Thermostatic Mixing Valves

Automatic Temperature Control of Water

by Duda Energy

Thermostatic mixing valves are used as an anti-scald device with a built-in temperature sensing mechanism which automatically mixes the cold and hot water togteher to output the desired water temperature. The water temperature will remain constant, which means that there's no need to adjust hot/cold levers to achieve the desired temperature. The device will automatically adjust for sudden spikes in the hot/cold temperature streams.

These valves are ideal for use with solar water heater systems or where water heating may achieve very high temperatures. The valves permit use of hot water in a water system by preventing scalding at the tap or shower while still maintaining hot temperatures to appliances such as dish washers or laundry machines. In the case of extreme water temperatures, an in-line thermostatic mixing valve can also be used on the output of the water tank which feeds to the entire hot water system in the building. This is highly recommended in the case of solar water heaters since the summer often produces near boiling temperatures.

When used in showers and hand washing sinks, the thermostatic mixing valves are very convenient. Simply turn on the water, and when hot water reaches the device, it will automatically mix to the desired set temperature. There will no longer be any guess-work when taking a shower. Set it to the number that you know you prefer and it's ready to go as soon as hot water reaches the system.

The safety lock on most of these devices prevents children from turning it beyond 38°C (100°F). The valve will also turn off the water flow if there is no cold water available for mixing when needed as an additional safety precaution.

Brass thermostatic mixing valves may not be used for potable water.