October 22

A Hot Water Tempering Valve Is More Important Than You Think

If you’re reading this, you’re probably trying to gather information about something called a hot water tempering valve. Have you been told yours is important, but you don’t know why? After all, it seems like just another technical part of a complicated system you’d rather not waste time worrying about.

But here’s the thing – tempering valves really are important. They really can be life-saving. They really do play a critical role in keeping your home and the people who live within it safe and sound.

What is a tempering valve?

It’s all about regulating your hot water temperature – something the Queensland government and local councils, and most other reasonable jurisdictions around the world, should be doing. Why? Because without that little temper valve, scalding becomes a serious risk. And it’s not something you want to even joke about.

In Queensland, but also all across Australia and the developed world, strict regulations exist to ensure that hot water systems are up to code – and that definitely includes the installation of tempering valves. If you think it’s all just red tape, think again: these things are designed to keep you and your family safe and sound. In a way, they’re the most important part of your hot water system bar none.

Why hot water temperature regulations matter

Queensland in particular, but also pretty much all across Australia, strict regulations are enforced when it comes to hot water system temperatures. Those strict laws mandate that hot water delivered to bathrooms in particular must be no hotter than 50°C – with basically no exceptions at all.

This is for a very good reason, because scalding can happen in just a few seconds when water is even a little bit hotter than that. In fact, try standing under the shower with the hot tap on and the cold tap completely off. Spoiler alert: OW!

According to the Australian Building Code, this regulation applies to all new hot water installations and any replacements in homes. So how does your system do it? It’s all about the tempering valve, which ensures your system complies with the rule by mixing hot water from your heater with cold water before it reaches your taps. That maintains a safe, regulated temperature. Without these valves, or if they’re not working properly, your water could be scalding hot in almost an instant – a major hazard, especially for children and the elderly.

How does a tempering valve work?

Now that we know why hot water regulation is crucial, let’s dive into how a tempering valve hot water system works. Basically, it’s just a run-of-the-mill mechanical valve that blends hot water from your system with cold water to achieve the desired, safe temperature. It’s usually installed on the outlet of your hot water system, constantly monitoring and adjusting the temperature before the water reaches your taps.

So what does a tempering valve do? It’s really all about acting as a safeguard. It ensures that even if your hot water system is heating water to a much higher temperature, the water you get is always pretty much safe to use and enjoy.

Everything you need to know about tempering valves

Let’s break down some of the most important aspects of tempering valves in Queensland and beyond:

1. Why are tempering valves mandatory?

Regulations require tempering valves in all new homes or whenever a hot water system is replaced. This is to protect households from dangerously high water temperatures and the potential for scalding.

2. What happens when a tempering valve fails?

A malfunctioning valve can lead to either dangerously hot or hopelessly tepid water. If you notice fluctuating water temperatures, it could be a sign that your hot water tempering valve isn’t working as it should. In such cases, it’s critical to have it inspected and replaced if necessary.

3. What temperature should your hot water be?

While hot water storage tanks are usually set at 60°C to prevent dangerous bacteria growth, the water leaving your taps should never exceed 50°C. If you’re experiencing temperatures above this in the bathroom, your hot water tempering valves definitely need attention.

4. How to detect a faulty tempering valve

The common signs of a failing valve include:

  • Inconsistent water temperature
  •  Slow hot water delivery
  • Scalding hot water, or hopelessly tepid water
  • No hot water at all.

If your water fluctuates between dangerously scalding and awfully lukewarm, it’s time to check the temper valve. Regular maintenance checks can help catch these issues early.

5. Statistics on scalding

Did you know that a child or another vulnerable person can suffer third-degree burns in just two seconds when exposed to water over 60°C? Scalding accidents are more common than you’d think, and tempering valves are an essential safety measure to help prevent them.

6. The finer details of Queensland’s hot water regulations

Queensland, although making its own hot water rules, essentially follows Australian standards, which specify that hot water systems must limit the delivery temperature to bathrooms at 50°C. However, for kitchens and laundries, the water temperature may be able to exceed this, as long as it doesn’t pose a scalding risk.

But in general, your particular hot water system is almost certainly limited to 50°C hot water delivery. However, for high risk environments like aged care, hospitals, schools, child care centres and places like that, the water temperature is reduced to 45°C, further reducing the scalding risk for vulnerable groups.

7. When to call a professional

If you’re unsure whether your tempering valve is functioning correctly, you’re experiencing hot water issues, or you just need a little bit of extra advice, it’s always best to get professional advice. DIY repairs can sometimes cause more harm than good and are generally illegal, and for good reason with such a critical safety device.

Need help with your hot water system?

Is your hot water tempering valve acting up? Need a licensed plumber to install, repair or replace one for you? Don’t leave it to chance and instead reach out to S&J Plumbing and Gasfitting for expert service and advice. We’ll get your system compliant, safe, and running smoothly again. Get same day service from our local plumbers in Brisbane Northside, Southside plumbers, Logan plumbers and beyond!


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