Ensure Hot Water Safety: Everything You Need to Know About Temperature Control Devices

If your storage Hot Water Service (HWS) or an Instantaneous Unit is more than 5 years old, you might be putting yourself and your family at risk.

Most Temperature Control Device (TCD) manufacturers recommend replacing your valve every 4 to 5 years.

What Are Temperature Control Devices?

Temperature Control Devices are designed to maintain hot water at a safe temperature as it exits a bathroom outlet.

TCDs mix hot water from your HWS or Instantaneous Unit with cold water to deliver water at a safe, lower temperature. The graph below illustrates why ensuring your TCDs are functioning correctly is vital.

This data comes from the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) Plumbing Code Development Research.

If you have young children or elderly relatives in your home, just a few extra seconds under excessively hot water can lead to serious consequences.

Types of Temperature Control Devices

There are two primary types of TCDs:

• Thermostatic Mixing Valves (TMVs)
• Tempering Valves

Tempering valves are the most common type installed in residential properties. Typically located next to your HWS, they feature a color-coded cap for identification:

• Yellow Cap – Suitable for storage hot water systems.
• Orange Cap – Suitable for solar and instantaneous hot water systems.

Identifying your cap type and informing your plumber in advance can speed up installation, minimizing downtime without hot water.

Stay Safe with Regular Maintenance

Regularly inspecting and maintaining your TCDs ensures they operate effectively, protecting you and your family from the risks of scalding. If you’re unsure of the age or condition of your TCDs, it’s a good idea to replace them proactively.

If you need more information or have any questions, feel free to call us at 0475 407 670, email admin@primeplumb.com.au, or fill out our online enquiry form. We’ll be happy to assist you!