Natural Gas Water Heaters - Anti-Scald Mixing Valves
There
is important new safety legislation in place to help reduce the danger
of scalding. On the advice of Safe Kids Canada (an affiliate of The
Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto), the building code has been amended
to specify that new or replacement water heaters supply a maximum hot
water temperature of 49 degrees Celsius (120 degrees Fahrenheit).
Dishwasher and washing machines are exempt.
|
FACT - The new legislation applies only when you are replacing your water heater or installing a new one in a new home. Existing water heaters are not included in the amendment to the building code. |
If you install a new water heater, it is recommended
that you add an anti-scald mixing valve* on it OR thermostatic mixing
valves** on each hot water tap and showerhead in your home. Call a
plumber for estimates on both options to see which is most economical
for you.
* Anti-scald mixing valve - This valve is installed directly into your plumbing system and it mixes hot water with cold water to ensure the water that comes out of the mixing valve is not above 49 degrees Celsius (120 degrees Fahrenheit).
** Thermostatic valves - This valve operates in the same way as an anti-scald mixing valve in your plumbing system. The difference is that a thermostatic valve is installed at select points of use (hot water taps and showerhead in the home).
To find out more information on the new anti-scald legislation contact codeinfo@mah.gov.on.ca.
