A tempering valve is a plumbing device designed to mix hot and cold water to produce water at a safe and consistent temperature for use in various applications, such as bathing and washing, and cleaning.
The valve contains a temperature sensor that measures the temperature of the incoming hot water and adjusts the cold water flow to ensure that the mixed water is delivered at a safe and consistent temperature. This helps prevent scalding, which can occur if the water is too hot and also helps prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, which can thrive in water that is not heated to a high enough temperature.
Tempering valves are often used in commercial and residential buildings, particularly in areas where the water temperature fluctuates greatly, such as in high-rise buildings or areas with extreme climate conditions. They are also commonly used in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities to prevent burns and scalds.
How a Tempering Valve Works
A tempering valve mixes hot and cold water to achieve a safe and consistent temperature. When hot water enters the valve, the temperature-sensitive element detects the water's temperature and adjusts the cold water flow accordingly. For example, if the water is too hot, the valve will increase the flow of cold water, and if the water is too cold, the valve will decrease the cold water flow. This process continues until the desired temperature is achieved, typically around 120°F (49°C) for most residential and commercial applications.
Once the desired temperature is achieved, the mixed water is delivered to the various fixtures and appliances in the building, such as showers, faucets, and washing machines. The tempering valve continues to monitor the temperature of the water and adjusts the flow of hot and cold water as needed to maintain the desired temperature.
Tempering Valves FAQs
What is a tempering valve on a water heater used for?
The tempering valve on a water heater regulates the hot water temperature delivered to various building fixtures and appliances. It is typically installed on the outlet of the water heater and mixes the hot water from the heater with cold water to ensure that the temperature of the water is safe and consistent.
A tempering valve can also help extend the water heater's life by reducing the stress on the tank and other components caused by overheating. Furthermore, by keeping the water temperature at a consistent level, the tempering valve can also help improve the water heater's efficiency by reducing the energy required to maintain the desired temperature.
How to install a tempering valve?
Installing a tempering valve requires some plumbing knowledge and experience, so hiring a licensed plumber or professional is recommended to perform the installation. However, if you have the necessary skills and tools, here are the general steps for installing a tempering valve:
-
Determine the location – The tempering valve should be installed on the hot water supply line, typically near the water heater. Determine the location where you want to install the valve, ensuring sufficient space to install the valve and that it can be easily accessed for maintenance and adjustment.
-
Turn off the water supply – Turn off the water supply to the water heater and open a nearby hot water faucet to drain any remaining water.
-
Cut the hot water supply line – Using a pipe cutter or hacksaw, cut the hot water supply line to where you want to install the tempering valve. Make sure the cut is clean and straight.
-
Install the fittings – Install the fittings that came with the tempering valve onto both ends of the cut supply line. Use appropriate tools, such as wrenches or pliers, to ensure the fittings are tightened securely.
-
Install the tempering valve – Install the tempering valve onto the fittings, using appropriate tools to ensure the valve is tightened securely. Make sure the valve is oriented correctly according to the manufacturer's instructions.
-
Connect the cold water supply – Connect the cold water supply to the tempering valve using the appropriate fittings. Tighten the fittings securely.
-
Turn on the water supply – Turn on the water supply to the water heater and open the hot water faucet you previously used to drain the system. Check for leaks at all connection points and make any necessary adjustments.
-
Adjust the tempering valve – Adjust the tempering valve to the desired temperature setting, following the manufacturer's instructions. Check the hot water temperature at a nearby faucet to ensure that it is at a safe temperature.
-
Test the tempering valve – Test the tempering valve by turning on the hot water faucet and checking the water temperature at regular intervals. The water temperature should remain consistent and at a safe level.
How do you replace a tempering valve?
Replacing a tempering valve can be complicated, and it is recommended that you hire a licensed plumber or a professional to do the job. However, if you have plumbing experience and the right tools, you may be able to replace a tempering valve yourself by following these general steps:
-
Turn off the power supply or gas supply to the water heater, and turn off the water supply valve.
-
Drain the water heater and the hot water supply line by opening a nearby faucet or valve.
-
Locate the tempering valve, which is usually located near the water heater's outlet, and remove the pipe fittings that connect the valve to the hot water supply line.
-
Remove the tempering valve from the hot water supply line by unscrewing the nuts or bolts that secure it.
-
Install the new tempering valve in the same location as the old one, ensuring it is properly aligned and securely fastened to the hot water supply line.
-
Reconnect the pipe fittings to the new tempering valve, ensuring they are tight and leak-free.
-
Turn on the water supply valve and fill the water heater with water.
-
Open a nearby faucet or valve to allow the air to escape from the hot water supply line.
-
Turn on the power or gas supply to the water heater and adjust the temperature settings to the desired level.
-
Check the new tempering valve for leaks and test the hot water temperature to ensure it is safe and consistent.
Again, it is important to note that replacing a tempering valve can be a complex process. If you are not comfortable doing the job yourself, it is best to hire a professional plumber to do the work.
How do you adjust a tempering valve?
Adjusting a tempering valve typically involves changing the temperature set point, which is the desired temperature that the valve is set to maintain. To adjust the temperature set point, you will need to follow these general steps:
-
Locate the tempering valve, usually installed on the hot water supply line near the water heater.
-
Identify the temperature adjustment mechanism, which may be a dial or a screw on the valve.
-
Turn on a hot water faucet and let the water run for a few minutes to ensure the water temperature stabilizes.
-
Use a thermometer to measure the temperature of the water at the faucet.
-
Adjust the temperature set point on the tempering valve by turning the dial or screw in the appropriate direction to increase or decrease the temperature. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific guidance on adjusting the temperature set point.
-
Wait a few minutes for the water temperature to stabilize, and measure the temperature at the faucet again to ensure the desired temperature.
-
Repeat the adjustment process as needed until the desired temperature is achieved.
It is important to note that adjusting a tempering valve can be a delicate process, and it is recommended that you consult a licensed plumber or a professional if you need to become more familiar with the process or are unsure about the safety of the water temperature. It is also important to avoid setting the temperature too high, as this can increase the risk of scalding and other safety hazards.
When is a tempering valve required?
A tempering valve is required in certain situations to prevent scalding or overheating of water in hot water systems. The specific circumstances under which a tempering valve is required may vary depending on local building codes and regulations.
In many jurisdictions, tempering valves are required in commercial and public buildings, such as schools, hospitals, and office buildings, to ensure that hot water temperatures are kept safe and consistent to prevent scalding injuries. In addition, tempering valves are sometimes required in homes with specific hot water systems, such as solar panels or heat pumps, to prevent water from becoming too hot and causing scalding injuries.
In many areas, tempering valves are required in multi-unit residential buildings, such as apartment buildings, to prevent scalding injuries and ensure consistent hot water temperatures throughout the building. It is important to check local building codes and regulations to determine whether a tempering valve is required in your specific situation.
What is the difference between a tempering valve and a thermostatic mixing valve?
A tempering valve and a thermostatic mixing valve are both devices used in hot water systems to regulate the temperature of the water, but they work in slightly different ways.
A tempering valve is designed to regulate the temperature of hot water by mixing hot and cold water before it reaches the point of use. The valve senses the hot water's temperature and adjusts the cold water's flow to achieve the desired temperature. Temperatures above the set point are mixed with cold water to achieve the desired temperature and prevent scalding.
On the other hand, a thermostatic mixing valve is designed to regulate the temperature of hot water by blending hot and cold water at the point of use. The valve senses the temperature of the water at the outlet and adjusts the flow of hot and cold water to achieve a specific temperature.
The main difference between the two valves is their point of operation. A tempering valve controls the water temperature before it reaches the point of use, while a thermostatic mixing valve controls the water temperature at the point of use. Additionally, a thermostatic mixing valve can be used for a broader range of applications, including in medical facilities where precise temperature control is required for infection control.
Both valves can help prevent scalding injuries and ensure consistent water temperatures. Still, the specific valve appropriate for a particular application depends on the requirements of local building codes and regulations and the system's specific needs.
Webstone Tempering Valves
Webstone Water Heater Tempering Valves (WHTV) are designed to protect against harmful bacteria that thrive in temperatures between 77°F and 113°F. These valves mix the cold water supply at the tank's output, allowing the tank to be set to a higher temperature than the bacteria can withstand. The new output can be set to a safe, comfortable temperature between 86°F and 120°F.
With the valve installed, you achieve safer water storage, and the available hot water is no longer limited to the gallons stored in the tank. As a result, the water heater is more efficient at providing greater and safer hot water output per gallon stored. WHTVs also offer an optional temperature gauge to ensure accurate output and installation kits with Pro-Connect ProPush™ lines for fast connection to copper, CPVC, or PEX. Designed for use with water in residential or commercial plumbing systems.