Under Sink Thermostatic Mixing Valve

An under-sink thermostatic mixing valve (TMV) is a device that controls the temperature of water in a sink or other water fixture. It does this by mixing hot and cold water to achieve a desired temperature. TMVs are commonly used in commercial and residential buildings to prevent scalding and ensure a consistent water temperature.

TMVs are typically installed under the sink, where they are connected to the hot and cold water supply lines. They have two main components: a thermostatic element and a mixing chamber. The thermostatic element senses the temperature of the mixed water and adjusts the flow of hot and cold water to maintain the desired temperature. The mixing chamber is where the hot and cold water are mixed together to create the desired temperature.

There are several different types of TMVs available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The most common type of TMV is the diaphragm type. These valves use a diaphragm to control the flow of hot and cold water. Diaphragm type TMVs are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. However, they can be less accurate than other types of TMVs and may require more maintenance.

Another type of TMV is the piston type. These valves use a piston to control the flow of hot and cold water. Piston type TMVs are more accurate than diaphragm type TMVs and require less maintenance. However, they are also more expensive and more difficult to install.

The type of TMV that is best for a particular application will depend on the specific requirements of the application. Factors to consider include the desired temperature range, the accuracy required, the maintenance requirements, and the budget.

TMVs are an important safety device that can help to prevent scalding and ensure a consistent water temperature. They are available in a variety of types to meet the specific requirements of any application.

Benefits of Under Sink Thermostatic Mixing Valves

There are several benefits to using under sink thermostatic mixing valves, including:

Scald prevention: TMVs help to prevent scalding by ensuring that the water temperature never exceeds a preset maximum temperature.
Consistent water temperature: TMVs maintain a consistent water temperature, even when the hot or cold water supply temperature fluctuates.
Energy savings: TMVs can help to save energy by reducing the amount of hot water used. This is because TMVs only mix as much hot water as needed to achieve the desired temperature.
Ease of use: TMVs are easy to use. They simply need to be set to the desired temperature and then they will automatically maintain that temperature.

Installing an Under Sink Thermostatic Mixing Valve

Installing an under sink thermostatic mixing valve is a relatively simple process. However, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to ensure that the valve is installed correctly.

The following steps provide a general overview of the installation process:

Turn off the water supply to the sink.
Disconnect the hot and cold water supply lines from the sink.
Remove the old TMV (if there is one).
Install the new TMV according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Connect the hot and cold water supply lines to the TMV.
Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.

Once the TMV is installed, it is important to test it to make sure that it is working properly. To test the TMV, simply turn on the hot water and then the cold water. The water temperature should be consistent and should not exceed the maximum temperature setting.

Maintaining an Under Sink Thermostatic Mixing Valve

Under sink thermostatic mixing valves require very little maintenance. However, it is important to inspect the valve regularly for leaks and to clean the filter screen. The filter screen should be cleaned every six months or as needed.

To clean the filter screen, simply remove the TMV from the sink and rinse the filter screen with water. Once the filter screen is clean, reinstall the TMV.

If you have any questions about installing or maintaining an under sink thermostatic mixing valve, please consult with a qualified plumber.