Kohler Rite-temp Pressure balance vs Purist Thermostatic valve?

14 years ago

I'm looking at the Kohler Purist/Stillness for the shower controls. Initially I had the Kohler Purist Rite-Temp Pressure Valve (KT14423-3) as part of the design, but now I am second guessing if I should go for the Kohler

Purist thermostatic valve trim (KT144883). Does anyone have experience with either? Is there would be one you would recommend over the other? Is this a flip a coin type of decision or is there a big difference between the two? TIA.

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Comments (3)

studio460
14 years ago
We just installed the Kohler "Stillness" trim over a Kohler pressure-balanced valve in the guest bath tub shower. In the master bath shower, we're planning to install the same Stillness trim, but for the Kohler thermostatic valve instead.

The pressure-balanced valve works as advertised, and I like the minimalist look of the single-lever trim. Although it's not really a problem, I wasn't initially aware that pressure-balanced valves were either "all on" or "all off" (varying the position of the handle merely controls the temperature).

Thermostatic valves on the other hand, have two levers: one for temperature, and one for volume (the valve cover trim for the thermostatic valve will have two handles). The benefit is that you only have to set your preferred temperature once. Thereafter, you'll only have to turn the volume control on.

That said, the Kohler pressure-balanced valve looks and works great, and there's really nothing "wrong" with it. However, if you want to control volume, or would appreciate the added convenience of a pre-set temperature, then go with the thermostatic valve.
studio460
14 years ago
To be clear, depending on whether you choose the pressure-balanced valve or the thermostatic valve, you will need to select the proper trim kit that goes with each. A single-lever trim kit will go with the pressure-balanced valve; a two-lever trim kit will go with the thermostatic valve. Compatible trim kit part numbers are typically specified in the Kohler valve spec sheet (which is viewable/printable from most online retailers).
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Stacey Collins
14 years ago
I'm not sure that's exactly correct.... We have a Kohler thermostatic valve and single handle Purist trim. Then we have two single-handle Putist trims for the two volume control valves (showerhear and handshower).
I have never had a thermostatic before and I really like it!

Kohler Rite-temp Pressure balance vs Purist Thermostatic valve?

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studio460

studio460

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