It is possible to install a mixer shower yourself, however it is not recommended unless you have a good working knowledge of plumbing and electrical systems. Mixer showers require precise installation and include both hot and cold water input as well as electrical wiring, which can be more complicated than some other types of shower.
Additionally, most areas require a licensed plumber to carry out any plumbing and electrical work and it is important to adhere to this, as any mistakes could potentially be dangerous. If you do decide to attempt to do it yourself, it is advised that you obtain the appropriate instructions and have the correct tools ready.
It is also recommended that you double check all connections to ensure that your mixer shower is installed correctly and safely.
Does a mixer shower have a thermostat?
Yes, a mixer shower typically comes equipped with a thermostat. The thermostat is located in the shower valve and is used to control the temperature of the water. It ensures that the water remains at a consistent temperature without having to adjust the hot and cold tap handles.
The thermostat also helps to maintain a safe temperature for showering, usually between 38–43°C. The thermostat may have other settings as well such as anti-scald mode, which will further help to protect against potential burns from hot water.
Some mixer showers are designed with a temperature limiter, which requires the user to enter a desired temperature that can be set and locked in place to help ensure the user is never exposed to temperatures too hot for comfort.
Do you need a plumber or electrician to fit a shower?
Whether or not you need to hire a plumber or electrician to fit a shower largely depends on the type of installation that you want. If you’re looking to install an electric shower, it’s usually recommended that you hire a qualified electrician to do the wiring of the shower and check that all the safety regulations are complied with.
Furthermore, although some electric showers are wired up directly to the mains supply, some are wired in a link box and require an electric element to be installed, which an electrician can do.
On the other hand, if you’re looking to install a mixer, electric or gravity-fed shower, then it’s usually best to hire a qualified plumber as they will be familiar with the hot and cold water systems and ensure that they are connected correctly.
This also ensures that all safety regulations and rules, such as those concerning the pressure and temperature of the water are adhered to.
Assuming that you’re a competent DIYer and have basic plumbing and electrical skills, there is the option of doing the job yourself. However, due to the complexity and the high-pressure system involved, it’s strongly recommended that you employ a qualified plumber or electrician.
What tradesman do I need to fit a shower?
To fit a shower, you will need to hire a qualified tradesman, such as a plumber or an electrician. A plumber will be responsible for fitting and connecting pipes in order to ensure the water supply to the shower is maintained.
Meanwhile, an electrician will ensure the wiring is completed properly and that the shower is able to be plugged in and heated correctly. Furthermore, both tradesmen will be able to ensure the shower is fitted correctly, including the sealant, tiling, and plastering, to ensure the shower is secure, watertight, and aesthetically pleasing.
It is important to ensure that you hire a qualified tradesman, as they will have the knowledge and expertise to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.
What is the cheapest way to install a shower?
The cheapest way to install a shower is to opt for a shower kit. Shower kits come with most of the necessary components to create a functional shower, such as a tub, shower pan, faucet, and drain, and typically cost around $200 or less.
Additionally, you can save money by reusing existing plumbing and using flexible supply lines. If you have the necessary tools and skill level, you can install the shower kit yourself in a few days. If not, you can hire a professional installer for an additional cost.
Do you need consent to install a shower?
Yes, you typically need consent when installing a shower due to the potential impact on the surrounding area which can include the building’s plumbing, electrical systems, or any structure that may be affected while making the replacements and renovations.
Before including a shower, you should always review any local laws, building codes, and regulations in your area and obtain the proper permits, or written consent from your landlord, management or condos association.
Depending on the jurisdiction, you may also need to have the new shower inspected by a local inspector after installation. Besides, if you plan to lease your home or apartment, you will likely need to prove that the shower meets any applicable codes and regulations and contact your local jurisdiction to make sure you have the necessary permits and inspections, particularly for multi-unit dwellings.
Lastly, it is also important to make sure that all plumbing, electrical, and interior works are completed by proper contractors, who are licensed and insured.
How do you replace a old shower mixer?
Replacing an old shower mixer is a relatively straightforward and simple process. Here is a step-by-step guide on how you can do it on your own:
1. Prepare the materials: To start, you should prepare the necessary materials for the job, such as a new shower mixer and adjustable wrench.
2. Disconnect the old shower mixer: Locate the main valve of the old shower mixer, then turn off the water supply. Then, disconnect the two hot and cold water pipes of the old shower mixer using an adjustable wrench.
3. Install the new shower mixer: Take the new shower mixer and connect the two hot and cold water pipes. Secure them with nuts or clips. Make sure you get a tight seal to prevent future leaks.
4. Connect the water supply to the new shower mixer: Connect the water supply pipe to the new shower mixer. Use a wrench for a secure fit.
5. Turn on the water supply: Carefully turn on the water supply of the new shower mixer to check for any leaks. If everything is in order, you can go ahead and use it.
With these five steps, you should be able to easily replace an old shower mixer on your own. However, if you’re inexperienced with plumbing tasks, it’s always best to seek professional help for a safer and more efficient job.
How much does it cost to replace a shower mixing valve?
The cost of replacing a shower mixing valve varies greatly depending on the type of valve, the complexity of the project, and the materials required. As a rough estimate, the cost to replace a shower mixing valve ranges from around $100-$400, with installation adding an additional cost, usually between $100-$200.
Some factors that will affect the cost include the type of valve, the complexity of the installation, the amount of existing plumbing work, the type of materials used, and the amount of labor involved.
If the valve is a basic, standard valve, then it will likely be in the lower end of the cost range. If the valve is a more advanced or specialized type, or requires intricate installation, then the cost will be higher.
Also, if the existing plumbing needs to be reconfigured, or new parts need to be purchased, then the cost will go up. It’s best to ask a professional plumber to provide an assessment of your project and provide an accurate cost estimate.
Do you need plumber to change shower valve?
Yes, it is recommended to use a plumber for any job that requires shut-off valves, because these valves can be difficult to install. Shut-off valves are important components of a plumbing system that control the flow of water and gas.
Therefore, it is important to get a plumber who is experienced and certified to do the job properly. A plumber can help with other bathroom renovations such as installing bath tubs, sinks, faucets, and other fixtures.
They can also inspect your existing plumbing system for any potential problems, such as if there are any leaks or water pressure issues. Additionally, your plumber can check the condition of the shower valve to make sure it is working properly and safely.
As the shower valve is responsible for controlling the temperature of the water, it is important to ensure it is maintained and in good working order.
How much does a plumber charge to install a shower faucet?
The cost of having a plumber install a shower faucet varies greatly, depending on multiple factors. These include the complexity of the job, the type of faucet being installed, the number of fittings being used, and the availability of a qualified plumber.
On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $275 for basic, standard installations, with more complex and extensive installations potentially costing up to $1,000 or more. It is also important to note that some plumbers might also charge a service call fee, even if they do not end up completing the job.
This can cost anywhere from $50 to $200, depending on the plumber and the amount of work they have to do to assess the situation.
How to install a shower mixer in a bathroom?
Installing a new shower mixer in a bathroom can be a challenging task, but with patience and a little bit of DIY knowledge, anyone can do it. Here are the steps to follow:
1. First and foremost, turn off the water supply to your bathroom before you start work. This can be done by turning off the stop valves located near the water inlet pipes leading to the taps. Alternatively, you can turn off the main water supply for your entire house.
2. Remove the existing shower mixer valve, if necessary. Unscrew it from the wall with a wrench and pull it out from the wall. Disconnect the pipes and remove any remaining parts, such as screws and sealant, from the wall.
3. Then fit the new shower mixer valve. Install the new valve in the same position as the old one. Make sure that the pipes are correctly positioned for the hot and cold water supplies, and that the valve is properly aligned.
Secure the valve to the wall using screws and sealant.
4. Connect the hot and cold water supply pipes to the new valve, using the appropriate pipe fittings and tightening them with a wrench. Make sure to use a wrench or adjustable wrench to ensure a secure and watertight seal.
5. Finally, turn on the water supply. Make sure there are no leaks and that the mixer is working properly before you use it.
If you have any doubts about installing a shower mixer, it’s best to seek professional advice.
Are mixer showers easy to install?
Yes, mixer showers are relatively easy to install depending on the individual mixer shower model you choose. The exact installation process may vary by brand and model, so it’s important to follow all the instructions specified in the manufacturer’s instructions that come with the mixer shower.
Generally, mixer showers are suitable for all types of domestic installations, so it’s easy to fit most mixer showers by simply following the instructions. The exact tools and materials needed may vary, but all mixer shower instructions should come with full details.
Generally, mixer showers have just two connection points (hot and cold supply inlets) making the installation process much easier than other types of showers. It’s important to use the correct fixings and seals, and it’s also important to use suitable taps, valves, suspended cassettes, and electrical power points (where applicable)in order to comply with relevant building regulations.
It’s always best to have any plumbing, electrical and/or building work completed by specialist tradespersons, to ensure safe and correct installation of your mixer shower.
Can you just connect cold to a mixer tap?
No, you cannot directly connect cold water to a mixer tap. Mixer taps require hot and cold inputs and connect to your hot and cold water pipes. They use a cartridge, which is a device inside the tap linked to the tap handle, to control the temperature and flow of water by mixing both hot and cold water together.
Without cold water, the mixer tap will only dispense hot water. Additionally, the hot water supply line should never be connected directly to a cold water supply line as this could cause damaged pipes and fixtures due to pressure differences.
What is the difference between mixer and diverter shower?
The main difference between a mixer shower and a diverter shower is that a mixer shower mixes the hot and cold water to the desired temperature, and then supplies the water to the shower head at the desired temperature.
A diverter shower, on the other hand, diverts and controls the water flow from the hot and cold water supplies by itself. The diverter shower allows the user to adjust the volume, pressure, and temperature of the water manually.
With a mixer shower, temperature is adjustable only through temperature adjustment of the hot and cold water operating valves.
Mixer shower is a cost-effective solution, and can be installed easily. It is slightly easier to use than a diverter shower, as it needs little or no adjusting after installation. On the other hand, diverter showers are considered a higher end product and are more expensive.
They are also more customizable and easier to control, as they can be programmed to remember a certain temperature and volume settings.
Can you run a mixer shower off a combi boiler?
Yes, it is possible to run a mixer shower off a combi boiler. A combi boiler is a central heating unit and water heater combined, where the water is heated instantly as it passes through the unit on demand.
The combi boiler flows hot water directly to a mixer shower, and the flow of water is controlled by the mixer’s control valves. This offers a number of advantages, such as accurate temperature control, not having to wait for hot water when in the shower and no extra cold water tank being required.
The mixer shower can be connected to either concealed valves, with all the pipework hidden inside the bathroom walls and controlled by the thermostatic valve, or exposed valves with all pipework visible.
Including electric, digital and mixer showers with adjustable flow options, so you can find one to suit your needs.