Power Showers and mixer taps
Showers come in all shapes and sizes. Although most households tend to opt for an electric shower, there is no reason not to choose one of the alternatives on offer.
A mixer shower utilizes a simple shower valve to mix hot and cold water to the exact temperature you find most comfortable.
They operate by drawing on both hot and cold water from your domestic supply and are therefore ideal for homes that have a ready supply of stored hot water. Most products can also be employed with a combination boiler or multipoint water heater, although it is always a good idea to first check with the manufacturer.
Mixed showers are available in either a manual or thermostat model, with the thermostat maintaining an exact and even temperature – even if the water used is drawn from another point in your home.
Similarly, most manufacturers offer models with either one or two control levers. This allows you the freedom to control the temperature and water flow either simultaneously or independently.
Although mixed showers generally offer a stronger water flow than electric showers, the power shower is the strong man of appliances.
Power showers combine a mixing valve with a pump, all stored in one unit placed over the shower enclosure or bathtub.
The valve mixes both hot and cold water, whilst the pump boosts the flow of water to give a powerful, invigorating shower. Power showers are ideal if you have a ready supply of stored hot water, but are unsuitable if your house runs a combination boiler.