THERMOSTATIC MIXERS

Thermostatic mixers at SCHÜTTE: design, safety, ease of use

Thermostatic mixers, such as shower thermostats and bath thermostats, are a popular component of modern shower and bath systems. Thanks to the automatic mixing of hot and cold water using the built-in thermostat, the water always flows at a constant temperature. This increases your bathing comfort and saves you the hassle of readjusting the water temperature. Even in the event of pressure fluctuations, the thermostat automatically regulates the water supply and ensures a constant temperature. Last but not least, a thermostatic mixer with scald protection can protect you from scalds caused by water that is too hot. In most cases, a button or other safety device must be pressed when the temperature exceeds 38 degrees Celsius so that the water can be set even hotter. This is a big plus for safety, especially for children or older people.

Shower thermostats

Thermostatic mixers are often used in showers in particular, as fluctuations in water pressure are particularly significant here. The corresponding shower thermostats automatically adjust the water supply within a very short time and thus ensure a constant water temperature.

Bath thermostats

Bath thermostats are installed somewhat less frequently than shower thermostats, but here too, demand is rising continuously. As with shower thermostats, the focus with bath thermostats is on precise temperature regulation. In addition to the connection for a hose, bath thermostats have an additional spout for filling the bath.

Thermostatic mixers with shelf

Thermostatic mixers with an integrated shelf on which you can place a shampoo bottle or other shower utensils are particularly practical. The actual thermostatic mixer is framed by a box and the controls for regulating the temperature are on the outside. The shelf can be made of glass, for example, to create a particularly elegant and high-quality look in your bathroom.

How a thermostatic mixer works

The heart of a thermostatic mixer is the built-in thermostatic element, which automatically mixes hot and cold water to achieve the temperature desired by the user. In the past, automatic mixing was achieved using a bimetallic element that expanded differently depending on the temperature, thereby regulating the flow. Modern thermostats generally use an expansion element made of special wax, as this reacts much faster than a bimetal. This wax expansion element, which is flooded directly by the mixing water, competes with a metal spring attached to the opposite side of the mixer tap. The warmer the temperature of the mixing water, the more the expansion element pushes the opening of the mixer tap in the direction of the cold water flow. If the temperature drops and the expansion element contracts, the spring pushes the mixer tap opening back towards the hot water inlet. This constant interplay between the expansion material and the opposing spring takes place closely around the selected temperature point and happens so quickly that you cannot feel the constant regulation taking place inside the thermostat. For you, the water from the shower mixer or bath tub tap always flows at the same temperature.

Save energy and water with thermostatic mixers

By regulating the water temperature with pinpoint accuracy, thermostatic mixers can help you save energy and water. As you spend less time setting the right water temperature, you can start showering more quickly and less heated water flows down the drain unused.

The advantages of thermostatic mixers at a glance

• Automatic temperature regulation
• Temperature can be set to within one degree
• Protection against scalding from hot water
• Saves energy and water

Installing a thermostatic mixer

You can install a thermostatic mixer yourself if you are confident in doing so. Otherwise, it is recommended that you consult a specialist. Below you will find the most important steps for installation:

1. Turn off the water supply in the area where the thermostatic mixer is to be installed.
2. If present, remove the old tap.
3. Now fit the mounting plate or the base of the tap to the wall using the fixing elements supplied.
4. Now follows: Connect the hot and cold water pipes to the corresponding connections on the tap.
5. Do not forget to install seals and other connection pieces to prevent leaks.
6. Now attach the thermostatic mixer to the mounting plate or base.
7. Test for functionality: Check whether the water is flowing at the desired volume and temperature or whether there are any other leaks in the thermostatic mixer.

Frequently asked questions

Why should I use a thermostatic mixer?

A thermostatic mixer allows you to set the water temperature precisely. To protect against scalding or other physical strain caused by scalding, the thermostatic mixer is used in particular in shower and bath taps.

How can I protect my thermostatic mixer from limescale deposits?

To prevent limescale deposits, you should clean the tap regularly with a descaling agent. Some of our models have anti-limescale functions that reduce limescale deposits on the tap and spray.

What should I do if my thermostatic mixer is leaking?

If your thermostatic mixer is leaking, you should check the seals and connection pieces installed and replace them if necessary. If the problem is serious and cannot be solved by yourself, consult a specialist.

How often should I have my thermostatic mixer serviced?

It is advisable to have the thermostatic mixer checked by a specialist every few years to ensure it is working properly.

What safety functions do thermostatic mixers offer?

In addition to several energy and water-saving functions, our thermostatic mixers from SCHÜTTE offer an adjustable temperature lock to protect against scalding.

How do I calibrate the temperature of my thermostatic mixers?

The calibration of our thermostatic mixers can vary from model to model. However, you will find more detailed information on temperature calibration in your operating instructions.