Exploring the Benefits of Mixer Showers: Why Upgrade Your Bathroom?
Table Of Contents:
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Benefits Of shower mixer taps
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Understanding Mixer Showers
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Installation Options for Mixer Showers
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Mixer Showers: A Blend of Functionality and Design
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Choosing the Right Mixer Shower
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Unique Choices
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Convenience, Relaxation, and Safety
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Maximizing the Benefits of Mixer Showers
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Cost Considerations
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Shower Type Cost Range (Supply & Installation)
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Labour Costs
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In Conclusion
Benefits Of shower mixer taps
Mixer showers have become a popular choice for modern bathrooms, offering a range of benefits that enhance your showering experience. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the advantages of mixer showers, helping you understand why upgrading your bathroom with one is a fantastic choice.
Understanding Mixer Showers
What Are Mixer Showers?
Mixer showers represent a smart bathroom shower system designed to create a balanced and comfortable water temperature by blending hot and cold water. Unlike electric showers that heat water instantly using an electric heating element, mixer showers rely on a gas boiler to provide the required warmth for your shower.
How Do Mixer Showers Work?
Mixer showers work their magic within a valve, where they mix hot and cold water to deliver a balanced and comfortable temperature.
Compared to electric showers, mixer showers typically offer a stronger water flow, though the exact flow depends on your water system's pressure.
You can easily control both water flow and temperature, either through a shower valve or by adjusting your bath taps, providing precise control over your showering conditions.
Types of Mixer Showers
Mixer showers can be broadly categorized into two types:
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thermostatic mixer showers
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manual mixer showers.
Let's explore these categories and their control features.
Thermostatic Mixer Showers
Thermostatic mixer showers automatically maintain a consistent water temperature, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable showering experience.
You won't experience sudden bursts of hot or cold water, even if someone elsewhere in your home turns on a tap.
This technology is used in various types of showers, including electric, mixer, digital, and power showers.
On the other hand, manual mixer showers blend hot and cold water to create the perfect temperature but don't automatically maintain it if water usage changes elsewhere.
Manual Mixer Showers and Control Features
Manual mixer showers require manual adjustment to control the water temperature and flow.
They come in various styles, including exposed showers, where both plumbing and the shower valve are visible on the wall, and concealed showers, which hide plumbing fixtures behind the wall while keeping the shower lever valve accessible.
Additionally, you can find mixer showers with single rotary controls, sequential mixers, dual control mixers, and more. Each type offers its own set of advantages and conveniences.
Installation Options for Mixer Showers
When it comes to installing mixer showers, you have several options to consider. The choice of installation can impact both the aesthetics and functionality of your bathroom. Let's explore the installation options available:
Exposed Mixer Showers
Exposed mixer showers are affixed inside the showering space, with pipes that extend through the wall.
This design exposes the shower controls and piping, allowing easy access and adjustment.
Exposed mixer showers are known for their simplicity and accessibility.
Concealed Mixer Showers
Concealed mixer showers are built directly into the wall, featuring only the shower control and a fixed, unmovable shower head visible on the surface.
This minimalist installation creates a sleek and unobtrusive appearance, ideal for those seeking a clean and modern bathroom design.
Mixer Showers: A Blend of Functionality and Design
When upgrading your bathroom, aesthetics play a significant role in your decision-making process.
Mixer showers offer a unique combination of functionality and design, making them a versatile choice for various bathroom styles.
Sleek Chrome Design
Modern mixer showers often feature a sleek chrome design that complements contemporary bathrooms.
The shiny chrome finish adds a touch of sophistication to your shower area, creating a visually appealing focal point.
This minimalist design seamlessly blends with modern bathroom fixtures and accessories, enhancing the overall aesthetics.
Traditional vs. Modern Design
Mixer showers also cater to those who prefer a more traditional look.
In traditional design mixer showers, you might find old-style tap heads and long pipes, creating a taller and more classic shower appearance.
This design choice can add character and charm to your bathroom, especially if you've embraced a traditional or vintage style.
Choosing between traditional and modern design mixer showers ultimately depends on your bathroom's overall style and your personal preferences.
Mixer showers offer the flexibility to sync up with your bathroom's design seamlessly, ensuring that your shower not only functions efficiently but also enhances your space's visual appeal.
Choosing the Right Mixer Shower
Selecting the perfect mixer shower for your bathroom involves considering several factors, including your lifestyle, electricity costs, water pressure, and more.
Let's explore these aspects to help you make an informed decision:
Unique Choices
Mixer showers come in various models, each offering unique features to cater to different preferences.
Whether you prioritize consistent water temperature, enhanced water pressure, or energy efficiency, there's likely a mixer shower that aligns with your needs.
Consider your specific requirements and preferences when browsing through the available choices.
Convenience, Relaxation, and Safety
Mixer showers elevate your showering experience by offering several key advantages that enhance convenience, relaxation, and safety. Let's explore these benefits in detail:
1.Consistent Water Temperature
One of the standout features of mixer showers is their ability to maintain a consistent water temperature.
Unlike some showers that experience temperature fluctuations when other water sources are used in your home, mixer showers provide a steady and enjoyable showering experience.
This consistency ensures that you can relax in your shower without unexpected temperature changes.
2.Enjoyable Showering
Mixer showers often deliver a more enjoyable showering experience, thanks to their enhanced water pressure and flow compared to electric showers.
This feature allows you to enjoy a powerful and refreshing shower, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a luxurious bathing experience.
Pros and Cons
While mixer showers offer numerous advantages, it's essential to consider potential drawbacks.
For instance, if your home has low water pressure, you may need to install a shower pump to maximize your mixer shower's performance.
Additionally, some mixer showers without thermostatic technology may experience temperature changes if water is used elsewhere in your home.
Maximizing the Benefits of Mixer Showers
Now, let's dive deeper into how you can maximize these advantages and make an informed decision when upgrading your bathroom.
1.Complementing Your Bathroom Design
When selecting a mixer shower, consider how it can enhance your bathroom's overall design.
Whether you opt for a sleek chrome design to match modern aesthetics or prefer a more traditional look, mixer showers offer versatility.
They can seamlessly blend with your existing bathroom fixtures or become a focal point, elevating the entire design.
2.Saving on Electricity Costs
Mixer showers can help reduce electricity costs, especially if you have higher electricity expenses than gas.
Unlike electric showers that rely on electricity to heat water on demand, mixer showers use your home's gas boiler to provide hot water.
This energy-efficient approach can lead to cost savings in the long run.
3.Compatibility with Combi Boilers
If you have a combi boiler, you'll be pleased to know that mixer showers are compatible with this heating system.
Combi boilers offer high-pressure hot water, making them an ideal match for mixer showers.
You can enjoy a powerful and invigorating showering experience without the need for additional equipment.
4.Enhancing Your Shower Experience
To enhance your showering experience further, consider adding a shower pump if you have low water pressure.
A shower pump can boost the flow rate, ensuring that your mixer shower delivers the desired water pressure.
This upgrade is particularly valuable for homes with weaker water pressure, as it can make your shower feel more invigorating.
5.Upgrading Your Shower
Whether you're renovating your bathroom or simply looking to upgrade your shower, exploring the complete range of mixer showers available is essential.
The diverse models and features cater to different preferences, allowing you to select the perfect mixer shower for your needs.
Cost Considerations
Before embarking on a shower upgrade, it's essential to have a clear understanding of the associated costs.
Shower installation costs can vary based on factors such as the type of shower unit, installation labor, additional fixtures, fittings, plumbing work, and the quality of materials used.
Shower Type Cost Range (Supply & Installation)
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Electric Shower: £150 - £300
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Needs good water pressure.
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Doesn't need hot water from your boiler.
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Compact and easy to install.
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Well-suited to homes with combi boilers.
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Mixer Shower: £150 - £300
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Requires both hot and cold water supply.
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Stronger water pressure than electric showers.
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Concealed styles available.
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Best for homes with good water pressure.
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Power Shower: £200 - £500
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Provides strong water pressure.
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Uses more water (8-12 litres/minute).
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Needs hot and cold water supply.
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Ideal for homes with weak water pressure.
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Thermostatic Shower: £150 - £300
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Regulates water temperature for safety.
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Connects to hot and cold water supplies.
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Suitable for homes with children or the elderly.
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Digital Shower: £250 - £1,000
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Allows precise temperature control.
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Connects to hot and cold water supplies.
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Some are compatible with smart devices.
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Great for tech-savvy homeowners.
Labour Costs
Plumbers typically charge around £50 per hour for installation labor. The duration of the installation can vary but may take upwards of three hours for a straightforward shower.
Therefore, the total installation cost typically ranges from £300 to £1,500, including labor and the shower unit.
It's essential to consider the type of shower unit you choose, as well as any additional plumbing work or adjustments required during installation.
If you plan to replace an entire shower, keep in mind that material quality and type can impact the overall cost.
(Note: These cost ranges are indicative and may vary depending on your location.)
In Conclusion
Upgrading your bathroom with a mixer shower can transform your showering experience. With precise temperature control, compatibility with various heating systems, and a luxurious feel, mixer showers offer a host of benefits.
Whether you're renovating your bathroom or building a new one, exploring the diverse range of mixer showers available ensures that you find the perfect product for your needs.
Remember that your choice of shower type, design, and installation method should align with your specific circumstances, including water pressure, plumbing system, and budget.
Consulting with a plumbing professional can provide valuable insights and ensure a successful bathroom upgrade.
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