Thermostatic faucets for bathroom, shower and kitchen

The basic principle 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 the cartridge. It is most often made from bimetallic plates or has wax in its composition and is very sensitive to even minimal changes in water temperature.

The principle of operation of the mixer with a thermostat is that the set temperature parameters through the fixing and adjusting screw come to the cartridge, which either narrows 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 cold water stops flowing, then the hot water supply also stops. As soon as the flow of water of 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 dousing with ice water due to an accidental temperature jump.

It is also particularly 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 set mode will not only not be performed, but the supplied water will also have a wide variety of temperatures.

Therefore, experts recommend inviting a plumber who knows his business to install the purchased mechanism. Next, you just have to do the replacement of filters, which is quite possible to do it yourself. Such filters have the form of metal meshes installed in the gap between the eccentrics and the thermostat.

Thermostatic mixer: what is it

A mixer with a thermostat is a device that not only mixes hot and cold water, but also maintaining the temperature of the liquid in a given mode

This device also provides adjustment of the pressure of the water jet, which is especially important for apartments in multi-storey buildings.

Thermostatic faucet - safe, convenient and economical to use

Considering the structure of the mixer, we can say that the structure includes a body, a temperature limiter, a thermostat, a jet pressure regulator, and a temperature scale.The cylindrical body has two points for supplying water and a spout for its expiration. The temperature limiter is represented by a switch located on the right side of the device. It locks the device when the temperature rises above the set value, keeping it at the desired level.

Thermostat - what is it? It is produced in the form of a cartridge or cartridge that changes the ratio of hot and cold water, providing a water jet of a given temperature. This process is carried out within a few seconds thanks to sensitive moving elements. They are made of materials that are highly sensitive to any temperature changes. It can be paraffin, wax or bimetallic rings.

High temperatures cause the material to expand, while low temperatures cause it to shrink. As a result, the cylinder moves in the cartridge, opening or narrowing the scope for the movement of cold water. This is the principle of operation of a thermostatic mixer.

Thermostatic faucet reduces water consumption due to higher temperature accuracy

The thermostat switches in 4 degree increments. Each thermostat is equipped with a maximum temperature limiter with a value not exceeding 38 °C.

In the event of a sharp decrease in the flow of hot or cold water into the system, only the pressure of the jet decreases, and the temperature remains the same. If water does not flow at all, or its pressure is not enough to maintain the set temperature, the thermostat shuts off the water flow.

The pressure regulator is represented by a crane box, which is located on the left side and provides turning the water flow on and off, bringing it to the desired output mode.

The thermostatic faucet maintains the temperature of the water in the shower at a given level throughout the bath

This is interesting: Quick coupler for the hose - connecting the elements of the irrigation system

Types of thermostatic mixers

Today, the range of devices that supply water that is comfortable for bathing is regularly increasing. Manufacturers are ready to offer faucets with thermostats for bathrooms, showers, sinks, and bidets. In this case, the models differ in the method of attachment. For example, there are devices for visible and flush mounting.

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, the cheapest is the mechanical model. Such a mixer is equipped with valves, levers and handles that allow you to adjust the strength of the water flow and its temperature.

Instruments with mechanical adjustment are much more reliable and durable. At the same time, they work faster, since the temperature is switched in manual mode. As for the price, the cost starts at $60.

The disadvantage of mechanical thermostatic mixers is the feature of manual setting of parameters. But if the most simple and inexpensive plumbing equipment is required, then this minus does not play absolutely any role.

The design of mechanical equipment is usually minimalistic and does not contain any unnecessary details, which makes it easy to operate.

Electronic thermostatic mixers

If the house is equipped in modern style, then it is better to give preference to electronic equipment. In most cases, such faucets have a concise and elegant appearance that will harmoniously fit into any interior.

In addition, electronic models are equipped with a liquid crystal screen, which shows the current water temperature, as well as the pressure force.

Such mixers are controlled using mechanical or touch buttons. There are also non-contact devices on the market that work thanks to infrared sensors. They are often controlled by a special remote control.

If we talk about the advantages of electronic thermostatic mixers, then the pluses include:

• comfort - they allow you to indicate the temperature of the water with an accuracy of up to 1 degree Celsius;
• attractiveness - electronic models look modern;
• multifunctionality - they can display many additional parameters.

But it should be noted that electronic equipment will cost several times more than mechanical equipment. Moreover, due to the complexity of the design, it is quite difficult to correctly install such mixers. 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 needs a power source. Batteries or AC adapter can be used for this.

Preparation for operation

Installing a device with a mechanical principle of operation is no more difficult than installing a conventional mixer. But where there are electronic "brains", most likely, a specialist will be required to connect them.

In any case, it is better to install water purification filters, both on a hot stream and on a cold one. Faucet surfaces require the same care as conventional faucets.

If all the recommendations have been taken into account, then it remains only to rejoice at the presence of a smart assistant. Moreover, this joy can last for a decade.

How to choose bathroom faucet: main types + rating of manufacturers How to choose the right faucet for your kitchen: an overview of the variety of options How to choose and install a faucet on the sink: replacement procedure

5 Installation and use

The installation of a thermal mechanical faucet in a bathroom with a shower does not fundamentally differ from the installation of other types of faucets. However, before connecting the mixer, additional elements are built into the water use system, namely:

• coarse water filters with a mesh size of 100 microns;
• check valves;
• stabilizing gearboxes to smooth out possible impulse water hammers - these protective devices are installed on both lines.

Mixer inlet fittings are equipped with eccentric adapters, similar to traditional models. Before screwing them on, it is necessary to install the supply pipes in the position: on the left - hot water supply, on the right - cold.

Rotary faucet handle

A linen, hemp tow or fluoroplastic mounting tape is wound on the thread of the inlet tips in an even layer.Tips with eccentric flanges are wound in such a way that the center distance between them corresponds to the position of the mixer fittings.

In accordance with the instructions, decorative trims, filtering, sealing elements are installed and the union nuts of the mixer are screwed.

Then check the operation of the device with the water supply system turned on. At the same time, the tightness of the connections, the ease of rotation of the handles, the functioning of the thermostat units, the efficiency of the flow switch between the spout and the shower are controlled.

Principle of operation

Before you understand how these mixers with thermostats work, you need to learn about their design features. There are two types of instruments: mechanical and electronic. The electronic mixer has a small LCD screen that displays the temperature value in numbers.

It works either from the mains or with batteries. You can control such a mixer using the buttons or the touch screen itself. But there are also sensors that respond to infrared radiation.

On the video - a bathroom faucet with a shower with a thermostat:

The mechanical model has the usual traditional regulators. They are presented in the form of levers, handles or valves.

The thermostatic shower faucet has the following components:

1. Frame. The shape is a cylinder, which has two outlets: one for hot water, the other for cold.
2. Pressure regulator. It is a bushing crane, which is installed on the left side of the cylindrical body from the end. It also has built-in ceramic discs.
3. Thermostatic cartridge. This cartridge mixes hot and cold water.The cartridge maintains the set temperature.

On the video - the principle of operation of a mixer with a thermostat:

What is the role of a thermostatic faucet, what should it do? The main thing that such a mixer should do is to instantly respond to changes in the water supply to the parameters that have been set. The pressure adjustment rate does not exceed 8%, and the water temperature difference should not exceed 50 degrees.

On the video - a faucet with a thermostat:

Despite the fact that thermostatic mixers are a fairly new invention, they have an extremely simple design. The thermostatic element is the most important part of the mixer. It is made in the form of a cylindrical capsule or cartridge. Here is concentrated the movable and fixed part. The fixed part is:

• beeswax or a chemical polymer that has similar properties;
• rings or bimetallic plates.

The whole principle of operation is based on the usual physical property of the expansion of bodies. How does this happen?

1. If the temperature of the supply water rises, the wax expands. When served cold, it decreases in volume. As a result, the movable part of the capsule begins to move in the longitudinal direction.
2. Next, the capsule moves the steel spring to the damper. The damper controls the flow of hot and cold water.
3. If the pressure difference is very strong, then the water outflow valve comes into action.
4. There is also a fuse that comes into action when the temperature rises to 80 degrees. It is placed on an adjusting screw. If the cold water is turned off, the fuse will block the hot water supply. If subsequently the cold water is turned on, the water starts to mix automatically.Thus, it will not be possible to get a burn when using a mixer with hot water.

As with any device, this one has its advantages and disadvantages.

On the video thermostat for mixing hot and cold water:

Overview of popular manufacturers of the best thermal mixers

Popular manufacturers who have proven themselves on the best side in the plumbing fixtures market are Grohe, Jacob Delafon, Oras, Hansgrohe, Lemark, FAR, Varion.

The German brand Grohe offers the widest range of products that are of high quality, reliability and durability. Grohe thermostatic faucets are available in the product catalogs in a variety of designs and options. The company produces a whole line of devices of unique design, which are real works of art. The chrome-plated brass body ensures hygienic and attractive appearance of the Grohe thermostatic shower faucet.

The domestic manufacturer manufactures high-quality Varion thermostatic mixers, which are characterized by reliability and durability. A distinctive feature of such devices is the use of French Vernet cartridges. For their creation, high quality polymeric materials are used, which ensure efficient, accurate and durable operation of mixers.

Faucets with a long spout and a shower from Grohe or Hansgrohe are considered the best today.

The French manufacturer Jacob Delafon offers a wide range of high-quality thermostatic faucets, which are made of ceramics. The body of the device is made of brass.FAR thermostatic mixers are distinguished by a good price-quality ratio. Models of the middle price range are produced by Lemark.

Oras offers products at a cost that is affordable for every average customer. Thermostatic mixers are predominantly made from brass and plastic.

The German company Hansgrohe produces thermostatic faucets, which are distinguished by high strength, reliability, durability, affordable cost and concise design. Chrome-plated steel is used to make the case.

The cost of Grohe models ranges from 15 to 45 thousand rubles.

How to choose: recommendations

Quality, functionality and safety of use can only be guaranteed by original thermostats from manufacturers

In this regard, it is important to purchase the device in a specialized store and ask the seller to familiarize you with the relevant certificates.

It is important to find out in advance the features of the plumbing system, since this is directly related to the type of installation of the unit.

An important selection criterion is the type of valve seat material. The best option is ceramic parts with a graphite coating. However, ceramic valves do not tolerate too rough closing with force. It is enough to turn the valve until it stops.

Analogues made of leather and rubber can attract a lower cost of the product, but they wear out quickly. However, saddles can be easily replaced if they fail. This process is similar to replacing the gasket in a conventional faucet.

Regardless of the material of manufacture of the valve, it is recommended to purchase a deep filter for the pressure line.Its use will extend the life of the thermostat.

It is important that the selected unit has a safety button. Its purpose is to prevent unintentional changes in water temperature.

Usually the button is painted signal red. It is possible to change the temperature of the water in the thermostat after the safety function has been deactivated. This element is indispensable in families with children.

Installation and repair of a bathroom faucet with a shower

As it has already become clear, the device of a single-lever mixer is nothing supernatural. It turns out that you can fix it without outside help - you need to know the structure of the structure and have skills in plumbing and repair.

If during the repair work certain problems were identified, they must be fixed immediately. Consider the main features:

• Aerator blockage. This malfunction is very easy to identify by simultaneously turning on our product in the bathroom and in the kitchen. If the pressure force is different, the part will need to be cleaned. If it is heavily rusted, you will have to buy a new aerator;
• Noises in the faucet. This trouble arises due to the loose fit of the gaskets to the structure. In the event of noise, you will have to disassemble the product again and cut the rubber bands. You can get rid of noise by installing a water purification filter;
• Weak pressure. The cause may be hidden in the hoses or piping. Pipes and hoses need to be cleaned. If necessary, replace worn (corroded and sprouted from the inside) pipes with new ones;
• If the bottom gasket is leaking, you will have to shut off the water supply, disconnect the hoses, adapter and spout. Then, the switch and the eccentric are removed.This is the only way to get to the spool, under which the treasured “gum” is hidden. We replace it and install all the elements in place, in the reverse order. The device should work properly.

The scheme of the kitchen faucet is extremely simple and is attached to each product. If you have any questions, you can use the explanatory documentation.

In custody

If the cartridge or ball valve is out of order, you will have to buy a new part, since these components are not subject to further repair. To get a really suitable item, take an old, broken part with you - the seller will help you find a suitable replacement.

When performing repair work, you should not rush - despite the fact that the repair takes a minimum of time, perform all actions with high quality. This will save you from frequent replacements of "consumables", breakdowns and simply extend the "life" of your product.

As a result, I would like to conclude that the kitchen faucet arrangement is simple and straightforward. You do not need to be an engineer and a plumber to understand the purpose of certain parts. If your device has leaked, and you doubt your abilities - do not take up the job, but entrust the matter to a professional. He will take a round sum for the work, but he will do everything efficiently and quickly.

Installing a thermostatic mixer

By and large, it is not so difficult to install a thermostatic mixer - in this respect it differs little from other similar products. The difference is observed only in two important points.

The thermostatic mixer has a stable connection point for cold and hot water, which are marked specifically so as not to confuse where and what water to connect

This is a very important point, ignoring which results either in the incorrect operation of the device, or even in its breakdown.
Particular attention should be paid to old water pipes made during the Soviet Union. The fact is that the standards of the USSR and modern European standards in this respect have fundamental differences - if we had a cold water outlet on the left, then in European countries it was done on the right

This is to the fact that if you mount a thermostatic mixer on an old water supply, then this will definitely be done wrong. If you do not want to install the mixer with the spout up, then you will have to completely redo the plumbing in the apartment. This is the case exclusively with wall-mounted varieties of such devices - horizontal mixers are less whimsical in this respect. Here you can simply swap the hoses, and that's it.

Installing a thermostatic mixer photo

What else do you need to know about connecting a thermostatic mixer? This is about his protection from all sorts of cataclysms that happen to our water pipes, or rather with water in them.Here you need to take into account the following factors: firstly, our water is dirty (we need additional filters); secondly, pressure surges and hydraulic shocks occur quite often (at the water inlet to a house or apartment, gearboxes adjusted in accordance with the characteristics of thermostatic mixers will not be superfluous) and, thirdly, check valves, the need to install which is trumpeted by almost all manufacturers (they can also be mounted at the water inlet to the apartment).

In conclusion, I will say a few words about the central thermostatic mixer - there is such a variety of these devices that can ensure the operation of almost all plumbing fixtures at the same time. The thing seems to be good, but not without flaws - for example, sometimes you want to take a hot bath, so that, as they say, it gets to the marrow of your bones. You understand that in such a situation, you will temporarily have to refrain from using other plumbing fixtures. It's like connecting several TVs to one tuner - all screens will have the same channels. If we talk about such a mixer, or rather about its installation, then, in my opinion, the best option would be to mount it exclusively on washbasins and sinks - all other plumbing fixtures should be equipped with separate thermostats.

Installation of a thermostatic mixer photo

In principle, this is all that can be said about a thermostatic mixer. This thing is good, but it requires a special approach, especially when it comes to self-installation. By and large, if you do not want to immediately spoil an expensive device, then it is better to entrust its installation to professionals.

The principle of operation of a household faucet with a thermostat

A change in pressure and temperature in water supply pipes is an unpleasant situation faced by residents of both apartment buildings and private cottages. This is especially annoying in the morning, when the jet from the tap in the washbasin becomes either too hot or too cold.

This happens due to the fact that everyone in the house at this time begins to intensively use water for washing and bathing. Its consumption increases sharply, causing pressure drops.

According to domestic standards, the temperature of hot water in a centralized system can range from 50 to 70 degrees. The spread is quite large. For utilities, this is a blessing, they do not have to worry much about going beyond the boundaries of the standards. And consumers have to suffer the inconvenience. You have to install special control devices or constantly adjust the water supply in the tap.

Here mixer-thermostats come to the rescue, all models of which are divided into three categories:

Mechanical.
Electronic.
Contactless.

Type #1: Instruments with mechanical adjustment and operation

The operation of mixers of this type is based on the movement of a movable valve inside the device, which responds to changes in the parameters of the mixed water jet. If the pressure increases in one pipe, then the cartridge simply shifts and reduces the flow of water entering for mixing from the other. As a result, the temperature in the spout remains at the same level.

The internal moving valve contains a material that reacts sensitively and quickly to all changes in the temperature of the water entering the mixing device. In most cases, synthetic wax acts as a sensitive thermoelement sensor.Under the influence of temperature, it contracts and expands, which leads to displacement of the locking cartridge.

Many mechanical models have a fuse on the control valve that limits the setting of the maximum temperature at around 38 C. For a person, such indicators are considered the most comfortable.

But even in the absence of a fuse, water will not flow from a thermostatic mixer hotter than 60–65 degrees. Everything is designed so that when the specified temperatures are reached, the wax expands to the maximum, and the valve blocks the DHW pipe completely. Burns from boiling water are excluded here by definition.

The displacement of the valve occurs inside almost instantly. Any change in the temperature of the incoming water or its pressure leads to an immediate expansion / contraction of the thermocouple. As a result, even strong fluctuations in the flow parameters in the DHW and cold water pipes do not affect the total flow in the spout. From it, water will flow exclusively with the indicators set by the user.

In some models, bimetallic plates are used instead of wax. The principle of their action is similar. Under the influence of temperature, they bend and shift the valve to the desired depth.

Type #2: Electronic Devices

Faucets with electronic thermostats are more expensive, technically more complex and require power. They are connected to the outlet through a power adapter or have a battery that is subject to regular replacement.

The electronic thermostat is controlled by:

• remote buttons or on the mixer body;
• sensors;
• remote control.

Water indicators in this device are controlled by electronic sensors. In this case, all numbers are displayed on a special liquid crystal screen. The display often shows both temperature and pressure. But there is also a variant with only one value.

Often in everyday life, an electronic mixer-thermostat with a display is a device with redundant functionality. Such equipment is more intended for installation in medical institutions or other public institutions. It is much more common in showers and toilets in office buildings than in kitchens or bathrooms in private cottages.

However, if you plan to build a "smart home" with all sorts of gadgets that make life easier, then a mixer with an electronic thermostat is just what you need. He certainly will not interfere in such a home.

What are thermostats

Thermostat faucets are the most widely used. Models for baths, showers, sinks, kitchens and other types are now being produced. Instances appeared in which control is carried out using electronics. On models with a display, the water temperature and flow rate can be displayed. Design solutions that manufacturers use will appeal to any buyer.

Thermostatic faucets are undoubtedly a step into the future, which will make our life more comfortable and safer. We have already made our choice, join us!

In general, there are different types of thermostatic mixers. Nevertheless, a device that will be responsible for adjusting and maintaining the desired water temperature can be equipped with almost any type of modern mixer. Therefore, it makes no sense to dwell on this issue in particular.We will only list the options that are most common.

So, the most popular options for thermostatic mixers are:

1. Thermostatic shower faucet. The main feature of such a plumbing element is that it does not have a spout or what is usually called a spout.
2. Bath faucet with thermostat. This version of the element for plumbing is standard. It has a spout, as well as a shower head, which is equipped with a switch. The shape of such a mixer can be varied. However, most of the options are made in the form of a tubular structure. Switches are located along its edges. Bathroom faucets can be both wall-mounted and recessed into the side of the bathroom.
3. Washbasin faucet with thermostat. It is a vertical structure, in which, apart from the spout, there are no other additional elements. Sink models come in two variants. One of them is wall-mounted, and the second is the one that is installed on a horizontal surface.
4. Model of a thermostatic faucet, which is designed for a shower cabin. In the original version, this model does not have a spout, as well as a watering can. At its core, the mixer is a core to which all the necessary parts are attached using tubes.
5. Mixer with thermostat, which is built into the wall. This option is practically no different from a mixer for shower cabins. The only difference lies in the fact that the first one has a special container that is designed to be mounted on the wall surface.

You can also separately select a thermostatic mixer, which is designed for a hygienic shower, for a bidet, and so on.They are varied in the same way as all other types of devices that are designed to mix cold and hot water.

However, in general, all thermostatic mixers are divided into three large groups. They are mechanical, electronic and non-contact. Models from the first group differ in that they are affordable in terms of cost. The temperature and pressure of water are regulated by a lever or a valve. Moreover, the support of the specified parameters is carried out due to pure mechanics and changes in the physical properties of the internal elements of the device.

As for the second and third groups, they differ in that they contain electronic parts in their design. With this in mind, such plumbing fixtures cannot work without electrical energy, which means that there must be a safe outlet near the plumbing fixture. As for the control method, in the case of electronic models, it is carried out by means of buttons that can be on the mixer body or next to it. There are also models with touch controls or those that can be controlled with a remote control.

All water indicators in electronic devices are controlled by electronic sensors. All the necessary figures are displayed on the LCD screen - it displays the temperature of the supplied water and even the pressure level.

However, there are models that display only one parameter. Of course, electronic thermostatic mixers are much more convenient in terms of use, but mechanical models are easier to repair.

Is it worth installing the appliance in the kitchen

In fact, many experienced craftsmen do not recommend doing this, besides not paying attention to the fact that there are such products on sale that are made just for the kitchen.

They do not recommend - simply simply due to the fact that the instruction manual for the product is not very calculated for constant temperature control. For example, in the bathroom, such an adjustment is usually not necessary, due to the fact that in most cases everyone loves to wash and take a shower with approximately the same liquid temperature.

But in the kitchen for washing dishes and making food, the temperature needs to be changed almost invariably. And here the key is that it should not be changed daily, but almost several times for each application. This is clear - the type of dirt on the dishes is different, colder water is needed for rinsing, etc.

In other words, it turns out that in the kitchen - the operating conditions will be quite hard, and taps of a similar type are simply not calculated for such a load. Such is the situation.

But, the decision, of course, is still yours.

Now let's touch on the installation conditions.

Choosing a mixer with a thermostat

First you need to decide on the type of mixer. Do you prefer a mechanical device or a fashionable electronic model.

Mechanical ones are cheaper and are considered more reliable. They do not require a power source and regulate the water supply with a valve or handle.

Electronic models look very stylish and are often equipped with additional features. Their prices are slightly higher. The device will require an AC adapter or batteries to operate. Many models come with a remote control.The use of thermostatic electronic faucets makes showering even more comfortable and easier.

When choosing a mixer, it will not be superfluous to ask what material the valves of the device are made of. Graphite-coated ceramic parts are considered the most reliable.