CircuitSolver Typical Specs + IMI Steps

Use the information below for specifications, installation, and maintenance instructions for all CircuitSolver® thermostatic balancing valves. Go to the Submittals and Installation & Maintenance Manuals pages for printable PDFs for each valve model.

CircuitSolver® Balancing Valve Specifications

Furnish and install CircuitSolver® as indicated on the plans. CircuitSolver® shall be self-contained and fully automatic without additional piping or control mechanisms. The valve shall be a CircuitSolver® as manufactured by ThermOmegaTech®, Inc.

CircuitSolver® shall regulate the flow of recirculated domestic hot water based on water temperature entering the valve regardless of system operating pressure. As the water temperature increases, the valve proportionally closes, dynamically adjusting flow to meet the specified temperature.

CircuitSolver® never fully closes, even at the desired set-point. There is always sufficient bypass flow back to the recirculating pump to prevent overheating or “dead-heading” of the pump. The valve is set at the factory for the desired return temperature. No field adjustments are needed. Several temperature set-points are available.

All standard CircuitSolver® models shall be available in sizes ½”, ¾”, 1”, 1 ¼”, 1 ½”, and 2” NPT, and all CircuitSolver® Union models shall be available in sizes ½”, ¾”, and 1”. The body and all internal components shall be constructed of stainless steel, with major components constructed of 300 series stainless steel.

CircuitSolver® shall be rated to 200 PSIG maximum working pressure and 250°F (121°C) maximum working temperature. The thermal actuator inside the valve shall be spring-loaded and self-cleaning, delivering closing thrust sufficient to keep the orifice opening free of scale deposits.

All CircuitSolver® balancing valves are NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 and 372 certified. The installation of the CircuitSolver® valve shall be done by qualified tradesmen in each domestic hot water return piping branch beyond the last hot water device in that branch.

Recirculation Pump Size Selection

For recirculation pump sizing, CircuitSolver® allows the pump(s) to be sized exactly without any need to oversize to account for typical manual balancing problems. ThermOmegaTech® recommends using established industry-standard pump sizing procedures. For example, the ASPE Design Handbook and ASHRAE Handbook have established recirculation pump sizing methods. To calculate the pressure loss across the CircuitSolver® balancing valve, refer to the CircuitSolver® Design Guide.

CircuitSolver® Installation and Maintenance Instructions

For illustrated and printable IMIs for each valve model, visit the Installation & Maintenance Manuals page. 

  1. We recommend installing a union after the CircuitSolver® and a shut-off valve before and after the valve.
    • Our CSU models include an integrated union with an optional check valve.
    • Our CSUA models include an integrated union with an optional check valve and shut-off ball valves assembled on either side of the valve. 
  2.  Install the valve with proper flow direction as marked on the valve body. This is critical with valves that have an integrated check valve. 
  3.  Use suitable pipe thread sealant rated for domestic water applications on all male pipe threads except on the stainless steel CircuitSolver® union threads (this connection has an integrated O-ring that fully seals when hand-tightened).
  4. If using PTFE sealant tape, make sure not to apply tape to the first thread to avoid cutting the PTFE tape and causing potential obstructions to flow. 
    • How to apply PTFE Tape:
      1. Clean the male and female threads of any oil or dirt.
      2. Apply tape to the male threaded end clockwise, starting one thread back from the end.
        Hold on to one end of the tape, and wrap the threads three to six times, keeping it tight.
      3. Once the threads are completely wrapped, grab the tape with your thumb and index finger and snap it off.
      4. NOTE: Upon tightening any CircuitSolver® Union Assembly version, verify that the shut-off valves are oriented so that their handles are accessible and can be operated fully without obstruction. If a reorientation after final installation is needed, loosen the CircuitSolver® Union Nut to rotate the section not to disturb the tightened components and possibly cause a leaky connection.
  5. When using Viega ProPress® adapters, please consult the Viega ProPress Installation Manual for proper installation, tools, smart connect technology information, etc.  
  6. When using Uponor ProPEX® adapters, please consult the Uponor ProPEX® Installation Manual for proper installation, tools, etc.
  7. CircuitSolver® balancing valves are designed to be installed at the end of each domestic hot water supply just before the return line.  
  8. For water systems with particulate/dirt problems, consider using a strainer if one is not already used upstream.  
    • Our CSUAS models include a union with an optional check valve, shut-off ball valves on either side of the valve, and a strainer. 
    • NOTE: Strainer must be maintained to avoid flow obstruction. 
  9. A convenient drain port allows the branch to be flushed without disconnecting plumbing lines for configurations featuring the integrated strainer.