Manufacturers are constantly improving plumbing fixtures, trying to make their use as comfortable, practical and cost-effective as possible. One of these solutions is a thermostatic mixer for bath and shower, eliminating the need to constantly adjust the water temperature.
Agree, it is very convenient to configure and fix the optimal parameters for yourself, so as not to waste time over and over again selecting the desired position of the lever. Ease of use is obvious, isn't it? It remains to decide on the mixer model.
We will tell you what parameters you should focus on when choosing a thermostatic device, outline the features of different versions, list the best manufacturers, and also note the nuances of installing a faucet.
What is a thermostatic mixer?
Residents of European countries have long been accustomed to saving natural resources and try to use them wisely. Therefore, it is not at all surprising that our western neighbors actively use temperature sensors and regulators in their everyday life, including faucets with thermostats for bathrooms with showers.
This solution provides an opportunity to save money without limiting yourself in using all the benefits of civilization.
Features and principle of operation
As a rule, in a mixer that maintains a certain water temperature, it is enough to select the pressure and indicate the desired temperature regime. And then the technician can handle it on his own - the command is sent to the sensitive element through the fastening and adjusting screw. This can be a bimetallic strip or wax.
The substance, depending on the specified settings, expands or contracts, which leads to a change in the position of the valve, which allows water to enter the mixing chamber. The adjustment occurs quickly and clearly and does not require further action on the part of the user.
Modern faucet models are also equipped with a water pressure regulator. It turns the flow off/on and makes it as comfortable as possible at the exit.
The water temperature is controlled by a special limiter. The element ensures that it is not higher than that specified by the consumer
The thermostatic device operates using a sensor located directly in the device body. Hot water and cold water enter the mixing compartment through a distributor. The stream then rushes to the tap.
If the water temperature is lower or higher than that set by the user, the sensor automatically adjusts the locking mechanisms. This allows you to adjust the volume of hot and cold flows.
If the water has a temperature that is much lower than that specified by the consumer, then its supply will be automatically stopped
Advantages and disadvantages of devices
Compared to other types of faucets, a thermostatic device can significantly reduce hot water consumption. This is especially noticeable if an electric boiler is installed in the house or apartment.
Precise temperature control makes it possible to use comfortable water, eliminating long-term adjustment of the desired parameters. And this, accordingly, reduces the amount of electricity required to operate the heating device.
The list of advantages of this type of faucets should also include the fact that the consumer will not be scalded and will not face an icy shower. Therefore, it will become indispensable in a house where there are small children.
When using an instantaneous water heater, the water temperature may change regularly. This is the main and only drawback of such equipment. The problem is solved by installing a thermostatic mixer, which will allow you to enjoy your bath.
If you install such equipment, you will no longer have to depend on your neighbors constantly turning the water on and off in their apartment. Now you can shower no matter what.
The only disadvantage of faucets with a thermostat is their high cost. But savings, safety and level of comfort completely offset this disadvantage
Types of thermostatic mixers
Today, the range of devices that supply comfortable water for bathing is regularly increasing. Manufacturers are ready to offer faucets with thermostats for bathtubs, showers, sinks, and bidets. However, the models differ in the method of fastening. For example, there are devices for visible and hidden installation.
In general, devices are divided into two groups: mechanical and electronic. This factor must be taken into account when choosing. After all, representatives of each of these two groups have both advantages and disadvantages.
Devices with mechanical adjustment
The simplest and, accordingly, cheapest is the mechanical model. This mixer is equipped with valves, levers and handles that allow you to regulate the strength of the water flow and its temperature.
Devices with mechanical adjustment are much more reliable and durable. At the same time, they work faster, since the temperature is switched manually. As for the price, the cost starts from $60.
The disadvantage of mechanical thermostatic mixers is the peculiarity of manual setting of parameters. But if you need the most simple and inexpensive plumbing equipment, then this minus plays absolutely no role.
The design of mechanical equipment is usually minimalistic and does not contain any unnecessary parts, which makes it easy to operate
Electronic thermostatic mixers
If the house is being furnished in modern style, then it is better to give preference to electronic equipment. In most cases, such faucets have a laconic and elegant appearance that will harmoniously fit into any interior.
In addition, electronic models are equipped with a screen based on liquid crystals, which shows the current water temperature, as well as the pressure force.
Such mixers are controlled using mechanical or touch buttons. There are also contactless devices on the market that operate using infrared sensors. They are often controlled using a special remote control.
If we talk about the advantages of electronic thermostatic mixers, then the advantages include:
- comfort - they allow you to indicate the water temperature with an accuracy of up to 1°C;
- attractiveness - electronic models look modern;
- multifunctionality - they can display many additional parameters.
But it should be taken into account that electronic equipment will cost several times more than mechanical equipment. Moreover, due to the complexity of the design, it is quite difficult to install such mixers correctly. And in the event of a breakdown, you will have to call a qualified specialist, which will also hit the family budget.
The electronic thermostatic mixer requires a power supply. Batteries or an AC adapter can be used for this.
Grohe
The Grohe bathroom faucet with thermostatic shower has been on the plumbing market for a long time. There is a huge selection of different mixers here. The faucets of this company differ not only in their functions, but also in their appearance. Therefore, here you can choose a mixer to suit your interior. The main material used to make these devices is brass. According to user reviews and expert estimates, on average, the mechanisms of this company will serve your home for about ten years. Here you can choose multifunctional devices that will cost 45 thousand rubles, or you can choose something more budget-friendly from 1.5 thousand rubles.
Main selection criteria
A huge assortment of faucets with thermostats creates a lot of problems for the unprepared buyer. After all, choosing the optimal model from this variety is quite difficult and it can take more than one hour.
What to look for before buying?
To find a device that will allow you to shower comfortably, will last at least several years and will not stand out too much in the bathroom design, you need to pay attention to a number of parameters.
Important characteristics:
- material used to make the case;
- valve type;
- presence of a fuse;
- connection method;
- minimum possible working pressure;
- manufacturer.
Before going to the store, it is recommended to familiarize yourself with the products of online stores. This decision will allow you to decide in advance on the optimal model for your bathroom.
Case material
The service life of the mixer largely depends on the reliability of the housing. Accordingly, this factor must be given attention first.
The most reliable and, accordingly, expensive materials are considered to be brass, bronze, and copper. If the appearance of the faucet comes first, and not its strength, then you can give preference to a ceramic product.
Manufacturers also offer models made of plastic and aluminum-silicon alloy (silumin). Yes, these devices are quite cheap, but they will not last very long.
Which valve is better?
An important component of any thermostatic faucet is the valve. This element is often made of ceramic, rubber or leather. The last two materials are used to produce cheap models, which is why many problems arise.
A leather or rubber valve wears out very quickly. This can cause many unpleasant situations in the future. But replacing such a part will not be difficult. The procedure is similar to the process of replacing the gasket in a regular faucet without a thermostat.
Leather and rubber are soft and short-lived materials. It is because of this that quite often a problem arises associated with damage to the valve seat. If solid particles get under the element from the water, the part is damaged, which leads to a flood. Therefore, if you find any problems, you must urgently contact a specialist.
A ceramic valve is more reliable and durable. In this case, a special design prevents debris from getting under the element and, accordingly, the saddle remains intact.
The ceramic valve pushes out all solid particles trapped under it. Moreover, the element has a graphite coating on top, which significantly extends the service life of the mixer.
When operating thermostatic equipment with a ceramic valve, do not use brute force when closing the valve. Failure to comply with this rule will result in the faucet head breaking.
Therefore, to shut off the water flow, you should turn the valve all the way, and the ceramics, precisely adjusted to size, will do the rest.
Why is a safety button needed?
Every more or less well-known manufacturer of thermostatic mixers installs a fuse in their products. This element prevents accidental changes in water temperature. After all, there is always a risk that with one awkward movement you can turn on boiling water and get severe burns.
Most often, the element is made in the form of a button, painted red. In this case, to change the water temperature, you need to release the fuse. This useful feature will be especially relevant for parents with young children.
Mixer connection diagram
When choosing plumbing equipment with a thermostat, it is imperative to ask the seller about the connection diagram for the water pipes to the device. After all, if you connect everything incorrectly, the mixer will break and will need to be repaired, which, as mentioned above, will be quite expensive.
To connect a thermostatic mixer in a bathroom or shower, you can use flexible hoses
Check that the equipment is adapted to Russian standards. Remember that one question will eliminate the need to change the pipe configuration.
Minimum operating pressure
An important characteristic is the presence of sufficient water pressure in an apartment or private house. The vast majority of devices operate at a pressure of 0.5 bar.
If in fact it is lower, the equipment will not function properly. Accordingly, there is simply no point in installing it in your bathroom.
Which manufacturer is better?
The plumbing equipment market is regularly updated with new products. But if you need to purchase a thermostatic mixer of the highest quality, then the best solution would be products from Oras , Jacob Delafon , Grohe , and Hansgrohe .
For the average buyer, products from the Oras . The company always tries to maintain the most favorable balance between product quality and affordability. In production, the company primarily uses plastic or brass.
The cost of thermostatic mixers from Oras is relatively low and amounts to about 180-200 dollars
Since its founding, the French manufacturer Jacob Delafon has established itself as a reliable supplier of brass plumbing equipment. Its distinctive feature is the provision of a five-year warranty on all faucet models.
As for appearance, Jacob Delafon products have a classic design. Equipment costs typically range from $150 to $450.
Grohe boasts the largest range of faucets . This manufacturer offers products equipped with a wide variety of functions and made in various styles.
Grohe uses brass in production. Therefore, it is not surprising that faucets from this brand last at least 10 years.
Although Grohe products differ from their analogues in quality and reliability, they are quite expensive. On average, the price of faucets from this brand is $300-700
Hansgrohe , also deserves respect . Their thermostatic mixers are distinguished by their most laconic design and high durability. Chrome plated steel is used for the manufacture of products.
Hansgrohe faucets are the ideal solution for small bathrooms. After all, the equipment is compact and relatively inexpensive - around $200.
Hansgrohe provides a 5-year warranty on all its products, which is quite good considering the stated price.
Almost all manufacturers offer the buyer several lines of mixers with thermostats. The assortment includes simple models, the design of which focused on their functionality.
But the catalog often includes several products that represent a real work of contemporary art.
Comparison of models
The comparison table of the above presented models will help you more clearly see the characteristics of the mixers and make your choice.
| Model | Type of installation | Mixer type | Material | Thermostat |
| Lemark Thermo LM7732C | wall | double wishbone | brass | Yes |
| AM.PM Like (F8010000) | wall | single lever | brass | No |
| Grohe Grohtherm 800 (34567000) | wall | double wishbone | brass | Yes |
| KAISER Trio 57122 | wall-mounted, vertical | double wishbone | brass | No |
| RAVAK Chrome CR 025.00 | mortise on board | single lever | brass | No |
| WasserKRAFT Berkel 4811 Thermo | recessed | double wishbone | brass | Yes |
| Bossini Z10201410BOS001 | recessed | single lever | brass | No |
Subtleties of installing a device with a thermostat
Installing a faucet with a thermostat in the bathroom is a fairly simple process that can be handled without the involvement of a qualified technician. Moreover, the parameters and requirements for its installation are the same as for standard valve models.
When doing installation, first of all, you need to ensure that hot water is supplied to the mixer at the same time as cold water. In addition, you must adhere to the installation diagram. If you make a mistake, the mixer will not work.
Installation can be carried out in two ways:
- open;
- closed.
Open method . There are no particular difficulties during installation. After all, all you need is to connect the hoses and secure the faucet to the wall, sink, bathtub rim or shower stall.
Closed installation . In this case, you will need to install an additional false wall made of plasterboard. After all, it is necessary to ensure that only levers or buttons that regulate the temperature stick out from the wall.
The only disadvantage of hidden installation is that in case of a breakdown you will have to open the wall
If we compare two methods of installing a mixer, then each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages. But in the case when high-quality thermostatic equipment was purchased, it is recommended to engage in hidden installation.
After all, then the bathroom design will be freed from unnecessary details, which will make the interior more harmonious and luxurious.
pros
In addition to the main advantage of a thermostatic mixer in obtaining water at a certain temperature, the device also has the following advantages:
- Economical. Thanks to precise settings, unnecessary waste of water is eliminated, because you will not need to select a comfortable temperature after opening the tap (the water that you need will immediately flow from it).
- Safety. You can safely wash yourself without worrying about too hot or icy water coming out of the tap.
- Comfort. The mixer’s response to changes in temperature and water pressure is very fast, and the person washing will not even notice that the conditions in the general communications network have changed.
Some useful tips
To ensure safe operation of a faucet with a thermostat in a bathroom, it is necessary to install additional cleaning filters. This solution will be especially relevant if the water in the mains is hard.
Yes, installing filters will take time, but in the future this will avoid unplanned expenses and significantly extend the service life of plumbing equipment.
As a rule, centralized water supply is merciless to modern and fragile plumbing. Faucets with thermostats are also at risk. Sudden and sharp changes in pressure, water hammer on the main line, poor water quality - all this can significantly reduce the service life of plumbing equipment.
This problem is solved by installing a pressure reducer or check valve at the entrance to the apartment water supply system. After installing the elements, do not forget to adjust them in accordance with the operating parameters of the purchased mixer.
To ensure that the water temperature does not differ from that indicated on the valve, the thermostat must be calibrated. The setting is carried out using a special screw, which can be found under the protective cover of the device. To do this, you will need a regular screwdriver and a household thermometer.
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.
Manufacturers
Russian manufacturers do not produce such products, so we will focus on the main foreign companies that offer thermostatic mixers to consumers.
Grohe
Research and testing call the products of the German manufacturer Grohe the best of these mixers. The products of this company attract with their design and innovative technologies. Installation of such mixers can be both external and hidden.
All faucets from Grone, according to their appearance and style, are divided into 3 lines:
- Cosmopolitan (minimalistic models with geometric shapes);
- Authentic (antique);
- Contemporary (democratic and modern models).
Hansgrohe
Another excellent German manufacturer offering innovative equipment is Hansgrohe. Its thermostatic faucets are made of brass, and since this material heats up quickly, the models provide effective cooling.
Depending on the type of cooling system, all Hansgrohe mixers are divided into series:
- 5000 (reliable luxury water-cooled faucets);
- 2000 (middle class faucets with plastic coated brass body);
- 1000 (economy option).
The company also offers the innovative Ecostat series with high flow capacity, attractive design and elegant shape.
Oras
You can also purchase plumbing fittings from the Finnish company Oras. The thermostat in her faucets is enclosed in a plastic casing. The latest models are additionally equipped with another lever for blind people.
When choosing a device from Oras, keep in mind that some models are produced for European countries (water distribution is done differently than in Russian houses).
