The Grohtherm 2000 is a sophisticated thermostat mixer designed to provide precise temperature control and a comfortable showering experience. It is engineered to work efficiently with both low and high-pressure water systems, ensuring consistent performance as long as there is adequate dynamic water pressure and a suitable temperature range. It is important to note that these thermostat mixers are not compatible with low-pressure storage heaters (displacement water heaters).
Function Description
The core function of the Grohtherm 2000 is to deliver water at a precisely controlled temperature. Factory-set at 38 °C, it maintains this temperature even with varying flow pressures from both hot and cold supplies. This ensures a safe and comfortable showering temperature, preventing sudden changes that could be caused by fluctuations in water pressure or temperature from the supply lines. The mixer achieves this through a thermostatic compact cartridge, which continuously monitors and adjusts the hot and cold water mix.
An integral flow valve, located at the top of the unit, is initially configured to direct water to the upper outlet only. For installations requiring water to be directed to additional outlets, such as a bottom outlet, an additional stop valve (Grohe product no.: 29 802) must be installed. This allows for flexible water distribution within the showering system.
Usage Features
The Grohtherm 2000 is designed for ease of use and safety. Key usage features include:
- Temperature Adjustment and Safety Stop: The mixer comes with a temperature control handle that allows users to easily adjust the water temperature. A safety stop is integrated to limit the temperature range to 38 °C, preventing accidental scalding. For users who desire a higher temperature, this 38 °C limit can be overridden by simply depressing a dedicated button (U1) on the temperature control handle. This feature provides both safety and flexibility.
- Flow Control Knob: A separate flow control knob allows users to regulate the water flow. This enables conservation of water and energy by adjusting the intensity of the shower stream to personal preference. The ceramic headpart within the flow control mechanism ensures smooth and durable operation.
- Installation Flexibility: The design accommodates various wall installations, with clear instructions for preparing the wall, drilling holes, and chasing out grooves for pipelines. The mounting template ensures accurate horizontal, vertical, and parallel alignment with the wall, crucial for both aesthetics and proper function.
- End-User Instructions: The manual emphasizes passing on installation and usage instructions to the end user, ensuring they can operate and maintain the fitting correctly and safely.
Maintenance Features
Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and optimal performance of the Grohtherm 2000. The design facilitates several maintenance tasks:
- Cartridge Access: The thermostatic compact cartridge (S), the heart of the temperature control system, is designed for easy access. By loosening a screw ring (X) with a 34mm tool, the cartridge can be levered out for inspection, cleaning, or replacement. This modular design simplifies servicing.
- Non-Return Valves and Filters: The mixer incorporates non-return valves (F) and filters (G) in both the hot and cold water connections. These components prevent cross-flow between hot and cold water supplies and protect the mixer from debris. They are easily removable for cleaning or replacement, ensuring clean water flow and preventing damage to the system. The manual provides clear steps for removing, cleaning, and reinstalling these parts.
- Headpart Maintenance: The ceramic headpart (L) of the flow control mechanism is also accessible for maintenance. It can be reassembled in reverse order after inspection or cleaning, ensuring smooth operation of the flow control.
- Frost Damage Prevention: In regions where the domestic water system might be drained, the thermostat mixers must be drained separately to prevent frost damage. The non-return valves and the complete thermostat assemblies can be unscrewed and removed for this purpose, protecting the unit from freezing temperatures.
- Greasing Seals: The manual recommends greasing seals (J1) with special valve grease (ref. No. 18 012) during installation and maintenance. This ensures proper sealing and smooth operation of movable parts.
- Pipeline Flushing: Before final installation, it is recommended to thoroughly flush the pipelines. This involves removing specific components like the screw plug, non-return valve, and filter, installing flushing plugs, and then opening the hot and cold water supplies. This process helps remove any debris or contaminants from the pipes, protecting the mixer from damage.
- Readjustment after Maintenance: After any maintenance operation involving the thermostatic compact cartridge, readjustment of the temperature setting is necessary to ensure accurate temperature performance. The manual provides clear steps for this adjustment, involving checking water temperature with a thermometer and turning an adjusting nut (S1) until 38 °C is reached.
- Watertight Sealing: During plastering and tiling, it is crucial to seal any apertures in the wall around the mounting template to ensure they are watertight. For prefabricated walls, a permanently plastic compound should be used. This prevents water ingress and protects the concealed components of the mixer.
The Grohtherm 2000 is a robust and user-friendly thermostat mixer, designed for reliable performance, safety, and ease of maintenance, making it a suitable choice for a wide range of showering applications.