Mixer with temperature controller. Is it worth buying a thermostatic faucet

The main disadvantage of almost all types of mixers is their dependence on the pressure of the liquid in the water supply. It is difficult to call it stable, and it is from here that some problems arise - water flows from the tap either colder or hotter. Of course, you can put up with this, but not always - given that the pressure difference in cold and hot water pipes can sometimes be significant, then a not very good picture emerges. At one point, water from the mixer can scald your hands. Such problems are easily solved by a thermostatic mixer, about which will be discussed in this article. Together with the site, we will deal with the principle of its operation, advantages and disadvantages, varieties and self-installation.

Thermostatic mixer photo

Thermostatic mixer: how it works

The main goal pursued by the developers of the thermostat mixer is to obtain a stable and constant outlet temperature, regardless of the water pressure in the pipeline. The result exceeded all expectations - the mixer not only copes with the task perfectly, but also has convenient control and excellent appearance which is important for the modern user. Moreover, in addition to the above advantages, one can also highlight the simple principle of operation of a thermostatic mixer - a simple design ensures a long service life and inexpensive repairs.

How it works modern marvel plumbing equipment? In principle, it is quite simple, and its whole secret lies in a special valve, which, reacting to changes in the water flow in one pipeline, simultaneously changes it in another - it does this according to the specified operating modes. Let's just say if the pressure hot water decreases sharply in the pipeline, the reaction of the thermal valve will be expressed in a decrease in the amount of cold water supplied to the mixing chamber. There are two types of such devices - the work of the first is based solely on mechanics, and the work of the second is based on the interaction of mechanics and modern electronics.

The principle of operation of a thermostatic mixer photo

Now for the question, how to use an automatic thermostatic mixer? As mentioned above, it works quite simply and visually practically does not differ from its ordinary relative - all the same pair of handles, body and spout. The difference between them is that one of these handles is a temperature regulator (divisions with degrees are marked on it), and the second is responsible for the water pressure. Once you have set the desired comfortable water temperature, then you only need to open and close the tap.

To eliminate the consequences of the curiosity of the younger generation, the temperature switch is additionally equipped with a fuse that works exclusively to increase the temperature.

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.

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 this drawback - some of them are equipped with a special switch that allows you to open the valve manually and use what is.

The device and principle of operation of a thermostatic mixer can be seen in the video.

Varieties of thermostatic mixers

There is no need to talk much about the varieties of thermostatic mixers - by and large, any type of modern mixers can be equipped with a device to maintain a stable water temperature. Therefore, we will simply list the most common options.

In principle, in addition, a thermostatic mixer can be distinguished for, for, and so on - as mentioned above, they can be different, as, in general, all other types of devices for mixing cold and hot water.

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.

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, reducers 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 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 will mount it exclusively on sinks - all other plumbing fixtures must 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.

The thermostatic faucet is gaining popularity, competing with models with two valves and one lever. Buying a faucet with a thermostat means increasing the usability level of sanitary ware in the bathroom, because they set new standard bath and shower comfort.

What is a thermostatic mixer

The thermostatic mixer is structurally a product equipped with a sensor for measuring and maintaining the stable temperature of the water. Outwardly, it also differs from traditional ones: a panel with handles for turning the water on / off, as well as adjusting the temperature.

The temperature is controlled by thermocouples. It is enough for the user to set the required temperature before turning on the tap, and the device will automatically maintain the required temperature by adding hot or cold water. Moreover, the thermostatic mixer reacts to temperature changes instantly.

Advantages of thermostatic mixers

Installing a thermostatic mixer offers the following benefits:

• Eliminates the risk of getting burned hot water which is important for families with small children.
• There is a saving of energy used to heat water in a house with installed heating devices.
• Setting a stable temperature when using flow heaters.
• The independence of the water temperature from whether the neighbors turn on warm water at this moment.

Considering the advantages, it is not surprising that the thermostatic faucet is becoming more popular.

Where to buy a faucet with a thermostat

You can buy a mixer with a thermostat in our store. Products from Grohe, Hansgrohe, Oras, Kludi, Hansa and others are presented at Home-Santehnika. And the price is below the market average. We have products with an additional function of temperature control from a remote control, as well as with a lock to change the set temperature by children. There are reviews on the products on the site.

It is easy to buy thermostatic faucets with delivery in Moscow! Buy and you will understand how convenient it is!

In many modern household appliances there is a thermostat, but most bathrooms still use classic faucets, with which it is very difficult to adjust the desired temperature. This function is perfectly handled by such a plumbing fixture as a mixer with a thermostat for a bathroom with a shower, which is very convenient to use. However, before purchasing this device, you need to familiarize yourself with how mixers with a thermostat work, what are their pros and cons.

It seems strange that a modern thermostatic shower faucet actually has a very simple design. The body of the device is made in the form of a cylinder with two regulators: for setting the water temperature and for controlling the water pressure, there is also a ceramic cartridge inside the device. Externally, a mixer with a thermostat is similar to a conventional bath and shower device, but the principle of their operation is different.

The operation of the apparatus under consideration is based on the use of the laws of physics on the thermal expansion of substances. A bath faucet with a thermostat performs its main task: it instantly reacts with a special thermostatic cartridge inside the structure to changes in the degree of heating of the liquid and brings the temperature and pressure to the specified parameters. You can change these values ​​at any time.

It is worth noting that the thermostat, as such, is absent in such designs; it does not heat water. Its function is performed by a thermostat, which carries out the heat balance of the liquid coming from the water supply. As soon as the water pressure changes, the thermostat changes the settings to the set parameters to restore balance. If hot water stops flowing, then cold water turns off.

The cartridge, consisting of a special substance, when expanded, pushes out a piston that blocks the flow of water when the hot flow stops and regulates the temperature during normal operation. And thanks to the ceramic cartridge inside the body, the water temperature is adjusted by the owner of the unit. At the same time, in such a mixer there is a limiter that does not allow setting the water temperature to over 80 degrees Celsius, so that a person does not accidentally scald with boiling water.

Such a device is ideal for families with children, because you can set optimal temperature at 37-38 degrees and the "smart" device will maintain the specified parameters, which will make the reception water procedures, comfortable and safe.

In this case, it is important to correctly connect the mixer with a thermostat to the water supply system. If you confuse the pipes with the supply of hot and cold water, then you will not be able to adjust the temperature and either cold or hot liquid will flow out of the shower or spout. Therefore, connect the device correctly. In the future, it will be enough to replace the filters in the form of metal meshes that are placed between the thermostat and the eccentrics.

Types of thermostatic mixers

These devices differ in the type of water supply adjustment:

1. Mechanical. An economical option with buttons, handles or valves in the design. These controls are usually located along the edges of the cylindrical body: one lever is responsible for adjusting the pressure, and the other for water temperature. The main advantages of mechanical models are ease of operation, reliability of the device, variety design solutions, the presence of a display with push-button or touch control. And the disadvantage is the need for mechanical intervention when setting parameters.
2. Electronic. More expensive models that are controlled by a sensor, buttons, or even remotely using a remote control. These samples are equipped with an LCD display that shows the current parameters. The main advantages are comfortable control, adjustment accuracy and the ability to see the current parameters on the screen. The main disadvantages are the high price, the need for a power source (battery or AC adapter).

Based on such a criterion as the type of construction, all thermostatic bathroom faucets are divided into:

• universal models - suitable for any purpose
• narrowly targeted samples: for showers, baths, sinks, bidets, kitchens.

The mixer thermostat with a long spout for a bathtub is very convenient.

Thermostatic mixers also differ in the type of attachment. He can be:

• external (open) - when the entire structure is installed directly on the plumbing (bath, sink, washbasin, on the wall next to the shower);
• hidden - when a mixer with a thermostat is mounted in a wall or a special box, and only a panel with controls remains on the wall outside.

The range of thermostatic mixers is very wide and varied.

Pros and cons of devices with a thermostat

To maintain the cleanliness of the body, we soak in the bath a couple of times a week and take a shower every day, and it’s very annoying when you have to adjust the optimal temperature for a long time, and when the pressure drops, boiling water starts to run from the tap or, conversely, ice water. Installing a shower and bath faucet with a thermostat will help to avoid these problems. However, when choosing modern plumbing equipment with a thermostat, it is necessary to study in advance all the pros and cons of such a device.

Thermostatic mixers are characterized by the following advantages:

1. Ease of use. Having set all the parameters once, the next time you turn it on, you just need to press the button or turn the lever to pour water. desired temperature.
2. Safety. Thanks to temperature restrictions, you will never feel discomfort from too hot or cold water. And special blockers exclude the possibility of changing the temperature of the liquid by children.
3. Profitability. Mixers with a thermostat allow you not to waste time adjusting the temperature of the liquid and prevent unnecessary draining of water during the adjustment process, which is very important if water meters are installed.
4. Stability of pressure and water temperature. Using a mixer with a thermostat during water procedures, you will not feel a pressure difference if one of the family members turns on the water in the kitchen or in the toilet.

But this design still has disadvantages:

1. High cost of equipment.
2. If the pressure is very low, the mixer with a thermostat will not work.
3. The complexity of the repair.

Nevertheless, these devices are in demand, since these disadvantages are fully offset by the advantages of a mixer with a thermostat.

Features of installation and adjustment

You can install a faucet with a thermostat for a bathroom with a shower with your own hands, without inviting a specialist, since the installation of this device is no different from installing a conventional faucet. However, when installing a thermostatic mixer, it is necessary to ensure that the supply of hot and cold water is symmetrical.

It is important that the cold water supply tap is on the right and the hot water supply lever is on the left, otherwise the thermostat will simply not work. On the plumbing fixtures market, you can find right-handed and left-handed and right-handed models of these devices, which greatly facilitates the process of installing these structures.

The pressure in the water supply networks in the house is often significantly different from the factory settings of the device with a thermostat. The mixer model can be designed for a water temperature of 55 degrees, and a stream with a temperature of 60 degrees flows from the tap. In this case, it is necessary to adjust the thermostat. To correctly calibrate the thermostat, you need to remove the protective cover, and manually, using a handle and a conventional thermometer, adjust the water temperature values.

Manufacturers offer thermal mixers with an open and closed type of installation. With the installation of the first questions do not arise. But the second one will require chasing the walls or equipment of a special drywall box, in which all communications and elements of the device are hidden. Only the panel and regulators are brought out. And if you need to repair the mixer or plumbing in this place, you will need to disassemble the wall.

It should also be noted that these faucets require the use of special water filters. You can also install them yourself, according to the installation instructions that came with the device upon purchase, and change the filter plates from time to time. If you do not install filters or change them at the wrong time, the mixer will quickly fail due to hard water. And repair or purchase of a new device will cost much more.

Which manufacturer can you trust?

Among such reliable manufacturers of plumbing fixtures include the Grohe brand (faucets with a thermostat from 1,500 to 45,000 rubles). The company produces a wide range of models of open and closed type installation. Whole the lineup is divided into three main lines: Authentic (retro), Contemporary (modern), Cosmopolitan (ultra-modern, made in the style of minimalism).

Faucets Hansgrohe (9,000 - 15,000 rubles), Jacob Delafon (8,000 - 17,000 rubles), Oras (10,000 - 18,000 rubles) and Roca (7,000 - 15,000 rubles) also have a good reputation.

In conclusion, we note that due to high prices, thermostatic faucets in the bathrooms of our country are not as common as in Europe. However, many compatriots are already using these devices, speaking of them exclusively in a positive way. Funds for the purchase pay off quite quickly by reducing water consumption. The installation of thermomixers is especially recommended for families with the elderly and small children.

It is also preferable to use them in apartments where there are regular large pressure drops in the water supply, which makes it difficult for the process of mixing water to the desired temperature. On the market modern plumbing you can find mixer taps with a thermostat for the bathroom with any design decoration, installation methods and a variety of options to ensure comfort in the bathroom.

2-3 times more expensive than standard models without automatic maintenance of the set water temperature.
High cost due to more complex device of this type plumbing.

But does it make sense to overpay and is it worth buying a thermostatic faucet for an apartment or house? Let's figure it out.

What is a thermostatic mixer

The thermostatic mixer has a special mechanism (thermostat) that is capable of delivering water at a given temperature with an error of 1 to 5 degrees, depending on the model and manufacturer (the Chinese have a high error, the Europeans have a minimum).

Let's say you set the temperature on the mixer to 39 degrees.
Now the water in the shower or spout will always be supplied close to this indicator(38-40 degrees).

And even if pressure surges begin in the water supply, the temperature in the thermostatic mixer will not change.
That is, a mixer with a thermostat saves from temperature drops in the shower.

It also eliminates the hassle of fumbling with the lever or valves every time, looking for the optimal combination of cold and hot water.
It is enough to set the temperature once and wash constantly with maximum comfort.

How it works.

If you do not go into technical details, then the principle of operation is as follows - there is a material in the mixer that reacts to temperature, expanding and narrowing.

When the water is too hot, the material expands and thereby reduces the flow of hot water from the plumbing.
If it is too cold, on the contrary, it increases the flow.

The material reacts to temperature changes almost instantly, which is why the adjustment is so accurate.
Plus, the thermostat is a mechanical device, so it is as reliable as possible.
You can read more about the device.

When is it important to use a thermostatic mixer

The installation of a thermostatic mixer is recommended in the following cases:

1. With constant pressure drops in the water supply.

Differences can be when neighbors turn on the water or when the water turns on in the bathroom and in the kitchen at the same time.
In some houses, water is simply supplied unevenly.

2. When using storage water heaters.

In electric and gas boilers, water is heated to a temperature of 70-85 degrees.
Therefore, with a sharp shutdown of the cold water supply while taking a shower with a conventional mixer, you can earn a serious burn.

3. When using instantaneous gas water heaters.

Using geysers it is often difficult to achieve a comfortable water temperature, especially with pressure surges in the water supply.
The thermostatic mixer will get rid of this problem once and for all.

In addition, modern gas water heaters sometimes they “buggy” and turn on the maximum gas supply with medium or low water pressure.
The mixer will help here too, protecting you from burns.

With flow electric water heaters everything is more complicated.
It is not always possible to use a mixer with a thermostat together with them, and each case must be considered individually.

4. If there are small children in the apartment.

Children can turn on the hot water tap on their own and get burned.
Therefore, for safety reasons, the thermostat on the faucets in the bathroom and in the kitchen will not hurt.

Drawing conclusions

If you do not have small children and problems with the pressure drop in the water supply, then you do not need a thermostatic mixer.
However, it is much more convenient with him, so if you have Money worth a try.

But keep in mind that you get used to automatic temperature control very, very quickly.
Switching back to a standard mixer will be quite difficult due to the habit of not adjusting the temperature manually and due to a decrease in comfort level.

By the way:
For fans of a contrast shower, a thermostatic mixer will not be very convenient.
For this wellness procedure, it is still better to use

Everyone wants to provide comfort and coziness in their home, as well as equip it with convenient and modern equipment. This is especially true of the bathroom, the possibilities of which, thanks to innovative technologies, are limitless. However, when buying this or that equipment, it is advisable to first take an interest in the principles of its operation. For example, it would be useful to know how a thermostatic faucet works if you decide to renovate your bathroom from scratch.

Features of the design of a thermostatic mixer

One of the most common faucet designs worldwide is the thermostatic model. This device allows you to provide water supply in a user-defined temperature regime. In addition, there is a linear range of models, where you can additionally adjust the jet pressure. That is why the thermostat is equipped with two control valves: to select the temperature and pressure.

Now global manufacturers produce this equipment in two versions: electronic and mechanical. The first sample has a built-in information display that notifies you of the current supply water temperature. Such a sample works with batteries or thanks to a network adapter.

Standard models of thermostatic mixers allow you to adjust their operating modes using buttons. However, more expensive samples have touch and even remote control types that respond to commands from an infrared element.

In addition, such plumbing equipment is classified, depending on its purpose, into mixers with a thermostat for:

• baths;
• soul;
• shells;
• bidet;
• kitchens.

However, well-known manufacturers have also developed universal models that are quite applicable for various purposes, for example, both for the bathroom and for the kitchen. It is worth noting that the method of attaching the mixer can also be different:

• open - the entire structure and its elements are mounted directly on the selected equipment;
• closed - in this case, the shower faucet with a thermostat "hides" in the wall, and only the panel and controls remain outside.

The basic principle of the mixer

It will seem strange to many that such modern plumbing equipment actually has an extremely simple design. All samples have special valve mixing, the operation of which is controlled by the cartridge. It is most often made from bimetallic plates or has wax in its composition and is very sensitive to even minimal changes in water temperature.

The principle of operation of the mixer with a thermostat is that the set temperature parameters through the fixing and adjusting screw come to the cartridge, which either narrows in size or expands. To make the operation of the equipment safer, manufacturers install a fuse on the screw, it prevents the growth temperature regime supply water above 80 ° C. If cold water stops flowing, then the hot water supply also stops. As soon as the flow of water of the two modes is resumed, its mixing also continues. It turns out that this type of mixer eliminates the slightest possibility of getting burned or pelletizing. ice water due to a sudden change in temperature.

It is also particularly important to do the right thing with the thermostat to the water supply. If you confuse the pipes with cold and hot water, then the specified set mode will not only not be performed, but the water supplied will be the most different temperatures. Therefore, experts recommend inviting a plumber who knows his business to install the purchased mechanism. Next, you just have to do the replacement of filters, which is quite possible to do it yourself. Such filters have the form of metal meshes installed in the gap between the eccentrics and the thermostat.

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 children live. younger age. 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, it is not allowed extra expense high temperature water, which is important if it is heated due to the acquired 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.

If you do not know how to make such settings yourself, you can select the "economy mode", which will automatically change the parameters of the mixer.

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 autonomous system for heating incoming water, that is, the possibility of supplying water 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 continuously supplied according to given 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.

As for the disadvantages of such modern model mixers, they are at a 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.

How to make a successful purchase of a mixer with a thermostat?

Despite the fact that in the West such models have already acquired their admirers, the domestic market has a certain imbalance regarding supply and demand for these samples. plumbing equipment. Due to the high price, not everyone can afford to purchase such a mixer model. It is worth noting that Russian companies similar mechanisms also began to be produced, for example, by KIT, but the models they presented are of a simple design and lack a hose and spout.

European manufacturers - Oras and Grohe - are not only a guarantee of high quality and long term operation of the equipment, but also carried out in the different design. Therefore, a wide range of products of these companies allows you to choose just such a model that will fit into any modern interior. A chrome-plated coating of products provides hygiene and aesthetic appearance.

It is worth noting that, having decided to purchase a mixer with a thermostat, you need to make sure of the quality of the purchased goods. It is advisable to first obtain information regarding the features of the original products, so as not to accidentally acquire a fake by paying a sufficiently large amount. Check carefully in the plumbing equipment store all certificates of quality and conformity, and also make sure that the warranty card is available. It is he who will ensure the possibility of free repairs if the mechanism fails. Also ask how the thermostatic faucet you are going to purchase works.

After carefully checking all the documents and the product for the absence of any marriage, you can safely purchase the goods and enjoy high level comfort and convenience, which only a mixer with a thermostat is capable of!