Two essential functions of a shower valve are that it regulates the flow rate and temperature of the water in your shower. There are two main types of shower valves, depending on their functionality: Thermostatically controlled and Manual Mixer Valve. The diverter option is available on most shower valves, except the basic ones. The diverter switch can be used to either turn on the taps, or allow water into the showerhead. Premium models of shower valves permit you to use both the taps as well as the shower simultaneously.
These are some helpful tips to help you choose the right shower valve
1. Concealed and exposed shower valves vs. concealed ones
There are two types of shower valves depending on your design features: an exposed and concealed one. The outlets and connected pipes are visible above your bathroom tiles. An exposed shower valve is most commonly chrome-plated. As the name suggests, concealed shower valves only have the controls visible. The water outlets and connecting pipes are concealed within the wall. The concealed shower valve is a great addition to a modern bathroom. It gives the shower unit a clean and elegant look.
2. Manual Shower Valves vs. Thermostatic shower Valves
Because it is simple and easy to use, a manual shower valve is very popular. You can achieve a reasonable balance between water pressure and temperature with the control lever. This valve can be used in secondary bathrooms. A thermostatic shower valve is intelligently designed to ensure that the water temperature remains comfortable. This valve has the main advantage of limiting the water temperature from reaching a predetermined level. This feature is very useful if you want to keep your child's temperature at a comfortable level.
3. Diverter Valves
Diverter shower valves are small, versatile units. The diverter shower valve is a very attractive unit. It can be used to control the flow of water from any outlet, whether that's the deck-mounted bath tap, the slide rail kit, or the shower handset. In effect, a 3-way diverter shower valve allows you to deliver pre-mixed, temperature-controlled water to the outlet you desire. To get the desired temperature, you can switch on the hot and cold water taps. The diverter valve can be flipped to allow the pre-mixed water flow from any outlet that you choose. This is especially useful if you are giving your dog a bath. There are four types of diverter valves: 2-way, 3-way or 4-way. Some even come in a 5-way.
4. Digital Shower Valves
Shower valves are constantly evolving. Digital bathroom showers are a booming industry. Digital is a great choice because it offers many innovative features such as fully-programmable water temperature, Bluetooth connectivity and wireless shower controllers. There are also stunning visual components that make use of LED lights. A digital shower valve has the advantage of being able to adjust water pressure and temperature. You can also turn on and off the shower remotely to avoid getting wet.
5. The price
Take into consideration the features that you would like in your shower unit. Particularly the ones listed under digital valves. A premium shower valve will set you back PS704, but a standard thermostatic valve will cost PS50. The price range for mid-range shower valves is from PS147 to PS281. A digital shower valve is ideal if you are concerned about maintaining a safe temperature for your children.
