Thermostatic mixing valves deliver hot water safely and efficiently

Looking to enhance safety and efficiency in your projects? Thermostatic mixing valves help reduce the risk of scalding while optimizing hot water performance by providing consistent temperatures and built-in energy savings for every unit.

Both types of thermostatic mixing valves, mechanical and electronic, regulate water for delivery at a pre-set, safe temperature even if water pressure or flow fluctuates. While mechanical models cost less than their electronic counterparts, they require manual adjustments to calibrate during installation.

Homes with thermostatic mixing valves, no matter the type, stand to save more energy than those without. Thermostatic mixing valves increase the proportion of heating done by heat pumps and reduce the amount of electric resistance used, thus raising the overall efficiency of the system. That’s why the California Energy-Smart Homes Program offers support to help make them standard in new construction.

Thermostatic mixing valves are a sound choice for all homes

Thermostatic mixing valves are a practical way for builders and design teams to support occupant health and safety. Hot water is a necessity, but if stored improperly at too low a temperature, it can harbor harmful, potentially deadly bacteria. Alternatively, if the water is delivered too hot, it can result in burns.

Thermostatic mixing valves allow homes to store domestic hot water at a high enough temperature to kill bacteria while eliminating the risk of scalding when distributing hot water for bathing or washing dishes, for example.

While energy-efficient and safe delivery of domestic hot water isn’t at the top of most homebuyers’ priority lists, it is a big benefit for future occupants. This is especially true when considering seniors and toddlers, who are vulnerable to injury from scalding temperatures and bacterial infections like Legionnaires’ disease.

How residents appreciate thermostatic mixing valves

  • No more waiting for water to warm up; thermostatic mixing valves increase the amount of hot water that water heaters can provide.

  • Get more out of a water heater without upsizing; thermostatic mixing valves increase the first hour rating of the water heater by allowing storage at higher temperatures.

  • By mixing hot and cold water to hit the ideal temperature instantly, thermostatic mixing valves save energy and water, helping to reduce utility costs.

  • Thermostatic mixing valves maximize the performance of energy-efficient heat pump water heaters.

Family at home in living room together

Getting started with thermostatic mixing valves

  • 1. Follow manufacturer’s recommendations or talk with your supplier to learn what type of thermostatic mixing valve is best for your project.

  • 2. Size the thermostatic mixing valve to manage the home’s domestic hot water system flow rate and follow ASSE 1017 plumbing guidelines.

  • 3. Install and adjust your chosen valve to comply with local codes and ordinances, following manufacturer-provided installation and maintenance instructions.

Incentives and support available for efficient water heating equipment

When coupled with other energy-saving equipment like heat pumps, thermostatic mixing valves make all-electric homes even more efficient. Energy-Smart Homes makes integrating thermostatic mixing valves into the design of new homes easier and more affordable through technical assistance and incentives for all-electric residential new construction.

Reach out to the program team and learn how Energy-Smart Homes can support your next all-electric project.