In the modern world of plumbing, ensuring safe and precise temperature control is crucial for both residential and commercial applications. Watts, a trusted name in the plumbing industry, offers innovative solutions like their Mixing Valves with PEX press fitting F1960 connections. These valves are designed to deliver precise control over water temperature while providing a quick, reliable, and easy installation process. In this article, we’ll explore the features, benefits, and applications of Watts Mixing Valves with PEX press fittings, focusing on their compatibility with F1960 connections. Additionally, we’ll explain why they’re an essential addition to any plumbing system, particularly in applications that require consistent and safe water temperature regulation.

What Are Watts Mixing Valves?
Watts mixing valves are used to control the temperature of water by blending hot and cold water before it enters a plumbing system or appliance. These valves are typically employed in systems that require consistent and safe water temperatures, such as water heaters, showers, boilers, and hydronic heating systems.
By ensuring that water does not exceed a specified temperature, mixing valves help prevent scalding injuries and ensure that appliances perform optimally. Watts mixing valves are designed to be robust, efficient, and long-lasting, offering precise temperature control for both residential and commercial plumbing systems.
PEX Press Fittings and F1960 Connections
PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) is widely regarded as one of the most versatile materials in plumbing due to its flexibility, resistance to corrosion, and ease of installation. PEX press fittings are an essential component of PEX-based plumbing systems. These fittings eliminate the need for traditional methods like crimping or soldering and instead use a pressing tool to securely connect pipes and fittings.
The F1960 connection standard refers to a specific type of PEX connection that utilizes an expansion fitting system. This system requires a special tool to expand the end of the PEX pipe, allowing it to fit over a barbed fitting, which is then secured using a crimp ring. The F1960 connection method provides a reliable, leak-proof seal, making it an ideal solution for a wide range of plumbing applications, including Watts Mixing Valves.
Key Features of Watts Mixing Valves with PEX Press Fitting F1960 Connections
1. Precision Temperature Control
The primary function of a mixing valve is to blend hot and cold water to maintain a consistent, safe temperature. Watts Mixing Valves with PEX press fitting F1960 connections excel at providing precise temperature control, making them ideal for applications where temperature regulation is critical, such as domestic water systems, commercial water heaters, and boilers.
These valves offer adjustable temperature settings, ensuring that users can set the desired temperature according to their needs. By maintaining water temperature within a safe range, they help prevent the risk of scalding, which is particularly important in settings like hospitals, nursing homes, or homes with children.
2. Easy and Quick Installation
One of the standout features of PEX press fittings is their ease of installation. The F1960 connection method is one of the simplest and most efficient ways to connect PEX pipes to other components in a plumbing system. With Watts Mixing Valves, installation is quick, reliable, and hassle-free. The PEX press fitting system eliminates the need for soldering, crimping, or gluing, which not only reduces installation time but also minimizes the risk of errors during the process.
By using a pressing tool, the installer can secure the connection in just a few seconds, ensuring a tight, leak-proof seal. This makes Watts Mixing Valves with PEX press fittings an ideal solution for both residential and commercial plumbing systems, where efficiency and speed are important factors.
3. Durability and Corrosion Resistance
Watts Mixing Valves with PEX press fitting F1960 connections are built to last. The high-quality materials used in both the valves and the PEX fittings ensure long-term performance, even in challenging environments. The PEX press fittings themselves are made from stainless steel, which is highly resistant to corrosion and rust. This feature is particularly beneficial in environments where water quality may vary or where the plumbing system is exposed to high humidity levels.
The durable construction of Watts Mixing Valves means they can withstand high pressures and temperatures over an extended period of time, making them suitable for use in both residential and commercial applications.
4. Wide Range of Applications
Watts Mixing Valves with PEX press fittings are highly versatile and can be used in a variety of plumbing systems, including:
- Water Heaters: Watts mixing valves help maintain safe water temperatures in water heater systems, preventing scalding and improving user comfort.
- Hydronic Heating Systems: In radiant heating systems, mixing valves blend the hot water from the boiler with the cooler return water to maintain an optimal temperature for efficient heating.
- Shower and Bath Systems: By controlling the temperature of water supplied to showers and bathtubs, mixing valves provide a safe and comfortable experience.
- Boiler Systems: These valves are essential in ensuring that the temperature of water entering the boiler is safe and regulated, contributing to the overall efficiency of the system.
- Commercial Applications: In restaurants, hotels, and hospitals, Watts Mixing Valves provide consistent, safe water temperatures for a range of plumbing needs.
5. Compliance with Industry Standards
Watts Mixing Valves with PEX press fitting F1960 connections meet or exceed industry standards for quality and safety. The F1960 connection method is ASTM-compliant, meaning it adheres to the rigorous standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials. These valves are also lead-free, making them compliant with the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), which is especially important in systems that deliver potable water.
By choosing Watts Mixing Valves with PEX press fittings, you can rest assured that your plumbing system meets the highest standards for safety, performance, and environmental impact.
Benefits of Watts Mixing Valves with PEX Press Fitting F1960 Connections
1. Enhanced Efficiency
Watts Mixing Valves are designed to work efficiently, ensuring that water is mixed at the optimal temperature. This prevents overheating or overcooling of the water, improving the performance of your plumbing system and reducing energy waste.
By maintaining a consistent temperature, Watts Mixing Valves also help extend the lifespan of appliances like water heaters and boilers, as they operate within a controlled temperature range. This efficiency translates to lower energy bills and a more sustainable plumbing system.
2. Improved Safety
One of the key advantages of Watts Mixing Valves is their ability to regulate water temperature, which is particularly important in environments where safety is a priority. By blending hot and cold water, the valve ensures that the water entering faucets, showers, or appliances is always within a safe, comfortable range. This is especially important in homes with children or elderly individuals, as it helps prevent scalding accidents.
3. Reduced Maintenance Costs
The durable construction and easy installation of Watts Mixing Valves help reduce maintenance costs over time. By using PEX press fittings, which are known for their longevity and resistance to corrosion, the need for frequent repairs or replacements is minimized. The press fittings provide a secure, leak-proof connection that reduces the likelihood of leaks, water damage, or system failures.
4. Cost-Effective Solution
Given the ease of installation, durability, and long-term performance, Watts Mixing Valves with PEX press fitting F1960 connections provide excellent value for money. They are a cost-effective solution for both residential and commercial plumbing systems, helping to save on labor costs while providing reliable temperature control and safety.
Conclusion
Watts Mixing Valves with PEX press fitting F1960 connections offer an innovative solution for plumbing systems that require precise temperature control. Their easy installation, durable construction, efficient performance, and wide range of applications make them an essential component in any modern plumbing system. Whether you’re working on residential or commercial plumbing projects, Watts Mixing Valves ensure that water temperature is safely regulated, providing comfort and safety for all users. With PEX press fittings, installation is quick and reliable, and the F1960 connection method ensures long-lasting performance and leak-proof results.
If you’re looking for a reliable, cost-effective way to manage water temperature, Watts Mixing Valves with PEX press fittings are the solution.
FAQs
- What is the F1960 connection method in PEX fittings? The F1960 connection method involves expanding the end of the PEX pipe and securing it over a barbed fitting using a crimp ring. The result is a secure, leak-proof connection that’s ideal for high-pressure applications.
- Are Watts Mixing Valves compatible with all types of PEX pipe? Yes, Watts Mixing Valves with PEX press fittings are compatible with most types of PEX pipe, including PEX-A, PEX-B, and PEX-C. They work seamlessly with F1960 connections.
- Can Watts Mixing Valves be used for both residential and commercial applications? Yes, Watts Mixing Valves are highly versatile and can be used in a wide range of applications, from residential water heaters and shower systems to commercial plumbing and hydronic heating systems.
- How easy is it to install Watts Mixing Valves with PEX press fittings? Installation is quick and easy, requiring no soldering, crimping, or gluing. Simply use a PEX press tool to secure