The Shower Mixer Thermostatic Valve
Thermostatic mixing valves allow you to precisely preselect your water temperature beforehand, the mixing valve (TMV) is a valve that mix hot water
with cold water to ensure constant,
safe shower temperatures, thus preventing scalding due to any drop of cold water flow.
In other words thermostatic mixing valve provides
increased safety against scalding, and increased user comfort, or sudden temperature shocks
as the hot-water temperature always remains constant.
  
Thermostatic valves provide a higher degree of temperature control and
provide a wider blanket of true temperature protection.
In general they also offer more control. Temperature and volume versus just temperature. The TMV is crucial valve that helps prevent scalding
by maintaining a constant water temperature even if there are fluctuations in hot or cold water supply. On the other hand 2 main difference between
thermostatic shower valve and pressure-balance valve. In general pressure valve control a temp to +/-3 degrees, while thermostatic valves
to about +/-1 degree. The second main difference is pressure-balance valve are single-control valves. meaning you turn the single
lever and essentially get 100% volume flow out of the shower head. so there is no true volume or flow control. Each time you turn
the valve ON you're getting full flow, rotating the valve simply sets the temperature. On the other hand thermostatic mixing
valves allows you to set the volume flow and to control temperature. The scald setting on a thermostatic
valve limits water temperature to a specific temperature.
Shower Temperature Control Valve
Thermostatic valve and thermostatic shower mixer valve
 
Instant safety cut-off prevents scalding. The mixer valves have easy access
from the front for maintenance this make components can easily
be removed without the need for re-plumbing
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Shower Mixing Valve
How to Adjust a Shower Mixing Valve and Understand Thermostatic Shower Valves
A thermostatic shower valve, or thermostatic mixing valve (TMV), is an essential component in modern shower systems; it is designed to blend hot / cold water to maintain a consistent and safe water temperature throughout the whole showering process. These valves are particularly effective in preventing scalding by automatically adjusting the set ratio of the hot and cold water in response to fluctuations in water pressure, flow, or even temperature.
You can adjust the mixing valve on a shower, locate the valve, and fine-tune the balance of hot and cold water to your preferred temperature, ensuring safety and comfort.
A thermostatic valve differs from a pressure balance valve in that it directly controls the water temperature. In contrast, pressure balance valves maintain consistent water pressure but do not guarantee a stable temperature, so pressure balance valves effectively manage water pressure. The proper installation of a thermostatic valve is crucial for optimal performance.
For thermostatic shower valve installation or adjustments, consult the manufacturer’s instructions, as specific models may have unique features or requirements. Whether addressing a mixing valve, selecting a TMV cartridge, or understanding the shower temperature control mechanism, these components collectively enhance safety and comfort in your daily shower experience.
This means that
even if there is a drop in cold water flow, the water temperature will remain constant.
TMVs offer increased safety
and user comfort as they provide a higher degree of temperature control and a wider blanket of true
temperature protection. They also offer more control over temperature and volume compared
to pressure-balance valves.
A pressure-balance valve is a single-control valve that controls
temperature to within +/-3 degrees, whereas a thermostatic valve can control temperature
to within +/-1 degree. A pressure-balance valve does not offer true volume or flow control,
meaning that each time you turn the valve on, you will get full flow, rotating the valve
simply sets the temperature. On the other hand, thermostatic mixing valves allow you
to set the volume flow and control the temperature. The scald setting on a
thermostatic valve limits water temperature to a specific temperature.
Pros and Cons of Shower Mixing Valves
Here are the main types of shower mixing valves:
Manual Shower Mixing Valve
Highlight: A basic mixing valve that blends hot and cold water manually using a single or dual-handle faucet.
Best For: Standard residential showers where precise temperature control isn’t a priority.
Pros: Affordable, simple to install.
Cons: Lacks temperature regulation, prone to sudden temperature changes due to water pressure fluctuations.
Fontana Thermostatic Shower Mixing Valve
Description: This valve maintains a consistent water temperature, preventing sudden changes due to fluctuations in water pressure.
Customer Review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"I recently installed the Fontana Thermostatic Valve, a game-changer. The water temperature remains steady, and the build quality is impressive."
–
Steve P., New York, NY
Pressure-Balancing Shower Valve (Anti-Scald Valve)
Highlight: Maintains a consistent water temperature by adjusting hot and cold water flow when pressure changes.
Best For: Family bathrooms where safety from scalding is important.
Pros: Prevents sudden temperature spikes caused by flushing toilets or dishwasher use.
Cons: Does not regulate water temperature, only balances pressure.
Customer Review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"No more sudden bursts of cold water when someone flushes the toilet. This valve works perfectly."
–
William F., Chicago, IL
Thermostatic Shower Mixing Valve
Highlight: Uses a built-in thermostat to precisely control and maintain water temperature.
Best For: Luxury showers, hotels, or homes where precise temperature control is needed.
Pros: Allows users to set and maintain a specific temperature, reducing water waste.
Cons: More expensive and requires professional installation.
Digital Shower Mixing Valve
Highlight: Electronic valve controlled via touchscreens, remotes, or smartphone apps for precision temperature and flow control.
Best For: Smart homes and high-tech bathroom setups.
Pros: Offers programmable settings, voice control, and water-saving features.
Cons: Higher cost, requires electricity or battery backup.
Fontana Digital Shower Mixing Valve
An advanced valve that allows users to set precise water temperatures using digital controls, often featuring touchscreens or remote access.
Customer Review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"The digital controls are intuitive, and I love being able to set my preferred temperature before even stepping into the shower."
–
Paul W., Los Angeles, CA
Diverter Valve (2-Way or 3-Way Mixing Valve)
Highlight: Allows users to switch between different water outlets (e.g., showerhead, handheld shower, body jets).
Best For: Showers with multiple outlets or dual shower systems.
Pros: Increases shower versatility, prevents the need for multiple water controls.
Cons: Does not regulate temperature, only diverts water.
Fontana Diverter Valve
This Fontana valve enables users to switch between different water outlets, such as a showerhead and a handheld sprayer, enhancing shower versatility.
Customer Review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Switching between the overhead shower and the handheld is seamless. It adds great functionality to my shower setup."
–
David L., Miami, FL
Transfer Valve
Highlight: Similar to a diverter valve, it allows water to flow through multiple outlets simultaneously.
Best For: Luxury shower setups with rainfall heads, handheld wands, and body jets.
Pros: More control over water distribution, allows custom multi-function showers.
Cons: More complex installation, requires higher water pressure.
Concealed vs. Exposed Mixing Valves
Concealed Valve: Hidden behind the wall, with only control knobs visible. Provides a sleek, modern aesthetic.
Exposed Valve: Mounted on the wall, making installation easier and maintenance more accessible.
Choosing the Right Shower Mixing Valve
For standard homes → Pressure-balancing valve (affordable & anti-scald protection).
For high-end homes → Thermostatic valve (precise temperature control).
For smart bathrooms → Digital valve (programmable & remote-controlled).
For multi-function showers → Diverter or transfer valve (multiple outlets).
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