FAQs

A2: Our Quattro Diverter valve consists of one in-port and three out-ports. This is a true diverter valve that allows for the mixed water to be diverted to one of three ports or a combination of any two simultaneously. This valve needs to be installed with a separate volume control.
The Trio Diverter valve consists of one in-port, two out-ports and an integrated volume control. This valve can control the flow to either one port or both ports simultaneously. In addition, this valve also controls the water volume. Hence, the installation of a separate volume control is not necessary with this item. * Do not install this item with a pressure balance valve 13408181.

A3: Plumbing codes in the US demand that showers be outfitted with either a pressure balance valve or a thermostatic valve. Both valve types prevent injury due to thermal shock, yet these valve types work completely differently.

Pressure balance valves are most commonly used in guest baths or small shower systems. This type of valve is adequate to meet the strict plumbing codes regarding thermal shock. Thermostatic valves, however, are a better way to go, especially in situations where more flow is needed. This type of valve offers more comfort because once a desired temperature has been selected, this valve keeps the mixed water temperature constant even between showers. It also compensates for temperature changes in the water supply.

A4: Hansgrohe products are sold in many plumbing showrooms across North America. The best way to find a dealer location is by running a zip code search on our dealer locator Web page (see menu bar above "where to buy").

A5: Your kitchen & bath dealer can give accurate pricing information on all Hansgrohe products. Hansgrohe also prints price books showing our list prices. Our current price book was printed in January 2008.

A6: These finishes are all of the matte family, meaning all finishes that are not polished. Our satin chrome (88) and satinox (81) finishes are created via electro plating onto a metallic or plastic surface. Our brushed nickel (82) finish is a PVD finish that requires multiple plating steps to achieve. These finishes differ in look and touch. Satin chrome is a cool metallic look with a slightly coarse feel. Satinox is a warm tone finish with an exceptionally smooth feel. Brushed nickel is a warm nickel-tone finish with a soft feel.

A7: All products shown on our web site are currently sold in the USA. Most kitchen & bath dealers display our products but do not stock the entire range. In most cases, a dealer will order a product from our distribution center in Atlanta. Once ordered, most products reach the dealer within one week. Depending on supply and demand, delivery times can vary slightly.

A8: Of course we can. Simply call the Hansgrohe Customer Service Department at 1.800.334.0455. An even better way to obtain spec sheets for our products is to run a product search on this Web site. The search result will also offer a link the product's spec sheet in pdf file format.

A9: The supply hoses used on all single-control lavatory faucets sold by Hansgrohe USA may look a little "different", but they're nothing exotic. The ends of the hoses are 3/8" in size. Use a 3/8" compression fitting to connect the hoses to your angle stop valve.

A10: The Ecostat thermostatic mixer has one function - it controls the temperature of the water. There is no "off" position on the Ecostat: it is "on" all the time! A volume control valve must be plumbed in the line between the Ecostat and each outlet (showerhead, tub spout, etc). If you are planning a three-function shower, you can use one volume control valve in the line between the Ecostat and the Quattro Diverter. If you are planning a two-function shower, you can use the Trio Diverter. It is not necessary to use a separate volume control valve when using the Trio Diverter, since the Trio has an integral volume control.

A11: The Ecostat thermostatic mixer does not have an "off" position. If a volume control valve is not placed between the Ecostat and the tub spout, it will be impossible to turn the water off! If you are planning a tub/shower setup with a thermostatic mixer, use either two volume controls (one for the showerhead, and one for the non-diverter tub spout) or a Trio Diverter.

A12: Yes, a diverter tub spout can be successfully used with the pressure balancing valve since it has an "off" position. The Equilibrium has an integral venturi, so a twin elbow is not necessary.