Thermostatic valves have become an indispensable element in modern bathrooms, helping make showering more relaxing – which has an enormous positive effect on daily routine. To make informed decisions when upgrading or redesigning existing plumbing setup, understanding how thermostatic valves function is paramount to making well-informed choices about upgrades or installations.
How Do They Work?
Thermostatic valves keep water temperature consistent regardless of changes to water pressure or supply, like flushing toilets or running taps elsewhere in your house – something traditional manual mixers cannot achieve without constant adjustment. They work like this automatically mixing hot and cold water until reaching desired temperatures for maximum relaxation – unlike their manual counterparts which need constant tweaks!
Consistency not only creates more comfort for users, but it can prevent sudden temperature shifts that cause burns or chills – something especially helpful in homes where young children or elderly persons live together. thermostatic valves offer peace of mind for families living with young children or elderly residents living together.
What Is A Thermostatic Valve’s Function?
A thermostatic valve consists of an adjustable piece made of wax or another substance which, depending on temperature changes in water, changes its shape based on mix ratio adjustments.
When cold water pressure decreases abruptly, this valve stops or slows the hot water flow so as to protect people from being burned by hot water rushing back in unexpectedly. Furthermore, this valve will stop or reduce flow if hot water source is cut off to stop sudden rush of cold water into homes and reduce burn risks.
Types Of Thermostatic Valves For Showers
Hidden Thermostatic Valves
Some thermostatic valves have built-in technology that keeps water temperatures from going above a certain level. This makes them great for both homes and businesses.
Thermostatic Valves for Showers That Are Hidden
People like hidden thermostatic shower valves because they look sleek. When they are installed behind walls, they create a modern look that isn’t too obvious, and you can only see them through control knobs or plates on display. Great for modern bathrooms because they save space.
Thermostatic Valves That Are Open:
It’s easier to install or replace exposed thermostatic valves because they are mounted directly on the wall. However, they are a little more noticeable than hidden ones because they are easier to see. But these solutions are still functional and look good.
Twin and Triple Controls:
Some thermostatic systems feature twin controls: one to regulate temperature and one for water flow, with an extra knob being added for switching outlets such as handheld shower and showerheads.
Advantages Of Thermostatic Valves
- Stable Temperature Control: No more futzing around with knobs in the shower to get to your ideal temperature setting – once set it will stay there!
- Safety: Thermostatic valves greatly decrease the risk of burns and thermal shock in homes where children or senior residents reside, thus protecting both of these groups against burns or shocks. This feature can make living conditions safer.
- Efficiency: With quick temperature stabilisation of water temperatures, less wasted water is being spent trying to find its ideal setting.
- Convenience: Numerous valves allow users to pre-set temperature settings for shower or tub bath sessions, saving valuable time each time you take one.
Install and Maintain
Installation is usually not something best left up to a DIY enthusiast; as doing plumbing requires cutting into water lines and possibly tile work. Therefore, hiring professional installers may be best to guarantee proper completion.
As it’s best to hire an experienced licensed plumber servicing Melbourne who understands thermostatic systems and Melbourne plumbing codes. An expert plumber will also conduct water pressure checks, ensure compatibility between hot water system components, and provide advice for long-term valve maintenance.
Maintenance requirements usually are minimal; however, regular filter cleaning and checking for limescale build-up will extend its life and help it function as intended. In areas with hard water sources, adding a water softener might enhance effectiveness further and extend service life.
Conclusion
Thermostatic shower valves are an economical, safe, and practical addition to any bathroom. By eliminating guesswork when setting water temperatures to suit you and making homes of all sizes safer. Hiring a qualified plumber in Melbourne to build or upgrade a bathroom will guarantee professional work is completed correctly – providing stress-free shower experiences every day with high quality parts installed by experts!
