Most people have experienced a situation where the temperature of the water changes while taking a shower. She got cold or hot. To avoid this, use a thermostat. It is built into the mixer, and with its help the consumer sets the desired temperature regime. The device will not let you get burned or get caught in a cold stream.
Content
What are the mixers
This review presents popular models with detailed descriptions, characteristics, tips for use, where to buy and how to use.
By appointment, devices for mixing liquids are divided into:
- Thermo;
- Sensory;
- Single-lever;
- Double wishbones.
So, let's figure out what it is and what it is for.
With temperature sensors
It is not difficult to use the technique with a thermostat. It is necessary to select the intensity of the head and set the desired temperature. The command goes through the fastening and adjusting screw to the sensitive element, which is represented by a bimetallic plate or wax. Such a device is suitable for bath and shower. You can adjust the temperature setting to suit everyone. The main positive characteristic is safety. Even small family members can use the device without risk. If there is no water, the liquid supply is automatically turned off.
The maximum temperature adjustable on such a device is up to 90 degrees. Modern models are equipped with nickel mechanisms to control the flow. The mechanism turns on and off the pressure and makes it comfortable.
Important! The thermostatic device operates due to the sensors inside the device. Hot and cold liquid enters through the distributor, where they are mixed and the jet is directed to the tap.
If the temperature does not correspond to the set one, then the sensor automatically adjusts the locking mechanism. This corrects for hot and cool currents.
The average price for such devices ranges from 8 to 12 thousand rubles.
Sensory
The sensor version does not contain control valves and levers. The liquid will flow if you just bring your hands to the device. Activities are customizable using sensors.
They may be:
- Based on photocells;
- Infrared;
- With piezo element (rarely found).
In most cases, the sensors are based on photocells. The movement of the flow is carried out when the movement is formed in the sensitivity area of the device. Some devices are adjustable for sensing distance. It ranges from 0.10-0.35 m.
The liquid will not pour out immediately, but after a couple of seconds. This time interval is necessary for the water to stop flowing when the user stops using it. Sensing devices, in addition to the sensor, are equipped with a copper thermostat, which will make it possible to adjust an acceptable temperature regime until the next change of settings.
The device is powered by a battery. But there are options that work from the network or through a transformer.Manufacturers complete mixers with batteries. Sensor models are convenient, and the sensor makes it possible to economically use fluid. They are used for the shower.
Sensor mixers delight with variety. Some models come in the original design, but there is a standard version, only without valves. In order to use the shower, you should stand under it, and the liquid will flow at a comfortable temperature previously set. The thermostat can be mechanical or electronic.
It is interesting! Newer shower thermostats are protected against hot or cold liquids. They are popular for families with children, because they completely eliminate the possibility of getting burned. If necessary, protection can be turned off.
Single-lever
This is a mixer that has one knob, when used, you can adjust the flow and temperature. The work of the lever is to raise and lower it. When the lever is lifted up, the fluid flow increases. Turn the knob to the right and left to adjust the temperature. If you lower it down, then the water is blocked.
The single lever device can be with a ball or ceramic cartridge. The main part of the ball device is a chamber, which is an empty bronze ball with three holes. One receives hot liquid, the other - cold. Inside the chamber, the streams are mixed and enter the third hole connected to the spout. The control lever moves the ball so as to adjust the hole clearances, that is, it changes the amount of hot and cold liquid filling the chamber and the amount of outgoing flow.
The ceramic cartridge is formed by two or three plates. The lower part includes three holes with this functionality: hot liquid, cold and mixed flow. The mixing itself takes place at the top of the appliance. These two types of devices work in a similar manner, but behave differently during use. Lime deposits never build up on the ceramic device. This is due to the tight fit of the plates to each other, the lumen area is comparable to the size of the molecule.
Ceramics do not like sand and other mechanical contaminants. Even if one microscopic grain of sand gets inside such a model, it can cause a chip on the ceramic elements, which will make it necessary to replace the cartridge. Sand does not threaten the metal ball located inside, but nothing prevents the formation of limescale here. The weak element of single-lever products are rubber seals. These components will have to be changed frequently. Consumers complain about the impossibility of precise temperature control. This is inherent in budget options that have a small tuning angle.
Disadvantages:
- They are picky about the composition of the liquid;
- Due to the intricacies of the structure, the equipment is very susceptible to connections;
- The latter is usually of low quality and often clogs up mechanisms that subsequently become unusable;
- Especially such problems arise when using variants with ceramic cartridges.
Note! Can't be restored. It is impossible to repair single-lever devices on your own!
With two handles
The device of the double-lever mechanism includes a valve box, which allows you to adjust the temperature and pressure of the fluid flow. Before the advent of single-lever products, this type of equipment was popular. The device is made in the form of a chamber, the task of which is to mix hot and cold liquid. The mixed water flows out through the faucet spout and the mesh on the spout tip prevents splashing.
You should be familiar with the design of a two-valve mixer so that in the event of a malfunction, it can be repaired. To attach the mechanism to the pipe, use eccentric fasteners. The distance between the pipes must be from 0.14-0.15 m. Otherwise, the installation of the mixer is not possible.
Two valve-type heads which are built into the body are considered as component parts.These components affect the period of use of the device. In the upper area of the heads, handles are attached with screws. They are made from a wide variety of materials, they can be decorated in different ways, differ in appearance and size.
How it works?
The temperature is adjusted on one handle, the pressure on the other. There may also be a shower switch. This model is perfect and comfortable. The base of the construction of such mixers is a thermoelement, which consists of metal shavings and wax. Since these components are endowed with the properties of expansion and contraction in an instant under the influence of different temperatures, smoothing of the liquid pressure drop at the outlet of the mixer is obtained.
How to install a faucet in the bathroom?
Many people think that models with a thermostat heat the liquid by connecting to electricity. This opinion is erroneous.
When connecting, the following order is observed: hot liquid supply - to the left side, cold - to the right. If these requirements are not met by the thermostatic device it will be unusable.
Mixer installation consists of the following steps:
- Close the valve;
- Clean and lubricate the stopcocks to shut off the flow;
- Remove the old device;
- Check the integrity of the discs and threads of the installed equipment;
- Twist the eccentrics;
- Clean discs from dirt;
- Wind the fumlent onto the thread of the device;
- Put gaskets;
- Put decorative overlays;
- Fix the device;
- Carefully apply sealant to the joints;
- Open the valve with liquid and check the performance of the equipment;
- Adjust the temperature.
Advice! Before starting the installation, it will not be superfluous to install filters at the entrance of pipes into the apartment. This will enable the device not to fail longer.
The best producers are recognized as Germany, Italy and Turkey.
10 best thermostatic faucets
Below is a rating of quality thermostatic faucets provided for the bathroom.
AM.PM F7550000
The nicest bathroom faucet. Convenient to use due to stable fluid supply, temperature and valves. The ceramic plate remains unchanged for many years. The aerator allows you to save water. Even at different pipe levels, it is mounted strictly on a horizontal surface, thanks to eccentrics. The chrome surface, with a silvery color, is easy to clean from limescale and stains.
Advantages:
- Easy to operate;
- Stable temperature regime;
- With comfort spout function;
- Minimum noise.
Disadvantages:
- Heavy;
- Needs additional costs when installed as a filter.
Price: from 16 290 rubles.
KLUDI Zenta 35101 0538
Thermostatic stainless steel faucet with a ceramic valve - axle box is responsible for temperature and pressure regulation. The handle rotates 90 degrees and has a button with modes, including economical consumption. A bronze shut-off valve allows you to use the device in a safe mode and turns it off when the liquid is heated to 38 degrees. The fluid consumption is 22 liters per minute.
Benefits:
- Beautiful design;
- Convenient adjustment;
- German quality;
- Pressure drops do not affect temperature changes.
Disadvantages:
- High price;
- Handles loosen with prolonged use.
Price: from 15 234 rubles.
Hansgrohe Ecostat Universal 13123000
According to buyers, it is an easy-to-use model. The AIR Power system adds air to the jet. Thus, the consumption is low and the enjoyment of use is increased. Silicone inserts protect against limescale. Elementary cleaning agents can be used in cleaning the nickel surface due to the chrome surface. The device is hygienic and will match any design.
Benefits:
- Limiting fuse up to 40 degrees;
- The spout occurs at an angle, which allows you not to spray water;
- Ergonomic handles;
- Quiet operating mode.
Disadvantages:
- The thermostat does not heat the water normally over time.
Price: from 13 230 rubles.
Grohe Grohtherm 1000 34155003
A stainless steel appliance supplies water at a set temperature continuously, regardless of the pressure. Installation takes place on the wall during construction or renovation, and the connection to a standard water supply. When heated, the case remains unchanged, thanks to which the sensor can be fixed at a temperature of 38 degrees. In case of overheating, the sensor is triggered and blocks the increase in the limit. The system is designed with comfort in mind and does not raise questions.
Benefits:
- Easy to clean thanks to the chrome-plated surface;
- Several modes of water supply;
- With swivel spout;
- Economical shower mode.
Disadvantages:
- Temperature change when switching from tap to shower;
- High water consumption in normal mode.
Price: from 11 264 rubles.
WasserKRAFT Berkel 4811 Thermo
The mixer can quickly adjust the water pressure and temperature. The brass body does not corrode. The chrome surface allows for hygiene in the bathroom. It has a pleasant and aesthetic appearance, is easy to use, has many functions and remains unchanged for a long time. Additional filters prevent pipe blockages. Ceramic plates do not let water through, the faucet does not leak.
Benefits:
- Works silently even when dialing a bath;
- High quality is confirmed by a 5-year warranty;
- The transition from hot to cold water is smooth;
- Brass body;
- The filters are protected by eccentrics.
Disadvantages:
- Not very clear control (you need to get used to);
- Cold water is not included separately.
Price: from 12 119 rubles.
Oras Nova 7462U
This model operates in a stable temperature regime. This does not affect the head. All this increases the comfort of use. The water heats up to 38 degrees. The set includes an aerator, which is installed as needed. Helps to save water consumption of about 9 liters per minute, with a pressure of 300 kPa. The user will be provided with comfortable water procedures.
Benefits:
- S-shaped eccentrics for horizontal positioning;
- Works almost without unnecessary noise;
- The temperature is regulated using the handles on the body;
- The dirt filter protects against external influences.
Disadvantages:
- Installation will take several hours;
- Complex eccentrics.
Price: from 10 746 rub.
Lemark Yeti LM7832C
According to user reviews, this is the most reliable thermostat mixer. The manufacturer claims 10 years of service if the model is purchased after 2016. The cartridge regulator provides temperature control. The thermostat is fixed at a specific temperature before dispensing water or before use. Chrome and copper products are suitable for any bathroom interiors. The hose length is 175 mm. It is mounted on a vertical surface, which protects against breakage of the mixer.
Benefits:
- The aerator saves water;
- Stable temperature at differential pressure;
- Affordable price;
- Safe use;
- Automatic thermostat operation.
Disadvantages:
- Not found.
Price: from 11 970 rubles.
Bossini Z10201410BOS0
The model from the Italian manufacturer is easily customizable and has authority in the sanitary ware market. Quality parts with a chrome-plated body met an affordable price. The brass plating of the package is due to its durability and long service life. An excellent choice for lovers of comfort.
Benefits:
- Quality reliability;
- Comfort in use;
- Hygienic surface;
- Versatile design;
- With a long spout.
Disadvantages:
- Difficult to install.
Price: from 12 276 rubles.
ORAS OPTIMA 7160
The inexpensive price of the model immediately catches the eye. The mixer is monofunctional and two-color, the way to perform only the main tasks - mixing and heating water. The handles are in the form of valves. Each has its own purpose: the right one controls the thermostat, the left one switches the flow to the shower and back.The cascade design does not bring discomfort when operating with soapy hands. In most cases, such devices are faulty. Most consumers prefer single-lever mechanisms because their installation and use are quite simple, but effective. In addition, they differ from two-valve valves in a more aesthetic appearance. Such equipment is very comfortable to use and they make it possible to most accurately adjust the temperature regime and save money.
Benefits:
- Comfort in use;
- Acceptable cost;
- With overhead shower;
- Plastic watering can.
- Durability.
Disadvantages:
- Difficult to pick up parts when broken.
Price: from 9448 rub.
WASSERKRAFT ALLER 1062L
Traditional mixer with 1 lever, easy to operate. There is a silicone aerator, which guarantees a pleasant stream and an even distribution of the liquid. The model has a ceramic switch and a cartridge from Sedal.
High-strength brass gives shine and protects the structure from corrosion. Eccentrics are included and fix the model vertically. The wall holder holds the plastic shower head securely with a long hose that is easy to remove and use.
Benefits:
- Nice look;
- Maintainability;
- The surface is easy to clean;
- Does not corrode.
Disadvantages:
- High price;
- Inconvenient shape of the watering can.
Price: from 11 512 rub.
Features and benefits of thermostatic mixer taps
Faucets with a thermostat have a number of positive qualities that you need to consider when buying:
- You can forget about constant manual temperature control;
- Even in the absence of cold water in the tap, it is impossible to burn yourself;
- Saving in water consumption, thanks to the settings;
- Installation can be done by yourself.
Tips for choosing
The choice of plumbing must be approached responsibly and take into account everything, to the smallest detail. Plumbing stores have hundreds of models that vary in price and quality. You can learn how to choose and not make mistakes when choosing by studying the recommendations.
The popularity of models is associated with the following selection criteria:
- Direct purpose of the mixer;
- Find out about the feature of the material from which it was made;
- Choose a type of control;
- Read reviews about brands - manufacturers;
- Clarify about additional features and equipment;
- Inquire about the warranty period provided by the manufacturer.
Having studied this review in a detailed form, you can easily decide on the purchase, paying attention to the important parameters and cost of the device. Have you found the right thermostat mixer model in the rating? Tell us in the comments to the article.
