Tom, how are you doing? Can you explain all of the differences to me between a thermostatic water valve and a pressure regulated valve, and which one would be the best to use for my new shower for temp. control. I want to avoid those WOWs when someone turns on water somewhere else in the house. Thanks Tom. Dave

Hi Dave, Pretty much the same. You get one you get the other. Thermostatic and Pressure Balanced Shower Valve
How It Works:
The mixed water temperature is regulated by eliminating variations in temperature and/or pressure in the incoming water supply. Incoming water is first led past a regulating shuttle which positions itself so that both hot and cold water enter the mixing chamber at the same pressure.

In the mixing chamber the thermostat (a copper-plated brass bulb filled with wax and copper-powder) reacts to the temperature of the mixed water. As it expands or contracts, the thermostat adjusts the proportions of incoming hot and cold water.

The temperature of the mixed water is continually being measured and adjusted to match that decided by the temperature control knob.

Tom, thanks for clearing that up for me. That being said, in your opinion what are the top three or four brands of faucets on the market? Thanks again. Dave

Hey Dave, A few come to mind. Symmons Temptrol, Grohe Faucets, Moen and Price Pfister to name a few. All have web sites explaining their products. Good luck. Tom