Where should the tempering valve be installed in a hot water system?

The tempering valve is designed to mix hot water with cold water to ensure that the water delivered to taps and outlets does not exceed a safe temperature, thereby reducing the risk of scalding. By installing the tempering valve at the outlet of the hot water storage unit or at the point of use, it allows for effective temperature control right where the water is accessed.

This positioning ensures that the water being delivered to fixtures is at the appropriate temperature, providing safety and comfort. Additionally, it protects plumbing fixtures and appliances from thermal stress caused by excessively hot water. When the tempering valve is placed at these locations, it can mix the appropriate ratio of hot and cold water more effectively, resulting in consistent temperature control across the entire hot water system.

Other placements, like at the inlet of the hot water cylinder or in the cold water supply line, would not provide the same level of immediate temperature regulation at the point of use and could lead to excessively hot water reaching taps, increasing the risk of burns.