How to Regulate the Hot Water Heater
Updated: Nov. 28, 2019Install temperature regulating valves without tearing up the bathtub wall
Two methods of controlling hot water temperature
Photo 1: Water heating mixing valve
Cut the copper pipes at your water heater and reroute them through a mixing valve. Install a temperature gauge in a tee fitting near the valve to set the output temperature.
If your home is plumbed with copper pipe, you can install a mixing valve right at the water heater and set the maximum temperature to 104 degrees F. You may still get some temperature variations due to fast changes in water pressure (such as from a toilet or a washing machine), but there will be no chance of scalding.
But before you break into any pipes or buy a water heater mixing valve, ask your local building inspector if your code requires “point-of-use” tempering valves at each faucet. These valves may be cheaper than installing temperature-regulating faucets.
Required Tools for this Project
Have the necessary tools for this DIY project lined up before you start—you’ll save time and frustration.
- Adjustable wrench
- Rags
- Soldering torch
- Tube cutter
Required Materials for this Project
Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time. Here’s a list.
- Copper pipe
- Flux
- Mixing valve with thermometer
- Point-of-use tempering valve
- Sanding cloth
- Solder
