Thermostatic mixer for bath and shower: device, principle of operation and selection rules

Equipment

The main element is a watering can for a hygienic shower. By its design, this is an analogy for watering cans that are used in traditional showers and baths. Only the size will be a significant difference between them: the watering can in question will have a fairly compact size, which ensures complete ease of use for the owner. It should be noted that this size is carefully thought out and calculated, since when applied, water is not sprayed in different directions, but is supplied in a neat stream.

The next items in the shower configuration will be thermostats and faucets.Without a thermostat in the mixer, it would be possible to regulate the level of water heating only in manual mode. This would only create more trouble. But also the purpose of these elements will be to ensure safety from changes in water temperature and sudden changes in the water flow. Thus, with the help of a thermostat, you can avoid possible burns or hypothermia, that is, save yourself from discomfort.

The thermostat has as its task the function of mixing the water that passes into the faucet. Thanks to this, a certain comfortable water temperature is obtained at the outlet, which can be used for individual hygiene procedures. After the most suitable mode is selected once, you can save the selected level of water heating and the system will maintain it with each subsequent use.

It is possible to install a plumbing device on the wall. The choice of the side in relation to the toilet, from which the device will be mounted, remains with the user. There are no restrictions in this regard. In order to make the room even more convenient and comfortable, hooks for towels are attached nearby, you can also place liquid soap in dispensers nearby.

How to choose

The basic principle of operation of devices with a thermostat is the same, and before choosing a bathroom faucet, you need to decide for what purposes it is intended:

• for a washbasin, equipped with a spout only;
• for a shower in which there is no spout, water flows only to the shower head;
• for a shower and a washbasin at the same time, the water supply is switched by a special handle;
• for kitchen sink.

Thermostats are sold specifically for a bidet or hygienic shower.

They are relevant in those homes where elderly or seriously ill people who need special care live.

The control of thermostatic mixers is divided into two types:

• mechanical,
• electronic.

As for products with mechanical control, they are considered to be more reliable, since they are easier to repair, and their price is much lower than electronic ones.

Electronic thermostats have a display that makes operation much easier. But the price of faucets with a display is much higher, and they are more difficult to repair.

The difference between the two types is the need to connect an AC adapter or batteries to power the electronic type. Power supply is necessary for the functioning of the display and the water supply sensor.

The electronic model is controlled using the buttons on the display.

Also in the range of thermostatic mixers, there are products with the possibility of remote control.

In domestic conditions, the use of electronic models is much less common than mechanical ones. This is due to the cost of the second.

Expensive electronic devices are more often used in large facilities such as swimming pools, saunas, and health facilities. The staff does not need to constantly monitor the temperature and amount of water in the pools.

Also, thermostatic devices differ in the type of installation on:

• vertical,
• horizontal,
• wall,
• Floor mixers.
• On the side of the bathroom
• Hidden installation.

The latter type looks very aesthetically pleasing and is often used in public places.

Depending on the desire for installation and the functions of the device, you can choose an inexpensive model that will meet all the requirements.

What to look for when choosing

When choosing a smart device, you need to pay attention to the materials from which it is made. These must be durable and reliable components.

Regulating element

There are two types:

1. wax,
2. From a bimetallic plate.

The first option is considered obsolete, as its reaction time exceeds two seconds.

As for bimetallic regulators, the inventors of this device managed to minimize the reaction time to 0.2 seconds.

Pressure

Most of the devices operate at an inlet pressure of more than two atmospheres and with a difference in the pipes of 1-2 atmospheres.

New mixers operate at a minimum pressure of 0.5 atmospheres, with a difference of up to five or more

This factor should be paid attention to residents of the upper floors, cottages, and those who have a boiler in their housing for heating water

Hot water supply side

For this kind of devices, this point is fundamental. Hot water supply from the left side is considered standard. If the feed is from the right, it is necessary to select a device with a reverse connection.

Noise

With a small pressure or a large difference in pressure, the mixer starts to make a loud noise. This nuance is not specified in the technical specifications. And such an inconvenience is acceptable even in expensive models.

What you should not pay attention to when choosing

Do not pay attention to appearance. This aspect plays the least role, rather than technical characteristics. Most thermostatic faucets have a classic look, which allows them to fit into any interior.

Basically, products are produced from a brass alloy coated with chrome.Such models are suitable for any room with any design, they also have good performance and durability.

The chrome coating is resistant to external damage, does not tarnish and does not require special care.

Given the recommendations of experts and customer reviews, you can rank the most popular and high-quality models. Below are the best thermostats for the bathroom, which, according to professionals, are the most appropriate in terms of "price-quality" parameters.

Standard accessories for all mixers

Knowing the names and functions of components will help in the repair and orientation in the acquisition of new necessary spare parts for replacement:

1. Aerator - a part located at the end of the spout of all types of structures. Serves for uniform distribution of the jet.
2. Spout - the so-called mixer spout that supplies water. Depending on the length, long, medium and short are distinguished.
3. Devices for opening and closing water. For two-valve designs, these are taps, for single-lever designs - a lever, for thermostatic designs - on / off panels.
4. Mechanisms of action, for example, cartridges or crane boxes, depending on the model.
5. Shower accessories: hose, watering can, bath-shower mode switch.
6. Other spare parts: fittings, eccentrics, linings.

No. 1. Mixer design

Bath, shower, sink or bidet faucets have a similar design. They can be two-valve, single-lever, thermostatic and non-contact or sensor. Each of them boasts its own advantages and will be indispensable in specific situations.

Two valve mixers

These are the simplest mixers, which until recently were the only possible and most popular option. They have two valves, when turned, hot or cold water flows. At the heart of such mixers is a faucet box, which passes water flows or blocks one of them. The weak point is the sealing gasket, which tends to wear out rather quickly, so it will require frequent replacement. Rubber gaskets wear out faster than ceramic locking elements, so it is better to choose the latter. Two-valve mixers, although easy to use, are not very convenient, since it is not always easy to set the required temperature and water pressure.

Despite the emergence of many new types of mixers, these are still popular, and this is not only due to their affordable cost. Often, such faucets are chosen by those who want to design their bathroom in a classic or country style, since modern single-lever models will not fit into such an interior. Such mixers are easier to install, which can be attributed to their pluses, because it will be possible to do without the involvement of specialists.

Single lever mixers

These are the most popular faucets today. They are equipped with only one handle, which can have a completely different design. It turns both from side to side, and up and down, so adjusting the pressure and temperature of the water is as simple as possible - just make one easy movement. In addition, you can also stop the flow of water very quickly by lowering the mixer down.

Such mixers can have a spherical device or work on the basis of a cartridge. The latest models are by far the most common. By the way, one of the varieties of single-lever mixers are joystick. If in single-lever mixers it is located along the spout, then in joystick mixers it is in a vertical position and resembles a lever in a car gearbox. From the point of view of functionality and convenience, there is no difference - the main difference is only in design.

Single-lever faucets are very economical, as it is quite easy to set the required water temperature. In addition, there are options with a built-in economy mode. In this case, the resistance of the lever stroke will be noticeable when switching from one mode to another.

It should be noted that such options are more difficult to install and repair, more demanding on water quality, since its increased hardness can cause breakdowns.

Another type of such mixers is cascade, the spout of which is wider and narrower. 2-3 times more water passes through it than through a regular spout, which is not very economical. They look good in large rooms and can be used as a bath or sink faucet as a stylish addition to the interior.

Thermostatic mixers

Such faucets are no longer a rarity in the plumbing market. They are very convenient in that they supply water of only one temperature, which is pre-configured by the user. With the help of a lever, you can only change the pressure, without worrying about choosing a comfortable temperature. With the help of the second lever, you can also change the temperature value, if such a need arises.

Despite the increased convenience and water savings, thermostatic mixers have some disadvantages. So, they are distinguished by a high price, and if the system cannot prepare water at a given temperature, then it will simply block the water.

Touchless faucets

These mixers are state of the art. They allow you to carry out all hygiene procedures as conveniently, quickly and comfortably as possible. The faucet is equipped with an infrared sensor that reacts to raised hands and turns on the water. When you remove your hands, the water will stop flowing. Such devices take energy either from the household electrical network or from batteries. These faucets are often seen in public places, but they are beginning to be actively used in ordinary bathrooms. Today, by the way, faucets with a touch control panel are gaining popularity, which displays all the parameters of the water flow, and with which you can control it.

The nuances of the mixer with a thermostat

Some thermostatic faucets have a water blocker that completely stops the flow of water if it does not meet the set temperature. Such a device will never allow the user to get burned or, on the contrary, douse it with ice water. But in houses where water is supplied by public utilities with such a thermostat, you can not wait for water at all.

There is another point that may be unpleasant. In plumbing systems, where there are sufficiently large pressure surges, it happens that warm water starts to flow from a pipe with cold water instead. The thermostatic faucet will automatically turn off the hot water, lowering the overall temperature. Ultimately, the consumer will receive a weak pressure.

The water blocker will not allow you to get burned or splashed with cold water

The same thing happens when the hot water flow is not warm enough. In both cases, you will have to set a new temperature, which is not very convenient. If the pressure in the system is always stable, and the temperature drops in the water flows are insignificant, then using such a device will not cause problems.

This is interesting: Faucet aerator - what is it and why is it needed?

Advantages

A thermostatic faucet will solve the problem of difficult adjustment of the water temperature, bring it to a comfortable temperature and keep it at this level, so this device is especially relevant for families with small children or the elderly. Such a unit will also be relevant in places where people with disabilities or seriously ill people live.

The main advantages of the thermostat can be identified.

First of all - safety. Any adult will not be happy if boiling water or ice water is poured on him while taking a shower. For people who find it difficult to respond quickly in such a situation (disabled people, the elderly, small children), a device with a thermostat becomes necessary

In addition, for small children who do not stop exploring their surroundings even for a minute, it is very important during bathing that the metal base of the faucet does not heat up.

• From this follows the next advantage - relaxation and comfort. Compare the possibility: just lie in the bath and enjoy the procedure or turn the tap every 5 minutes to adjust the temperature.
• The thermostat saves electricity and water. You do not need to waste cubic meters of water, waiting for it to heat up to a comfortable temperature.Electricity is saved by connecting a thermostatic mixer to an autonomous hot water supply system.

A few more reasons to install a thermostat:

• electronic models with displays are very easy to control, they smoothly regulate the water temperature;
• mixers are safe to use and easy to install with your own hands.

Another important nuance is that almost all thermostatic mixers depend on the water pressure in both pipes (with hot and cold water). If there is no water in one of them, the valve will not allow water to flow from the second. Some models have a special switch that allows you to open the valve and use the available water.

To this should be added the possible difficulties with the repair of such cranes, since not everywhere there are certified service centers that can cope with a breakdown.

Some Helpful Tips

In order for the operation of the faucet with thermostat in the bathroom to be safe, it is necessary to install additional cleaning filters. This solution will be especially relevant if the water in the mains is hard.

Yes, the installation of filters will take time, but in the future it will avoid unplanned expenses and significantly extend the life of plumbing equipment.

As a rule, centralized water supply is ruthless to modern and fragile plumbing. Mixers with thermostats also fall into the risk zone. Sudden and sharp pressure drops, water hammer on the mains, poor water quality - all this can significantly reduce the life of plumbing equipment.

This problem is solved by installing a pressure reducer or a check valve at the inlet to the apartment plumbing 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. Adjustment is carried out using a special screw, which can be found under the protective cover of the device. To do this, you need a regular screwdriver and a household thermometer.

Purpose of the main types of mixers

A bathroom usually involves the presence of several plumbing fixtures for different purposes. What models of faucets are best to choose in the bathroom? Depends on your current needs and opportunities, as well as the layout of the room.

Depending on the purpose, the following types of devices are distinguished:

• universal (combined);
• for sink;
• for Bath;
• For shower;
• for bidet.

The design of wall-mounted universal mixers is well known to everyone. A distinctive feature of the models is a long swivel spout, which allows the device to be used both for a bathtub and for a sink.

A hand shower is connected to the body of the units, there is a water switch. In a word, "classic".

The widespread use of universal mixers is due to the cost-effectiveness of such a solution: one unit is always cheaper than two or three, and water supply only needs to be made to one point.

But, unfortunately, 3 in 1 devices are not very convenient to use. Because of them, the bath and the sink have to be placed almost close, the spout often barely reaches the side of the washbasin, thereby making it difficult to wash hands.

The equipment does not differ in reliability either: constant turns of the “jib” provoke the occurrence of leaks, in especially sad situations, the crane may fall off altogether.

Not only a 3-in-1 mixer can break, but any other. We recommend that you familiarize yourself with the most common breakdowns and how to eliminate them.

It is worth noting that many Western plumbing manufacturers have abandoned the production of combined mixers or have reduced their number in their assortment to a minimum. This is a morally obsolete option. It is more practical and wiser to purchase separate models of mixers for different purposes.

More convenient and popular among buyers are bath faucets with a shower. We advise you to familiarize yourself with the criteria for their selection.

Installation of the vast majority of mixers can be carried out with any type of connection. The eyeliner is rigid and flexible. The second one is used more often.

The choice of device for the sink should be made taking into account the number of holes on the plumbing fixture. Single-lever faucets require one, sometimes two holes (the spout can be mounted separately from the control lever).

Two-valve models need one (single body) or three "holes" (for the "jib" and taps).

Bowl washbasins, in which there are no special openings, are ideally combined with countertop faucets. Installation of such units is carried out in the countertop. Desktop models differ from on-board devices in a higher body and a long spout.

Also, for a “fashionable” sink, you can purchase a wall-mounted faucet, but only if you have taken care of the hidden piping in advance - it’s unreasonable to specifically hammer the wall for this.

Ready to shell out for an original design? Then you should pay attention to the floor mixers for the sink. The devices look very aesthetically pleasing and create a harmonious tandem with absolutely any washbasin.

When it comes to bathtubs, wall-mounted faucets are still the best choice. The ratio of their quality, design and price is the most optimal.

On-board devices are also in great demand. You can install such a design on any bath, in the absence of the necessary holes, they can be made independently. We recommend that you familiarize yourself with the instructions for installing the faucet on the side of the bathtub.

For free-standing baths, floor-standing appliances are often chosen, which are a column with a spout and a hand shower.

Floor-mounted bath or basin faucets are time-consuming to install. This is due to the fact that cold and hot water supplies have to be laid directly in the floor.

Faucets designed for showers do not have the usual spout: water is supplied to them only through a shower head. The installation of such devices is usually wall-mounted. There are also many models for concealed installation.

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.

Material prepared

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 ° C;
• 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.

Advantages and disadvantages of a thermostatic mixer

In the kitchen, this mixer is not always appropriate and convenient.This is due to the frequent need to use only cold water for cooking or any other needs. In such cases, the problem is solved by installing a special tap for drinking water with a filter.

A bathroom faucet with a thermostat is a convenient, necessary and technically flawless thing. The main disadvantages are the higher price and possible additional hassle during installation. However, they are more than overlapped by the advantages and benefits:

safety: eliminates any possibility of any discomfort when taking a shower, and most importantly - burns

This is important in a house where old people and children live. This is convenient when arranging showers and cramped bathtubs, when it will not even be possible to bounce off a hot jet.
efficiency: the mechanism does not need to be adjusted each time anew, passing water flows until the desired pressure and temperature are found

In addition, the device is initially set to save water.
convenience and comfort: one press of the lever turns the water on and off. There is no need to use two hands, which is important when washing yourself, and when caring for children, and when performing any other multi-functional activities in the bathroom.

Thermostatic electronic faucet with touch sensors

What are thermostatic mixers?

An ordinary mixer can become a real assistant to the hostess if it is improved by a thermostatic device that automatically maintains the set temperature.

This is no longer a novelty, but a convenient device in everyday life. Mixers with a thermostat are electronic and mechanical. Some models are made contactless, which makes them even more convenient.

The European community has long been accustomed to the reasonable consumption of energy, heat and water. That is why regulators and temperature sensors and much more, including mixers with thermostats, came into use from Europeans. All of them allow saving in the qualitative use of the benefits of civilization.

It is noteworthy that in a mixer capable of always giving water at the desired temperature, there is no thermostat as such.

• But there is:
• temperature scale on which the desired indicator is set;
• temperature limiter, it blocks its increase and always keeps it no higher than the set one;
• a heat regulator capable of changing the ratio of cold and hot water so that the consumer receives water of a given temperature;
• a water pressure regulator that turns the water flow on and off, making it as convenient as possible at the outlet.

Before starting the mixer, the water temperature is set, and then its pressure is regulated.

1. With the high-quality functioning of the device, it will be possible to have:
2. Water supply at a comfortable temperature.
3. Constant pressure of the water jet.
4. Almost every manufacturer of bathroom and kitchen accessories has separate lines of mixer taps with thermostats. These can be simple but functional models, or they can be design masterpieces.

Advantages of thermostatic mixers

We have already mentioned a little about the advantages of mixers with a thermostat above - the main one is the stability of the temperature of the pouring liquid. But besides it, there are other advantages, which should not be forgotten.

• Advantages:
• Ease of use - with the presence of a stable regulator, the need for constant adjustment of the water temperature disappears by itself.You just turn on the tap and enjoy the benefits of modern civilization.
• Safety - you will not be able to scald your hands, even if there is no cold water in the tap.
• Profitability, which is expressed in the optimal flow of cold and hot water and the absence of liquid poured into the sewer in vain during the process of setting the water temperature.
• Simple installation, which is not much different from the installation technology of standard mixers.

If we talk about the disadvantages of thermostatic mixers, then in addition to its cost, which is difficult to attribute to negative points, one can single out such a nuance as the dependence on the presence of water in both pipelines at once.

If there is no water in one of them, then the valve automatically shuts off the water supply from the other pipeline. Not all models of such mixers have such a disadvantage - some of them are equipped with a special switch that allows you to open the valve manually and use what you have.

Device and principle of operation

Externally, the thermostatic mixer is not too different from a conventional mechanical appliance. On the body there are two adjustment knobs, two inlets - for hot and cold water, as well as a spout.

All the most interesting and important is inside. The heart of such a mixer is a special valve

It is made of special bimetallic plates that react sensitively and quickly to changes in the temperature of the water entering the device chamber.

Some valves use wax, which expands noticeably when heated.

The diagram clearly shows the device of a thermostatic mixer: 1 - hot water; 2 - eccentric; 3 - check valve; 4 - switch; 5 - ceramic pressure regulator; 6 - aerator; 7 - thermal cartridge; 8 - temperature lock; 9 - temperature adjustment; 10 - cold water

A cartridge with a fixing and adjusting screw is used to adjust the valve. By turning the screw, you can set the device to mix water at a certain temperature.

The valve regulates the amount of hot and cold water entering the chamber, and then delivers it to the outlet of the appliance. Most of these mixers allow you to set not only the temperature, but also the pressure of the water coming from the device.

There is no need to adjust the faucet every time you use it, it is enough to do it only once, the settings will be saved. When you turn on the device, it will take some time to get the flow of the desired temperature.

If the mixer is set up correctly, it usually only takes a few seconds.

For safety reasons, the faucet adjusting screw is equipped with a special limiter that prevents the water from heating to a dangerous level. If cold water suddenly stops flowing into the mixer, the water supply to the spout is completely blocked and is restored only after normal water supply is restored.

In addition, the device does not allow the water to become too cold. This feature is relevant for families with growing children who can already bathe on their own, but are not yet able to monitor the temperature of the water in the bath.