Ultimate Buyer's Guide For Shower Valve

You've decided to remodel your shower. Now you are probably confused about where to begin, especially when choosing the right shower valve. It's not surprising that there are so many options for shower valves. It can be difficult to choose the right one.

There are many options for shower valves. You can choose from modern or traditional designs, as well hidden, exposed, manual, thermostatic, and thermostatic. Plus, you have the option to connect one, two, and three outlets.
It's no surprise that it is difficult. You will also need to ensure that the valve matches your showerhead and is compatible with your home's water system.

WHAT DO SHOWER VALVES DO?

The shower mixer valve connects with the hot and cold water supply and regulates the temperature and flow of water to the showerhead. Some shower valves only supply water to one outlet, such as a handset for a shower, while others supply water at multiple outlets, depending on the function and style of the shower.

 

What SHOWER VALVE do I need?

You will first need to choose the type of shower system that you want before you can select a shower valve. You might prefer a simple sliding rail system with a hand shower or a more complex system that includes a fixed head, handset, and body jets. After you have made your decision, you can choose the best type of shower valve. 

 

Below are the differences.

 

1 Outlet thermostatic shower valves -

supply water to one outlet, such as a fixed head. The temperature is controlled by one handle, and the flow of water is controlled by the other.

Triple thermostatic shower valve - 

provides water to two outlets, such as fixed and body jets. The temperature control is controlled by one handle, and the flow controls are provided by the two other handles.

2 Outlet thermostatic shower valve with diverter -

It supplies water to two outlets, such as a handset and fixed shower head. The temperature control knob is on one handle, and the diverter button allows you to switch between these two functions.

 

3 Outlet thermostatic shower valve, with diverter – 

It supplies water to three outlets such as a handset, fixed shower head, and body shower jets. The temperature control handle is one, and the diverter allows you to change the water flow from one outlet to the other. The flow control is the last handle. It allows you to independently control a third outlet, such as body jets.

 

What is a THERMOSTATIC SHOWER VALVE?

 

The thermostatic shower valve, also known as the TMV valve, is designed to maintain water temperature. The shower valve prevents water from freezing or boiling by turning on the taps or flushing the toilets elsewhere in the house. A thermostatic mixing valve is the best choice for families with small children and the elderly. This valve includes an automatic anti-scald device that ensures safer showering.

Two or more handles are typical for thermostatic shower valves. One controls the flow, the other controls temperature. Once you're happy with the temperature, you can leave the handle in the same place. Then you just need to turn on/off the shower each time you use it.

 

There are many reasons to choose a thermostatic valve for your shower:

• A constant temperature is maintained by precise thermostatic control

• This is a great choice for families with young children

• You can use it with any shower outlet that you like

• Anti-scald technology

WHAT IS A THERMOSTATIC MIXER VALVE?

A temperature-sensitive element is used in a mixing valve. It expands and contracts according to water supply pressures and temperatures. The element expands and contracts, causing a slide valve to move. This adjusts the flow of hot or cold water into the valve. This is how water stays at a constant temperature.

The valve will shut off automatically if the water supply is cut off. This happens by the element expanding and pushing down the slide valve.

WHAT DOES "TMV2 APPROVED" MEAN?

TMV2 is an independent test scheme for thermostatic mixing valves. This scheme ensures that both national and international standards can be met. A thermostatic shower valve must meet these strict standards.

TMV2 approved shower valves provide high levels of thermostatic protection and are completely safe to use in domestic properties, in compliance with the Building Regulations. Shower valves that have been TMV3 certified are suitable for use in healthcare.

What is a MANUAL SHOWER VALVE?

A manual shower valve is simple to use. You simply lift the handle and turn it to adjust the temperature and flow. Manual shower valves can be used with or without a diverter and are compatible with both high- and low-pressure systems. To ensure good flow rates, a shower diverter valve must be used at a higher pressure.

A manual shower valve is more convenient than a thermostatic one. If you are in the shower while someone flushes the toilet, the water can freeze or heat up.

SHOULD I CHOOSE EXPOSED SHOWER VALVES OR CONCEALED SHOWER VALVES?

 

There are two types of shower valves: concealed and exposed. The style and budget of your bathroom will influence the choice you make.

 

Shower valves concealed

 

Concealed shower valves can be a great choice if you are looking for a clean, sleek finish. The shower area tiles conceal the valve and pipework, with the chrome handles and faceplate being the only visible parts.

The shower valve can be customized to suit any bathroom design. The chrome finish is easy to match any decor, and the solid brass construction provides great durability. Traditional handles are more decorative than modern ones. They can either be round or square. Crosshead handles are classic and timeless.

Consider the recess you will need to create behind the tiling. A recess depth of approximately 100mm is required for a concealed shower mixer valve. A thin stud wall is possible if the space is not available. The faceplate gives the tile a clean, sleek look.

If anything does not go according to plan, you can remove the handles from a concealed shower valve and access the cartridges.

 

There are many reasons to choose a concealed valve for your shower.

• It provides a clean, sleek finish

• There are many styles to choose from

• Greater flexibility in the location of the valves and shower outlets

• Hidden shower valve with handset and slide rail

Shower valves exposed

Exposed shower valves can be installed on the wall in a variety of styles, including modern bars and classic designs with lever controls and ceramic details. While this may not create a neat finish, it is cheaper to purchase and install than a concealed valve.

If you have brick walls with solid brick walls, exposed valves work well. This type of valve is quicker and easier to put in because the cold and hot water pipes do not need to be chased into the wall.

Although an exposed valve is cheaper, it does not offer the same design options and flexibility as a positioned valve.

 

There are many reasons to choose an exposed valve for your shower.

• Installation is quicker and easier

• A concealed valve is more affordable 

• Available in both traditional and modern designs

 MODERN OR TRADITIONAL

After you have decided on a concealed or open, thermostatic or manual, and how many outlets you want, the only thing left is to choose between modern or traditional designs.

A concealed shower valve with square handles or round handles can enhance a modern bathroom. For a classic and timeless look, you can choose an exposed or concealed valve with lever or crosshead handles.

 

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