Mixer with thermostat: device and principle of operation + an example of self-assembly

What is a thermostatic mixer?

Residents of European countries have long been accustomed to saving natural resources and are trying to use them wisely. Therefore, it is not at all surprising that Western neighbors actively use temperature sensors and controllers in their everyday life, including mixers with thermostats for bathrooms with shower.

Such a solution provides an opportunity to save money without limiting oneself in the use of 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 desired temperature setting. And then the technique can cope on its own - the command is given through the fixing and adjusting screw to the sensitive element. It can be a bimetallic plate or wax.

The substance, depending on the settings, expands or contracts, which leads to a change in the position of the valve that opens access to water into the mixing chamber. Adjustment is quick and precise, requiring no further action by the user.

Modern models of mixers are also equipped with a water pressure regulator. It turns off / on the flow and makes it as comfortable as possible at the exit.

The water temperature is controlled by a special limiter. The element makes sure that it is not higher than the one that was set by the consumer

The thermostatic device works due to the sensor located directly in the body of the device. Hot water, along with cold water, enters the mixing compartment through a distributor. Then the flow rushes to the tap.

If the water temperature is lower or higher than set by the user, the sensor will automatically adjust 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 with other types of faucets, the thermostatic device allows you to significantly reduce the consumption of hot water. 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 the lengthy adjustment of the desired parameters. And this, accordingly, reduces the amount of electricity required for the operation of the heating device.

The list of advantages of this type of faucet should also include the fact that the consumer will not be scalded and he will not be threatened with an ice 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 the bath.

If you install such equipment, you will no longer have to depend on neighbors who constantly turn the water on and off in their apartment. Now you can take a shower, no matter what.

The only disadvantage of thermostatic faucets is their high cost. But economy, safety and comfort level completely offset this disadvantage.

Mechanical

Hansa Cube 58352101

Hansa mechanically controlled thermostatic single lever mixer. Country of manufacture - Germany.

The company presented a design model with an original and aesthetic appearance suitable for any room.

Characteristics:

• Type - for a bath with a shower,
• Management - single-lever,
• Color - chrome,
• Spout - classic,
• Mounting - vertical,
• Number of holes - two,

Pros:

• High quality chrome surface.
• S-shaped eccentrics,
• HANSATEMPRA technology eliminates the possibility of scalding,
• dirt filter,
• Water flow valve with ceramic discs,
• Built-in check valve.
• The body is made of environmentally friendly material - brass is not galvanized.

Hansa Cube mixers are considered the safest in operation.

Minuses:

High price.

Thermostatic mixer: what is it

A mixer with a thermostat is a device that not only mixes hot and cold water, but also maintains 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

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Features of thermostatic design with spout

The operation of the mixer is ensured by the physical law of thermal expansion of substances.

In the cylindrical body of the apparatus there is a thermostatic type cartridge with wax inside, which reacts with expansion (or contraction) to changes in water temperature.

Increasing in volume, the wax pushes out a specially built-in piston. Due to this, a complete or partial cessation of the flow of hot water is ensured when it enters the cold flow mechanism.

The case also contains a ceramic cartridge.It is he who gives the user the opportunity to set and change the temperature parameter if necessary.

Important! Thermostatic mixers can be of two types: mechanical and electronic

Mechanical mixer: what is it?

It has valves for adjusting the pressure and temperature on the sides of the body. It is considered more reliable, because it is simple in its execution and operation. The advantage is lower cost in comparison with analogues.

Electronic thermostatic

It represents a more modern version of the design, since it is equipped with a digital display that reflects the temperature down to a degree. Some models also allow you to record a program with your favorite temperature and flow data, so that the washing process is even faster and more enjoyable. The operation of equipment endowed with a screen is carried out by mains power or battery power.

Photo 1. An electronic mixer with a thermostat is equipped with a display that shows the selected temperature, and it can also be controlled.

Weaknesses of electronic: in the complexity of repairing or replacing worn parts, as well as the high cost of the device itself. They do not worry about the fragility of electronic components: they are reliably protected by manufacturers from high humidity in bathrooms.

Installation of a mixing valve with a thermostat

In general, the installation of the mixer in question is practically the same as the installation of an analogue of a conventional design without a thermostat. It is only necessary not to make a mistake with the points of connection of hot and cold water to the device. Confusion will inevitably lead to thermostat failure.

If you cannot turn the mixer for the correct connection, then you will have to swap the supply pipes. The easiest way to do this is with flexible hoses. But it may also be necessary to rebuild the wiring of the plumbing system in close proximity to the mounted tap.

The installation order is as follows:

1. The supply of hot and cold water at the riser is blocked.
2. The existing crane is dismantled.
3. Eccentric discs are installed on the pipes with their dilution for a new mixer.
4. They are installed on the places of laying and decorative elements intended for them.
5. The mixer with a thermostat is screwed on.
6. Attached parts (spout, watering can) are mounted.
7. The water is turned on, and then the operability of the installed device is checked.
8. The temperature of the water coming from the mixer-thermostat is adjusted.

To exclude leaks, tow, FUM tape or another analogue is used as a sealant.

Coarse filters and check valves should 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 that there is no silt and other deposits in the flow, and on the other hand, even a potential overflow between the cold water and hot water pipes should be excluded. This fitting can be omitted only in one case, if it is already in the mixing device housing.

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 connect all pipes to it correctly

With concealed installation in the wall, only the spout and the buttons or the thermostat adjustment lever remain visible. Everything else is covered with decor.The bathroom takes on a finished look. Just an ideal option, however, 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 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 can vary greatly in reality.

General installation questions for a thermostatic standard mixer

Models of thermal mixers differ significantly in installation features and purpose. Faucets are available for concealed and surface mounting. In addition, there are models for the shower, bidet, sink, kitchen.

Since there is no universal model of a mixer with a thermostat, there can be no exact algorithm for its installation. However, there is a need to describe the main difficulties and nuances of installing flush-mounted and open-mounted thermostatic mixers in the bathroom.

Installation diagram of a standard surface-mounted thermostatic mixer

One of the main remarks is the competent connection to the hot and cold water system. Thermostat faucets use the European plumbing standard system, which does not correspond to the domestic one. Russian water supply systems are arranged according to the principle: on the left - cold, on the right - hot water. Therefore, when installing a mixer with a thermostat, most likely, the pipes - the entry points for hot and cold water - will have to be swapped.

The second remark concerns the initial setting of the water temperature - calibration.The thermostat is initially set to a neutral position at a temperature of 38 ° C, but it must be fixed with a thermometer and a regulator.

Advice. To calibrate, you need to remove the protective cover of the mixer, turn on the water and, by rotating the special valve of the mixer, set the desired temperature, based on the data of an ordinary thermometer.

Thermostat shower or bath/shower faucets

An open-mount bath and shower thermostatic faucet is a small metal cylinder that is connected to hot and cold water pipes and to which a hose and showerhead are then connected.

Thermostatic concealed faucet

Such a device is the easiest mechanism for connecting. In the conditions of modern apartments, it can be installed most simply.

Models of this series are presented in two options:

• faucet with bath spout and watering can and shower hose,
• faucet with watering can and shower hose, without bath spout.
• The closed-mount bath and shower thermostatic faucet is more complex in terms of installation: it will require installation of some parts into the wall or false plasterboard walls. At the same time, only a small plate with one or two regulators for turning on and switching water will remain on the bathroom wall.

Important! The absence of external details is both an advantage and a disadvantage of the model: the design looks concise, space is spent sparingly, however, in repair or replacement details, dismantling of the wall and tiles cannot be avoided.

Water outlet in such models can be presented in several versions:

• overhead shower spout with a nozzle that is mounted in the ceiling,
• overhead shower spout with a nozzle that is mounted in the ceiling, a flexible hose and a shower head,
• an overhead shower spout with a nozzle that is mounted in the ceiling, and a spout (gander) for a bathtub.

Devices of this kind can also be sold separately: a thermostatic mixer for a closed installation system will require careful selection of other elements: a hose, a watering can and a shower spout, a bath spout.

Features and functions of electronic models

A bathroom faucet with an electronic thermostat is a more expensive and technically sophisticated model that requires batteries or a power adapter. The choice of temperature and water pressure is based on electronic temperature and pressure sensors, which not only automatically regulate the water supply, but also display indicators on special screens. Such devices can have both push-button, touch, and remote control. But in domestic conditions, such equipment is unnecessary and is more often used in medical institutions, public restrooms, swimming pools or saunas.

Mixer with electronic thermostat

Technical solutions

Structurally, the mixer temperature control cartridges are very simple and have a fairly long service life. The most important thing here is the thermostatic element, made in the form of a cylindrical capsule or cartridge, where the movable and fixed parts are located.

The thermoelement is equipped with an anti-burn system that instantly reacts to changes in cold water pressure, significantly reducing the risk of burns.

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.

1. 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.
2. Safety - you will not be able to scald your hands, even if there is no cold water in the tap.
3. 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.
4. 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.

Advantages and disadvantages of a thermostatic bath faucet

Having considered the principle of operation of a faucet with a thermostat, we can say with confidence that the device is an indispensable element of sanitary equipment for the bathroom. It is characterized by ease of use, which is ensured by the ability to maintain the water temperature in a given mode.There is no need to periodically adjust the water temperature depending on the operation of the centralized system manually.

The device will independently adjust the system according to the specified parameters, which will allow you to simply enjoy the water procedure. This is especially valuable for families with small children and the elderly. This device is also relevant in homes where the seriously ill and people with disabilities live.

When the water flow is turned on again, the thermostat will automatically adjust the set operating mode. It will be maintained throughout the entire time of water use, which eliminates the possibility of scalding or uncomfortable conditions in the event of a sudden change in pressure and temperature of the centralized water supply.

The thermostat has three key benefits: safety, convenience and economy

Installing a thermostatic faucet is a cost-effective measure that saves water and energy. No need to drain wateruntil it reaches the required temperature. This will have a positive effect on the payback period of the device, the price of which is quite high compared to traditional mixers.

The installation of such devices is similar to the installation process of traditional appliances and is a simple, labor-intensive procedure that does not require special skills.

It is worth knowing that the operation of the mixer depends on the pressure of water in both pipelines. If there is no pressure in one of them, the valve will not allow water to flow from the other pipe. However, there are models equipped with a special switch that provides the ability to use water.

If the supply of cold water from the water supply stops, the thermostat will automatically stop supplying water to the user

The disadvantages of the device include the high price of a thermostatic mixer, the difficulty in repairing it, since specialized centers that can cope with a breakdown do not exist everywhere.

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 much more convenient in terms of use, but mechanical models are easier to repair.

Material prepared

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.

How to choose

The basic principle of operation of devices with a thermostat is the same and before choose mixer for the bathroom needs 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 for sale for bidet or hygienic shower.

They are relevant in those houses where they live elderly or seriously ill peoplein need of special care.

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 make a rating the most demanded 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.