01What is a Shower Mixer Tap?
Let me start with the basics. A shower mixer tap is a device in your bathroom that blends hot and cold water to give you the perfect temperature. Unlike separate hot and cold taps that make you play the "scalding or freezing" game, these units let you dial in exactly what you want with one handle. I installed my first one five years ago and wondered how I ever lived without it.
The core component is the shower mixer tap valve, essentially the brain that controls the temperature. Inside that valve you'll find a cartridge, usually made of ceramic, which regulates the flow of hot and cold water. Think of it as the traffic controller directing water flow to keep your shower at 40°C when someone flushes the toilet downstairs.
02Types of Shower Mixer Taps You Need to Know About
Not all mixer taps are created equal. Let me break down the main types:
Thermostatic Shower Mixer Taps
These are the premium option of the bunch. They maintain your set temperature within ±2°C, even if water pressure changes. I installed one after my daughter got scalded when the washing machine turned on mid-shower. Worth every penny for the peace of mind alone. Most come with a safety lock around 38°C – you have to press a button to go higher, which is excellent for families.
Exposed Shower Mixer Taps
These are what you see in most bathrooms – the valve and pipes are visible on the wall. They're cheaper to install because you don't need to open walls, but they take up more space. Great if you're renting or on a budget.
Wall Mounted Shower Mixer Taps
These sit flush against the wall with only the controls visible. Very sleek but require more plumbing work. I went with these during my bathroom renovation and don't regret it – cleaning around them is much easier.
Bath Shower Mixer Taps
These are dual-purpose units that let you switch between filling the tub and showering using a diverter. Perfect for small bathrooms where space is tight. Just flip the switch when you're done soaking and you're ready to rinse off.
03Key Features That Actually Matter
When shopping for a shower mixer tap set, don't get distracted by fancy finishes until you check these essentials:
- Height from floor: Standard is 100-120cm from the shower tray, but measure your tallest family member first. I had to special order an extra-tall one for my 6'4" husband.
- Valve quality: Ceramic cartridges last longest – look for ones rated for 500,000+ cycles. Cheap plastic cartridges start leaking after 6-12 months.
- Pressure compatibility: Check if it works with your water system. Combi boilers need high-pressure models (1-5 bar), while gravity-fed systems need low-pressure options.
- Flow rate: Measured in litres per minute (LPM). 9-12 LPM is ideal – enough to rinse shampoo but not so much you're wasting water.
Pro tip: If you live in a hard water area, look for models with anti-limescale cartridges. This saved me from replacing my shower mixer tap cartridge every six months.
04How Much Should You Really Spend?
You can pick up a basic shower mixer tap for £50-£100, but I'd recommend budgeting £150-£300 for something decent. The price increases for thermostatic models or premium finishes like gold shower mixer taps – those can reach £500+.
Installation cost adds another layer. If you're handy, you can DIY for under £20 in fittings. Otherwise, expect to pay a plumber £80-£150 for labour. I tried installing my first one myself and flooded the bathroom – lesson learned: sometimes it's worth paying a professional.
Hidden Costs
Don't forget shower mixer tap attachments like extra-long hoses (£20-£40) or replacement filters (£10-£15 per year). And if you need to buy a shower mixer tap removal tool for your old unit, that's another £15-£30.
05Common Problems and How to Fix Them
Even the best mixer taps have issues sometimes. Here's what I've dealt with over the years:
Leaking Shower Mixer Tap
90% of the time it's a worn washer or cartridge. Turn off the water, remove the handle, and replace the cartridge (£10-£30). I keep a spare cartridge under the sink now – takes 15 minutes to fix.
Mixer Tap Not Working
Check if the inlet filters are blocked with debris. Unscrew the outlet fitting and rinse the filter screen. Hard water areas experience this monthly.
Temperature Fluctuations
If your thermostatic tap suddenly cannot maintain temperature, the cartridge is probably failing. Most brands offer 5-10 year warranties on cartridges – check yours before buying a replacement.
Dripping After Turning Off
This is usually the valve seat needing re-grinding or a new O-ring. If you're not confident with plumbing, call a professional – valve work requires precision.
06Maintenance Schedule That Actually Works
I used to ignore maintenance until something broke. Now I follow this simple routine:
- Monthly: Wipe down with a soft cloth and vinegar to prevent limescale buildup on exposed shower mixer taps.
- Quarterly: Remove the shower head and soak in vinegar overnight to clear mineral deposits.
- Annually: Check all connections for leaks and lubricate the handle with silicone grease. This keeps the operation smooth and prevents seizing.
- Every 3-5 years: Replace the cartridge as preventive maintenance, even if it's working fine. This avoids emergency leaks in the middle of winter.
07Frequently Asked Questions
Are thermostatic mixer taps worth the extra money?
Absolutely, if you have kids, elderly family, or just hate temperature surprises. I've had both types – thermostatic is a game-changer for consistent showers.
Can I install a mixer tap myself?
If you're comfortable with basic plumbing and have the right tools (adjustable wrench, PTFE tape, pipe cutter), go for it. Watch three YouTube tutorials first – that's what saved me on my second attempt.
What's the difference between a diverter and a mixer?
A mixer controls temperature, while a shower mixer tap diverter switches water flow between outlets (like from tub spout to shower head). Some taps have both functions built-in.
How do I choose the right height?
Standard installation is 1.8m from floor to shower head, with the controls at waist height (around 1m). Adjust based on family height – I mounted my son's lower so he can reach safely.
Why does my mixer tap make a noise?
That's usually water hammer from high pressure. Install a pressure-reducing valve (£20-£40) or check if the shower mixer tap valve needs adjustment.
08Final Verdict: Are They Worth It?
After installing and maintaining dozens of these units (yes, I've become the go-to person for bathroom advice in my friend group), I can confidently say shower mixer taps are 100% worth it. They save water, prevent scalding, and make your daily routine just a little bit nicer.
Invest in a mid-range thermostatic model if you can – the temperature stability alone justifies the cost. And remember: proper installation and regular maintenance will make your shower mixer tap last 10+ years instead of 2-3.
Whether you go for a sleek wall mounted shower mixer tap or a classic exposed model, you'll wonder how you ever managed with separate hot and cold taps. Just make sure you buy from a reputable brand with good warranty coverage – the cartridge is the heart of the system, and you want to be able to replace it easily when needed.
