Thermal Circulation Valves
Hattersley Thermal Circulation Valves are self-balancing, thermostatically controlled valves designed to regulate water flow and support thermal disinfection within domestic hot water systems. By automatically responding to changes in water temperature, the valves help to maintain consistent hot water temperatures throughout the system, improving both system efficiency and user comfort.
These valves play an important role in reducing the risk of Legionella bacteria growth. Legionella can develop and multiply in stagnant or poorly controlled water systems where temperatures fall within the bacteria’s preferred growth range. Thermal Circulation Valves help to “keep hot water hot” by ensuring that circulating water remains at temperatures high enough to inhibit bacterial survival, while also enabling effective thermal disinfection procedures when required.

Installed at strategic points within domestic hot water circulation systems, Thermal Circulation Valves automatically adjust flow rates according to local water temperature conditions. This ensures balanced circulation across the entire network, preventing areas of low temperature or stagnation that could otherwise increase the risk of contamination.
In addition to enhancing system performance and energy efficiency, the use of Thermal Circulation Valves assists designers, specifiers, and installers in meeting their responsibilities regarding Legionella risk management. Current legislation, guidance, and water safety standards require that the potential risk of Legionella is carefully considered during the design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of domestic hot water systems. Thermal Circulation Valves provide an effective solution to support compliance with these requirements while promoting safe and reliable hot water distribution.
How do Hattersley’s Thermal Circulation Valves work?
As water flows through the Thermal Control Valve, the thermal element continuously senses the water temperature and adjusts the stem position within the valve seat to regulate the flow rate. Certain models also incorporate an isolation valve. During operation, the valve responds to temperature changes without ever completely shutting off the flow.
At Flowstar we offer the full range of Hattersley TCVs which are available in DN15 low flow and DN15 & DN20 standard flow sizes.
Thermal Circulation Valve Components

- Thermometer Access Point - For easy recording of temperature levels
- Adjustable Temperature Settings 50-65°C - Factory pre-setting 57°C (54-60°C recommended settings)
- Integral Isolation Valve - Removes the need for additional isolation valve
- Bronze Body - Robust construction
- Female Ended Threads - To facilitate easy installation
Key Features & Benefits
- Ideal for DHWS applications, helping to protect against Legionella.
- Provides self-balancing, thermostatically controlled flow regulation and disinfection.
- Enables thermal disinfection at temperatures above 70°C.
- Thermal balancing reduces commissioning time and associated installation costs.
- Compact all-in-one unit incorporating an isolation valve with thermometer access point.
- Fitted with a settable temperature sensing cartridge, factory pre-set to 57°C as standard.
- Valve opens automatically during the disinfection cycle.
- Temperatures can be easily verified using an optional thermometer accessory.
- Offers an accuracy of ±2°C.
- Schedule and selection service available.
- WRAS Approved.
For further information about the range of Hattersley Valves we are able to supply, please contact us on +44 (0)1482 601030 or email sales@flowstar.co.uk.