A simple solution for safe and efficient healthcare plumbing

Hot water systems are essential in all types of buildings, but in healthcare environments, they play a particularly crucial role. A well-designed system will place operational efficiency at its heart to reduce water wastage and improve the user experience. But this is only the foundation, with efficient hot water systems also improving safety.

This is, of course, a critical consideration in hospitals and other healthcare facilities. With thousands of staff, patients and visitors relying on hot water systems every day, the safe operation of such systems must be a primary consideration.

The importance of water control valves cannot be overlooked in creating these systems. Responsible for controlling the flow of water, they can underpin efforts around efficiency, safety and regulatory compliance. But, with multiple valves typically needed to achieve the desired results, what can specifiers and installers do to reduce system complexity and prioritise reliable performance over the long-term?

First, let’s look at the role of water control valves, specifically Thermal Balancing Valves (TBVs) and Pressure Reducing Valves (PRVs).

TBVs are designed to create a balanced secondary hot water system, which are common in large plumbing applications such as hospitals and large domestic properties. When installed and in operation, the hot water temperature remains consistent at all parts of the system. In practice, this means that heat sources do not have to operate at excessive temperatures for the water to remain hot and useable across the building, even at the furthest points of the system.

To make this possible, the valve contains an internal thermostatic element which operates against the internal spring mechanism to automatically adapt to external temperature spikes or drops. As the temperature reaches the set point, the valves restrict the flow of water, while in cooler parts of the system the valves will open to draw more heat to that area.

Once commissioned and operating normally, the hot water temperature across the system will remain consistent. In the event a thermal cycle is required for legionella prevention purposes, the valve will open at inlet temperatures above 70 degrees to ensure thermal flushing can be conducted, without manually opening each valve.

While TBVs will balance the temperature across a system, PRVs are essential in these larger, pumped systems, to prevent over-pressure, ultimately safeguarding system users and ensuring any valves or appliances operate at an efficient and effective supply pressure. PRVs also act as protection in plant room applications, protecting the system from mains surges.

While TBVs and PRVs are essential components of a well-balanced and efficient hot water system, they can add to the complexity of the system – particularly when you consider the scale of those required for healthcare environments.

The more valves being installed, the more connections that need to be made. And as we all know, more connections mean more risk of leaks occurring. Whether due to age, failing connections or simple human error – whatever the cause, a leak can have a widespread impact and comprising efficiency and performance.

The solution for specifiers and installers is to streamline valve selection, which in turn simplifies installation and future maintenance. This is where the benefits of combination valves really pay off.

Bringing the functionality of two valves into a single unit, combination valves like the Reliance Valves Combination Thermal Balancing & Pressure Reducing Valve deliver complete, uncompromising functionality, while streamlining specification and installation.

Combining the role of a TBV and PRV, this compact unit simultaneously balances the secondary hot water at the return point within the draw off area, while reducing the pressure on the distribution side of the valve. This ensures a consistent pressure to valves such as thermostatic mixing valves, taps, showers or other types of hot water fixtures. It also features a built-in disinfection function to protect against Legionella and enhance system safety.

The single cartridge design includes a 'Lift & Turn' tamperproof temperature adjuster cap (from 45 to 65°C) and a dry fit thermometer, which means the system does not need to be drained.

There are installation and maintenance benefits too. Only one valve needs to be fitted and serviced, reducing potential leak points and saving on installation time and cost because fewer connections are required at the point of installation. If that’s not enough, the Combination Thermal Balancing & Pressure Reducing Valve comes pre-insulated for further savings too.