Thermostatic Mixing Valve Testing Significance

Consider taking a hot, steamy shower after a long, exhausting day. Is there a more effective approach to refreshing your body and mind? No, not!  

The thermostatic mixing valve plays an important role in ensuring accurate water temperature control. A hot shower after work has many advantages, including reducing stress and relaxing the muscles. However, a malfunctioning thermostatic mixing valve might ruin your enjoyment and sometimes prove problematic. 

As you might expect, a broken thermostatic mixing valve fails to mix and control hot and cold water, causing the water temperature to rise or fall abruptly. Each year, severe scorching and shock injuries occur to many Australians in their restrooms. 

Therefore, we strongly advise frequently testing your thermostatic mixing valve if you don't want to encounter such problems while enjoying a well-earned hot shower.  

Everything you need to know about testing thermostatic mixing valves is covered in this article. Without further ado, let's study thermostatic mixing valve testing.  

Thermostatic Mixing Valve Testing: What Is It? 

A thermostatic mixing valve also referred to as a TMV, is a special plumbing valve that combines hot and cold water to regulate the temperature of hot water outlets to safe levels. 

They are frequently used in homes, hospitals, and educational institutions to safeguard people by reducing the risk of scorching from hot water from sinks, tubs, and showers. 

These uniquely created plumbing valves combine cold and water delicately, utilizing an inbuilt thermal component. This guarantees they can provide a mixed water stream at a predetermined temperature, often between 39 and 43 degrees Celsius. 

Risks Associated with Significant Changes in Water Temperature: 

Sudden variations in water temperature can harm your body. Sudden exposure to extreme cold or extremely hot water can be accidental.  

Your plumbing system's thermostatic mixing valve fails to adjust the water temperature when it is not operating at its best. 

As a result, it could get too hot or too cold when you're taking a shower. In all honesty, that is not a desirable situation.

• If The Season Is Too Cold-
  

While taking a shower, if cold water suddenly streams down on you, it could cause a thermal shock, prompting you to immediately step back to avoid the scorching water. It could cause you to stumble and trip, hurting you physically.

• Anytime The Water Is Too Hot:
  

Burns could harm your skin from boiling water being poured down your body. Keep in mind that third-degree burns are more common in young children and the elderly. 

Testing & Installation of Thermostatic Mixing Valves:  

The only way to prevent such negative effects on your water is to install a thermostatic mixing valve. Thankfully, these devices are being installed in Australian residential and commercial buildings to guarantee the safety of their occupants.  

Keep in mind that setting up the thermostatic mixing valve is just the beginning. Periodic inspection of valve performance is essential to ensure that it operates as intended. 

What Should Be the Test Repetition Rate?

Since many plumbing contractors offer various testing durations, there is no simple solution. After 7-8 weeks of initial installation, the plumbing experts should perform a service test in thermostatic mixing valve testing. These routine inspections should be carried out at least once a year as a rule.

Additional tests are conducted based on the results of the check. It would be great if you made the appropriate temperature adjustments as soon as you saw any appreciable changes in the water's temperature in thermostatic mixing valve testing.  

After 21 weeks from the date of the prior test, it is advised to do the subsequent test. Additionally, if there is even a slight change in the water's temperature, you must make the necessary modifications. 

What is Thermostatic Mixing Valve Testing Procedure?

The type of thermostatic mixing valve fitted typically affects the thermostatic mixing valve testing process. However, there are a few fundamental procedures that must be followed.  

You must first determine the temperature of the blended water. After that, disconnect the thermostatic mixing valve's cold-water supply. Wait five seconds after that, then check the water's temperature to see if it is below 39 degrees Celsius. The thermostatic mixing valve operates properly if you don't observe any significant changes. 

The valve needs to be checked by experts immediately if you observe any change greater than 2 degrees Celsius, though in thermostatic mixing valve testing. 

Conclusion- 

This overview of the importance of thermostatic mixing valve testing will help you make the right call when you notice a problem with the valve. Connecting with a professional will help you get the right solution.