How To Tell If Your Hot Water Tempering Valve Needs Attention

Most people think one thing about their hot water system – is the shower hot, or not? But lurking quietly in the background is a small but critical component – the hot water tempering valve.

We know you don’t think about it a lot – or perhaps ever! But it plays an absolutely essential role in ensuring not only your steaming hot comfort, but also your safety – and your bank account! But here’s what we really want you to take away from today’s blog: it’s not just your plumber who needs to know about that hot water tempering valve – you do, too!

Understanding what a tempering valve does, and learning how to spot the signs of a failing one, helps you:

• Avoid scalding
• Maintain your system’s efficiency
• Prevent costly repairs.

What is a tempering valve, anyway?

A tempering valve is a simple but ingenious hot water safety device, typically found on the outlet pipe, that regulates the temperature of your hot water. What does a tempering valve do? It works by mixing the hot water from your system with normal ambient tap water to deliver a safe, consistent and legal temperature – typically no higher than 50°C as required by Australian standards for bathrooms. Especially for children and the elderly, it’s literally the thing that prevents third-degree scalding – so it could hardly be more important.

How does a tempering valve work?

The tempering valve for hot water relies on a thermostat within its mechanism. If the water coming from your hot water system is too hot, the valve ingeniously and automatically adjusts the mix of cold and hot water before it reaches your taps or shower. This ensures the water temperature is safe for everyday use.

Do you need to do anything with it?

In most cases, a hot water tempering valve will work quietly in the background with no intervention at all. However, it’s recommended to have it inspected periodically, especially during routine professional hot water system maintenance. Like any mechanical part, tempering valves can wear out over time and need replacement.

How to tell if it’s working fine

When the tempering valve hot water is functioning correctly:

• Your water temperature remains consistent, legal, and safe.
• There are no sudden temperature fluctuations when using hot water.
• You don’t experience excessively hot or cold water unexpectedly.

Has something changed at your place? It could be a sign of a problem with the water tempering valve that you definitely need to pay attention to.

The symptoms of a failing tempering valve

Are you concerned that your hot water tempering valve is starting to fail? At first, you’ll notice changes in your water temperature or performance. Let’s go through the most common signs that it may need attention, and may require hot water repair or replacement:

1. Inconsistent water temperature

If your water temperature fluctuates between too hot and too cold, your tempering valve might not be regulating the mix of hot and cold water effectively.

CONSEQUENCE OF NEGLECT: Ignoring this could result in scalding or water that’s too cold for practical use.

2. Water that’s too hot

If the water at your taps or shower feels dangerously hot, the temper valve may no longer be diluting the hot water properly.

CONSEQUENCE OF NEGLECT: Scalding injuries, particularly dangerous for children and the elderly.

3. Water that’s too cold

A faulty temper valve for hot water might overcompensate by adding too much cold water, leaving your water lukewarm or cold.

CONSEQUENCE OF NEGLECT: Not only a ruined shower, but wasted energy and money as your system works harder to maintain temperature.

4. Reduced water pressure

A partially blocked or failing hot water tempering valve can reduce water flow, resulting in low hot water pressure at your taps or shower.

CONSEQUENCE OF NEGLECT: Potential strain on your HWS and additional wear on other components.

5. Rust or corrosion around the valve

Visible damage, rust, or corrosion on the tempering valve indicates it’s deteriorating and likely needs replacement.

CONSEQUENCE OF NEGLECT: Hot water leaks or failure, which can damage your hot water system and surrounding areas.

6. Leaks from the valve

If water is dripping from the water tempering valve, it’s a clear sign of wear or damage.

CONSEQUENCE OF NEGLECT: Wasted water and potential damage to the plumbing system or surrounding property.

7. Age of the valve

Tempering valves typically last about 5-8 years, depending on water quality and usage. If yours is older, it’s more likely to fail.

CONSEQUENCE OF NEGLECT: Sudden valve failure, requiring emergency replacement.

What should you do about a failing tempering valve?

Worried that your hot water tempering valve is on the way out? There are things you can do yourself, and there are things you’ll need a licensed plumber to take care of for you.

What you can do yourself

• Occasionally check for visible leaks, rust, or corrosion around the valve.
• Be aware of any sudden changes in hot water temperature or pressure.

When to call a plumber

If you notice any of the symptoms above, it’s time to call a licensed plumber. Your friendly professional can:

• Diagnose the issue with your tempering valve.
• Replace or repair the valve to restore safe water temperature and performance.
• Perform regular maintenance on your hot water system, including checking the valve’s operation and compliance with Australian standards.

Why you shouldn’t delay repairs

Neglecting a faulty hot water tempering valve can lead to serious consequences, including:

• Scalding injuries from unregulated hot water.
• Reduced efficiency and higher energy bills as your system works harder.
• Long-term damage, requiring more costly repairs or even replacement.

Addressing tempering valve issues promptly can save you money, prevent injuries, and ensure your hot water system operates efficiently.

Key takeaways for hot water system owners

A tempering valve hot water system is absolutely essential for ensuring safety and comfort at your place, regulating water temperature to prevent scalding. Regular inspections and maintenance can help you catch issues early and extend the life of the valve.

Make sure to watch out for those common symptoms of failure, like inconsistent water temperature, leaks, or corrosion, and always call a fully licensed Brisbane hot water plumber for repairs or replacements to ensure compliance with safety standards.

Need help with your tempering valve?

Having issues with your hot water tempering valve or need professional maintenance? Don’t wait! The friendly team here at S&J Hot Water Brisbane specialise in maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing tempering valves – ensuring your system is always operating safely and efficiently.

Need expert advice and reliable service in Brisbane Northside, Brisbane Southside, Logan, Moreton Bay, Redland Bay and surrounding areas? From inspections to regular maintenance to repairs and full replacements and beyond, we’re always right here to help with all of your tempering valve and hot water system needs!