What type of device must be installed to prevent sudden changes in water temperature for each shower compartment?

The correct answer is the temperature and pressure balance device, which is specifically designed to prevent sudden fluctuations in water temperature during showering. This device works by continuously adjusting the mix of hot and cold water to maintain a consistent temperature, even if there are changes in water pressure within the system.

For example, when someone flushes a toilet or turns on another faucet, these actions can create pressure imbalances that might temporarily disrupt the water temperature. The temperature and pressure balance device compensates for these variations, ensuring that the water remains at a safe and comfortable temperature for the user, thus enhancing both safety and comfort during the shower experience.

While a flow regulator can help manage water flow rates, it does not specifically address the issues of temperature regulation. A pressure relief valve is intended to prevent excessive pressure buildup in the plumbing system, but it does not prevent temperature changes. Similarly, a thermostatic mixing valve can provide temperature control but achieves this in a different manner, focusing more on blending hot and cold water before it reaches the fixture rather than responding to pressure changes as a balance device does.