You’re planning to have nice and cozy decorations, so you have new collections of furniture in your home. Also, you think about a bathroom upgrade.
You have a well-designed bathroom. But an urgent temperature-controlling shower upgrade is required to support your older or younger family members.
In this case, you can consider buying a thermostatic shower valve to have a controlled shower temperature.
You’re familiar with traditional bathroom accessories, but here we are bringing you premium quality shower valves that feature controlling water flow and an anti-scald safety guard that prevent you from any unwanted mishap.
We think that’s all about the thermo shower valve to make yourself easy on buying this shower accessory. But we think you deserve to know more. Here’s it.
What is a thermostatic shower mixer valve?
If you want to have a comfy shower experience that offers temperature control, this shower valve should be your first choice right away.
So, how does an ideal thermostatic shower valve work?
A shower valve mixer examines the water stream and supplies water according to the water stream, and it also provides a constant shower temperature during your shower. But you need to set your desired temperature to have an optimum temperature.
Thermo shower valves contain two handles. One of them controls the flow of the water, and another controls the temperature. Thermo shower valves operate through the temperature of the water.
Is that all the thermostatic shower valves do? Let’s find out more-
What does a thermostatic shower valve do?
Shower valves have unique operations in terms of supplying cold and hot water while maintaining temperature. So, how does the valve operate?
If you have a shower mixer valve, the thermostat element in the mixer extends and shrinks when the temperature and pressure of hot or cold water change.
While extending and shrinking, the slide valve adjusts at a precise position to have a sufficient cold and hot water accessing the valve.
If the cold water flows gradually fail, the valve pressurizes the hot supply to have an optimum and safe temperature in the dispensing outlet.
On completely cold water, supply failure leads to shutting down the valve operation. This is the anti-scalding feature that prevents dispense outlets from having a high temperature in the water supply.
Advantages of thermostatic shower valve
These shower valves consist of distinct ways of operating the cold and hot water supply. The primary role of the shower mixing valve is to protect the person from unwanted occurrences, such as getting too hot or too cold water that might hurt any younger or older person.
Let’s get to the advantages of having a thermo shower valve-
Protection from Scalding: The main feature of the thermo shower valve is scalding protection. With a thermo valve and scalding protection, anyone can choose the appropriate temperature for their comfort. So, setting the different levels of temperatures enables the user to have protection from scalding.
Protection from Thermal Shock: Having a shower in uncertain water temperature will shock anyone. This is called thermal shock. While you are showering in hot water, the sudden dispense of cold water will shock you right away. Thermo shower valve works to protect you from this situation.
Easy Installation: The shower mixing valve doesn’t need any special spot or changes to install in your bathroom. You can easily install the thermo shower valves without any extra effort. But you definitely need a professional plumber to perfectly set this up.
Disadvantages of thermostatic shower valve
Although these shower valves barely have any drawbacks, the shower valve still includes a couple of them. Here are some of the drawbacks that a standard thermo shower valve includes-
Costly shower valve: The shower valve is intended to be costly as these shower valves include a temperature control system and upgraded equipment.
Bulk Accessories: Shower valves include several types of accessories that might lead to tricky installation. In this case, you need to find a professional plumber to install this efficiently.
Other than the cost itself, the thermo shower valve has many advantages. As the shower valve prevents any thermal shock or scalding and includes a water flow controlling system, this is definitely worth your penny.
Types of Thermostatic Shower Valves on the Market
There are different thermo shower valves in the market to upgrade your shower experience. They are diverse in functionality and features. Let’s get to the types this time-
1. Bar Valve
This type of shower valve includes high-quality ABS plastic and a durable chrome-plated finish. It also includes easy gripping and temperature control dials.
2. Concealed Valve
This stylish and sleek design thermo shower valve includes a unique way of fitting its accessories. The water dispenser gets fitted in a side, and right beside the dispenser, the control dials are fitted into the wall.
3. Exposed Valve
If you’re searching for a bit more stylish and elegant shower valve, the ‘exposed valve’ is the right choice for you. This shower valve features dual outlets that enable you to switch the handset and overhead shower.
4. Traditional Valve
If you’re looking for an old or classic-style thermo shower valve, the traditional valve is here for you. This shower valve includes classic lever-style or crosshead handle-designed shower valves that are available in a range of colors in the market.
Get the guide: How to choose the right shower valve
Thermostatic Shower Valves Reviews – Best Thermostatic Shower Mixing Valve to Buy in 2023
So, you must be thrilled to purchase a thermostatic shower mixer valve by now. But prior to that- If you are a first-time buyer, we recommend you to foll.
1. Moen S3102 Thermostatic Shower Valve
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The very first on our list is this smart shower that has been commonly chosen by customers around the world.
Its key feature is the digital device connectivity through WiFi technology which separates this shower valve from other models.
The digital connectivity lets you choose the initial start of the shower with your voice through speaker, Moen smart water app, and the usual shower controlling system.
Moreover, this shower valve features two outlets and a temperature control system for the user’s convenience.
The dual dispenser outlet enables you to connect the handset and overhead shower. So, this shower valve would be a great choice if you want a more convenient shower experience.
Pros
- Dual Outlet
- Control water usage
- Digital connectivity
-
Ideal temperature control
Cons
- Costly product
2. Kohler K-2973 Thermostatic Valve
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This prominent faucet company is one of the best out there for quality material and customer trust worldwide.
Its thermostatic valve permits both to maintain and set the right temperature. Also, the thermo valve features a maintained water flow rate.
Also, this shower valve has a temperature limiter that lets you limit the high temperature. Also, it prevents any scalding occurrences.
So, if you want a prominent brand and traditional thermostatic valve features, step out for a purchase.
Pros
- Prevent Scalding
- Control water flow
- Precise temperature control
-
Factory calibrated comfort setting
Cons
- Heavy Valve
3. Delta Faucet R10000 Thermostatic Valve
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This classic thermostatic shower valve brings you the upgrading facility to improve your shower experience. The key feature of this valve is it can be easily installed on your traditional shower trim without changing anything.
Furthermore, this shower valve includes a heat-resistant test cap that allows this valve to test the water pressure efficiently. The small and simple cut makes it easier to install in a place with precision.
Also, the MultiChoice universal valves let you install them in multi-unit buildings. So, if you opt for a compact design and classic thermo shower valve, here’s it.
Pros
- Easy Installation
- Heat-resistant cap
- Control water flow
- Multi choice shower
-
Dual-function valve cartridge
Cons
- Inadequate Installation Instructions
4. Atmama Thermostatic Mixing Valve
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If you are looking for a compact design and reasonable thermostatic mixing valve, here’s one for you. This solid brass body thermostatic valve permits the bather to maintain and set the right temperature by rotating the valve.
Also, this shower valve is appropriate for the pipe water valve, shower, and basin washroom.
So, if you want solid build quality and traditional thermostatic valve features, step out for a purchase.
Pros
- Easy Installation
- Solid brass material
- Various installation places
-
High temperature functionality
Cons
- Installation places may have compatibility Issue
5. Moen S3371 Thermostatic Rough-In Shower Valve
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This popular brand thermo valve brings you the upgrading facility to your shower. The key feature of this valve is it can be easily installed on your traditional shower trim without any plumbing work.
Furthermore, this durable brass body shower valve includes an exact temp thermostatic system that allows this valve to keep up the optimum temperature. The small design makes it easier to install in a place with precision.
Also, the safety stops preset & stop override features lets you set the maximum temperature, 120 degrees F. So, if you opt for the best price and classic thermo shower valve, here’s it.
Pros
- Easy Installation
- Solid brass material
- Various installation places
-
High temperature functionality
Cons
- May have compatibility Issue
6. Kohler K2975KSNA Shower Thermostatic Valve
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This prominent faucet company is one of the best thermostatic shower valve for quality material and customer trust worldwide.
Its thermostatic valve permits the bather to maintain and set the right temperature. Also, the thermo valve features a maintained water flow rate.
Also, this shower valve has a temperature limiter that lets you limit the high temperature. Also, it prevents any scalding occurrences.
So, if you want a prominent brand and traditional thermostatic valve features, this thermo shower valve is for you.
Pros
- Prevent Scalding
- Control water flow
- Precise temperature control
-
Factory calibrated comfort setting
Cons
- Heavy Valve
7. HOMEDEC Thermostatic Mixer Shower Valve
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This high-grade solid brass matt black thermostatic mixer shower valve consists of high-quality premium materials and an anti-rust body that provides durability.
Moreover, the anti-scald material prevents water temperature fluctuation.
The 3-way shower valve is equipped with high-sensitive temperature parts that can control hot and cold water temperature.
Moreover, the auto shut-off technology prevents cut-off and colds. So, if you want premium features and high-quality material in a thermostatic mixer shower valve, here’s it.
Pros
- Auto shut-off
-
Anti-scald feature
-
Control water flow
-
Precise temperature control
Cons
- Bulk of accessories
8. QISHENG Thermostatic Mixer Valve
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This high-grade solid brass thermostatic mixer shower valve includes a single cast body and premium quality technological coating and anti-rust body that provide durability. Moreover, anti-scald devices prevent water temperature fluctuation.
You can control the temperature with the bottom knob. The safety button at the bottom provides the convenience to control and adjust your desired temperature.
So, if you want premium features and high-quality material in a thermostatic mixer shower valve, here’s it.
Pros
- Safety button
- Single casting & solid brass
- Anti-scald thermostatic cartridge
-
High-sensitivity temperature sensing
Cons
- Bulk of accessories
Thermostatic Shower Valve Buying Guide – Things to Consider Before Buying
Before you set out to purchase a thermo shower valve, we have a reminder for you. The thermo shower valve consists of some key features that you need to keep in mind before opt for an ideal thermostatic shower valve.
Follow our lead-
Easy Installation
Most customers fall into a situation where they can’t really figure out how to go for an easy installation. Some shower valve products include a bulk of accessories that you can avoid, or in this case, you need to hire a professional plumber to set the whole thermo valve.
Protection Features
The protection feature of a thermo valve protects any user from an unwanted situation. So, consider buying a thermo valve with a couple of protection features.
Warranty Service
Almost every shower valve comes equipped with a range of warranty options. Go for a longer period of warranty shower valve that guarantees you a long time of customer service.
Thermostatic Shower Valve vs Pressure Balance – What’s the Difference
Thermostatic valve is widely popular amongst faucet customers around the world. Such a valve is quite pricey; most of the customers have the tendency to go for a pressure balance valve. So, there are some distinct features and differences between these two.
Let’s find out-
Pressure Balance: Non-thermostatic shower valve includes a pressure valve that examines the water pressure and supplies hot or cold water in accordance with the pressure. But the problem is, occasionally, users have to handle the temperature button manually during the shower to ensure optimum temperature.
On the other hand, a thermo shower valve has the same feature, but they include extra protection for users, and moreover, users define the temperature before having a shower. Thermo shower valve doesn’t need any extra handling during the shower.
Water Flow Rate: Thermo shower valve has a higher flow rate compared to the pressure balance valve. The ideal shower flow rate of a thermo shower valve is 2.1 GPM or 8 liters of water, whereas a pressure balance has the same rate, but these valves can’t supply water at a constant rate.
So, considering these points, you can choose either one of the shower valves.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
What does the ‘with stop’’ mean in traditional thermo shower valves?
The ‘’with stop’’ feature allows a user to shut off the valve with a screwdriver. The main functionality of the ‘stop’ function is a rough valve that includes a screw head.
Can I install the shower valve vertically?
Some of the specific models like Qisheng allows user to install shower valve vertically. You can install this model horizontally as well.
What are the general flow rates of thermostatic shower valves?
2.1 GPM or 8 liters of water per minute.
Can I install this with the given installation instructions?
Definitely, you can, but our suggestion is some specific models require professional hands. Try professional plumbers if you find it difficult to install.
Final Words
That’s all our recommendations for the thermostatic shower valves.
Hope our comprehensive list will surely assist you to opt for a better choice, and you have ideas about the best valves by now.
So make sure the thermo shower valve you are going to select has protection features and a longtime warranty.