.
- Built-in slot. Mounted into the wall, a gap is made in the wall for drainage. Features powerful water drainage. Requires slope and complex installation.
- Ladder in the wall
For information, I made a screenshot of real prices for shower drains:
Installation
Shower drain Viega Advantix 452452 100×100 mm dry shutter. Photo by Leroy Merlin
A dry shutter can be part of various designs; if you follow the instructions and carry out the work carefully, their installation will not cause difficulties . Instructions are supplied with the plumbing kits. The biggest problems when doing DIY installation are caused by high-quality sealing . Therefore, if the performer is not confident in his own abilities, then it is recommended to turn to specialists. But installation is quite simple, the main steps are:
* you need to check the device ; the sealing elements must be exactly in place;
* between the siphon and the plumbing fixture it is necessary to place an o-ring , which seals the joint;
* installation of a siphon and application of sealant to the joints.
With your own hands
It is possible to make a siphon with a dry seal yourself. To do this, you will need a plastic pipe, a ball (ball) and a gasket, a set of standard screwdrivers, an adjustable wrench and a construction knife. A ball is placed in the drain hole , the dimensions of which are slightly larger than the diameter of the pipe. The ball is secured at the edges with a sealed gasket . The height of the element above the level of the drain pipe should be 50 mm. During operation of the system, the ball floats up and water flows into the sewer. During inactivity, the ball will lie on the hole and block the path for sewer odors.
Choice
Parameters and characteristics that determine the choice:
- Geometric - dimensions of the shutter, height of the space under the shower stall, diameter of the drain hole;
- Technical – performance and throughput;
- Quality of material;
- Difficulty of installation;
- Operational features.
Shower cabins are often sold together with siphons. If you are satisfied with this cabin modification, you can purchase it. But just as often you have to select the siphon yourself. Therefore, you should pay attention to the following points.
Geometric parameters
The design of the tray and methods of its installation determine the choice of the mounting height of the shutter. Modifications of devices with a height of 8 to 20 cm are made. However, for a shower cabin that requires low installation, only those whose height does not exceed 10 cm are suitable. The lower the height of the device, the easier its installation will be. The most difficult thing is to select shutters for the cabin installed directly on the floor.
The market is increasingly selling shower cabins that have drain holes in Euro sizes - 52, 62 and 90 millimeters. The structural parts of the shutter must comply with them.
Technical specifications
The depth of the shower cabin sink is usually small, the water flow is large, therefore, the water must have time to come out without delay. The throughput capacity (CA) of a water seal determines the speed at which water will flow out, as well as how quickly the seal structure will become clogged and how often it will need to be cleaned. The average PS of shower cabins is 30 liters per minute. If hydromassage and other additional functions are available, water consumption increases. An indicator characterizing the SS is the height of the water layer above the level of the top of the drain. With a height h=12 cm - diameters are 5.2/6.2 cm, with h=15 cm - a diameter of 9 cm. Therefore, for low pallets there are siphons of small diameters - 50 mm, for high ones - large ones. The instructions for the shower cabin indicate the PS, which must be taken into account when choosing a shutter device.
GOST recommends a minimum flow rate of at least 15 liters per minute for shower cabins with outlet, at least 21 for siphons with overflow and for deep sinks.
Material quality
The parts located under the shower stall are not exposed to external physical stress, so they can fail due to aging of the plastic. Low-quality plastics begin to crack already in the second year of service. High-quality ones last a long time.
The grate covering the drain requires attention. The best option is when it is made of stainless steel. This is the most durable material used for gratings. There are gratings made of alloys. In this case, you should pay attention to the decorative coating. Two layers of chrome guarantee that the coating will not peel off and the grille will last a long time. Chrome is resistant to detergents, which is an additional advantage. Plastic nickel-plated grilles quickly remain without a coating that cannot be restored on your own.
To facilitate periodic maintenance of the valve device, as well as to protect against sewer odors, the valve devices are equipped with additional parts - dry or hydraulic valves, removable settling cups. The more additional parts there are, the lower the shutter reliability. The likelihood of breakdowns increases with the number of parts.
When buying cheap water seals, they waste large sums of money, since only lifting the pan will allow them to be replaced. In some cases, you will have to dismantle the entire shower cabin, then you cannot do without breaking its parts. Whether it is worth saving on the shutter device is up to the buyer to decide.
Performance
Drain fittings, according to regulations, must be easy to disassemble and assemble manually. This is an important condition, especially when the drain is clogged, or in other emergency situations. Therefore, installation of the shutter device is carried out with a minimum set of tools.
During operation, the main difficulty is cleaning the locking device. When choosing, you should think about this issue. Some modifications are made to be self-cleaning. Some can be cleaned through the drain hole. Such modifications of the bolt product have an outlet diameter of 90 mm, which allows you to disassemble the device, remove everything you need in sequence, and then reassemble what was removed in the reverse order.
When buying a siphon, it is better to choose products with click-clacks that can be removed with a cleaning basket
