Installing a mixing valve under your sink, such as the Cash Acme HG135, is a crucial step to ensure safe and consistent water temperature delivery, preventing scalding and enhancing comfort.
Why Install a Mixing Valve Under Your Sink?
An under-sink mixing valve, also known as a Point-of-Use Thermostatic Mixing Valve (TMV), blends hot and cold water to deliver tempered water at a preset, safe temperature to your faucet. This is particularly important for preventing accidental scalding, especially in households with children or elderly individuals.
The Cash Acme HG135 under-sink mixing valve, specifically designed to be installed behind a sink, stands out due to its advanced features. As noted, "It features a rapid-response thermostatic element for superior control and protection in the event of a cold water supply failure." This means it quickly adjusts to temperature fluctuations and significantly reduces the risk of scalding if the cold water supply is interrupted.
Essential Tools and Materials
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials to ensure a smooth installation process:
- Adjustable Wrenches or Basin Wrench: For tightening connections.
- Plumber's Tape (PTFE Thread Seal Tape) or Pipe Joint Compound: For sealing threaded connections.
- Bucket and Towels: To catch any residual water.
- Flathead Screwdriver or Allen Wrench: May be needed for temperature adjustment on some valves.
- New Flexible Supply Lines (if needed): Ensure they are the correct length and thread size.
- The Mixing Valve: Such as the Cash Acme HG135.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Follow these steps carefully to install your mixing valve under the sink:
1. Preparation and Safety First
Before starting any plumbing work, prioritize safety:
- Turn Off Water Supply: Locate the main water shut-off valve for your house or, preferably, the individual shut-off valves for the hot and cold water lines directly under the sink. Turn them off completely.
- Drain Lines: Open the faucet to drain any remaining water from the lines and relieve pressure.
- Clear Workspace: Remove any items from under the sink to give yourself ample space to work. Place a bucket and towels underneath the work area to catch drips.
2. Identify Connections on the Mixing Valve
Your mixing valve will have clearly marked inlets and outlets. Typically, these include:
- Hot Water Inlet: Marked 'H' or 'Hot'. This is where the hot water supply from your water heater connects.
- Cold Water Inlet: Marked 'C' or 'Cold'. This is where the cold water supply from your main line connects.
- Tempered Water Outlet: Marked 'Mixed' or 'Out'. This outlet delivers the blended, safe-temperature water to your faucet's hot water inlet.
3. Connect Supply Lines to the Mixing Valve
Begin by connecting the water supply lines to the valve:
- Apply Thread Sealant: Wrap plumber's tape (2-3 times clockwise) around the male threads of the mixing valve's hot and cold inlets, or apply pipe joint compound.
- Connect Hot Water Supply: Connect the hot water supply line coming from your shut-off valve to the Hot Water Inlet of the mixing valve.
- Connect Cold Water Supply: Connect the cold water supply line from your cold water shut-off valve to the Cold Water Inlet of the mixing valve.
- Hand-Tighten, Then Wrench-Tighten: Hand-tighten connections first, then use an adjustable wrench to tighten them an additional quarter to half turn. Avoid over-tightening.
4. Connect Valve Output to Faucet (Hot Water Inlet)
Now, connect the mixed water output to your faucet:
- Connect Tempered Output: Use a new or existing flexible supply line to connect the Tempered Water Outlet of the mixing valve to the hot water inlet of your sink faucet. This ensures that the hot water reaching your faucet is consistently at the desired, safe temperature.
- Cold Water to Faucet: Ensure the cold water supply line from its shut-off valve is connected directly to the cold water inlet of your sink faucet, bypassing the mixing valve.
5. Turn On Water and Check for Leaks
Once all connections are secure:
- Slowly Open Shut-Off Valves: Gradually open the hot and cold water shut-off valves under the sink.
- Inspect for Leaks: Carefully check all connections you made on the mixing valve and the faucet supply lines for any signs of water drips. Tighten any leaking connections gently until the leak stops.
6. Test and Adjust Temperature
Finally, test the system and set your desired temperature:
- Run Water: Turn on your sink faucet to the hot water setting and let the water run for a few minutes.
- Measure Temperature: Use a thermometer to check the water temperature. Most mixing valves have an adjustment screw or knob.
- Adjust if Necessary: Refer to your mixing valve's instructions (e.g., the Cash Acme HG135 manual) to adjust the temperature if it's not within your desired safe range, typically between 105°F and 120°F (41°C – 49°C) for residential use. The rapid-response element of models like the Cash Acme HG135 will ensure quick and stable temperature delivery.
Benefits of the Cash Acme HG135 Under-Sink Mixing Valve
The Cash Acme HG135 is an excellent choice for under-sink installation due to its specific engineering:
- Superior Temperature Control: Its "rapid-response thermostatic element" ensures that the water temperature at your faucet remains stable and consistent, reacting quickly to changes in inlet temperatures.
- Scald Protection: The valve provides "protection in the event of a cold water supply failure." This critical safety feature means that if the cold water supply is lost, the valve will automatically reduce or shut off the hot water flow, preventing dangerously hot water from reaching the faucet.
- Point-of-Use Safety: Being installed "behind a sink," it offers precise temperature control exactly where the water is used, making it ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, or any sink requiring tempered hot water.
By following these steps, you can successfully install a mixing valve under your sink, providing a safer and more comfortable water experience.
