Thermostatic vs. Pressure Balance Shower Valves: What’s the Difference?

If you’ve ever been startled by a sudden blast of cold water mid-shower when someone flushes a toilet, you know how important a good shower valve can be. Older valves lead to inconsistent pressure and temperatures when someone is using water in other parts of the house.

To prevent this, you can choose either a thermostatic shower valve or a pressure balance shower valve. We’ve compiled this guide on thermostatic vs. pressure balance valves for your shower so you can find the perfect fit for your needs.

What Is a Shower Valve, and How Does It Work?

A shower valve regulates water temperature and flow. Some models control just temperature or pressure, while others offer separate controls for both. It essentially blends hot and cold water to your desired temperature. The type of valve you choose determines how precise and reliable that mix will be.

What Is a Pressure Balance Shower Valve?

A pressure balancing valve is common in homes today because it’s simple and cost-effective. It works by maintaining a consistent ratio of hot to cold water — even when someone else is running a sink or flushing a toilet. So you’ll never have those startling moments of discomfort in a shower again.

With all these positives, you might be wondering: what is the disadvantage of a pressure-balance valve? Well, these valves don’t allow you to control water temperature and flow separately, which can be limiting. They also respond to changes in pressure rather than temperature, so while they prevent scalding, they aren’t always the most accurate.

What Is a Thermostatic Shower Valve?

A thermostatic shower valve allows you to set a specific temperature, which it then maintains regardless of changes in water pressure elsewhere in the house. These systems have two controls — one for temperature and one for flow — offering a more customizable and stable experience.

Compared to a standard setup, a thermostatic valve is much more advanced because it has a built-in thermostat to maintain your desired heat level. 

Cost is the biggest disadvantage of a thermostatic shower valve. Thermostatic valves are more expensive to install and repair, and they may be overkill for simple bathrooms or guest spaces.

Thermostatic vs. Pressure Balance: Key Differences

So, what’s the difference between a pressure balance valve vs. a thermostatic valve? Let’s break it down:

• Temperature accuracy: Thermostatic valves maintain your preferred temperature down to the degree, while pressure balance valves work off pressure fluctuations and may vary slightly.
• Response time: Thermostatic valves adjust quickly to sudden changes, like someone starting a dishwasher. Pressure balance valves respond, too — but not always fast enough to avoid temperature swings.
• User control: With thermostatic, you can keep your temp set and adjust flow separately. Pressure balance valves usually have one handle that controls both.
• Cost and installation: Pressure balance valves are more affordable and easier to retrofit. Thermostatic valves are often seen in new builds or luxury remodels where comfort is a priority.

Which Shower Valve Is Right for Your Bathroom?

We recommend choosing a pressure balance shower valve if:

• You have a modest budget
• You’re upgrading a guest bath you don’t use a lot
• You have a smaller home that doesn’t have a lot of water-using appliances

However, a thermostatic shower valve might be better if:

• You have a high-traffic household
• You want more control over your shower experience
• You are going all-out on a luxury bathroom remodel

Speaking of luxury bathroom remodels, steam showers are another great option to consider when to transforming your bathroom into a relaxing oasis.

Comparing Thermostatic vs. Pressure Balance Shower Valves

Whether you’re team pressure balance or team thermostatic, either valve can make your daily routine more comfortable and less chaotic. Pressure balance valves are reliable and affordable, but to go the extra mile in comfort, choose a thermostatic valve.

If you’re still unsure which is better, thermostatic or pressure balanced, talk to a professional plumber to help assess your setup and needs. Roto-Rooter can offer expert advice and installation services tailored to your bathroom remodel or plumbing upgrade. Call us today to schedule your shower installation or upgrade.