Manufacturers are constantly improving plumbing fixtures, trying to make their use as comfortable, practical and cost-effective as possible. One of these solutions is a thermostatic mixer for bath and shower, eliminating the need to constantly adjust the water temperature.
Agree, it is very convenient to configure and fix the optimal parameters for yourself, so as not to waste time over and over again selecting the desired position of the lever. Ease of use is obvious, isn't it? It remains to decide on the mixer model.
We will tell you what parameters you should focus on when choosing a thermostatic device, outline the features of different versions, list the best manufacturers, and also note the nuances of installing a faucet.
Why do you need a mixer with a thermostat?
You have to use hot water every day, and just as often there is a need to regulate the temperature and pressure of the water. A mixer with a special device solves two problems at once: once you have set the parameters, you don’t have to return to this issue again - water will be supplied from the tap at the specified degrees.
The water pressure in our taps “fails”, it can be weak or too strong, a thermostatic device successfully solves this problem. Turning and locking the thermostat lever will eliminate the need to test drive the current state of water pressure in the pipes every time. As a result, the user receives a new level of quality of life and saves energy resources both in a global sense and in terms of reducing the cost of housing and communal services.
Solving the water temperature problem
Thermostatic mixers are designed to automate the maintenance of temperature in water taps. The owners of the simplest geysers, devoid of any automation, experience the most suffering. Here the temperature regime of the hot water supply is set “by eye”. The most this equipment has is a thermometer on the front panel. In reality, the temperature of the water in the tap depends on many factors:
- Water pressure in the main.
- Gas pressure.
- Selected operating mode.
If someone opens the tap in the kitchen, the person bathing in the shower will either be scalded with boiling water or doused with cold water - the latter point adds vigor and significantly expands the vocabulary.
In the case of a centralized water supply, you will have to constantly adjust to its temperature and pressure. The neighbor turns on the tap - and you are already bathing in cold water. The older the highways, the more problems consumers have. If in the case of a good instantaneous water heater you can still remember the position of the taps, then in the case of a centralized supply of hot water there will be nothing to remember.
The lucky ones are the owners of modern instantaneous water heaters and gas boilers with electronic flame modulation. Hot water is always supplied to their faucets at a strictly specified temperature. Therefore, nothing needs to be adjusted. If consumers are constantly faced with changes in temperature and water, they are recommended to purchase a faucet with a thermostat.
What is a thermostat
The thermostatic mixer device consists of several components:
- Temperature limiter. Triggers when water is supplied at a temperature higher than comfortable.
- Temperature scale. Records indicators.
- Thermal regulator. With its help, the balance of hot and cold flow is adjusted to produce water at a given temperature.
- Water supply pressure regulator.
Thermostatic mixer for showers and any other water supply device has a main element - a thermostat. It is a limiter consisting of one copper and one paraffin rod.
Recommendations for choosing a mixer
Although the operating principle of different mixers is the same, the models of these devices are quite diverse. First of all, you should decide on the purpose of the mixer:
- for a washbasin, equipped only with a spout;
- for a shower in which there is no spout, water flows only to the shower head;
- for shower and washbasin at the same time, the water supply is switched with a special handle;
- for the kitchen sink.
It should be noted that thermostatic mixers specially designed for bidets or hygienic showers can also be found on sale. The installation of such models is especially important if the house has elderly or sick residents who need special care.
Faucets with thermostats designed for baths and showers have two water outlets: to the spout and to the shower head.
In addition, you can choose a mixer with mechanical or electronic control. Mechanical models are considered more reliable, easier to repair and cost a little less. Electronic faucets are equipped with a beautiful display, which makes operating the device much easier.
But they are more expensive, and repairing them in case of breakdown is much more difficult.
The mechanical model of the mixer with a thermostat looks laconic and looks very similar to a regular mixer: two valves and a spout. Mechanical models are very reliable and easier to repair than electronic devices.
A significant difference between an electronic mixer and a mechanical one is the need to connect the power supply, which is done using batteries or an AC adapter.
They are necessary for the operation of electronic temperature sensors and the screen on which data on the operation of the device is reflected. This could be water temperature, pressure, etc. Such a device is controlled using buttons or directly from the touch panel.
There are also models with remote control.
In everyday life, electronic faucets are not used very often, since cheaper mechanical models cope more than satisfactorily. Often complex and expensive electronic devices are used in large facilities, such as swimming pools, medical institutions, saunas, etc.
Modern models of electronic faucets with a thermostat are equipped with a convenient touch screen, which displays the current settings and also contains controls
Faucets also differ in the installation method. They are installed in the traditional way, on a horizontal surface or on a wall, but you can choose a model for mounting on the side of the bathroom.
There are also faucets that can be hidden in the wall. Such built-in models are accompanied by a special container housing, which is placed in the thickness of the wall.
The built-in faucet with thermostat is characterized by a laconic design, but if the device needs to be repaired, access to it may be difficult
There is also a so-called centralized thermostat mixer. This device supplies hot water at a given temperature to all taps in the house at once.
It sounds great, but in practice this device is not nearly as convenient as we would like. This faucet does not provide the ability to make water hotter for a bath or shower. You will have to either increase the water temperature for the entire house, or be content with not very comfortable water procedures.
Using such a device makes sense if there are several washbasins in the room. You should use a separate thermostat for the bath and shower.
How does it work
The operating principle of a thermostatic shower mixer is based on regulating the pressure of cold and hot water. There is a thermocouple located in the body of the device, the task of which is to monitor the temperature of the supplied water.
As soon as the temperature exceeds the recorded value, the supply of cold water increases. As the temperature decreases, the pressure of hot water increases. The recognition process takes a fraction of a second, so the changes are invisible. When the pressure in the water supply system (hot/cold) fluctuates, the pressure of the stream from the mixer will change. The lack of hot or cold water in the pipes leads to the blocking of the flow from the tap.
What are the positive and negative properties of a thermostatic mixer?
The main advantage of this type of mixer is its ease of use. Such equipment will be especially appropriate in families where elderly people or young children live. Also, these models are widely applicable in places where it is not possible to regulate the temperature of the supply water due to the huge pressure difference in the adjacent pipes.
In addition, a bath mixer with a thermostat is an economical model. Thanks to the precise and well-coordinated operation of the system, unnecessary consumption of high-temperature water 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 flow pressure, the overall costs of water are reduced to a significant extent.
If you do not know how to make such settings yourself, you can select “economy mode”, which will automatically change the operating parameters of the mixer.
The very principle of operation and operation of the thermostatic mixer ensures guaranteed safety for human health. The equipment will not allow the supply of water at a temperature lower or higher than that set by the user. If you use an autonomous system to heat incoming water, then there is a possibility of supplying water with a temperature above 80 ° C, which is extremely dangerous for humans. But faucets with a thermostat can eliminate this possibility and prevent possible burns.
Using such a device, you will only feel the pleasure of its operation. Problems associated with changes in pressure and temperature in water pipes will not affect the smooth operation of the mechanism. Water will be constantly supplied in accordance with the specified parameters, even if another person turns on the tap in the next room. Of course, the exception is cases when its full supply stops. It is also worth noting the quick response of the mixer with a thermostat to changes in settings: literally in 2 seconds the new parameters will be put into effect.
Bath mixer with thermostat
As for the disadvantages of this modern model of mixers, they are the high price. Such samples are more expensive than standard faucets, but do not forget about the high level of comfort, convenience and quality that are guaranteed by the manufacturers. Also, this cost will pay off due to the efficiency of the equipment and the reduction of water costs.
How to use
Thermostatic mixer, from the most primitive to the most technologically advanced, has two regulators, one is responsible for the water pressure, the second for the temperature. In mass production, thermal mixers with two levers are more common. The design of the product is very different - from traditional valves to buttons, the most “advanced” ones are equipped with touch sensors and a liquid crystal display, which displays temperature and water pressure indicators.
It is recommended to start setting up a thermostatic shower mixer by fixing the water temperature, and then adjust the pressure. It doesn’t matter at all when the indicators are set: before turning on the water or during water procedures. By fixing the numbers in advance, you can count on comfort without distractions and savings at the start.
Advantages and disadvantages
When choosing a bathroom faucet with a thermostat or a thermostatic kitchen sink faucet, be sure to familiarize yourself with their advantages and disadvantages. The main advantage of using these mixers is the savings on utility resources. An important advantage will be maintaining optimal temperature conditions for comfortable bathing or showering.
Disadvantages - good mixers have an impressive price. Their average cost in domestic online stores varies between 8-9 thousand rubles. For this money you will get a reliable lever mixer for a bathroom with shower or kitchen. In addition, some faucets are equipped with water blocking when the temperature is insufficient - such blocking is overkill.
Advantages and disadvantages
A mixer with control of temperature and water pressure, like any device, has pros and cons.
Advantages:
- Consistency of supply water temperature. Changes in water pressure (hot/cold) are not felt.
- Blocking the flow in an emergency. The complete absence of cold water serves as a signal to cut off the hot flow; there is no risk of getting burned.
- Economical. There is no waste of resources for setting temperature and pressure.
Flaws:
- High price.
- Difficulties with maintenance and repair. Not in every city you can find a manufacturer’s service center to carry out preventive maintenance or repairs within the warranty period.
What to give preference
When choosing a thermostatic mixer for sinks and showers, focus on the following indicators:
Also pay close attention to the type of coating, assembly materials and faucet design.
- Brand – consumers prefer models from Grohe, Lemark and Oras.
- Price – you should not buy the cheapest thermal mixers, as they are not reliable. If you don’t have money for a good purchase, save it up.
- Purpose – faucets with thermostats for showers, bathrooms and kitchen sinks are on sale. For example, kitchen models are equipped with aerator attachments and swivel spouts for more convenient washing of dishes. Also on store shelves there are universal models that are equally well suited for any purpose.
- Control method: lever or touch. If you are a fan of high-tech style housing, feel free to choose the second option.
When choosing a faucet with a thermostat for the kitchen or bathroom, pay attention to the mounting method - vertical or horizontal.
Types by purpose
In the desire to please the consumer as much as possible, companies create devices that provide comfort in every place where the use of water is required. Common types of faucets with thermostat:
- Thermostatic shower mixer. A characteristic feature is the absence of a spout for pouring water.
- Mixer with thermal device for shower cabin. There is also no place for water outflow; it is built into the communication system using connecting pipes.
- Thermostatic bath mixer. They are produced in two types - wall-mounted and built into the side of the bathtub. Their shape resembles an elongated cylinder with regulators at the ends. This type of thermostatic faucet has a standard spout. Most often, it regulates the water supply both directly when filling the bathtub and for shower procedures. The type of use is changed using a regular switch.
- For the sink. It has a vertical configuration, a spout for water, a lever/valve for opening. Installation can be carried out on the wall or directly on the sink.
There are specialized devices for bidets, hygienic showers, and kitchen sinks, but the principle of operation is the same for all.
Installing the mixer: external and hidden installation
In terms of installation, thermostatic mixers are no different from conventional models: they can be either external or hidden mounted.
In the second case, the actuator (mixing unit), enclosed in a special mounting box, is built into the wall. This design harmonizes with any bathroom design. After all, an aesthetically attractive functional part remains on the outside - a decorative panel with elements for adjusting the temperature and water flow and switching the water supply positions to the bathtub or shower, as well as the spout. The installation of a concealed wall-mounted faucet can only be carried out at the renovation stage, and before the stage of tiling the bathroom. To simplify the installation of a built-in faucet and make it easier for the user to select a model, some manufacturers of fittings (Grohe, Hansa, hansgrohe, Ideal Standard, Kludi, Oras, etc.) have developed special universal systems (blocks) for hidden installation. They comply with a single standard for connecting dimensions and fastenings and are compatible with any models (including thermostats) of a particular manufacturer.
Photo: Paini
Shower system with Dax-R thermostat (RUB 39,830).
As for an externally mounted faucet, its entire body is attached to the wall, equipped with a water outlet to which a shower hose is connected. The body design is elongated: oval or rectangular.
The average cost of mechanical thermostats for external installation is 5500–7000 rubles, for hidden ones – up to 30 thousand rubles.
Photo: Paini
Concealed thermostat for bath/shower Morgana-01 (RUB 21,321).
Models
Thermal mixers are available in mechanical and electronic versions. In the mechanical model, the device is adjusted using valves or levers. For domestic communications, this type of mixer is more reliable, since supply failures, pressure surges in pipes and uneven heating of water are common phenomena. The design of the device is varied and comes in different styles: from vintage models to minimalist.
Electronic models are more sensitive to adverse conditions, but are more informative. The data is displayed on a small screen; it is possible to set several operating programs, for example, a separate mode for each family member or turning on the water supply at a certain time. Some models are even able to conduct water analysis. Operation depends on a battery or direct connection to the electrical network. The problem with the electronic thermal mixer, in addition to its cost, is the difficulty in professional maintenance and the availability of service centers.
Thermostat mixer – to take or not to take?
Content
1. What is a thermostat mixer and how does it differ from a conventional mixer 2. Design and operating diagram 3. Recommendations for installation and operation 4. Malfunctions 5. Connection to a gas boiler 6. Pros and cons 7. Types of mixers with a thermostat 8. Conclusion
What is a thermostat mixer and how does it differ from a regular mixer?
A thermostat or thermostatic mixer is a mixer that is capable of maintaining a constant, predetermined water temperature and outlet flow. This is very important when there are constant changes in pressure or temperature of water in your water supply, especially hot water. In addition to external reasons for changes in pressure, there may also be internal ones, for example, if at the moment when you take a shower, the dishwasher or washing machine turns on, or someone presses the flush button in the toilet.
An ordinary faucet lacks these qualities; it is not able to maintain a constant temperature and constant water pressure. If there are any changes in your water supply, you will definitely feel it yourself.
Design and operation scheme
To control the thermostatic mixer, two handles are used; the first one turns on the water and regulates its pressure. Using the second, the temperature of the water coming out of the tap is set.
The function of maintaining a constant water temperature in the mixer is performed by a thermostatic cartridge. It consists of a body, a metal cylinder with holes, a plastic cylinder and a thermostat (valve), the thermostat in turn consists of a copper rod and a flask with paraffin.
When the faucet is turned on, hot and cold water begins to flow to the thermostatic cartridge. Depending on the temperature of the mixed water, the wax in the flask expands or contracts, thereby moving the valve and regulating the flow of incoming cold water. For example, if the water gets hotter, the paraffin expands and moves the valve back so that it allows more cold water to pass through, thus bringing the water temperature back to its original temperature. If the temperature of the leaving water decreases, the valve begins to let in less cold water and also equalizes the temperature.
Thus, this device manages to maintain a constant outlet temperature.
Recommendations for installation and operation
In order for the mixer you installed to serve you for a long time, you need to adhere to certain rules:
- The operating water pressure must be in the range from 1 to 5 bar, the maximum allowable is 8 bar;
- The difference between the pressure of cold and hot water should not exceed 10%;
- For the thermostat to work properly, it is necessary to install a reduction reducer if the water pressure exceeds 5 bar or the pressure difference between cold and hot water is more than 10%. Install a filter with a cell size of no more than 315 microns;
- The hot water supply is usually on the left when looking at the thermostat. On some models the opposite may be true. Therefore, you should select a thermostat for installation in advance and supply water in accordance with the attached instructions.
Check the filters regularly because if they become clogged, you will not have the required pressure in the mixer and you will not be able to use it. It is also not recommended to use it while the water supply is being repaired; at this moment, a water hammer may occur, which will damage your device.
Malfunctions
The most important malfunction of a mixer with a thermostat is the failure of the cartridge. The reason for this is usually bad water. Microparticles of pipes, scale and impurities clog the cartridge mesh, and it stops working in the required modes. As mentioned above, a filter will help you with this; if it is not possible to install it, it is recommended from time to time to clean the mesh at the mixer inlets, which it is equipped with at the factory, and which becomes clogged with impurities from the water.
Connection to a gas boiler
Many buyers are interested in the question: is it possible to install a mixer with a thermostat on a water supply system in which the water is heated by a gas boiler? This issue is especially relevant in private country houses and cottages, where there is no central water supply and you have to independently install a water supply system.
The answer to this question is very simple, see the section of the article with operating recommendations. If your water pressure at the boiler outlet is in the range from 1 to 5 bar and the difference between the pressure of cold and hot water is no more than 10%, then in this case you can safely install a thermostatic mixer, otherwise you won’t have one. will work and you will have to think about how to make sure that the water characteristics meet the specified requirements.
Pros and cons of a thermostatic mixer
The advantages of a mixer with a thermostat are obvious - ease of use and safety. Set the desired temperature once, and then just open and close the water. The second advantage is protection against burns, it manifests itself in two cases: firstly, when you take a shower and the water temperature in the network rises sharply or the cold water pressure drops, the thermostat either instantly equalizes the temperature or turns off the water altogether. Secondly, there is a limiter installed on the temperature control handle. It prevents you from accidentally turning on too hot water during or just before your shower. All these advantages are especially noticeable when there are children, elderly people or people with disabilities in the family.
The disadvantages of such mixers include their high cost, which is two or three times higher than conventional mixers. Special water preparation, it must meet the requirements for pressure and purity. If you can cope with all these obstacles, feel free to buy a thermostat.
Types of faucets with thermostat
Mixers with a thermostat can be classified into three types: by location or purpose; by control method; according to the installation method.
They are produced according to their intended purpose: for the sink; for Bath; For shower; for kitchen; for bidet. Those. In any place where a conventional mixer can be placed, models with a thermostat are also available.
According to the control method, they are divided into mechanical and electronic. In mechanical ones, everything is clear, there are two handles, with one you set the desired temperature, and with the second you control the flow of water. In electronic models everything is more diverse. Fully electronically controlled models are available; they have displays that display the set temperature, as well as buttons for changing it and for turning the water on and off. There are also models in which the temperature is set by a handle, but switching on occurs using an infrared sensor or button, and vice versa, the temperature is set using digital input devices, and switching on is done using a conventional valve.
Based on the installation method, mixers are divided into external and built-in. The latter are usually used in a bath or shower and are built into the wall, leaving only the controls outside. This is a very elegant solution, but much more complex to install. And we are all familiar with external faucets; they are mounted on the wall, sink or kitchen sink.
Conclusion
Faucets with a thermostat are undoubtedly the next step in the development of this type of equipment and over time they will replace conventional ones. They have many advantages, the main ones being safety and convenience. Which one suits you best?
Online store Kupatika.ru
Installation features
Thermostatic shower or bath mixer is more popular than devices designed for the kitchen. For installation in a bathroom, the following basic conditions must be met:
- The thermostat has strictly defined hot and cold water entry points, which are marked according to European standards. Incorrect connection will lead to malfunctions and ultimately failure.
- When installing on a water supply system from the times of the USSR, it should be taken into account that cold water is on the left, and hot water is supplied on the right; in EU countries it is the other way around. Therefore, before installing a thermostatic shower or bath mixer, it is necessary to reinstall the water distribution system. This rule does not apply to vertical thermostats; in this case, it is enough to swap the flexible hoses.
It is also a good idea to install filters at the water entry points into the apartment before installing the equipment. This will help keep the device intact longer and ensure health for all family members.
Conclusion
Installing a thermostat allows you to forget about moving the lever millimeter by millimeter or synchronously rotating the valves to set the optimal water temperature. And most importantly, this device eliminates the possibility of getting burned even in the event of a strong pressure drop in the pipeline, since under no circumstances does the outgoing water heat up above the safe maximum.
You can find out more information on this topic from the video in this article.
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Thermostats from Grohe
The German brand is one of the leaders in the production of high-quality thermostats. Grohe mixers have a number of advantages that make the company a leader in customer preferences:
- High-quality and reliable technology.
- Modern design.
- Compact sizes.
- Resistance of the coating to mechanical damage.
- Durability in use.
- Smooth operation.
- Saving water consumption up to 50% due to EcoButton technology.
- Equipped with TurboStat technology, which allows you to quickly respond to the slightest temperature fluctuation.
Grohe thermostatic mixers are leaders in popularity among the target audience and have a warranty period of 5 years, which indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in the quality of the device.
Other manufacturers
The FAR thermostatic mixer has a laconic appearance in comparison with the design finds of other manufacturers, but in terms of characteristics it will give a head start to many. Thermal mixers from this manufacturer are more familiar to professionals, since the company produces plumbing fixtures, devices for heating systems, etc.
Mixers with a TERMO-FAR thermostat are connected to the system at two entry points of hot and cold water, and a mixed flow is supplied to the pipe at the outlet. The thermostatic sensor is located in the sphere of influence of two water flows and is built into a housing equipped with two valves; it mechanically changes the ratio of cold and hot water supply. The temperature control range is adjustable from 25°C to 65°C, while the maximum water temperature can reach 95°C. According to consumer reviews, it is one of the most reliable and easy-to-repair devices.
The thermostatic shower mixer Armatura is produced by the Polish factory KFA. The device is in demand in our open spaces, has an affordable price and is easy to install. It has a sufficient margin of safety and retains its attractive appearance for a long time.
Main selection criteria
A huge assortment of faucets with thermostats creates a lot of problems for the unprepared buyer. After all, choosing the optimal model from this variety is quite difficult and it can take more than one hour.
What to look for before buying?
To find a device that will allow you to shower comfortably, will last at least several years and will not stand out too much in the bathroom design, you need to pay attention to a number of parameters.
Important characteristics:
- material used to make the case;
- valve type;
- presence of a fuse;
- connection method;
- minimum possible working pressure;
- manufacturer.
Before going to the store, it is recommended to familiarize yourself with the products of online stores. This decision will allow you to decide in advance on the optimal model for your bathroom.
Case material
The service life of the mixer largely depends on the reliability of the housing. Accordingly, this factor must be given attention first.
The most reliable and, accordingly, expensive materials are considered to be brass, bronze, and copper. If the appearance of the faucet comes first, and not its strength, then you can give preference to a ceramic product.
Manufacturers also offer models made of plastic and aluminum-silicon alloy (silumin). Yes, these devices are quite cheap, but they will not last very long.
Which valve is better?
An important component of any thermostatic faucet is the valve. This element is often made of ceramic, rubber or leather. The last two materials are used to produce cheap models, which is why many problems arise.
A leather or rubber valve wears out very quickly. This can cause many unpleasant situations in the future. But replacing such a part will not be difficult. The procedure is similar to the process of replacing the gasket in a regular faucet without a thermostat.
Leather and rubber are soft and short-lived materials. It is because of this that quite often a problem arises associated with damage to the valve seat. If solid particles get under the element from the water, the part is damaged, which leads to a flood. Therefore, if you find any problems, you must urgently contact a specialist.
A ceramic valve is more reliable and durable. In this case, a special design prevents debris from getting under the element and, accordingly, the saddle remains intact.
The ceramic valve pushes out all solid particles trapped under it. Moreover, the element has a graphite coating on top, which significantly extends the service life of the mixer.
When operating thermostatic equipment with a ceramic valve, do not use brute force when closing the valve. Failure to comply with this rule will result in the faucet head breaking.
Therefore, to shut off the water flow, you should turn the valve all the way, and the ceramics, precisely adjusted to size, will do the rest.
Why is a safety button needed?
Every more or less well-known manufacturer of thermostatic mixers installs a fuse in their products. This element prevents accidental changes in water temperature. After all, there is always a risk that with one awkward movement you can turn on boiling water and get severe burns.
Most often, the element is made in the form of a button, painted red. In this case, to change the water temperature, you need to release the fuse. This useful feature will be especially relevant for parents with young children.
Mixer connection diagram
When choosing plumbing equipment with a thermostat, it is imperative to ask the seller about the connection diagram for the water pipes to the device. After all, if you connect everything incorrectly, the mixer will break and will need to be repaired, which, as mentioned above, will be quite expensive.
To connect a thermostatic mixer in a bathroom or shower, you can use flexible hoses
Check that the equipment is adapted to Russian standards. Remember that one question will eliminate the need to change the pipe configuration.
Minimum operating pressure
An important characteristic is the presence of sufficient water pressure in an apartment or private house. The vast majority of devices operate at a pressure of 0.5 bar.
If in fact it is lower, the equipment will not function properly. Accordingly, there is simply no point in installing it in your bathroom.
Which manufacturer is better?
The plumbing equipment market is regularly updated with new products. But if you need to purchase a thermostatic mixer of the highest quality, then the best solution would be products from Oras , Jacob Delafon , Grohe , and Hansgrohe .
For the average buyer, products from the Oras . The company always tries to maintain the most favorable balance between product quality and affordability. In production, the company primarily uses plastic or brass.
The cost of thermostatic mixers from Oras is relatively low and amounts to about 180-200 dollars
Since its founding, the French manufacturer Jacob Delafon has established itself as a reliable supplier of brass plumbing equipment. Its distinctive feature is the provision of a five-year warranty on all faucet models.
As for appearance, Jacob Delafon products have a classic design. Equipment costs typically range from $150 to $450.
Grohe boasts the largest range of faucets . This manufacturer offers products equipped with a wide variety of functions and made in various styles.
Grohe uses brass in production. Therefore, it is not surprising that faucets from this brand last at least 10 years.
Although Grohe products differ from their analogues in quality and reliability, they are quite expensive. On average, the price of faucets from this brand is $300-700
Hansgrohe , also deserves respect . Their thermostatic mixers are distinguished by their most laconic design and high durability. Chrome plated steel is used for the manufacture of products.
Hansgrohe faucets are the ideal solution for small bathrooms. After all, the equipment is compact and relatively inexpensive - around $200.
Hansgrohe provides a 5-year warranty on all its products, which is quite good considering the stated price.
Almost all manufacturers offer the buyer several lines of mixers with thermostats. The assortment includes simple models, the design of which focused on their functionality.
But the catalog often includes several products that represent a real work of contemporary art.
Reviews
Many buyers left their opinions about such a device as a thermostatic mixer. Reviews talk about the advantages of using it, highlighting the comfort of constant temperature and pressure, which could not be achieved with an ordinary mixer. Those who have children growing up in their families talk about safety: a child can often open and close taps, which can lead to either scalding or hypothermia. By purchasing a thermostat with an additional protection function, you can be sure that a child’s hand will not turn the temperature control knob to a critical state. For some buyers, this opportunity turned out to be an advantage in the purchase and was fully justified.
Negative reviews were expressed towards individual manufacturers, whose products were short-lived and quickly failed. There were also difficulties connecting Western equipment with domestic pipes and water. Filters built into water supply systems quickly became clogged, and the faucets themselves required additional fittings for installation.
Many noted difficulties with repairing thermostats, and often the unavailability of service. Most negative reviews boil down to the opinion that it is worth purchasing such equipment from manufacturers with an established reputation and extensive experience in the production of such devices.
Device Features
Advantages
This device has many positive aspects:
- Completely excludes an increase in temperature to a critical level . The same applies to its reduction. That is why taking water procedures is safe and comfortable.
- The surface of the mixer does not heat up to a high temperature , therefore, touching it, you will not get burned.
- High flow temperature does not exceed 43 degrees.
- If the flow of cold water stops, the flow is completely blocked.
In addition, it should be emphasized that a thermostat is much easier and more ergonomic to use than a simple mixer.
Flaws
There are perhaps only two disadvantages to this device:
- Higher price than simple faucets. Indeed, it is possible to say that the high price is fully justified.
- Sensitivity to water quality. Based on this, it is recommended to install water softeners and filters in front of the mixer. Otherwise, the device will quickly fail.
Otherwise, the device has no shortcomings.
