The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Shower Mixer for Your Bathroom
Searching for a new shower mixer to elevate your shower game? A shower mixer is essential to getting that right shower experience—whether you love a power shower or something a little more gentle.
Just picture it now: stepping into your shower, feeling the perfect flow of water hit your skin, and having just the right water pressure to wash the day away. It's all about finding the right shower system and the ideal shower mixer tap that suits your style, budget and needs.
In this article, we’ll explore different types of shower mixers, helping you find the perfect bathroom mixer tap to enhance your shower experience and give your bathroom a modern upgrade.
What is a Shower Mixer?
So, what exactly is a shower mixer and why is it important to your overall shower experience? Well, a shower mixer is like the conductor behind the scenes, responsible for controlling the water flow and temperature (cold water and hot water).
The Different Types of Shower Mixers
When it comes to types of shower mixers, there are a couple of options to choose from.
Manual shower mixers: These are your classic, no-frills mixers that rely on good ol' human touch to adjust the water flow and temperature. Simple, reliable, and straightforward.
Thermostatic shower mixers: If you're looking to take things up a notch, there are also that work their magic to maintain a consistent water temperature, making sure you never have to endure a sudden blast of icy or scalding water when your partner or kids flush the loo while you’re in the shower.
Digital showers: A digital shower is a very modern showering system that allows you to control the water temperature and flow with a digital interface, giving you pretty precise customisation and convenience at your fingertips.
What to Consider When Choosing a Shower Mixer
When it comes to choosing a shower mixer, there are a few important factors to keep in mind that will ensure you have an amazing shower experience. Let's take a closer look:
Water Flow & Pressure
Water flow and pressure play a crucial role in the overall performance of your shower. We all want that invigorating rush of water, right? Different shower mixers can have varying effects on water flow and pressure, so it’s important you choose the one that best suits your needs. You should take into account specific things – like your water system, whether it's gravity-fed, a pressure system, or a combi boiler – to choose a shower mixer that suits your setup and gives you the best water flow and pressure.
Temperature Control
Temperature control is another important part of choosing the perfect shower mixer. Nobody wants to experience a sudden blast of scalding hot or freezing cold water mid-shower. Temperature control is the key to a comfortable and enjoyable shower. Thermostatic shower mixers are excellent options for automatic temp control, maintaining a consistent and safe water temperature. However, this feature isn’t essential and you can still find the perfect temperature balance with a manual shower head mixer.
Shower Head
Don't overlook the importance of choosing the right shower head to match your shower mixer. The shower head is another essential piece of the puzzle that completes the overall showering experience. From fixed shower heads to handheld showers, to rain showers which look great in a modern bathroom or exposed shower, choose a shower head that matches your personal preferences and showering style. It's all about finding that perfect combination that will make every shower perfect.
Choosing the Right Shower Mixer for Your Bathroom
Design and Style
Let's talk about style, because let’s be honest, we all want a bathroom with an Insta worthy vibe, right? The good news is there are plenty of options out there, from sleek wall-mounted mixers to single-lever ones that are super to use. And don't forget about concealed shower mixers, which can give your bathroom a clean and minimalist look.
Material Finishes
The finish of your shower mixer can make a big impact on the overall look and feel of your bathroom. Whether you want a modern, classic, or industrial vibe, the right material finish can make all the difference. Think about the existing fixtures and accessories in your bathroom, and choose a finish that either matches or creates a stylish contrast. Whether you're into black, brushed brass gold, brushed gunmetal, brushed nickel, chrome, or matte white, it's all about creating a space that feels welcoming and reflects your personal taste.
Shower Mixer Material
When it comes to durability, two materials stand out as top choices for shower mixers: brass and stainless steel.
Brass has a reputation for being strong and resistant to corrosion, making it a reliable and long-lasting material. It can handle the daily demands of showering without losing its integrity. You can trust that a brass shower mixer will hold up well over time, minimising the risk of cracks or leaks. Plus, brass offers versatility in style, as it can be finished in different ways like chrome, brushed nickel, or matte finishes. This allows you to find a look that perfectly matches your bathroom's decor.
On the other hand, stainless steel is also a fantastic choice for durability. It possesses impressive strength and is highly resistant to rust and tarnish. With a stainless steel shower mixer, you can expect it to withstand the test of time, maintaining its functionality and performance. Additionally, stainless steel brings a sleek and modern aesthetic to your bathroom. Its clean lines and polished appearance effortlessly elevate the overall look of the space.
Compatibility and Installation
We all want a stress-free installation process, right? That's why it's important to make sure the shower mixer you choose is compatible with your current plumbing. This way, you won't have to deal with any surprises or extra headaches. The installation process may vary depending on the type of shower mixer you go for, whether it's a cool thermostatic option or a manual one. If you're not exactly a plumbing pro, don't hesitate to reach out to a professional plumber.
FAQs
What is the difference between a mixer shower and a thermostatic mixer?
Although a manual mixer shower will mix hot and cold water to a set temperature, unlike a thermostatic shower, it can't react to sudden changes in temperature. A thermostatic shower instantly reacts to a change in water temperature and adjusts the water accordingly to get it back to the pre-set temperature
Is there pipework involved when installing a new shower mixer?
Yes, when you install a new shower mixer, you will need to deal with the pipes that carry the water. The shower mixer needs to be connected to these pipes so that water can flow in and out correctly. Depending on your bathroom's setup, the plumber may need to make some adjustments or add extra pipes to ensure everything works properly. It's best to hire a professional plumber who knows how to handle the pipework during the installation.
What’s a diverter when installing new shower mixers?
A diverter is a part that helps you control where the water goes when you have different shower options. For example, if you want to switch between a fixed shower head and a hand shower, a diverter lets you choose which one you want to use. It's like a switch that directs the water to the shower head you prefer at any given time. The diverter can be built into the shower mixer or installed separately as its own valve. It gives you the flexibility to customise your shower experience.
Shop Buildmat’s Quality Shower Mixers Today
If you’re shopping for the best shower mixers on the market in Australia, you can’t beat the Buildmat difference. Our premium shower mixers perfectly combine durability, style and cost - so no matter your style or budget, we’ve got something for everyone. Visit our Melbourne showroom or check out our shower mixer range online and order yours today.
