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Check Valves
Author:
A.Jeffers
Date Written:
23 Oct 07
Copyright © 2006 www.click4bathrooms.com
Most showers with a mixer tap i.e. one that blends hot and cold water, including thermostatic mixing showers, require a single check valve on both the hot and cold water pipework supplies if the pressures are unbalanced.
If a combi boiler feeds the shower then this will generally not be necessary, but it would still be a good idea to check.
Installing check valves regardless will at least keep you in line with water regulations and byelaws in the event of pressure fluctuations.
In basic terms, check valves or non-return valves are used to prevent hot water which is at a higher pressure than the cold water, forcing it’s way back up the incoming mains cold water pipework. This could cause contamination of otherwise wholesome or potable water.
