Thermostatic faucet: how to choose and install a thermostatic faucet

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

Varieties of mixers with thermostats

The first division is into mechanical and electronic thermostats. The former are distinguished by their simplicity and efficiency; they do not require any special knowledge and tools for their installation. We connect the mixer to pipes with hot and cold water, check for leaks. Next, turn on the water supply, adjust the pressure and set the desired temperature. Typically, such mixers are equipped with regulators with scales calibrated in degrees.

Of the minuses, it is worth noting the not the most accurate temperature tracking by a mechanical thermostat, which affects the efficiency of utility consumption.

Advantages of mechanical mixers:

• Simple construction.
• No electrical connection required.
• Minimum dimensions.

Electronic thermal mixers are more efficient, in which electronics are responsible for temperature control. It analyzes the pressure and temperature indicators, mixing this or that amount of cold water with hot water. Electronics advantages:

• More accurate and faster work.
• Increased efficiency when consuming hot water.
• There are additional features - water analysis, touch control and much more.

The main disadvantage is the dependence on the supply of electricity.

There is one more minus - mixers with electronic thermostats are expensive compared to mechanical counterparts.

Thermostatic mixers for bathrooms with showers are further divided into two categories - built-in and open.The simplest of them are open, reminiscent of traditional faucets without thermostats. As already mentioned, they are mounted on pipes protruding from the wall. Also in stores you can buy faucets with thermostats built into the wall. Outside, only the adjustment knobs protrude - everything else is hidden from the user's eyes in the thickness of the plaster and tiles.

What to look for when buying a thermomixer?

In the domestic market, mixers with a thermostat are just beginning to gain popularity, and not everywhere it is possible to purchase such products from trusted manufacturers. Under these conditions, there is a risk of buying a low-quality fake.

When choosing a model, ask the store employees to show you certificates of quality and conformity, and when buying, be sure to follow the correct execution of the warranty card. Its presence will save you from unexpected costs for expensive repairs in the event of equipment failure. Different brands of thermomixers may have their own characteristics. Consult the seller about the rules of operation and maintenance of the model you like.

The principle of operation of the device

A thermostatic shower faucet generally has the same task as a regular one: it mixes cold and hot water in the right proportion to get water at a user-defined temperature. The only difference is that inside the thermostatic device the adjustment takes place automatically, and in the usual - manually.

Interestingly, both the most expensive and budget models of thermostatic faucets work in exactly the same way. The principle of operation of such devices is as follows:

1. The thermoelement located in the case of the thermostatic mixer heats up water. It is worth noting that the more powerful and expensive the device, the faster this process occurs. In the most advanced models, heating occurs so quickly that the user does not even notice it.
2. The temperature regulator, descending into the composition of the mixer, adjusting the ratio of hot and cold flow, receives water at a given temperature.
3. The flow regulator is responsible for maintaining a stable pressure so that the water temperature does not change due to pressure surges in the system.
4. The temperature limiter completely shuts off the flow if the water in the device differs from the set one for any reason. That is, a person using a thermostatic mixer will not be able to burn or frostbite under any circumstances.

Overview of the advantages and disadvantages of equipment

Convenient mixers that allow you to maintain a given temperature are preferred by many to traditional ones. They are especially relevant for families with the elderly or small children. In addition, they are successfully installed in rooms where adjustment is difficult due to the difference in pressure in pipes with cold and hot water. Practical mixers have many advantages:

Economy

Fine-tuning the system allows you to avoid excessive consumption of hot water, which is especially important if the house has electrical appliances for heating it. The total water consumption is also significantly reduced, which usually increases during the adjustment process.

Besides the device is capable to work in specially set economic mode.
Absolute security.During hygiene procedures, you can be sure that the thermostatic shower faucet will not allow the water to overheat above the set temperature and will not allow the icy stream to fall on the washing person. This is especially true for those who use an autonomous water heating system, for example, storage water heaters. Such devices bring water to a temperature of 80C, which is potentially dangerous. A mixer with a temperature controller in such cases significantly reduces the possibility of accidental burns.

Comfort. The system does not depend on pressure drops or water temperature in the pipes. In any case, excluding the complete cessation of water supply, the mixer will supply water at the desired temperature with a given pressure. The device quickly, within about 2 seconds, reacts to the changes that have occurred and properly adjusts to the new conditions. In this case, the result of his work does not change.

And here is a practical mixer with a thermostat, which is equipped with temperature and pressure regulators for the supply water.

The main disadvantage of the equipment is considered to be its relatively high price. Indeed, their cost is somewhat higher than that of conventional mixers, which, however, fully pays off with a high level of comfort and design safety. It should be understood that by installing a kitchen faucet with a thermostat, a bath or shower system, the result is an economical and practical device.

It will allow you to save part of the money for energy and water consumption, ensure complete safety and give you the pleasure of always comfortable water temperature.

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.

How to choose a thermostatic faucet

Almost every manufacturer of bathroom and kitchen accessories has separate lines of thermostatic faucets.

Faucets are conditionally divided into three large groups: for the bathroom, for the kitchen and for other purposes. The first one is connected to a shower hose, the second ones have a high, curved spout, the third ones are distinguished by an unusual specialized design.

For the bathroom, it is better to purchase an electronic faucet with a thermostat, a short reaction time, convenient controls and a long service life. It's better not to save here. In the kitchen, the accuracy of the temperature and the time it takes to change it are not so important, which means that a mechanical model will do. Of course, it is better to refuse the cheapest goods. In other situations, it is worth focusing on the configuration of the mixer and the features of its device.

The choice of a mixer with a thermostat is definitely justified, but it all depends on your capabilities and preferences. There are many advantages to such a design.

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. It is not necessary to drain the water until 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.

Features: pros and cons

The thermostatic mixer has an important advantage - it allows you to save temperature and pressure. When the water temperature rises or falls, the system automatically adds water of a contrasting temperature to restore the previous temperature regime.

In addition, the device has other positive qualities.

• Convenience and ease of use. It is enough to set the optimum water temperature once, so that in the future the unit itself maintains it, and, if necessary, changes it to the specified values.
• Safety. Using the device, it is impossible to get burned. This feature is valuable in families with children, elderly relatives, and people with disabilities. For these groups of people, this sign is important, because they do not always react quickly to suddenly pouring cold or hot water. Due to their high efficiency and safety, thermostats are often used in hospitals, hospitals, nursing homes.

• Cost-effectiveness of water consumption, since water is supplied immediately at the right pressure and at the right temperature, which eliminates its “draining” during the “settings” process.
• Easy to install and operate.
• Durability.

The "cons" of the device is the inability to use water if there is no water in one of the pipes. This is due to the fact that the valve closes the water supply if there is no water in the adjacent pipe. However, this drawback is not present in all models.There are devices that have a special switch. Due to its presence, the valve in the second pipe with water opens. After that, you can use the amount of water available in the tap.

Sometimes users talk about the high cost of devices, calling it a disadvantage. However, it is leveled due to the economy of use and is offset by ease of use.

Finally, it is worth noting the rather difficult installation of thermostatic mixers. If they break down, not every locality has a service center or a specialist who can fix the problem.

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:

Differences between electronic and mechanical models

Often, homeowners cannot decide for a long time which appliance to choose - electronic or mechanical? This is an important question that even experienced plumbers cannot unambiguously answer. We offer you to get acquainted with the strengths and weaknesses of these mixers:

• Electronic models have more precise settings, it can display a large amount of information up to water quality analysis. However, they are more difficult to install, maintain, and impossible to regulate. In addition, electronic faucets are less tolerant of poor quality tap water.
• Mechanical appliances are better adapted to the Russian communal reality with pressure surges, pressure and bad water. Although you need to configure them manually, but in the event of a breakdown, they can be repaired, and they are more expensive.

What are the positive and negative properties of a thermostatic faucet?

The main advantage of this type of mixer is its ease of use. Especially such equipment will be appropriate in families where the elderly or young children live. Also, these models are widely applicable in places where it is not possible to control the temperature of the supply water due to the huge pressure difference in the adjacent pipes.

In addition, with a thermostat is an economical sample. Due to the precise and coordinated operation of the system, excess high-temperature water consumption is not allowed, which is important if it is heated thanks to purchased electrical appliances. Since modern models of mixers allow you to adjust the pressure of the jet, the overall cost of water is also significantly reduced.

The very principle of operation and operation of a thermostatic mixer ensures guaranteed safety for human health. The equipment will not allow the supply of water at a lower or higher temperature than the one set by the user. If you are using a self-contained system to heat incoming water, then there is a possibility of water supply with a temperature of over 80 ° C, which is extremely dangerous for humans. But mixers with a thermostat can eliminate this possibility and prevent possible burns.

Using such a device, you will feel only pleasure from its operation. Problems associated with pressure and temperature drops in water pipes will not affect the smooth operation of the mechanism. Water will be constantly supplied in accordance with the set parameters, even if another person in the next room turns on the tap. Of course, the exceptions are cases when its full supply stops. It is also worth noting the quick response of the mixer with a thermostat to changes in the settings: in just 2 seconds, the new parameters will be put into effect.

Bath faucet with thermostat

As for the disadvantages of such a modern model of mixers, they lie in the high price.Such samples are more expensive than standard faucets, but do not forget about the high level of comfort, convenience and quality guaranteed by manufacturers. Also, this cost will pay off due to the efficiency of the equipment and the reduction in water costs.

When to install it

Experts recommend installing a thermostat in the following cases:

1. With frequent temperature changes in the system. They can occur when neighbors in the riser turn on the water or when using water supply in several rooms at a time. In addition, in some houses, temperature drops occur regularly for reasons beyond the control of the residents.
2. When using storage water heaters. There are two options: electric and gas. Depending on the model used, the water can be heated up to 85 degrees. If you suddenly turn off cold water while showering or washing dishes with a standard faucet, you risk serious burns.
3. When using geysers of flow type. When using this type of heater, it is quite difficult to set the required temperature. This is especially difficult to do in the case of regular pressure surges in pipes. A mixer equipped with a thermostat will eliminate these problems and make the use of gas water heaters comfortable. In addition, failures sometimes occur in the operation of some models of gas water heaters, due to which the maximum gas supply is turned on. In this case, a thermal mixer is simply necessary - it will protect you from burns.
4. If there are children in the family. Toddlers are extremely inquisitive people. Therefore, situations are common when a child independently turns on hot water and burns himself.To avoid this, install a modern faucet in the bathroom and in the kitchen.