In this expert guide from VictoriaPlum.com, we'll explain which thermostatic shower valve you'll need when buying your shower, along with the benefits of each type.
Before choosing your shower valve, you'll need to first consider what kind of shower you actually want. There is a wide range of options, from the very basic, like shower slider rail kits, to far more advanced and complex showering systems with multiple outlets, like body jets.
Once you have chosen your shower, you’ll also need to invest in a suitable valve. Luckily, here at VictoriaPlum.com, we sell all our most popular showers together with thermostatic shower valves. But, before you buy, it’s a good idea to understand what each valve does.
Twin shower valve
- Controls a single shower function e.g. an overhead shower or small slider rail kit, but not both.
- 1 handle controls the temperature.
- The other handle controls the water flow.
Twin shower valve with diverter
- Enables you to switch the water from 1 shower function to another e.g. from an overhead shower to a smaller slider rail kit.
- 1 handle controls the temperature.
- The other handle is the diverter which switches the water between the 2 shower functions (each function is either fully on or fully off).
Triple shower valve
- Supplies 2 shower functions, e.g. an overhead shower or small slider rail kit, and both showers can be on at the same time.
- 1 handle controls the temperature.
- The other 2 handles are both flow controls for each function.
Triple shower valve with diverter
- Supplies 3 shower functions, e.g. an overhead shower, small slider rail kit and body jets.
- One handle controls the temperature.
- One handle is a diverter which switches water flow between 1 of 2 functions (or it can be set so both are off) e.g. overhead shower or slider rail kit.
- The final handle is a flow control which independently controls a 3rd function from fully on to fully off e.g. body jets.
Concealed or exposed?
An exposed valve has all its working parts on display, which can make a really nice feature. A concealed valve has its working parts hidden behind the wall, giving a clean, fresh look. The choice is yours.
The benefits of thermostatic valves
- Thermostatic valves allow you to set the precise temperature of your shower, whilst maintaining the flow. So you get an invigorating shower that’s just right for you.
- Even if taps and appliances are used elsewhere in your home, your water temperature will remain consistent.
- All thermostatic shower valves at VictoriaPlum.com come with an anti-scald device, which cuts the flow entirely, should the cold water supply fail for any reason. This means they are safe for the whole family to use.
- All our valve bodies are made from solid brass, a hardwearing material that’ll ensure your shower works perfectly for many years to come.
Fitting a shower valve
Check out our Mira Showers guide on how to fit a bar valve, with step-by-step video.
Maintaining your shower valve
Over time, the flow from your shower may become less powerful, which could be down to limescale and dirt build-up within your valve. Watch our videos and find out how easy it is to clean your shower valve.
Shop thermostatic shower valves
You'll find a wide range of high quality thermostatic shower valves at VictoriaPlum.com. Check out our selection and discover the perfect valve for your bathroom.
