Before choosing your outdoor shower or tap?
FAQ
Outdoor shower, outdoor shower or outdoor shower?
Why choose an outdoor shower?
An outdoor shower provides a unique sensory experience where you can enjoy a warm bath in nature or a refreshing rinse on a hot summer day. In addition, an outdoor shower comes in handy after activities such as swimming or sports, as you can rinse off sand and dirt before going inside. With Frostline, you get a frost-proof and self-draining outdoor shower that combines functionality and aesthetics to create a lasting and practical solution.
Which outdoor shower should you choose?
When choosing an outdoor shower, it's a good idea to choose a self-emptying outdoor shower. This is because frost cracking can occur with non-self-emptying showers outdoors and bacterial growth can occur inside the fitting. Therefore, we recommend that you choose a frost-proof outdoor shower. There are electric-based models for larger installations that keep your outdoor shower frost-free by using electricity. Alternatively, you can choose a Frostline outdoor shower that, with our mechanical self-draining function, remains frost-free year after year - without the use of electricity.
What is important when choosing an outdoor shower?
In addition to choosing a self-emptying outdoor shower, it's also a good idea to choose an outdoor shower with a suitable water flow rate. For an outdoor shower, we recommend a minimum of 18 litres per minute as this ensures a much more satisfying bathing experience. Especially if you need to wash your hair with soap, an outdoor shower with a smaller water flow can be frustrating as it can take a long time to rinse your hair properly.
Can I use a regular shower outdoors?
Using a regular shower outdoors is not recommended as it is not designed for the Nordic climate and frost cracking can occur. In addition, bacteria can form in the water if it stagnates. An outdoor shower with a self-emptying function, such as those offered by Frostline, is specifically designed to resist frost and bacteria, ensuring long durability and a hygienic solution.
Why is it important that the shower is self-emptying?
A self-emptying outdoor shower protects against frost cracks and bacterial growth, resulting in a more durable and hygienic outdoor shower. Frost damage is often not covered under warranty with other brands, which can lead to expensive repairs year after year. With a self-emptying outdoor shower, which we at Frostline provide, these risks are reduced and you get a longer-lasting outdoor shower that also requires minimal maintenance.
How does an outdoor shower work?
An outdoor shower is connected to your water supply and can be heated if you wish. Some outdoor showers, such as those from Frostline, are equipped with a self-emptying function that automatically drains your outdoor shower of water after use. This prevents frost cracking and bacterial growth and ensures that your outdoor shower is always ready for use, whatever the weather.
Why does my outdoor pool need to be self-emptying?
A self-emptying function in your outdoor shower ensures that your outdoor shower is emptied of water after each use, protecting against frost cracks and bacterial growth. This makes a Frostline outdoor shower suitable for year-round use as they remain functional and hygienic - even during the cold winter months.
What does an outdoor shower cost?
The price of an outdoor shower depends on quality and features. Budget models can be had for under £5,000, but they can be prone to frost cracking and have a shorter lifespan. An outdoor shower with frost protection and self-draining features, such as those offered by Frostline, may cost a little more, but they are a longer-lasting investment and require less maintenance.
Eqi Water?
In January 2023, Frostline and EQI merged and were united under the Frostline brand. A Frostline outdoor shower or hydrant valve is now part of the DUO series, while EQI outdoor showers and hydrants will have their own series; the EQI series. The merger has also meant that we now offer a PRO series of products with a particularly large water volume or products that are more suitable for industrial or professional use.
Garden shower, solar shower or outdoor shower
If you're in the market for a garden shower, it can be confusing, but at Frostline we specialise in frost-free and self-emptying solutions - and therefore do not offer solar showers. We recommend a self-emptying outdoor shower as it prevents water from standing still in the system. This reduces the risk of bacterial growth and frost cracking, making our Frostline outdoor showers ideal for year-round use in the Nordic climate.
A Frostline outdoor shower is designed with durability, functionality and aesthetics in mind. With Frostline, you get a practical and elegant garden shower that requires minimal maintenance and ensures you a solution that will last for many years.
New post valve, outdoor tap or hydrant?
What is a post valve?
A post valve is basically what you call an outdoor tap. Post valves are available in frost-proof versions that drain the water from the pipe after use, preventing it from freezing when the temperature drops and avoiding bacterial growth in stagnant water. Frostline post valves are equipped with a self-emptying function that automatically empties the pipe and protects against frost cracking, making them ideal for outdoor installation in cold climates.
What is a frost-proof tap?
A frost-proof faucet is a faucet that is designed to withstand frost without damage. It is typically equipped with a mechanism that drains the water from the pipe so there is no water left to freeze and expand. Frostline frost-proof taps are designed for the Nordic climate and ensure that you can safely use the tap outdoors, even in winter.
Which tap to choose?
The choice of faucet depends on your needs and environment. For outdoor use, a frost-proof model that can withstand low temperatures and prevent frost damage is recommended. Frostline offers taps and post valves with a self-emptying function that empties the pipe after each use and protects against damage, making them a durable and reliable solution for outdoor installations.
Why choose a frost-proof post valve?
A frost-proof post valve protects your outdoor water installation from frost damage by automatically draining the water from the pipe after each use. This reduces the risk of frost cracks, which can lead to expensive repairs. Frostline's frost-proof post valves are specially developed to withstand the cold Nordic climate and ensure a trouble-free and safe solution for outdoor use.
What does hydrant mean
A hydrant is a free-standing water tap where tap water can be tapped for both drinking and gardening purposes. Hydrants can be located in public places such as parks or cemeteries, but you can also install a hydrant in your garden if you want easy access to water.
Which hydrant to choose?
When choosing a hydrant, it's important that you choose one that is approved for drinking water so you can safely drink from the tap or fill your water bottle. It is also recommended to choose a frost-proof model that can withstand low temperatures and prevent both frost damage and bacterial growth. Frostline offers hydrants and tap valves with a self-emptying function that empties the pipe after each use and protects against damage, making them a durable and reliable solution for outdoor installations.
Why is water not coming out of my outdoor tap?
If water is not coming out of your outdoor tap, it could be due to limescale deposits that can block the water supply or frost cracking if the tap is not frost-protected. In cold climates, water left in the pipes can freeze and expand, which can cause serious damage to both the pipes and the tap. Therefore, it is recommended to choose an outdoor frost-proof tap with a self-emptying function that automatically empties the pipe of water after each use. This prevents the water from freezing and creating frost cracks while minimising the risk of limescale deposits.
What does it cost to get an outdoor tap?
The price of an outdoor tap depends on quality and features. Budget models can be had for less than $500, but they can be more prone to frost cracking and have a shorter lifespan. Outdoor taps with frost protection and self-draining features, such as those offered by Frostline, may cost a little more, but they are a durable investment that requires less maintenance and ensures the tap can withstand cold temperatures all year round.
Technical questions
FAQ
Wall-hung outdoor shower or tap valve?
In the EQI, DUO, and PRO series
When purchasing a wall mounted outdoor tap or shower from Frostline
Before connecting your new outdoor shower, hydrant or tap valve, it is very important to flush the water line for at least 2-3 minutes to ensure that all impurities are flushed out, otherwise they will get stuck in the valve and cause the product to not close properly, creating water waste and possible frost damage to the product and surroundings.
If the handle starts to feel tight over time, it's due to worn O-rings or your tap valve or outdoor shower needs to be lubricated with fresh tap grease. For instructions, see the specific product on this website or in the accompanying manual. The DUO series is with ceramic inserts and the EQI series is with rubber seals. The PRO series depends on the specific variant. Please contact us in case of doubt.
No, it can lead to frost cracking. Your tap valve or hydrant is frost-free in that the product is self-emptying. If there is a fixed hose or other connections on the product, it prevents self-draining and can lead to possible frost damage. It is therefore important that hoses and connections of any kind are removed when the temperature drops below freezing.
This also applies to our range of hoses and quick couplings.
Your dream starts here.
Outdoor shower, tap valve or hydrant? To ensure that your new outdoor shower or outdoor tap lives up to its full potential and lasts for many years, we at Frostline recommend using a specialist for installation. That's why we've partnered with experienced installers and dealers who can help you. If you fall in love with an outdoor shower or tap, you can find the plumbing number in our price lists and contact one of our skilled dealers.
Freestanding outdoor shower or tap valve?
In the EQI, DUO, and PRO series
When purchasing a free-standing outdoor tap or shower from Frostline
What should you be aware of before connecting your outdoor shower or tap valve?
Before connecting your new outdoor shower or tap valve, it is very important to flush the water line for at least 2-3 minutes to ensure that all impurities are flushed out, otherwise they will get stuck in the valve and cause the product to not close properly, creating water waste and possible frost damage to the product and surroundings.
The handle runs tightly. Why?
If operating the product becomes difficult, it could caused by worn out parts in the valve or the faucet needing to be lubricated with fresh faucet grease. Should the valve be exposed to frost in the water supply or water cannot leave the product as intended it could also be caused by a damage inside the valve system. For guidance, we refer to the specific product section on our website or to the user manual.
Does it matter where you place the product?
Yes, the frost-free function is based on a self-emptying valve that drains the residual water into the well after use. It's therefore crucial for a correct function that you only place the product in a place where the well remains dry and can drain the residual water. Rising water of any kind can cause dirt to enter the valve and malfunction.
See separate section on DRAIN. At the same time, it is very important that the top edge of the well is level with the finished surface and not raised.
Is it possible to turn the entire post valve or outdoor shower without the well going into the ground?
No, you can't move the 2 things apart, as it can lead to malfunction due to, for example, a broken frost plug.
Can stainless steel rust?
Frostline is made of high-quality stainless steel, but particles can still get stuck to the outside of the product and form something that looks like rust - so-called flash rust. To counteract this, we recommend that the product is lubricated with the supplied acid-free oil immediately after installation. This treatment is then repeated 2-3 times a year. If the product is located in particularly exposed areas, such as coastal areas with high wind, moisture and salt exposure, we recommend applying the acid-free oil more often.
Can a water hose or other connections be fitted all year round?
No, it can lead to frostbite. The product is frost-free in that it is self-emptying. If there is a fixed hose or other connections on the product all year round, it prevents self-emptying and can lead to possible frost damage. It's therefore important that the hose and connections of each species are removed when the temperature falls to the freezing point.
Animal
When you buy a Drinking system at Frostline
May one loosen the bolt at the top of the drinking machine?
No, it is important not to loosen the bolt, as this will cause an incorrect adjustment of the wire. Also, do not turn the drinking cup at the top in another position as it will interfere with the function of the drinking system.
Does it matter where you place the product?
Yes, the frost-free function is based on a self-emptying valve that drains the residual water into the well after use. It's therefore crucial for a correct function that you only place the product in a place where the well remains dry and can drain the residual water. Rising water of any kind can cause dirt to enter the valve and malfunction.
See separate section on DRAIN. At the same time, it is very important that the top edge of the well is level with the finished surface and not raised.
May the brass valve come into contact with the soil or sand during installation?
No, it's important that the brass valve avoids being in contact with the ground, sand or any dirt during installation, as this can cause the valve and product to not work properly. We recommend that the lower part of the product where the brass valve is mounted, during service and installation, is placed on a surface that does NOT come in direct contact with soil or sand.
Drains
Establishment of drainage can be crucial
It is essential for Frostline's frost-proof system and product warranty that the well is ALWAYS DRY. To secure this we recommend establishing a drainage for any freestanding products. This can be achieved by digging a hole approximately 1.2 meters deep and filling it with 30-40 centimetres of gravel before situating the product on top of this. Another option is to establish drainage from the well using a minimum of 2 meters of drainpipe positioned so the water connection runs inside it. The drainpipe should be situated so that it goes into the bottom of the well, and there should be put gravel around it before covering the trench again. In the case that the ground for example is clay soil and not self-draining at all, it may also be necessary to establish a soakaway or connect the well directly to the sewer system. If in doubt, pour a bucket of water into the well hole. If the water disappears within 1 minute, a soakaway or direct connection to the sewer is not necessary.
Rust
Rust-like staining/Surface corrosion
All of Frostline’s products are made from stainless steel. Glass peened stainless steel needs maintenance to avoid rust-like staining. Though steel is designated ”stainless” some small spots of material might land on the steel and start a surface corrosion.
Therefore, it is important regularly to clean the surface and at least 4 times a year to treat the product with acid-free oil. This process is also described in the installation guide under “maintenance”. The installation guide was enclosed, when the product was delivered. If you already experience surface corrosion, you can treat this with the abrasive polishing compound Autosol. Autosol can be bought in most DIY-shops. Remember to apply acid-free oil after the treatment.
Read our maintenance guide.
Frostline showroom
Do you want to experience Frostline's outdoor shower in a streamlined design, feel the elegant surfaces of a Frostline tap valve and sense the handmade quality? Or maybe you are interested in seeing a sculptural hydrant? Visit our showroom in the heart of Aarhus C, where we are ready to help you create the perfect outdoor shower or find the right tap or hydrant for your home or project. We will guide you to solutions that not only fulfil your needs, but also enhance the architectural qualities of your surroundings. We look forward to welcoming you.
Outdoor shower, outdoor shower, outdoor shower, outdoor shower, outdoor shower - it goes by many names, and the selection of outdoor showers is vast. Whatever you call it, we are ready to help you find a frost-free solution - even if you are looking for a hydrant or tap valve.
