The modern-day version of the bathroom shower is far removed from the traditional pipe and head units of times gone by, and it incorporates technology to provide very precise control over water temperature and flow. With energy conservation high on everyone’s list of priorities, it is no longer acceptable to heat a tank of water when taking a shower, and hot water on demand offers the homeowner a high level of energy efficiency. The thermostatic shower valve controls the mixing of hot and cold water and adjusts itself to the water temperature, resulting in an even temperature showering experience. There are many different designs available, with options for every bathroom environment, yet the thermostatic shower valve consists of the following components.
- The Thermostatic Element – This element is sensitive to the temperature of the water passing through it and that enables the water temperature to remain constant. If you would like to experience the ultimate in showering, take a look at the impressive Aqualisa thermostatic shower selection available at Trading Depot, the UK’s leading online home improvement supplier.
- Piston Driven – The thermostatic element is attached to a piston and as the thermostatic element heats up, the piston will move across the hot and cold water inlets, reducing the amount of hot water, while at the same time, increasing the cold water flow. Likewise, if the thermostatic control is turned down, the piston would increase the flow of hot water and decrease the amount of cold water. The thermostatic mixing valve eliminates the risk of being scalded by hot water – something that could happen if someone turned on the cold water in another part of the house.
- The Return Spring – This ensures that the system can work both ways, either cooling or heating the water, and while the spring is not in use when increasing the temperature, it acts when the temperature is lowered, allowing for complete temperature control. This component would not be visible, in fact, there are some very streamline shower units where everything is concealed, with the exception of the thermal controls. The online building materials supplier has products in stock you can use for DIY projects making sourcing materials easy and convenient.
- The Control Panel – This is where the user selects their preferred setting. This device is usually of the dial type, with higher temperatures in clockwise action, while turning the heat down involves turning the dial in an anti-clockwise direction. Of course, there are many different designs and the best way to browse a large collection of thermostatic showers is to search for an online supplier.
There are tips you can follow in choosing the right type of shower for you. For the majority of UK homeowners, the thermostatic shower is the unit of choice. This type removes the risk of being scalded with hot water, and the amount of energy it uses is minimal when compared to a traditional hot water system.
If you would like to browse a wide selection of thermostatic showers, an online search will take you to the website of a home improvement supplier who would have everything you need to a total bathroom revamp.