The device and advantages of the shower thermostat

One of the benefits of modern civilization is the opportunity to take an invigorating or, on the contrary, relaxing shower. However, this process is often disrupted by an unexpected change in the temperature of the water pouring from the shower. And if the unplanned flow of cold water becomes just a nuisance, then the pouring water of high temperatures is even dangerous to health.

A special device - a thermostat - will help prevent such situations. He also helps out residents of the upper floors of high-rise buildings who suffer from insufficient water pressure. The thermostatic device is a useful unit that will be appreciated by lovers of comfortable water procedures, as well as residents of the upper floors of apartment buildings. But before buying and installing, everyone should take into account all the features and purpose of this design.

A thermostat is a unit built into the mixer or installed on its surface and designed to automatically maintain a given temperature, as well as a constant water pressure. The unit operates on the basis of the temperature and water readings it receives. When the pressure parameters change, the temperature change controller instantly detects these failures and restores the previous temperature. In other words, when the pressure changes, the temperature for the user remains unchanged due to the functioning of the thermostat.

The system is equipped with a pair of gearboxes and a temperature scale. On the latter, the user can indicate a comfortable temperature. The device "memorizes" the received data and stores the specified water temperature in the future. Before taking a shower, it is enough to select "your" mode, after which the device will automatically carry out the necessary settings, and water of the required temperature will be poured.

The principle of operation is ensured by the presence of a valve. It regulates the change in the flow of water in one pipe, while simultaneously changing the pressure in the second.

The main design element is a sensitive thermostatic cartridge or cartridge. It is located in the mixer body and reacts to the slightest temperature "jumps". Sensitivity is due to the use of special materials characterized by the ability to expand with changes in temperature. Biometric plates are often used as such material.

The cartridge itself is filled with wax. These materials react so quickly to a decrease or increase in water degrees that the user does not notice the changes and does not experience discomfort. The cartridge is connected to the adjusting screw, which results in temperature recovery.

The cartridge also has a fuse, the task of which is to block the water supply when the temperature rises above 80C. This can suddenly happen during an emergency shutdown of cold water supply. The presence of a fuse protects the user from burns hazardous to health and life. The pressure regulator also present in the system ensures the optimal mode of water supply.

Mechanical thermostats also have a knob. For safety reasons, it is equipped with a temperature blocker button. By default, the water temperature does not exceed 38C.If you need to change it, just press the blocker button (the current settings will be reset) and set a new temperature mode.

The thermostatic mixer has an important advantage - it allows the temperature and pressure to be maintained. When the water temperature rises or falls, the system automatically adds water of 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 optimal water temperature once, so that in the future the unit itself maintains it, and, if necessary, changes it to the specified values.
• Security. Using the device, it is impossible to burn yourself. 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 respond quickly to suddenly pouring cold or hot water. Due to their high efficiency and safety, thermostats are often used in hospitals, hospitals, and nursing homes.

• Economical water consumption, since water is supplied immediately at the required pressure and a suitable temperature, which excludes its "draining" in the process of "setting".
• Easy to install and operate.
• Durability.

The disadvantages of the device are the inability to use water if there is no water in one of the pipes. This is due to the fact that the water supply is closed in the valve 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. Thanks to its presence, the valve in the second water pipe opens. Then 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 out due to the economy of use and is compensated by the 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 specialist who can fix the problem.

Depending on the scope of application, there are universal and "specialized" thermostats. The former are compatible with most types of sanitary ware, the latter are designed specifically for showers, bidets, and kitchen faucets.

Here is some of them:

• Thermostatic water shower unit, which is a nozzleless product.

• Thermostatic mixers, including, in addition to the required elements, a shower head, a drain and a switch. The product can have different shapes, most often - a tubular system, ending with switches.
• The shower thermostat does not have a drain and a watering can. The connection to the core is provided by tubes.
• Thermostats for circular showers, hydromassage devices, where it is important to maintain an equally strong water pressure.

Based on the scope and design features, devices are distinguished with external fastening (for example, fixed on the side of a bathroom or a mixer, that is, installed on top of plumbing fixtures) or hidden (for example, mounted in a shower rack, or rather, in its base or a box installed nearby) ... In the latter case, only the panel with controls remains available to the user.

There are 2 types of shower thermostats depending on the functioning.

• Mechanical. They equip the control system - levers, handles, valves. It will be necessary to build the necessary parameters and water pressure manually by turning the valves and handles. However, such systems respond more quickly to temperature changes and pressure changes, and are characterized by increased reliability and durability.

• Electronic. The device is controlled by means of buttons or a panel with a touch display. The LCD screen, which is equipped with the system, shows the temperature and water pressure (not on all models).

The advantage of electronic devices is more comfortable use, the ability to quickly set the exact temperature. However, they are more complicated to install (require a power source).

When choosing one or another type of shower thermostat, it is recommended to give preference to models of well-known brands. For example, thermostats from the German manufacturer Grohe. The manufacturer's collection includes many models with external and hidden attachment types.

The existing lineup can be divided into 3 categories:

• Authentic (retro styled kits with thermostat, 20-inch air spray shower, hydromassage and tropical shower options);

• Contemporary (more modern models, characterized by laconicism and strict grace);

• Cosmopolitan (ultramodern, characterized by minimalism and functionality).

The advantage of the product is its wide price range. Here you can find both affordable models costing from 1,500 rubles, and devices of the "premium" class, the price of which can reach 45,000 rubles.

Noteworthy is the Precision Start device from the manufacturer Grohe. The wall-mounted device with a respectable built-in surface has a safety stopper when the temperature rises to about 38C, an economical water flow system and a ceramic valve. The device is completely safe (protected against reverse current) and will last for many years (largely thanks to the ceramic valve and the presence of dirt-cleaning filters). The thermostat is equipped with a short spout, an opening for connecting a shower hose.

Good user reviews are also received by the products of the Oras brands (the average price ranges from 10,000 to 18,000 rubles) and Hansgrohe (the average price is from 9,000 to 15,000 rubles). The installation of water filters, which is carried out before the installation of the thermostat, will extend the service life of the unit.

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 all the way.

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

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 colored signal red. The temperature of the water in the thermostat can be changed after the preliminary release of the safety function.This element is indispensable in families with children.

When connecting the thermostat, it is important that the correct cold and hot water hoses are connected to the correct pipes. There is a special mark on the thermostat for this. Otherwise, the product will not work properly and will soon fail.

It is unacceptable to mount a modern thermostat on outdated water pipes of the USSR times. This is due to the fact that the outlet of cold water in the latter is made on the left, while in European countries it is on the right. Modern thermostats are designed for plumbing according to the European standard. In other words, if it is necessary to mount devices on an outdated sewer system, you will have to change the wiring of the water supply system.

However, if you choose wall-mounted horizontal faucets with a thermostat, you just need to swap the supply hoses. This does not apply to a built-in device, it will not fit outdated designs. The best option is to select a built-in thermostat for plumbing of the same brand.

As already mentioned, the installation of filters will help prevent contamination of the thermostat elements. The installation of gearboxes allows avoiding incorrect operation of the device due to hydraulic shocks (pressure drops). They are attached at the point of water inlet and are adjusted according to the readings of the thermostat.

A step-by-step installation guide for the Grohe thermostatic bath mixer awaits you in the next video.