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HOT WATER PRODUCTION

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HOT WATER PRODUCTION

Overall thoughts for an optimal usage 

For the water in your shower or for the water which flows through your radiator to have the correct temperature, it must first be heated.  This is the role that the hot water system plays,for example a water heater. It is necessary to control the hot water temperature as it flows out of your water heater for your installations to work correctly and to ensure your security. 

Incorporate the thermostatic technology in your installation by adding products such as the safety unit or the draught damper which is THE best solution to ensure comfort in your home. 

Between 55°C and 60°C, not more, not less. 

Why is it important to have hot water at the correct
temperature ? 


"In France there is a legal obligation that your domestic hot water production must be set between 55 ° C and 60 ° C. It is imperative to respect this minimum temperature for two reasons :
- avoid health risks related to the proliferation of bacteria and microbes that hide in pipes and hot water tanks. Below 55 ° C, there is a risk of developing legionellosis, a water contamination that can be fatal (between 1200 and 1500 cases are recorded each year in France). At 60 ° C, 90% of the bacteria die within 2 minutes.
- limit the appearance of scale in your pipes and appliances, which damage your installations.

On the other hand, it is not necessary to heat the water above 60 °to avoid the risk of burns. Requirements vary by country but in France a temperature limit at the points of draws (where you use water) is 50 ° C maximum in for example bathrroms and 60 ° C in the other rooms.
Think of installaing thermostatic mixing valves, which eliminate any risk of burns.
- avoid overconsumption of energy and water. No need to have water coming out of your boiler at 70 ° C while it will cool to use.

Finally, it is recommended that the control of the water temperature is as close as possible to the point of drawing and that your installation is not too far from your hot water production.

Conclusion, do not hesitate to take a look at your production of hot water and have a qualified professional re-adjust the temperature if necessary !


THERMOSTATIC
SAFETY UNIT

Hot water, yes, but not burning hot water ! 


The safety unit is mandatory, it is also known as a security valve, which is the system present at the outlet of your hot water heating system (water heater, boiler…). A classic safety unit is used to limit the pressure in your hydraulic network, while preventing the proliferation of bacteria. It is therefore a necessary element since it guarantees the security of your house. 

However, the thermostatic safety unit is the only device which will allow you to accurately define the outflow temperature of the water from your hot water tank. The hot water temperature reaching the outlet valve is therefore controlled. There is no risk of burning while taking a shower or when you wash the dishes. For maximum security, it is moreover best to add bathroom thermostatic mixers to your installations. 

Remember that finally, the correct water temperature will help save water and increase the operating life of your devices. 

With which hot water heating system is the thermostatic safety unit compatible ? 

The classic safety unit is only required in heat accumulator systems (hot water tank). 

How to select a thermostat safety unit ? 

You must take into account many elements before making your purchase. Here are a few :

- the type of your hot water heating system for complete compatibility and easy installation (vertical or horizontal installation)

- the hardness of your water. Choose a brass safety unit for soft water, Teflon for hard water and stainless steel for aggressive water

- the maximum water temperature at the outlet that is recommended is between 55°C and 60°C. Be careful of products which limit the heating at 50°C. 


How to fix a thermostat safety unit ?

To fix your safety unit,  turn the knob of your tap in anti-clockwise direction to reduce the temperature :

- turn the knob of your tap in clockwise direction to increase the temperature.

Our advice,  open the tap furthest from your hot water heating system fully hot and regulate your safety unit to obtain a water outflow at a temperature between 50°C and 55°C at this tap.

How to change a thermostat safety unit ?

This operation may appear to be simple, but you must still be careful because the outflow of your hot water accumulation has to be manipulated. Safety rules must be strictly applied to avoid any risk of burning.

We therefore recommend that you call your plumber, who is used to carry out this type of operation. He will also be able to give you advice on the adjustment of your device and how to maintain it.


THERMOSTATIC DRAUGHT DAMPER

Wood boiler

Controlled drawing for optimal combustion


For good combustion and optimal output from your solid fuel boiler (logs and wooden pellets), it is essential to control the draw of air into the boiler.

The draught damper, also called a moderator, will help you regulate the air supply in your boiler to limit combustion and to accurately regulate the temperature. By using the in-built thermostatic technology, the regulator takes the temperature of your boiler and consequently, adjusts the air inflow by actuating the air valve opening or closing.

The variations in pressure and temperature therefore have no direct effect on the combustion, the moderator is automatically adapted to the required temperature. You can therefore obtain optimal water temperature, you can reduce your expenses in wood purchases, limit pollution emissions and increase the operating life of your boiler. The final advantage is safety. In the event of overheating the regulator will cut the air inlet to the boiler.

How can you know if you need a thermostatic draught damper ?

Does the wood in your boiler create a lot of flames and burn up too fast? Or the opposite, does the wood not burn easily and is your consumption very irregular? If the natural draft of your installation corresponds to one of these scenarios, it is likely that you need a thermostatic draught damper. 

How to select your thermostatic draught damper ? 

It is necessary to choose your regulator adequately in order to attain quality combustion. It must therefore be possible to regulate the temperature with precision and quickly.

Always consult the original manufacturer of the unit or a qualified installer. 

How much does a draught damper cost ? 

An efficient regulator would cost anywhere between 50 and 100€. Taking into account the significant improvements that it will bring to the performance of the boiler, this price is quite reasonable. In the event that a correction is needed, particularly due to an excess draft, the purchase of a regulator becomes quickly profitable because of the savings one makes by not having to buy wood or pellets. 

Recommendations for installation and maintenance 

The draft must be adapted to the recommended depression value of the heater. As indicated by the manufacturer, this value is usually between 10 and 15 pascals. The moderator may be installed either as soon as you buy your new boiler, or later, this is not important. The installation is carried out by a professional or by yourself. Once installed, you will not need any additional maintenance.

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