Mixing valve (definition)

Mixing valve — is a device used in heating systems to mix hot and cold coolant flows in order to achieve and maintain the desired supply temperature in the system. Mixing valves play a key role in ensuring the comfort and efficiency of the heating system, especially in multi-circuit or low-temperature systems such as underfloor heating.

Mixing valve: types

1. Three-way valve:
   • Description: It has three ports - one for hot coolant, one for cold, and one for a mixed flow that enters the heating system.
   • Application: Widely used in heating systems to regulate the flow temperature, especially in underfloor heating and radiator heating circuits.
   • Peculiarities: Can be thermostatic (automatically maintains the set temperature) or controlled manually or by a servo drive.
2. Four-way valve:
   • Description: Unlike the three-way valve, this valve has four ports and allows not only mixing hot and cold flows, but also redirecting them in the desired direction.
   • Application: Used in more complex heating systems where redistribution of flows is required to improve the efficiency of the system.
   • Peculiarities: Provides more flexible temperature control and balancing of multi-loop systems.
3. Thermostatic mixing valve:
   • Description: Equipped thermostat, which automatically adjusts the proportion of mixed flows to maintain a stable outlet temperature.
   • Application: Often used in systems with a high need for precise temperature control, such as underfloor heating or DHW (hot water supply) systems.
   • Peculiarities: Suitable for use in domestic and commercial heating systems due to its easy operation and automatic control.
4. Electronic mixing valve:
   • Description: Controlled by an electronic system that can be linked to the overall heating automation system.
   • Application: Used in intelligent heating systems where precise and dynamic control of temperature and flow distribution is required.
   • Peculiarities: Provides programming and remote control capabilities via smart home systems.

Features and Benefits:

• Temperature regulation: Mixing valves ensure that a stable temperature is maintained in the heating system, which is important for comfort and efficiency.
• System protection: Prevents overheating or overcooling of the coolant, which extends the service life of the equipment.
• Energy efficiency: Allows you to reduce energy consumption through precise control of temperature conditions in the system.

Mixing valves are an integral part of modern heating systems, ensuring their reliability, flexibility and energy efficiency.