For years, our bathrooms have been equipped with mixer taps. The arrival of single lever mixers on the market, with their innovative technologies that bring comfort and functionality to the bathroom, has changed this. Later on, thermostatic mixers also appeared on the market.
Nowadays, these intelligent fittings have overtaken the famous 2-handle mixer taps. When renovating, households often hesitate between a single lever mixer or thermostatic mixer. To guide you in your choice, let’s take a look at their respective advantages and disadvantages.
Single lever mixer
How the mechanical mixer works
Grohe Zedra Touch Electronic mixer tap 1/2″
Also known as the classic mixer, the mechanical mixer consists of a simple lever for adjusting both the temperature and the water flow. It is operated from left to right and from top to bottom.
This type of tap is very common and is used in most homes. The operation of all conventional mixer taps is generally the same regardless of the manufacturer or model.
Advantages and disadvantages of a mechanical mixer
Grohe Essence Kitchen Mixer – Cool sunrise Brushed
The main reason why it is preferred by households is its user-friendly nature. Very handy, it is very practical for senior people as well as for people suffering from rheumatism in the hands. Note that some models are also equipped with a temperature regulator, which makes it even easier to use. In addition, this mixer is quite affordable compared to the thermostatic one.
The main disadvantage is the high water consumption. In order to find the desired temperature, you have to play with the handle and let the water run until the right temperature is reached. This can increase the bill. In addition, the risk of scalding should not be overlooked if the cold water supply is turned off abruptly, which can be dangerous for children.
Find your kitchen mixer on Bathroom2Kitchen and read our article on kitchen sink.
The thermostatic mixer
How the thermostatic mixer works
It is a more modern and optimised version of the mechanical mixer. This mixer has two control panels, the first of which allows the water temperature to be preset, while the second controls the water flow. The model incorporates a technology that will program the desired temperature according to the user’s needs. A scale allows the user to easily select the preferred temperature.
Advantages and disadvantages of a thermostatic mixer
The comfort offered by the thermostatic mixer is incomparable. The temperature of the water remains constant regardless of the variation of the flow rate or the water pressure in the house. The thermostatic mixer offers much more precision in the search for the right temperature. Unlike the conventional type, it is not necessary to make adjustments all the time: the temperature will be saved for your next shower.
With this model, the risk of scalding is almost non-existent.
It should be noted that the mixer is equipped with a temperature limiter. This prevents the temperature from exceeding the specified limit. If cold water suddenly disappears during the shower, the hot water will be switched off automatically to prevent scalding.
Grohe Grontherm 3000 Cosmopolitan Thermostatic Mixer 2-way 1/2”
Saving water is also one of the key advantages of the thermostatic mixer. Thanks to the flow limiter, the amount of water used will be reduced to a minimum.
Like all things, there are always disadvantages. The comfort provided by thermostatic technology may prolong the time spent in the shower, which will result in increased water consumption. This is the case, for example, when using showers with massage jets or rainfall shower heads.
