Shower faucets work using the general purpose of convenient water flow in various bathroom needs, such as taking a bath.
Before we dive deeper into how a shower faucet works, let’s first get to know its basic components below.
Basic Parts of a Shower Faucet
A shower faucet has several components to function properly. Each part functions according to its purpose, especially in water flow and temperature control.
1. Handle
The handle gives you access to control water flow and temperature.
There are many types of handles, but single-handle and double-handle faucets are the most common ones.
Single-handle faucets usually have one knob or lever or knob that you can use to adjust water flow and temperature.
On the other hand, two-handle faucets have separate knobs or levers for hot and cold settings and give you a more specific temperature control.
2. Valve
The valve also controls the shower faucet.
But unlike the handle, valves are located on the interior of the faucet.
Both valves and handles regulate water flow from the supply lines up to the showerhead.
Valves also come in different types, such as pressure-balanced and thermostatic valves.
These valve types help retain water temperature.
3. Cartridge
A cartridge is another component of the faucet that controls water flow.
Like the valve, a cartridge is also located inside the faucet body.
This faucet part not only regulates the mixing of hot and cold water in the shower but also adjusts the water pressure.
Moreover, cartridges can have a ceramic material or compression type, which primarily depends on the faucet design.
4. Showerhead
Where the water comes out is where your showerhead is located.
You can typically see it mounted on the wall or ceiling, depending on the style, purpose, and shower configuration.
Modern showerheads come in various designs, including fixed, handheld, and rain showerheads, allowing you to customize your shower experience.
How Does A Shower Faucet Work?
A shower faucet works by rotating the handle to allow the water to flow from the hot and cold supply tubes into the body.
Once you control through the handle, the water then passes through the valve.
For two-handle faucets, valves can come in separate water inlets (hot and cold setting) while single-handle faucets have one inlet.
Once the water enters the valve, it flows through the cartridge.
The cartridge mixes the hot and cold water to achieve your desired temperature.
Water now flows toward the showerhead through the pipe.
It’s also good to point out that the design of the faucet components (e.g. valve, cartridge, and diverter) can vary, depending on the following factors:
- Type of shower faucet
- Brand or manufacturer of the shower faucet
Nevertheless, the basic principle of water flow and temperature control remains the same.
Types of Shower Faucets
Shower faucets have various types and functions that align according to necessity, aesthetics, and user preferences.
- Single-handle shower faucets – feature a single lever or knob that controls both the water flow and temperature
- Two-handle shower faucets – have separate handles for controlling hot and cold water that offer better temperature control precision
- Thermostatic shower faucets – have a built-in thermostat that allows you to predetermine your desired water temperature.
