Adjusting the water pressure in a sink or shower is not always an easy task. The pressure in hot and cold water pipes is usually not the same. In addition, these indicators tend to change suddenly - a situation that is well known to residents of apartment buildings.
To solve such problems, a wonderful device was invented - a bath mixer with a thermostat. It allows you to obtain a stable flow of water at a given temperature.
Having understood the operating principles and types of modern thermostatic mixers, you can choose the appropriate option and make water treatments in your home extremely comfortable.
Design features of a thermostatic mixer
One of the most common types of faucets all over the world is the model with a thermostat. This device allows you to supply water at a temperature specified by the user. In addition, there is a linear range of models where you can additionally adjust the jet pressure. That is why the thermostat is equipped with two valve regulators: for selecting temperature and pressure.
Now global manufacturers produce this equipment in two types: electronic and mechanical. The first sample has a built-in information display that notifies you of the current supply water temperature. This sample works with batteries or thanks to an AC adapter.
Standard models of thermostatic mixers allow you to adjust their operating modes using buttons. However, more expensive samples have touch and even remote control types that respond to commands from the infrared element.
In addition, such plumbing equipment is classified depending on its purpose as faucets with a thermostat for:
- baths;
- soul;
- shells;
- bidet;
- kitchens.
However, well-known manufacturers have also developed universal models that are quite applicable for various purposes, for example, both for the bathroom and for the kitchen. It is worth noting that the method of attaching the mixer can also be different:
- open - the entire structure and its elements are mounted directly on the selected equipment;
- closed - in this case, the shower mixer with a thermostat is “hidden” in the wall, and only the panel and controls remain outside.
The basic principle of operation of the mixer
It will seem strange to many that such modern plumbing equipment actually has an extremely simple design. All samples have a special mixing valve, the operation of which is controlled by a cartridge. It is most often made from bimetallic plates or contains wax and is very sensitive to even minimal changes in water temperature.
The principle of operation of a mixer with a thermostat is that the specified temperature parameters are supplied through a fastening and adjustment screw to the cartridge, which either contracts in size or expands. To make the operation of the equipment safer, manufacturers install a fuse on the screw; it prevents the temperature of the supply water from rising above 80 ° C. If the cold water stops flowing, the hot water supply also stops. As soon as the supply of water from the two modes is resumed, its mixing also continues. It turns out that this type of mixer eliminates the slightest possibility of getting burned or being doused with ice water due to an accidental temperature jump.
It is also especially important to do the right thing with the thermostat to the water supply. If you confuse the pipes with cold and hot water, then the specified configured mode will not only not be carried out, but the supplied water will be of very different temperatures. Therefore, experts recommend inviting a plumber who knows his business to install the purchased mechanism. Next, you just have to replace the filters, which is quite possible to do yourself. Such filters take the form of metal mesh, installed in the space between the eccentrics and the thermostat.
pros
- Safety . The temperature of the water in any home is affected by the number of simultaneously operating plumbing products. For example, one family member is washing in the shower, while another is emptying the tank above the toilet or opening the kitchen faucet to draw liquid into the kettle. According to Russian standards, permissible fluctuations in the temperature range of hot water supply range from 50 to 70 degrees . Therefore, in such cases, with a conventional mixer, there is a danger of scalding due to a sharp decrease in the proportion of cold water in the mixture pouring onto the body. The likelihood of accidental burns increases sharply in shower stalls, where there is nowhere to quickly jump, as well as in houses where storage water heaters are used, capable of raising the water temperature to 80°C. The thermostatic mixer eliminates the risk of thermal injury . The mechanism responds to changes within 2 seconds, rearranging the operation so that the output result does not deviate from the set parameters.
- Protection from children's pranks . The surface of the case is not hot, which eliminates the possibility of a child being burned when touching the metal. Typical representatives of mechanical devices have a limiter at the 38°C mark; this reading is considered the most comfortable for humans. When the specified limit is reached, the valve will completely shut off the hot water supply pipe.
- Comfort . Fluctuations in the ratio of the components of the water mixture can be caused by neighbors on the riser opening or closing the taps in their apartments, or taking a contrast shower. With a sharp increase in water flow, pressure drops occur. It is unlikely that you will be able to relax under the streams, which are constantly becoming colder and hotter. The developers of the mixer, which produces a water stream at a constant temperature, have saved the resident from having to endure the inconvenience of fluctuations in pressure in the pipelines.
- Simplicity of design . The miracle of plumbing has a special valve. If the fluid pressure in one pipeline drops, the valve moves and reduces the flow from the other entering the mixing chamber. The temperature in the spout or watering can remains at the original level. The role of the controller in mechanical plumbing models is often played by a sensitive sensor with synthetic wax. The thermocouple contracts or expands depending on changes in pressure or temperature, causing the locking cartridge to move. Sometimes, instead of wax, bimetallic plates are used, when they bend, the depth of the valve changes.
- Reduce costs . Costs are reduced due to almost instantaneous fine tuning. This eliminates the need to waste water when turning it on and constantly adjusting it during use. Some models have an economical mode, in which resource consumption is minimal.
What are the positive and negative properties of a thermostatic mixer?
The main advantage of this type of mixer is its ease of use. Such equipment will be especially appropriate in families where elderly people or young children live. Also, these models are widely applicable in places where it is not possible to regulate the temperature of the supply water due to the huge pressure difference in the adjacent pipes.
In addition, with a thermostat it is an economical model. Thanks to the precise and well-coordinated operation of the system, unnecessary consumption of high-temperature water is not allowed, which is important if it is heated thanks to purchased electrical appliances. Since modern models of mixers allow you to adjust the flow pressure, the overall costs of water are reduced to a significant extent.
If you do not know how to make such settings yourself, you can select “economy mode”, which will automatically change the operating parameters of the mixer.
The very principle of operation and operation of the thermostatic mixer ensures guaranteed safety for human health. The equipment will not allow the supply of water at a temperature lower or higher than that set by the user. If you use an autonomous system to heat incoming water, then there is a possibility of supplying water with a temperature above 80 ° C, which is extremely dangerous for humans. But faucets with a thermostat can eliminate this possibility and prevent possible burns.
Using such a device, you will only feel the pleasure of its operation. Problems associated with changes in pressure and temperature in water pipes will not affect the smooth operation of the mechanism. Water will be constantly supplied in accordance with the specified parameters, even if another person turns on the tap in the next room. Of course, the exception is cases when its full supply stops. It is also worth noting the quick response of the mixer with a thermostat to changes in settings: literally in 2 seconds the new parameters will be put into effect.
As for the disadvantages of this modern model of mixers, they are the high price. Such samples are more expensive than standard faucets, but do not forget about the high level of comfort, convenience and quality that are guaranteed by the manufacturers. Also, this cost will pay off due to the efficiency of the equipment and the reduction of water costs.
How to make a successful purchase of a mixer with a thermostat?
Despite the fact that such models have already gained their admirers in the West, the domestic market has a certain imbalance regarding supply and demand for these types of plumbing equipment. Due to the high price, not everyone can afford to purchase this model of mixer. It is worth noting that Russian companies also began to produce similar mechanisms, for example, the KIT company, but the models they presented are of a simple design and lack a hose and spout.
European manufacturers - Oras and Grohe - not only guarantee high quality and long service life of the equipment, but also come in a wide variety of designs. Therefore, a wide range of products from these companies allows you to choose exactly the model that will fit into any modern interior. And the chrome coating of the products ensures hygiene and an aesthetic appearance.
It is worth noting that, having decided to purchase a mixer with a thermostat, you need to make sure of the quality of the product you are purchasing. It is advisable to obtain information in advance regarding the features of the original products, so as not to accidentally acquire a fake by paying a fairly large amount. Check carefully at the plumbing equipment store for all certificates of quality and compliance, and also make sure that you have a warranty card. It is he who will ensure the possibility of free repairs if the mechanism fails. Also ask how the thermostatic mixer you are planning to purchase works.
Having carefully checked all the documents and the product for the absence of any defects, you can safely purchase the product and enjoy the high level of comfort and convenience that a mixer with a thermostat is capable of!
The main idea that guided the developers of the thermostatic mixer was the need to obtain a stable and unchangeable water temperature at the outlet. This was successfully implemented in the seventies of the twentieth century. Mixers of this type, regardless of the water pressure and the amount of mixed liquid of different temperatures, at the output give either a comfortable temperature for the human body of 38˚C, or set according to an individual mode. Everything is simple here - the pressure of cold or hot water in the water supply has decreased or increased, but water of the required temperature will still flow from the tap.
Working principle of a thermostatic mixer
Externally, a thermostatic mixer is practically no different from an ordinary one. Like its predecessor, it has two control handles, the difference is that one of them is responsible for the water temperature, and the other for its pressure.
There are two types of thermostat mixers - the operation of some can be carried out solely due to complex and thoroughly thought-out mechanics, while the action of others can be based on the interaction of complex mechanisms and electrics. But by and large, their operating principle is identical, and the operation is based on a thermostatic valve.
The thermostat valve operates quite simply - the water pressure (depending on the design of the mixer, either cold or hot) presses the thermostatic valve, which regulates the required amount of the second flow of water. If the pressure of the first stream decreases or increases, so does the other stream of water. It is in this way that a stable and constant temperature of the liquid is obtained at the outlet.
Not a single thermostatic mixer is produced without a so-called fuse - it prevents an accidental increase in the water temperature. The fact is that with a careless movement of your hand you can accidentally move the temperature regulator and get serious burns. It is for these purposes that a special fuse is needed, which, as a rule, is made in the form of a red button. It works simply - to increase the temperature of the liquid coming out of the mixer, you need to press the red button. You can reduce the temperature without it. For families with small children, this feature is a must.
Design features and operation of the thermostatic mixer
The most important element of the thermostat mixer, as mentioned above, is the valve - as a rule, it is made of leather, rubber or ceramic with a graphite coating. Installing a leather or rubber valve on the mixer valve is typical for cheaper products - thanks to them, a number of unnecessary problems arise. Firstly, they wear out quite quickly, which at one point leads to unpleasant consequences. In principle, replacing the valve of a thermostatic mixer is quite simple - this procedure is somewhat similar to replacing the rubber gasket on an ordinary valve or semi-turn mixer. Secondly, due to the characteristics of these materials, wear of the valve seat often occurs. Solid, even the smallest particles of debris contained in the water, falling under the valve during repeated cycles of closing and opening it, damage the seat very quickly. The result is the same - a flood. At the first sign of problems, you need to call a specialist.
Things are much better with a mixer equipped with a ceramic valve - it is made in such a way that it is simply not able to damage the seat. Ceramic carefully fitted to the seat and a graphite coating on it, with the help of a flow of water, is capable of pushing out all debris that gets between the seat and the valve. The operation of thermostatic mixers with a ceramic valve has one feature - they do not tolerate brute force. There is no point in turning the valve until you are stupefied. The only thing you will achieve by doing this is breaking the faucet head. To shut off the flow of water flowing from the mixer, the valve must be turned all the way and stopped there - carefully adjusted ceramics will do the rest for you.
In general, a thermostatic mixer is a delicate piece of equipment that requires certain protection. To prevent rapid wear and tear, it must be protected from debris contained in the central water supply, at least with primitive coarse water filters.
Installation of a thermostatic mixer and its features
In principle, it is performed in exactly the same way as usual, with the exception of one very important feature - mixing up cold and hot water during installation, at a minimum, is fraught with its incorrect operation, and at maximum, with its failure.
Particular attention must be paid to connecting it to the old water supply system. The fact is that the standards for installing water supply systems in the former Soviet Union and Europe are very different. In our countries, cold water was installed on the left side, and in Europe on the right - so if we are talking about installing a thermostatic mixer for a bathroom, you will have to radically redo the entire plumbing. With kitchen and washbasin faucets, things are a little simpler - you just need to connect the flexible hoses correctly.
Where to buy and how much does a thermostatic mixer cost?
Probably, no one needs to be reminded that you should not purchase such complex products as a thermostatic mixer on the market - when paying a lot of money, you need to be confident in the quality of the product you are purchasing. It is best to buy a thermostatic mixer in a specialized store. There, at least, you can issue a guarantee and look at the quality certificate for the model you are interested in.
Which model and manufacturer should you prefer? Today, high-quality thermostat mixers are produced by Grohe, Webert Wolo, and Hansa. Mixers from the Oras and Vidima brands are of good quality. As a rule, the cost of such thermostatic mixers ranges from 5,000-8,000 rubles. There are thermostat mixers in other price categories. The cheapest ones can cost around 1,000 rubles. – you yourself understand what quality we are talking about here. Well, the maximum price can reach up to 15,000 rubles.
In general, be that as it may, a thermostatic mixer is a very convenient product that can reduce the risk of burns and increase the comfort of your bathroom.
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The thermostat mechanism was created in the 20th century, but its advantages are still not fully appreciated by many consumers. Let's talk further about how a mixer with a thermostat for a bathtub with a shower works, what advantages it has and how to choose a successful model of such a product.
Choosing a thermal mixer for the kitchen and bathroom
The operating principle of all thermostat mixers is similar. Using the adjustment, the required temperature is set once, and then the water supply valve simply opens.
They function the same way, but the model range is quite extensive. And each device has its own individual characteristics and advantages.
If, in addition to the standard spout, the faucet model requires the connection of a branch for the shower, then the left regulator has a corresponding switch, and does not simply turn the water on/off
Based on their purpose and installation point, thermostatic mixers are divided into four categories:
- for washing in the kitchen;
- with spout exclusively for washbasin;
- for bidet;
- with shower head and bath spout.
They are installed on a wall, countertop or plumbing fixture using an open mounting method. Or they are mounted in a closed way, when only the valves or levers and spout remain visible. And with this installation, all internal parts are hidden behind the cladding on the wall.
Most often, thermostatic mixers are installed in the bathroom. They are not so popular in the kitchen. The temperature of the water in the kitchen sink has to be constantly changed - either cold for drinking or filling the kettle, warm for washing food, or hot for washing dishes.
Continuously switching the thermocouple setting is not recommended. And the convenience of having a thermostatic mixer is reduced to almost zero in this case. And in the shower and washbasin the temperature is precisely what is required. Here it is more relevant.
Pros and cons of different models
Mechanical faucets with a thermostat integrated into the body are more reliable than their electronic counterparts. They will cost less than their counterparts. And if they break down, they are easier to repair.
But models with a display are more accurate and easier to operate. But if they malfunction, they can only be repaired in a specialized center.
Thermostatic mixers with mechanical adjustment provide for setting the desired temperature in steps of several degrees.
Electronic devices are adjustable smoothly, allowing you to specify any parameters in the settings within the operating range for a particular model. However, they require power supply. If there are power failures, there is a risk of not only being left without electricity, but also losing water supply.
Water mixers for domestic needs with thermostat:
- provide the required pressure with a stable temperature;
- completely safe to use;
- reduce waste of water;
- easy to install with your own hands;
- prevent scalding and exposure to ice showers;
- save energy (if installed in an autonomous hot water supply system).
Their only drawback is their high cost. However, in return - comfort, savings and safety.
What to look for when choosing?
The material for making the mixer body should be chosen carefully:
- bronze, copper or brass are the most durable and expensive;
- ceramics - not as reliable as metal, but looks more attractive;
- silumin (aluminum-silicon alloy) - cheap and short-lived;
- plastic – the lowest price and low reliability.
It is even more important to select the correct thermostat shutoff valve material. Leather and rubber options are cheap, but wear out fairly quickly. If solid suspensions get into the water tap, these gaskets can quickly fail.
Compared to a conventional mixer, their wear rate in a thermostatic analogue is an order of magnitude higher. It won’t take long for things to end up in a flood and a showdown with the neighbors below.
It is best to choose valves made of high-strength ceramics. They themselves are durable and will not damage the saddle.
But if the mixing device is installed with them, then you should forget about using force when tightening the valve all the way. The valve is unlikely to break, but the thermostat head will be torn off quickly.
If check valves and coarse filters are not included in the thermostatic mixer, then they will definitely need to be purchased and installed
The main problem with most faucets with thermostats is the differences in the standard wiring diagrams for hot and cold water pipes in Russia and Europe.
According to the standard, our DHW pipeline is connected to the plumbing fixture on the right, while they have it on the left. However, these devices were mainly developed and produced by European manufacturers, according to their rules.
When choosing a thermostatic mixer, it is extremely important to find out from the seller the diagram for connecting the water pipes to it. If the pipes are connected the other way around, the thermostat will simply break.
Devices for bathtubs and bidets must be adapted to Russian standards. Otherwise, you will have to change the configuration of the pipes, and this will be additional serious costs.
With kitchen models, this situation is somewhat simpler - they are connected using flexible outlets that can be rearranged without problems
And the last point is the presence of sufficient pressure in the water supply. The passports of thermostatic mixers indicate a minimum operating pressure of 0.5 bar.
If it actually turns out to be lower in the pipes, then the device will not be able to work properly. There is simply no point in installing it in such a water supply system.
Leaders in the production of thermal mixers
When choosing a thermostat mixer, preference should be given to models made specifically for Russia.
Foreign manufacturers have recently begun to produce this plumbing fixtures to meet domestic standards and requirements. This is exactly what you should look for in stores, so as not to rack your brains later when performing installation.
It is necessary to distinguish between thermostatic (also thermostatic) valves intended for heating systems (in the figure), and the mixing devices in question for sinks and showers
On the domestic market, faucets with a built-in thermostat are represented by the following brands:
- Oras (Finland);
- Cezares and Gattoni (Italy);
- Grohe, Kludi, Vidima and Hansa (Germany);
- Lemark (Denmark);
- Toto (Japan);
- NSK (Türkiye);
- Iddis and SMARTsant (Russia).
The Germans are the undoubted leaders in this industry. But other manufacturers are also trying to keep up, creating lines of different price classes.
Here you need to focus more on the materials of manufacture and the design of the product. However, one should not forget about the positive image gained over the years.
Operating principle of a unit with a thermostat
During water procedures, a person often experiences discomfort from a sharp change in the temperature of the water flow. The hot water in the shower hose suddenly turns cold. This happens unexpectedly and causes a lot of unpleasant sensations. The opposite situation, when a cool shower suddenly begins to change to boiling water, is especially dangerous for families with small children. After all, burns may appear on the child’s delicate skin in such a situation.
The principle of operation of a mixer with a thermostat
A high-quality faucet model with a thermostat and a long spout in the bathroom provides a person with the opportunity to completely eliminate the risk of such a situation occurring. The unit allows you to make showering not only pleasant, but also safe.
Thermostatic mixer with shower and spout in the bathroom ensures that the temperature and strength of the water flow are maintained at the level that is relevant for a person. The user of the shower only needs to set the necessary parameters, and the product will independently regulate the water supply so that the output corresponds to the set standards.
If the flow pressure changes, the water temperature at the outlet of the spout or shower will still remain unchanged. Whatever the size and design of the device with a thermostat, the principle of its operation in the bathroom will be identical.
The thermocouple, present in the design of the unit with spout, controls the water supply in automatic mode. This happens as follows: when high-temperature water is supplied to the mixer, the unit shuts off the supply of cold water for the shower. And this happens in just a few seconds. The person does not even have time to notice that something has gone wrong.
Design Features
The body of such shower units is often cylindrical in shape and equipped with two regulators. The first of them is intended to regulate the pressure of the water flow, and the second is to select the temperature regime.
The housing with shower and spout contains a thermostatic type cartridge. It is characterized by high sensitivity to temperature changes. Thanks to the special material from which this structural element is made, it is able to expand and push out a special piston. This allows you to shut off the supply of hot water completely or partially when a cold flow enters the mechanism.
Inside view of a faucet with thermostat
Also part of the body is a ceramic cartridge. It provides the user with the ability to change the temperature regime of the water flow if such a need arises in the bathroom. But setting the shower temperature too high will not work to avoid the risk of getting a body burn.
Note that all faucets with a thermostat, shower and long spout that exist today are divided into two types, based on the type of water supply adjustment.
Thermostat operating principle
| View | Characteristics of basic properties |
| Mechanical models with long spout, shower | They have valves or handles in their design, which in most cases are located at the edges of the body. One of them is responsible for setting the current temperature, and the other is responsible for the pressure force. Many experienced users believe that the mechanical type of bathtub has a simpler design, but is also more comfortable to use. They are also a cheaper option. |
| Electronic mixers with long spout and shower | Such models with long showers are very diverse in design and have a touch screen or push-button control. Note that many buyers are afraid to use such options, as they are worried about the fragility of electronics in conditions of high humidity. These fears are completely unfounded, since the body of the product is reliably protected from moisture and water. |
comparison table
As for the main distinguishing characteristics, this is the presence of S-shaped eccentrics, which are not available in every model, as well as filters. But when choosing, you should also focus on the length of the spout. It is this that will determine the ease of use and the possibility of installing the mixer over the bathtub or in the shower.
| Model | Spout length, mm | Average price, rub. |
| Lemark Yeti LM7832C | 175 | 12 000 |
| Oras Nova 7462U | 160 | 13 000 |
| WasserKRAFT Berkel 4811 Thermo | 174 | 14 000 |
| Grohe Grohtherm 1000 34155003 | 173 | 13 500 |
| Hansgrohe Ecostat Universal 13123000 | 194 | 18 000 |
| KLUDI Zenta 35101 0538 | 187 | 18 000 |
| AM.PM F7550000 | 183 | 16 000 |
Advantages and disadvantages
The most tangible advantages of faucet models with a thermostat and a shower in the bathroom are the following qualities:
- high level of safety - a person in the shower will not be scalded by an excessively hot flow of water if the cold water supply is suddenly turned off or reduced. This is especially important if a child uses the shower without an adult present. Many models are equipped with special blockers that do not allow the child to change the water temperature with his own hands;
- simple control - thanks to the presence of a valve, the operation of a thermostatic unit with a long spout in the bathroom is characterized by a high level of comfort;
- efficiency - you don’t need to spend even a minimum of time adjusting the temperature, which is very important if you have an electricity meter. The mechanism will do everything automatically. In addition, this type of mixer allows you to reduce water consumption due to higher accuracy of temperature settings;
- autonomous operation - even if neighbors take a shower or flush the toilet, this will not affect the temperature level of the water in the shower.
Thermostatic mixers have only one drawback.
For some consumers it is significant, while others do not pay attention to it at all. The disadvantage of such products is their high cost. This explains the low demand for products of this type in our country.
How to install a faucet in the bathroom?
You can do the installation yourself, but it is important to follow several important rules and recommendations:
- Hot water connection is on the left, and cold water supply is on the right.
- Calibrate the thermostat according to the temperature of the water in the hot water supply system.
- Installation of an open type mixer on the wall, and a closed type in the wall, which will require gating and creation of a special plasterboard box. In the latter case, repairs will require dismantling the wall or frame.
- It is necessary to regularly change the filter plates to prevent the system from becoming clogged.
The nuances of choosing a model with a thermostat
Before purchasing, you need to decide on the current type of unit with a long spout and shower for the bathroom. After all, they differ in many characteristics. In addition, you need to clarify what material the model was made from. The most reliable, as practice shows, are ceramic faucets with a graphite coating. We also note that you should not give preference to too cheap options. Bathroom thermostat faucets don't come cheap. This is a high-quality mechanism, the cost of which in our country is at a fairly high level.
For example, faucets with a long spout and shower from the Grohe or Hansgrohe brands are considered the best today. The cost of Grohe models ranges from 15 to 45 thousand rubles. German quality Hansgrohe products cost a little less: from 11 thousand rubles per piece. You should not choose Chinese shower products. They often turn out to be short-lived.
Grohe thermostatic shower mixer
Hansgrohe shower thermostat
However, we note that the key to long-term operation of such plumbing fixtures from any manufacturer is the correct installation of the mixer in the bathroom. If during the work a person makes mistakes, violates technology, or does not follow the manufacturer’s instructions, breakdowns and problems with the product cannot be avoided.
DIY installation
Most units with a shower thermostat can be installed without the help of a qualified specialist. In terms of the installation method, the necessary tools and fasteners, they are similar to the old-style faucets familiar to many.
When installing the product yourself, you need to maintain symmetry in the flow from the pipes with cold and hot water. It is also important to place the tap for cold water on the right, and for hot water on the left. Otherwise, the thermostatic mixer may not start to function.
Determine exactly which model you need.
If the water pressure in the house differs from the level recommended by the manufacturer by a small amount, the mixer will need to be adjusted first. For example, the unit is designed for hot water at 60 degrees, but the apartment supplies 65 or 55. To correctly calibrate the thermostat, remove the protective cap and adjust the temperature of the water flow with your own hands. This is done by rotating the handle of the device using a thermometer.
Open type devices with a thermostat for showers in the bathroom are mounted in a similar way to a conventional mixer. And for a closed type, you need to additionally install a plasterboard wall, behind which the main parts are hidden.
Many people have heard of such a device as a bath or shower thermostat, however, they do not have information about what it is. At the same time, this device provides maximum comfort and safety during water procedures, so it will be useful to everyone. So, a shower thermostat - what is it, and how justified is this device in our apartments?
In this article we will take a detailed look at this device, its operating principle and installation features.
Minuses
- Installation feature . The hot water outlet must be on the left, as required by Euro standards. In older houses, the arrangement of water supply pipes is different, which often has to be changed if specified in the operating instructions. Otherwise, the sensor in wall-mounted models will not function correctly or may break.
- Work when the water is turned off in one of the pipelines. The water supply from the other one also stops automatically. Although there are models that have a special switch for opening the valve manually. Then you can use the existing liquid.
- Requirement of power supply . Electronic thermostats are powered by a battery, which needs to be changed periodically, or from the mains via an AC adapter.
- High purchase cost compared to a traditional faucet. But it pays off during operation.
- Manual setting of parameters in mechanical varieties. It takes a little longer, but such equipment is simpler and cheaper than its electronic counterparts.
The design of electronic models is more complex than that of their mechanical counterparts. The complexity requires skill in installation and repair, which will require calling a qualified specialist and high costs. But such plumbing looks more modern and displays additional parameters on the screen.
What is a thermostatic mixer
Why do you need a thermostat?
In conventional mixers, as you know, you have to regulate the flow pressure and temperature with your own hands. Moreover, during the bathing process it is often necessary to adjust the water, as it becomes either cool or, on the contrary, unbearably hot. This is due to the difference in pressure of cold or hot water in the system.
This phenomenon is not only unpleasant, but even dangerous, since in the process of taking a shower you can get a serious burn. A thermostat, or as it is also called, a thermostatic mixer, allows you to avoid such troubles.
Thus, a thermostat is a device that controls and regulates the flow of cold and hot water, maintaining the flow pressure and temperature at a user-specified level.
Principle of operation
So, we have figured out the purpose of the thermostat, now let’s look at how this device works. To do this, let's first get acquainted with its main elements.
Any bath and shower thermostat consists of two main elements:
- A handle with a scale with which a certain level of flow temperature is set.
- A thermostat that controls and regulates the process of mixing cold and hot water. The main elements of this device are paraffin and copper rods. The latter has a plastic cylinder.
The operating principle of the thermostat is quite simple:
- When the temperature of the stream increases, the wax rod, which responds to any temperature changes, expands.
- As the wax expands, the copper rod is pushed out, causing more space (cold water passage) between the plastic cylinder and the metal thermostat housing.
- Since the pressure of cold water increases, and the pressure of hot water, on the contrary, decreases, the flow temperature decreases.
- When the water temperature drops, the paraffin contracts, and the passage of cold water decreases accordingly.
Thus, the flow temperature is maintained at the same level. This process is continuous, so we perceive the flow temperature as constant.
It should be noted that the thermostatic mixer has two handles - for adjusting the water temperature and adjusting the flow pressure. The latter is an ordinary valve that allows you to completely shut off the flow.
In practice, as a rule, it is enough to adjust the temperature once, after which you can use the shower only by turning on the water supply.
The photo shows a shower stand with a thermostatic mixer
TOP 7 best thermostatic bathroom faucets
To choose the best option, it is necessary to analyze the advantages and disadvantages of each individual unit. But due to the huge variety, this is very difficult to do. Therefore, we suggest immediately starting to evaluate the devices that have received the maximum number of positive reviews from the owners.
Lemark Yeti LM7832C
The most inexpensive faucet with a bathroom thermostat in the rating, it is reliable and durable, the manufacturer offers 10 years of free service for models purchased after 2021. It contains a cartridge switch with ceramic plates. It does not require repair or maintenance and provides high-quality temperature control. The thermostat can be fixed in a certain position, which eliminates the need to adjust the water supply parameters each time before use.
The chrome color is suitable for most bathrooms, is universal, and can be easily combined with other plumbing fixtures. It has a traditional spout shape, its length is 175 mm - the average among similar devices. Installation is carried out vertically, this requires rigid piping. This connection will reduce the risk of faucet breakdown.
Lemark Yeti LM7832C
- The presence of an aerator in the kit that can reduce water consumption.
- Maintains a constant water temperature, regulating its pressure during pressure changes.
- Low cost.
- Safety, you can’t get scalded by boiling water.
- The temperature does not correspond to the set value with low pressure, cold and warm water flows alternately, the thermostat turns on and off. The problem is eliminated by increasing the pressure.
- A short delay - up to 2 seconds for the membrane to operate and change the pressure.
Oras Nova 7462U
When you turn on this thermostatic mixer, water is supplied at the set temperature, this will allow you to not adjust it depending on the pressure of cold or hot water. The result is increased comfort when taking a shower.
It is capable of supplying water up to 38 degrees. The composition contains an aerator, which is installed as needed. When using it, the eco mode is activated, which allows you to consume 9 liters of liquid per minute, and the pressure will be 300 kPa. This is enough for comfortable water procedures.
Oras Nova 7462U
- The presence of S-shaped eccentrics designed for strictly horizontal positioning of the mixer.
- Work without noise.
- Adjustment of temperature and pressure using knobs on the body.
- Protection from external influences - dirt filter and check valve.
- You need to remember which way to turn the diverter so that water flows through the shower head or spout.
- The eccentrics are difficult to figure out, so installation may take several hours.
WasserKRAFT Berkel 4811 Thermo
A good bathroom faucet that allows you to quickly and accurately adjust temperature and pressure. The body is made of brass, resistant to moisture, i.e. it is not subject to corrosion. The surface is treated with chrome, which ensures hygiene and allows the mixer to be used against the background of other plumbing fixtures.
The unit is characterized by an attractive appearance, ease of use, functionality, and preservation of the declared characteristics for many years. This is due to the presence of special filters that prevent clogging. As a result, ceramic plates allow you to precisely adjust the parameters, and the tap does not leak.
WasserKRAFT Berkel 4811 Thermo
- Quiet operation, even when water is being filled into the bath.
- 5 year warranty from the manufacturer, which indicates high quality.
- Smooth transition from one temperature to another.
- Using brass to make the body.
- Filters are installed in eccentrics.
- For beginners, you need to get used to the control features.
- You cannot turn on cold water separately; it is advisable that the bathroom have a sink with a separate mixer.
Grohe Grohtherm 1000 34155003
The mixer allows you to set a certain temperature and maintain it, regardless of the pressure in the water supply. It is installed on the wall and connected to cold and hot water supply. The case does not heat up when water is supplied, the temperature of which can be set to 38 degrees. At this mark the “safety stop” is activated.
The convenience of the switches allows you to quickly get used to the control system. There is also a separate function for saving water when using the shower. To protect against dirt, dirt filters are installed.
Grohe Grohtherm 1000 34155003
- Chromed surface – easy to clean, hygienic, can be used in any interior.
- Switch for supplying liquid through a spout or shower.
- An aerator that provides a uniform flow, saturating it with air bubbles to reduce consumption.
- Hidden S-shaped eccentrics that allow you to set the exact horizontal position.
- Quite a large flow rate when operating in standard mode - 20 l/min.
- When switching from a shower to a tap and vice versa, the temperature changes depending on the set pressure.
Hansgrohe Ecostat Universal 13123000
One of the best faucets with a thermostat for a bathroom with a shower, according to owner reviews, which is very convenient to use. It features an AIR Power system that adds air bubbles to the water. As a result, with high pressure, the flow rate remains small, and using the shower becomes more comfortable.
Flexible silicone inserts are used to protect against limescale. The chrome surface is also easy to clean using classic bath cleaning products. The hygiene of the device will not allow bacteria to multiply on the body, and the stylish design is suitable for installation in a modern interior.
Hansgrohe Ecostat Universal 13123000
- Safety limiter at 40 degrees.
- The spout has a certain angle, which allows water not to fall on the wall or sides of the bathroom.
- Quick response to pressure changes in the pipeline.
- Comfortable ergonomic handles.
- Almost silent operation.
- With prolonged use, the hot water outlet temperature decreases.
- High price.
KLUDI Zenta 35101 0538
Inside this thermostatic mixer, a ceramic faucet is installed, which is responsible for regulating temperature and pressure. It rotates 90 degrees for easy setup. There is a button on the handle that activates the economy mode. This allows you to reduce consumption, but ensure comfort when using the shower.
The safety stop operates at 38 degrees. If desired, the indicator can be adjusted independently. On average, water consumption is 22 l/min in standard mode. Switching to bath or shower occurs via a button.
KLUDI Zenta 35101 0538
- Attractive design.
- Smooth adjustment.
- High quality due to production in Germany.
- Constantly maintaining the set temperature even with pressure changes.
- Quite a high cost.
- Some owners experience the handle unscrewing after prolonged use.
AM.PM F7550000
The mixer is designed for installation in a compact bathroom. It is characterized by ease of use, which is ensured by the ease of setting temperature and pressure due to two valves. Inside there is a ceramic plate that retains its properties for many years. For economical consumption of resources, a special mode and an aerator are provided.
The device is mounted using eccentrics, which allow you to install the faucet in the bathroom strictly horizontally, even if the outlets are located at different heights. The outer surface has a chrome coating, which is easy to clean from scale and water stains.
AM.PM F7550000
- Easy to control, which does not require getting used to the new system.
- Constant water temperature, regardless of pressure.
- Lock at 38 degrees.
- Convenient spout direction.
- Minimum amount of noise during operation.
- Quite heavy weight.
- The need to install filters for water purification.
Device Features
Advantages
This device has many positive aspects:
- Completely eliminates temperature rise to a critical level
. The same applies to its reduction. Thanks to this, taking water procedures becomes safe and comfortable. - The surface of the mixer does not heat up to a high temperature
, so touching it will not cause you a burn. - The maximum flow temperature does not exceed 43 degrees
. - If the flow of cold water stops, the flow is completely blocked
.
In addition, it should be noted that the thermostat is much easier and more convenient to use than.
Flaws
There are perhaps only two disadvantages to this device:
- Higher price than conventional faucets. True, we can say that the high cost is completely justified.
- Sensitivity to water quality. Therefore, it is recommended to install water softeners and filters in front of the mixer. Otherwise, the device will quickly fail.
Otherwise, the device has no drawbacks. As a rule, these devices are used for bathrooms, since the shower in this case is more of an additional option than the main one.
It must be said that any shower system with a thermostat, be it a stand or a panel, works on the same principle as described above. Therefore, the choice depends solely on the purpose of the shower system and your wishes.
Advice! If the size of the restroom does not allow you to install a bidet next to the toilet, an excellent alternative to this plumbing fixture is a hygienic shower with a thermostat, which is located on the wall next to it.
Installation features
The main condition for connecting a thermostatic mixer is the correct location of the hot and cold water pipes. It should be noted that in most Soviet-style houses, communications do not meet the requirements of thermostats. Therefore, care should be taken to install the device even at the stage of renovation in the bathroom.
The cold water supply must be located on the left, and the hot water supply pipe must be on the right. If the pipes are located differently, the device will not work correctly, and therefore a comfortable shower is out of the question.
Note! On sale you can find devices adapted for use in our country, in particular for Soviet standards for the location of pipelines. This point must be taken into account when choosing a device.
Otherwise, the instructions for connecting a thermostatic mixer are not much different from the usual ones. As a rule, the kit includes a diagram that shows in detail how this is done.
Here, perhaps, is all the basic information about thermostats for shower rooms and baths.
Installation of a mixing tap with thermostat
In general, the installation of the mixer in question is practically no different from the installation of an analogue of a conventional design without a thermostat. You just need to be careful with the hot and cold water connection points to the device. Confusion will inevitably lead to thermostat failure.
If you cannot unfold the mixer for proper connection, you will have to swap the supply pipelines. The easiest way to do this is with flexible hoses. But it may be necessary to rebuild the wiring of the water supply system in the immediate vicinity of the faucet being installed.
The installation procedure is as follows:
- The supply of hot and cold water at the riser is cut off.
- The existing crane is dismantled.
- Eccentric discs are installed on the pipes and positioned for the new mixer.
- Gaskets and decorative elements are installed in their designated places.
- The mixer with thermostat is screwed on.
- Mounted parts (spout, watering can).
- The water is turned on, and then the functionality of the installed device is checked.
- The temperature of the water coming from the thermostat mixer is adjusted.
To prevent leaks, tow, FUM tape or another analogue is used as a sealant.
Coarse filters and check valves must be installed on the water supply. The thermostatic mixer is quite demanding on the quality of the water entering it.
On the one hand, care should be taken to ensure that there is no silt or other deposits in the flow, and on the other hand, even potential cross-flow between the hot water supply and hot water supply pipes should be excluded. This fittings need not be installed only in one case, if it is already located in the housing of the mixing device.
Difficulties can arise only when installing a separate mixer; you will need to prepare in advance a place for the main segment with a built-in thermostat and correctly connect all the pipes to it
When installed hidden in the wall, only the spout and the buttons or thermostat adjustment lever remain visible. Everything else is covered with decor. The bathroom takes on a finished look. Just an ideal option, but if the mixer breaks down, you will have to break the walls and remove the tiles to repair it.
The thermostat is calibrated using a special adjusting screw or valve under the protective cover of the device. To do this you will need a regular thermometer and a screwdriver.
If the thermostat is not calibrated in accordance with the passport instructions, then the temperatures at the mixer valve and in reality can vary greatly.
Do you love original bathroom solutions? Then you may be interested in the information about the waterfall faucet discussed in this article.
Conclusion
Installing a thermostat allows you to forget about moving the lever millimeter by millimeter or synchronously rotating the valves to set the optimal water temperature. And most importantly, this device eliminates the possibility of getting burned even in the event of a strong pressure drop in the pipeline, since under no circumstances does the outgoing water heat up above the safe maximum.
You can find out more information on this topic from the video in this article.
Comfort, savings and safety. These are the basic requirements that every thermostatic mixer must have, and these are also the main goals that every sanitary ware manufacturer strives for.
The thermostatic mixer is designed to supply and maintain water pressure at a constant temperature - this ensures comfort while taking a shower.
Thermostatic mixer
Conclusions and useful video on the topic
The video shows an easy way to install a thermostatic shower mixer:
Thermostatic mixers have not yet gained much popularity among domestic buyers. The reason for this lies in the high cost of equipment. But those people who spent money on this plumbing equipment note the safety and ease of use of such a device.
Moreover, the invested money pays off quite quickly, since the mixer saves energy and significantly reduces hot water consumption.
Looking for a thermostatic mixer? Or do you have experience installing and using such a device for a bath and shower? Please leave comments on the article, ask questions and participate in discussions. The contact form is located below.
Design and principle of operation
The main thing is its internal valve. The valve consists of: a cartridge, a metal cylinder and a thermostat (thermostat) with a plastic cylinder.
A thermostat is a movable limiter that protects against temperature fluctuations by controlling the flow of cold and hot water to maintain the same level. Consists of a copper rod and paraffin.
Thermostat operating principle
The handle sets the required temperature, the valve mixes cold and hot water in the required proportion by adjusting the thermostat. When the hot water in the pipe increases by several degrees, the paraffin rod, which reacts to the slightest temperature changes, expands and pushes out the copper rod with a plastic cylinder. The space between the plastic cylinder and the metal surface of the thermostat increases, thereby increasing the space for cold water.
When the temperature of hot water drops, the paraffin rod contracts, and the space for cold water decreases. Thus, the temperature is controlled and maintained at the same level.
Conditions for connection
The main condition for connecting a thermostatic mixer is the correct location of the water supply system pipes. In most houses, communication standards built in Soviet times are not suitable for modern thermostats. To ensure that the money spent on purchasing a thermostat is not wasted, during renovations in the bathroom you need to carefully think through everything and fulfill all the necessary conditions for installing the mixer.
The pipe supplying hot water should be located on the left side, and the cold one on the right. It is this layout of communications that will ensure correct and correct operation of the thermostat.
If the pipes are located differently, then you can forget about a comfortable shower. If the connections are incorrect, the thermostat will not produce the set temperature, and constant surges in water pressure may also occur. And there is little pleasure in this.
Only if all the necessary conditions are met can you truly experience all the benefits of a thermostatic mixer.
Sink and kitchen faucets
Such mixers are not so common, since the need for them is small. These are often models of an open mounting system that are installed directly on the sink and have one lever for turning on the water and a spout.
Models for the kitchen differ in design and specific spout - a more curved gooseneck, but the principle of their operation is no different.
Thermostatic basin mixer
A bathroom faucet with a thermostat has a lot of advantages and is becoming one of the necessary plumbing devices in modern homes, but its installation and installation require certain skills, a special space in the bathroom and excellent knowledge of the principles of the plumbing system and the mechanism itself.
