Slipping into a warm, relaxing bath after a long day of work may be the perfect way to release tension, but have you ever considered what it is that keeps your bath water comfy? Here’s a hint … it also keeps the water in your kitchen faucet at the perfect temperature for washing dishes and your bathroom sink water from scalding you during handwashing.
This often unthought-of device that makes your household water a safe temperature for usage is known as a mixing valve. Not only does it ensure you can easily adjust the water temp, but it’s also what allows you to be the Goldilocks of your homestead so your bath isn’t too hot and isn’t too cold … it’s just right.
The basic function of a mixing valve is to mix the hot water and the cold water so that it comes out of the faucet at a comfortable and safe temperature. However, mixing valves have many applications and there are many types available. This is why it is important to consult a professional, qualified plumber if you need to install or replace a broken mixing valve in your home.
The most common installation arrangement is typically a single central thermostatic mixing valve, however, thermostatic controls are also available on many point-of-use faucets. For example, the main outlet of a water heater usually has a single unit that feeds water to baths and showers, which utilize manual mixing valves. This setup prevents dangerously hot water from scalding you whenever there is a surge of water in your shower.
The manual mixing valves that are commonly used in kitchens and bathrooms are built much like thermostat mixers but offer no protection against sudden drops in the cold water supply. This is why it is very important that they are used in conjunction with a thermostatic mixing valve installed on your hot water system.
If you have any questions about mixing valves, how mixing valves work, and what type of mixing valve you should install in your home or business, contact the experts at Action Plumbing today. We’re available to help you 24 hrs. a day, 7 days a week.