Everything you need to know about the correct installation and maintenance of timed taps
A timed tap is a device capable of autonomously interrupting the flow of water after a set time, thus guaranteeing economic and energy savings in the room where it is installed.
The installation of timed taps in the public realm is mandatory, and the mechanical timed tap is the most economical solution for those who do not have a large budget.
But how does it work exactly? How is it installed correctly? How is it maintained? These are the most frequently asked questions that our technical department is asked, and to which we want to provide answers in this article.
BUT HOW EXACTLY DOES IT WORK?
Step 1: When the timed faucet is pressed, the lower lip seal empties the chamber underneath it and at the same time the closing O-ring loses contact, allowing water to flow out towards the spout.
Step 2: When the button is released, the return spring creates a negative pressure under the lower lip seal; the imbalance of pressures between the two zones of the lower lip seal is compensated for by the timing hole and the timing spring. The gap between these two components creates a very small channel of water that fills the lower chamber, balancing the pressure and allowing the tap to rise and close. The filling time of the chamber under the lower lip seal is equal to the timing time of the tap.
HOW IS IT INSTALLED CORRECTLY?
Installing a timed faucet is no different than installing a classic single-lever faucet, we just have to be more careful when connecting the timed faucet to the plumbing system.
First of all, we must ensure that the quality of the water complies with the UNI 8065:1989 standard, which establishes the chemical and physical parameters of water in thermal systems for civil use. This standard will help provide the tap with the best water for its operation.
When connecting the tap for the first time, the pipes must always be purged to prevent deposits inside from causing damage.
It is important to avoid pressure shocks during the first connection. This will avoid lifting heavy parts inside the pipes that may have remained after purging and generating water hammers that can damage the system and the tap.
If, due to normal masonry work, the tap should be inactive for a long time, it is advisable to drain the installations, eliminating the possibility of deposits forming that can clog the tap when it is reactivated.
HOW IS IT MAINTAINED?
The maintenance of the timed tap is no different from any other tap. Cleaning once a year is recommended. The cartridge system is designed to be self-cleaning during its operation, cleaning is considered an accessory action but will greatly help to prolong the life of the tap.
A video of how to clean the timed cartridge can be found in the link below:
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by Valerio Lai
Technical Department Manager