The question about which kind of shower control to go for; thermostatic or manual, becomes one of the most challenging one when improving or installing a new shower system. Each type has pros and cons. By identifying the main variations in characteristics, functionalities, and prices you can decide which is most suitable for your home and preferences.
Here’s a complete guide that will give you more information about thermostatic and manual showers as well as breaking their key distinctions down to help you make a right choice while buying them. If you read on, you will find detailed comparison between two main types of controlling showers.
What is Thermostatic?
A thermostatic shower, also known as a thermostatic mixing valve (TMV) shower, blends hot and cold water supplies to produce a regulated, pre-set outlet temperature.
At the heart of a thermostatic shower is an advanced pressure-balancing valve that accurately senses water temperature. If the hot or cold supply pressure changes, the valve immediately adjusts the ratio of hot and cold water to keep the temperature constant.
This thermostatic control mechanism provides reliable protection against sudden spikes or drops in water temperature that could result in uncomfortable or dangerous showering. The valves are factory calibrated but allow users to customize their maximum desired temperature.
Many modern thermostatic showers offer added features like digital interfaces, rain showerheads, body jets, and wireless remote controls. But the core benefit is an automatically regulated, consistent temperature every time you shower.
What Are Manual Showers?
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In contrast to advanced thermostatic showers, manual showers provide temperature control via basic hot and cold water taps or levers. The user manually adjusts the blend of hot and cold water to reach their desired showering temperature.
The hot and cold supplies are delivered through a basic mixing valve. Turning the hot tap increases the ratio of hot water, turning the cold tap increases the cold water. The outlet temperature depends entirely on the angle of each manual handle.
Manual showers are simple in design and operation. But they lack the ability to automatically compensate for supply pressure changes. The water temperature you experience can vary considerably based on water usage elsewhere in the home.
Now that we’ve reviewed both shower types, let’s examine the key differences between thermostatic vs. manual showers in detail.
Key Differences Between Thermostatic And Manual Showers
Temperature Control
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The most significant difference between thermostatic and manual showers is the ability to accurately control water temperature.
Thermostatic showers deliver a pre-set temperature that does not deviate. Once your desired temperature is set, the advanced valve maintains a precise degree consistently.
Manual showers require you to continually adjust handles to regulate temperature. Any fluctuations in hot or cold supply pressure can lead to scalding or chilling showers.
For households with children or elderly residents, thermostatic showers provide essential protection against unsafe shower temperatures.
Safety Features
In addition to keeping temperature stable, thermostatic showers also offer superior scalding prevention through safety-focused design.
Most quality thermostatic valves feature factory set maximum temperature stops, as well as automatic shutdown if hot or cold supply fails. This prevents dangerously hot water from ever reaching you.
Manual showers lack integral safety mechanisms. Valve failure or someone accidentally turning the hot handle too far can result in scalding water.
Installation Complexity
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Thermostatic showers require careful installation and calibration for proper functioning. The mixing valve must be precisely set and water pressures balanced.
Improperly installed thermostatic showers will fail to deliver accurate temperature control. Complex digital models require electrical connections.
In contrast, manual showers are simple for plumbers to install. The manual handles connect directly to hot and cold feeds without special calibration.
Maintenance
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The advanced valves and integrated electronics of thermostatic showers require more periodic maintenance to keep performing properly. Valve cartridges typically need replacing every 5-10 years.
Manual showers involve less maintenance apart from replacing washers or O-rings if handles start to drip. Their durability and minimal moving parts keep maintenance light.
Water Pressure
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Both shower types can be matched with rain shower heads, body sprays, or other high-flow output options. However, thermostatic valves compensate better for low water pressure conditions.
Some manual showers may provide disappointing flow or force if your home’s water pressure is inadequate. Boosting pumps can help increase pressure.
User Experience
Thermostatic showers make showering extremely simple and convenient. Just turn on your preset temperature and enjoy consistent comfort and relaxation.
Manual showers demand more hands-on tweaking of handles to maintain the right temperature as conditions change. Less tech-savvy users may find thermostatic systems easier.
Energy Efficiency
The ability to digitally program specific temperatures and times makes thermostatic showers better for controlling water usage and bills.
With manual showers, longer showers or leaving the handles fully open wastes more hot water and energy. Responsible usage habits are required.
FAQs
Q: Do all thermostatic showers have digital controls?
A: No, simple knob-controlled thermostatic showers are available without digital interfaces. Digital models just allow more precise programming and electronic operation.
Q: Can I install a thermostatic shower myself?
A: Thermostatic shower installation is complex and best left to professionals. The mixing valve must be calibrated properly which requires expertise.
Q: Is a thermostatic shower worth the extra cost?
A: For most buyers, the benefits of reliable temperature regulation and safety justify the higher cost of quality thermostatic showers.
Q: What maintenance does a manual shower need?
A: Manual showers just need occasional replacement of washers and O-rings as handles start to leak. Basic models don't require significant upkeep.
Q: How often do I need to service a thermostatic shower?
A: The thermostatic cartridge should be inspected every 2-3 years and replaced around every 5-10 years for optimal performance.
Conclusion
Per se, thermostat showers offer the best temperature control and safety, as well as a luxurious experience of showering. Nonetheless, its better performance is matched by increased costs and need for skillful installation.
In case somebody stays within tight financial constraints or enjoys simple do-it-yourself projects they can still choose manual showers. But then be ready to shift temperature and flow rate at your own pace.
In short, manual and thermostat type showers are determined by one’s personal preferences in terms of cost considerations, features of the product functionality, user-friendliness, and security aspects. Consequently, regarding all these important factors, make this ultimate decision about your bathroom. Invest wisely in order to have great showers for years ahead.
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