Thermostatic Tub & Shower Component System Tips

Thermostatic in-wall component tub and shower systems allow you to mix and match components to create a fully customized tub or shower faucet. The potential and flexibility to build your own system makes them a perfect solution for many applications, however, the versatility can make it difficult to choose the correct components. The following tips are provided as a service from Shop 4 Classics. We hope you will find this information helpful. Shop 4 Classics urges you to consult with a professional if you have any doubts or questions about the installation of these products.

Steps to Ordering Your Thermostatic System

Choose the Thermostatic Control Valve. You need one thermostatic control valve for each system. The thermostatic control valve controls the temperature setting for the system. It includes the thermostatic valve and the trim (i.e., backplate and handle). The thermostatic control valve is available with many different trim options. Thermostatic control valves can be found in the Thermostatic Tub & Shower Components section of our website. Choose the Volume Control Valve. You need one volume control valve for each shower head, body spray, or spout that you add to your system. The volume control valve controls the on, off, and volume function of the outlet. It includes the valve, escutcheon, and handle. The volume control valve is available with trim options to coordinate with the thermostatic control valve. Volume control valves can be found in the Thermostatic Tub & Shower Components section of our website. Choose the Shower Heads, Body Sprays, Handshowers, and Spouts. Shop 4 Classics offers many different showerhead sets, handheld showers, body sprays, and tub spouts to pair with volume control valves and a thermostatic control valve to create seemingly limitless options. Shower head sets can be found in the Shower Heads section while tub spouts are located in the Tub Spouts section of our website. Handshowers can be found in the Handheld Showers section while body sprays are located in the Thermostatic Tub & Shower Components section of our website.

Thermostatic Valve

What is a thermostatic valve? Most of us have experienced the shock of a sudden temperature change caused by a toilet flushing while we shower. A thermostatic valve measures the water on the outlet of the valve to maintain constant temperature and eliminate the shock of unexpected temperature changes. The Sign of the Crab thermostatic valves are tested to remain within 1 degree Fahrenheit of the desired setting throughout operation. The anti-scald feature provides an automatic temperature stop of 104 degrees Fahrenheit. The thermostatic valve serves as pressure balance, temperature stop, and anti-siphon.

Why do I need volume control valves? The thermostatic control valve sets temperature for the system but the individual volume control valves regulate flow to the outlets (e.g., showerhead, spout, etc.). Without volume control valves you would not be able to turn the system off. One volume control valve is used per outlet. A single volume control valve might be used for a group of body sprays if all of the sprays operate in unison as a single outlet but a showerhead and tub spout would normally each have their own volume control valve so each can be controlled separately. Any outlet that you wish to operate individually will require its own volume control valve.

Volume Control Valve

Where do I find certification for Sign of the Crab thermostatic faucets?

Sign of the Crab valves are approved by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) Group. IAPMO is charged with protecting the public's health and safety. IAPMO approval ensures quality and reliability by independently testing and inspecting products to verify compliance to codes and standards. Sign of the Crab's IAPMO approval for thermostatic faucets can be found at the following link: http://pld.iapmo.org/file_info.asp?file_no=0005231.

Which finish is best for me?

Shop 4 Classics offers many varities of finishes. For tips on selecting the right finish for your thermostatic tub and shower component system, see our finish tips.

Where can I find help with other types of faucets?

Shop 4 Classics offers an exhaustive list of faucet options. For help selecting a traditional in-wall tub and shower set, please refer to our Tub and Shower Tips. For help in selecting the perfect faucet for your clawfoot tub, see our clawfoot tub faucet tips or clawfoot bathtub shower enclosure tips. For more information about choosing a faucet for your lavatory or kitchen sink, please review our sink faucet tips.

Do I have a warranty?

All items are warranted by the manufacturer to be free of defects for five years if properly installed. For more information, see Warranties and Returns.