A mixing valve is one of the key elements used in heating installations and domestic hot water systems. It prevents the system from overheating and cooling, and thus reduces energy losses. This is not its only advantage. What else are mixing valves used for and what should be taken into account when installing them?
In this article you will learn:
- how mixing valves work,
- how to choose the right mixing valve,
- what to remember when installing a mixing valve.
See the mixing valves from Afriso at the Onninen wholesaler
What are mixing valves and what are they used for?
Mixing valves - as the name suggests - are used to precisely mix water from two circuits. They are therefore useful, for example, when both a high- and low-temperature system is installed in one installation. Thanks to these elements, it is also possible to connect several different heat sources - for example, a solid fuel boiler with a heat pump or a gas boiler with a fireplace with a water jacket.
The use of mixing valves improves the comfort of using the central heating system. Thanks to them, users have the ability to control the operation of the heating system and optimize its operation. This of course translates into lower costs, as well as a longer life of the boiler.
Valves used in central heating systems mix water heated by the boiler with the returning water. This makes it possible to obtain different temperatures for individual heat zones in the building. Moreover, these devices are also used to separate the liquid flow so that it reaches both the heating system and the domestic hot water system.
See the mixing valves from Afriso at the Onninen wholesaler
What should you pay attention to when choosing a mixing valve?
When choosing mixing valves, you should first of all pay attention to their different types. The most common on the market are:
- Three-way valves (or three-way) – used in modern heating installations, but also in cooling systems and utility water systems. Their task is to mix the appropriate amount of hot medium with cold water. Thanks to this solution, it is possible to quickly change the operating mode and adapt it to current weather conditions. The three-way valve is also used when connecting underfloor heating with a radiator system.
- Four-way valves – used in the case of solid fuel boilers. In addition to the functions of three-way mixing valves, they offer an additional convenience in the form of increasing the temperature of the water returning to the boiler. The device distributes most of the medium throughout the installation, and transfers the rest to the supply pump, which allows for even distribution of temperature between all radiators in the system.
It should also be noted that mixing valves are divided into manual and thermostatic:
- Manual mixing valves have a knob that can be used to change the water proportions. Devices of this type are also equipped with a controller that takes into account factors such as weather conditions.
- Thermostatic mixing valves operate completely independently. Regardless of the parameters of hot and cold water, everything is regulated automatically. The devices strive to maintain a constant temperature, previously set by the user.
See the mixing valves from Afriso at the Onninen wholesaler
When choosing a mixing valve, you should first specify the user's needs and the specifics of their heating system. The most important step will be to determine the purpose of this device. Depending on whether it is to enable the supply of two different systems or protect the boiler from low temperatures, the contractor should choose a switching or mixing valve.
In addition to considering the above divisions, it is also worth remembering such issues as the quality of the device. It should come from a well-known and respected manufacturer, and thus be covered by a multi-year warranty. A solid valve will be characterized by a high level of resistance and long life, and this will translate into trouble-free operation of the installation.
The criterion that should not determine the selection of a mixing valve is its price. It is worth bearing in mind that high-quality products may cost more than weaker substitutes. Of course, common sense should be used . Another aspect that affects the price of the device may be the presence of an electric actuator, the size and power of which should be appropriately matched to the specific installation.
How to install a mixing valve?
An issue that heating system installers often wonder about is the installation and configuration of mixing valves. First of all, it should be remembered that in open systems they should not be placed on the pipes leading from the heating device to the overflow vessel. This is because it is a protection of the installation in the event of a rise in water temperature, allowing it to be led out of the heating circuit. Valves must not be installed on the route to the expansion vessel either. This could damage the entire system.
One of the most frequently asked questions regarding the installation of a mixing valve is whether it should be installed after or before the pump. Interestingly, the answer depends on the type of circuit. In heating systems, it is installed after the pump, and in hot water installations before it.
While it is possible to manually configure a three-way or four-way valve, choosing a model equipped with an electric actuator will provide much better results. As you already know, this function will automatically adjust the flow of liquid at the appropriate temperature.
Manual and thermostatic mixing valves in the Onninen range
If you are looking for efficient and solid valves for your customers, stock up on Afriso brand products. They are characterized by high quality workmanship and a long warranty period. Among the models available in our online wholesaler, you will find both thermostatic and manual valves. You can also choose between three- and four-way variants.
Examples of Afriso brand mixing valves include:
- Rotary three-way mixing valveARV 384 ProClick DN25 – has a wide range of applications and is used to mix water in the heating system.
- ATM 333 DN20 thermostatic mixing valve – designed to regulate the temperature of domestic hot water supplied to washbasin and shower taps.
- ARV 484 ProClick DN25 four-way rotary mixing valve – for installation on solid fuel boilers; mixes water and at the same time increases the temperature of the return to the boiler.
- ATV 553 DN32 temperature valve – protecting the boiler against low-temperature corrosion, extending its service life and increasing its efficiency.
As you can see, in the Afriso range you will easily find mixing valves that are perfectly suited to the needs of your customers. With these devices, you will guarantee them efficient and reliable heating installations that are resistant to expensive heat losses and damage resulting from corrosion.