mixer valve source

[jbs11]

I have an onboard shower system using the heat exchanger from Kurt at cruiseroutfitters.com. Sometime it takes a while to warm up very cold water, so I recirculate it back into the jerry can I use for the source. What I would like to do is install a mixer/diverter valve just upstream of the pump so I can switch between recirc and shower. In addition to helping bring the water up to temp, it would help conserve water when soaping up (can't turn off the shower or you'll get a burst of scalding water).

Does anyone know where I can get one (preferably with hose barb fittings that doesn't cost $100). I've searched and phoned to no avail. Thanks,
broc

 

[2mbb]

I'm a little confused about your need. If you install a valve upstream (suction side) of the pump, I don't see how this will allow you to switch between recirc and shower...maybe you meant downstream of the pump?

search on www.mcmaster.com if you want a three way valve, however, you'll probably have to purchase the valve as well as fittings to convert to hose barb fittings.

Another option which should be available at your hardware store is a garden hose bib splitter valve. you would have to flip both valves to change the flow direction, but you can also "mix" by leaving both partially open. And it's cheap...

 

[jbs11]

I'm a little confused about your need. If you install a valve upstream (suction side) of the pump, I don't see how this will allow you to switch between recirc and shower...maybe you meant downstream of the pump?

search on www.mcmaster.com if you want a three way valve, however, you'll probably have to purchase the valve as well as fittings to convert to hose barb fittings.

Another option which should be available at your hardware store is a garden hose bib splitter valve. you would have to flip both valves to change the flow direction, but you can also "mix" by leaving both partially open. And it's cheap...

You're right: "downstream" is what I meant. Sorry. I already looked at McMaster-Carr (I always check there first) but couldn't find anything appropriate. I did just find a diverter for a hand-held shower head:
http://www.plumbersurplus.com/Prod/...-3-Way-Diverter-Stainless-Steel/32236/Cat/895

Pricey though.

I thought of the hose splitter, and if it was just me using it, I'd probably go that route, but it would allow you to shut the flow completely off, and my wife or kids would probably do that and end up burning themselves.

Thanks for the suggestions.
broc

 

[rusty_tlc]

Try searching on selector valves.

The type used for fuel function the way you want but I think the flow would be restricted.

 

[jbs11]

It turns out "diverter valve" is the key for successful searching. Thanks for the tips. For future reference I found a good one here: http://www.plumbersurplus.com/Prod/...erter-with-Level-Control-Chrome/10094/Cat/895 Works great.

 

[cruiseroutfit]

Great find, there is at least one other Helton user that has done a similar install, I never saw his finished product but he was excited about the way it performed. Keep us updated