Which type of valve can be adjusted to balance pressure in a shower system?

The pressure-controlled valve is designed specifically to regulate and balance the pressure within piping systems, including shower systems. This type of valve automatically adjusts the flow of water based on the pressure difference upstream and downstream of the valve. By maintaining stable pressure, it ensures that water flow is consistent, preventing sudden changes in temperature or pressure that can occur when multiple fixtures are used simultaneously.

In the context of a shower, a pressure-controlled valve can respond to fluctuations in water supply or demand, helping to maintain a comfortable and safe water temperature and flow rate. This is particularly important in situations where other water fixtures may be used alongside the shower, as the pressure-controlled valve can adjust to keep the shower experience consistent.

The other options, while having their own functions, do not inherently possess the functionality needed to dynamically balance pressure within a system. For example, double-handled and manual valves provide basic control over flow and temperature but lack the automatic regulation needed for pressure balancing. Thermostatic valves, on the other hand, primarily control temperature by mixing hot and cold water but do not specifically address pressure balancing in the same way a pressure-controlled valve does.