A tempering valve means you don’t need to constantly adjust your water temperature to avoid scalding or freezing showers. Water tempering valves ensure the safety of your family when it comes to hot water hazards.
This device is a simple solution that can help you achieve the perfect water temperature every time while also keeping you and your loved ones safe. It’s called a Tempering Valve, and in this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this innovative device.
From its benefits to its installation process, we’ll cover it all. So sit back, relax, and get ready to experience a new level of comfort and safety in your daily shower routine.
What Is A Tempering Valve?
A tempering valve is a device that is installed in the hot water supply line of a building to control the temperature of the water that is delivered to the faucets, showers, and other outlets. Its primary function is to prevent the risk of scalding and maintain a consistent and safe water temperature.
What does a tempering valve do?
A tempering valve works by blending hot and cold water to achieve a specific temperature that is predetermined by the valve’s setting. It consists of a valve body, temperature sensing element, and a thermal actuator. The thermal actuator reacts to changes in water temperature and adjusts the flow of hot and cold water to maintain the desired outlet temperature.
When the incoming water temperature is below the set temperature, the valve will open and allow more hot water to flow, increasing the temperature of the outlet water. When the incoming water temperature is above the set temperature, the valve will close and allow more cold water to flow, lowering the temperature of the outlet water.
Why A Tempering Valve Is Required
Tempering valves are required by plumbing codes in many countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the United States. They are essential for preventing scalding accidents that can result in severe burns, especially in vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and people with disabilities.
In addition to preventing scalding, tempering valves can also help to increase energy efficiency and reduce costs. By maintaining a consistent temperature, the valve can prevent wastage of hot water, reducing the amount of energy required to heat it.
How to adjust a tempering valve
Tempering valve adjustment can be made by turning the valve knob with your hand or flat head screwdriver to the desired temperature. Adjusting a tempering valve is an important process that helps to ensure that your water temperature is safe and comfortable. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you adjust your tempering valve:
- Locate the valve: The tempering valve is usually located near your water heater or boiler. It is a brass valve with a dial or knob on top.
- Turn off the water supply: Before you begin adjusting the valve, make sure to turn off the water supply to your home.
- Set the desired temperature: Determine the temperature that you want your water to be. Most people prefer their water temperature to be between 100-120 degrees Fahrenheit (37-49 degrees Celsius).
- Adjust the valve: Use a flathead screwdriver or pliers to turn the dial or knob on the top of the tempering valve. Turn it slowly until you reach the desired temperature. Some valves may have a locking mechanism that requires a key to adjust.
- Test the water temperature: After adjusting the valve, turn on the hot water tap and let it run for a few minutes. Use a thermometer to check the water temperature. If it’s too hot or too cold, readjust the valve until you reach the desired temperature.
- Turn on the water supply: Once you’re satisfied with the water temperature, turn on the water supply to your home and check the water temperature again to ensure it is still at the desired level.
By following these simple steps, you can adjust your tempering valve to ensure safe and comfortable water temperature in your home. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, consider contacting a professional plumber for assistance.
What temperature should a tempering valve be set at?
The temperature at which a tempering valve should be set in Melbourne depends on a few different factors, including the type of building, the age of the occupants, and personal preferences. However, according to Australian building codes, the maximum temperature for hot water in residential buildings should be no higher than 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit).
In Melbourne, the tempering valve should be set at a temperature that will provide a safe and comfortable water temperature for occupants, while also complying with Australian building codes. For most homes and buildings, a temperature of 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit) is considered safe and comfortable.
It’s important to note that the temperature of the water at the hot water system may be higher than the set temperature of the tempering valve due to heat loss in the pipes. To ensure that the water temperature at the hot water outlet does not exceed the set temperature of the tempering valve, it’s recommended to have a licensed plumber install and maintain the tempering valve.
Overall, the temperature at which a tempering valve should be set in Melbourne should provide a safe and comfortable water temperature, while also complying with Australian building codes.
Do tempering valves reduce water pressure?
Tempering valves are designed to mix hot and cold water to achieve a safe and comfortable water temperature, but they should not reduce water pressure when properly installed and maintained.
However, if the tempering valve is not installed correctly or is clogged with debris, it can affect water pressure. A tempering valve that is installed too small or has a smaller diameter than the hot and cold water pipes can restrict water flow and reduce water pressure. In addition, if the valve becomes clogged with sediment or mineral buildup, it can also restrict water flow and reduce water pressure.
To prevent a tempering valve from reducing water pressure, it’s important to have it installed by a licensed plumber who can ensure that the valve is properly sized and installed in accordance with manufacturer instructions and local plumbing codes. It’s also important to have the valve inspected and cleaned regularly to prevent sediment buildup and other issues that can affect water flow and pressure.
In summary, properly installed and maintained tempering valves should not reduce water pressure. If you are experiencing low water pressure and suspect it may be due to a tempering valve issue, contact a licensed plumber to inspect and address the issue.
When to Replace A Tempering Valve
A tempering valve typically has a lifespan of around ten years, after which it may begin to deteriorate and fail to perform correctly. Signs that a tempering valve may need to be replaced include inconsistent water temperature, reduced water pressure, or leaks.
It is essential to replace a tempering valve promptly if it is not functioning correctly to avoid the risk of scalding. A licensed plumber should install and replace the valve to ensure that it is installed correctly and complies with local plumbing codes. Make a booking with us online or give us a call today.
What happens when a tempering valve fails?
When a tempering valve fails, it can cause a variety of issues that can affect the safety and comfort of your home’s hot water supply.
If the tempering valve fails in the open position, it can cause scalding hot water to flow out of the faucets, posing a serious safety risk to anyone using the water. This can happen if the valve’s thermostat fails or if there is debris or sediment buildup inside the valve that prevents it from properly mixing hot and cold water.
On the other hand, if the tempering valve fails in the closed position, it can prevent hot water from flowing out of the faucets, leading to inadequate hot water supply and potentially causing discomfort to occupants. This can happen if the valve’s temperature sensor fails or if the valve becomes stuck due to debris or sediment buildup.
In either case, a failing tempering valve can result in unsafe or uncomfortable water temperature, which can affect the occupants’ health and well-being.
If you suspect that your tempering valve is failing or has failed, it’s important to have it inspected and repaired or replaced by a licensed plumber as soon as possible to prevent any safety risks or discomfort. Regular maintenance and inspection of the valve can also help prevent failures and ensure that your home’s hot water supply is safe and comfortable.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a tempering valve is a crucial component of a building’s plumbing system that ensures the safety and comfort of its occupants. By regulating the temperature of hot water, it prevents the risk of scalding and helps to increase energy efficiency. It is essential to have your tempering valve checked regularly and replaced when necessary to ensure that it continues to perform correctly and safeguard the health and wellbeing of your household.
As local emergency plumbers in Melbourne we’ve come across many plumbing problems that could’ve easily been avoided with a tempering valve. We’re strategically situated plumbers in Hawthorn and drive around from job to job all over the city, from South Melbourne to North. We’re always nearby Richmond, Kew, and Camberwell and many other neighbourhoods. We’ll be there to help you as soon as you need us. Just give us a call!
