Hot water scalding is a frequent yet hazardous problem that must not be overlooked, particularly when kids, the elderly, and people with special needs are present. Throughout the year, there are several cases of persons scalding themselves with hot water. Every year, around 112,000 individuals visit the emergency department and 7,000 are hospitalized as a result of scorching from tap water. It is obvious that hot water scalding requires careful thought.

On a more positive side, while hot water scalding is a hazardous foe, it is not difficult to resolve. It can be resolved fast, even with little technical expertise and equipment. However, if your water heater is not working properly, it is recommended to contact a qualified plumber Caccia Plumbing. Here are some potential solutions to scalding.

What exactly is Hot Water Scalding and how can it be avoided?

Scalding is a type of second-degree burn caused by hot water or steam on the skin. Depending on the amount of time exposed to the high-temperature moisture, damage and blistering can be quite severe. If a big portion of the body is burnt, scale burns can be lethal.

Hot water scalding is a terrible beast that may inflict excruciating agony. Furthermore, scalding might cause shock in certain persons. While scalding burns might harm your skin, continuous contact with hot water can harm your deep tissues. The scorch might be lethal if it spreads over a big region.

The temperature of the hot water flowing out of each hot fixture or point-of-use may be measured using a thermometer to see if it is safe. Iterative point-of-use temperature monitoring and heater setting adjustments should be performed until all fixtures provide water at or below 120°.

Installing an ASSE 1017 “Performance Requirements for Temperature Actuated Mixing Valves for Hot Water Distribution Systems” compliant mixing valve at the water heater is the safest and most accurate technique to manage hot water supply “point-of-distribution” temperature. A mixing valve is temperature adjustable and may be adjusted to 120°, ensuring that no fixture delivers unsafely hot water.

Pressure Balancing Valves

The most popular equipment used to avoid scorching at home is pressure balancing valves. These valves are permanently installed at the supply point. They automatically regulate the water pressure to keep the proper combination of cold and hot water within a 2-degree to 3-degree range of the shower control.

Assume that the cold water is used for something and that the pressure reduces. In that instance, the pressure-balancing valve will limit the supply of hot water proportionally to maintain the total temperature balanced.

Thermostatic Mixing Valves

Another effective scald-prevention device is the thermostatic mixing valve. However, it is not widely utilized in the United States, mostly because it is more expensive than pressure-balancing valves.

The thermostatic mixing valves can be fitted inline close to the water heater or as part of the shower control system. If the valve is used inline, it is in charge of mixing cold water with hot water as it exits the heater, so keeping a consistent temperature. The second application for thermostatic valves is to allow users to control the temperature while bathing.

If there is no cold water or the temperature of the hot water is too high, thermostatic mixing valves will stop the flow of water.

When installing pressure-balancing valves and thermostatic mixing valves, the installer installs a temperature limit stop to prevent users from adjusting control to scorching temperatures.

In addition to utilizing anti-scald devices, you should likewise take the necessary actions:

  • Check the temperature of the water using a thermometer or your elbow, hand, or wrist before using it.
  • Check to see if the water heater temperature is less than or equal to 120°F, and if not, adjust it to <120°.
  • Fill the bathtub with cold water first, then hot water, then turn off the hot water tap first.

To prevent hot water scalding, home water heaters are adjusted to temperatures below 120 degrees Fahrenheit. However, if your water heater is acting up and providing either too little or too much hot water, it is time to call Caccia Plumbing. We are a team of seasoned specialists with extensive experience dealing with all sorts of plumbing difficulties.