More and more often, when choosing fixtures, we opt for modern solutions that present aesthetically in the interior and ensure maximum comfort during everyday use. One such solution is the thermostatic faucet. Faucets, both bathtub, shower, and basin, can be divided into those equipped with a thermostat and models without this practical element. It is obvious that these two types will differ slightly in construction and operating principles - both solutions have their own pros and cons that are worth knowing before heading to the store. This article aims to acquaint you with the characteristics of thermostatic faucets offered by well-known bathroom fixture manufacturers.
Construction of the Thermostatic Bathtub Faucet
The construction of a thermostatic bathtub faucet is very similar to the version without a thermostat, yet significant differences can be noted that are worth mentioning. Without this knowledge, we will not be able to take good care of it, so it is crucial to familiarize oneself with the construction of this type of product.
Bathtub faucets with a thermostat have two water sources. One is intended for hot water, and the other for cold water. This is nothing new, as we encounter such a solution almost every day. On one side of such a faucet, a water flow regulator will be installed, allowing us to decide when we want the stream to flow and with what intensity it will do so.
So far, the construction of a bathtub faucet with or without this mechanism does not differ practically at all. In a thermostatic faucet, however, a temperature regulator is installed on one side, which will not be in the case of the other solution. The temperature regulator visually resembles the water flow regulator but serves a different purpose. It is this thermostat that mixes the two water streams, resulting in warm water at a constant temperature that we set previously.
A standard solution in most thermostatic faucets is also an aerator, which causes the water to mix with air, resulting in a more intense stream despite lower water consumption, and a temperature lock at 38 degrees Celsius. If we want a warmer stream, we must press the knob harder or press the appropriate button. Some thermostatic faucets allow setting the lock to a specific temperature during installation, allowing us to set its level ourselves, for example, at 45 degrees Celsius.
Wall-Mounted and In-Wall Thermostatic Faucets
Shower thermostatic faucets are divided into in-wall and wall-mounted. The first variant is intended for installation on the surface of the wall and consists of a casing and a connected shower handle. Some models are also equipped with a spout or an integrated shelf for cosmetics – most of them are finished with tempered glass, which is durable and resistant to various mechanical damages. Many bathroom fixture manufacturers offer faucets with a rain shower, providing a comfortable bath in a water stream resembling rain. Equipping such a set can also be enriched with a shower handle on a bar allowing adjustment to the appropriate height. The advantage of wall-mounted faucets is easy installation.
The in-wall set consists of a universal in-wall element, surface elements (often very decorative), and a showerhead, rain shower, or handheld shower with a hose. Individual elements can be freely combined, matching them to the interior style or user preferences. One of the drawbacks of this type of solution is that installation work must be completed before finishing the bathroom walls. It is therefore advisable to carefully consider the choice of a specific thermostatic faucet set in advance to avoid additional costs associated with corrections in the later renovation phase.
Operating Principle of a Thermostatic Faucet
Bathtub faucets with a thermostat are characterized by specific operating principles. It is advisable to be an informed user, so it is worth familiarizing yourself with such an instruction. The thermostat is an element that will maintain the desired temperature for us. It works in a very simple manner as its task is to mix cold and hot water in a specially designed thermostatic valve.
Depending on the temperature we set, the thermostat decreases or increases the supply of hot water. From this point, a stream of water flows at our desired temperature. The thermostat operates straightforwardly, and thanks to it, we can significantly increase our comfort while preparing a bath. In the highest quality thermostatic faucets, only ceramic mixers are used, which ensure long-lasting durability and reliability. Therefore, it is worth considering purchasing bathtub faucets with this mechanism.
Advantages of Bathtub Faucets with a Thermostat
Bathtub faucets with a thermostat are products that enjoy considerable interest. Undoubtedly, the advantage of such a solution is the accuracy of the temperature setting, whose lowest value can be 1 degree Celsius. Another advantage is the quickness of setting the desired water temperature. The better the thermostat faucet, the shorter we will wait for the water to heat up – in the best models, this time will not exceed even 4 seconds.
Bathtub faucets with a thermostat also offer savings. Thanks to the quick heating of the water, we do not need to pour it in larger quantities to achieve the desired temperature. With this product, we can also save thanks to the flow regulator. By having control over the stream intensity, we will undoubtedly decide on its intensity.
These products are safe for children. Most models have a lock at 38 degrees Celsius, so the child will not be able to scald themselves with water.