What type of piping component is used primarily for balancing temperature?

The mixing valve is used primarily for balancing temperature in piping systems. It performs the function of mixing hot and cold water to achieve a desired temperature, which is particularly important in heating and plumbing applications. By adjusting the flow rates of the hot and cold water supplies, the mixing valve ensures that the output temperature remains constant, regardless of fluctuations in the input temperatures. This control is crucial in systems such as water heating, where maintaining a safe and comfortable temperature is essential for usage and efficiency.

In contrast, while headers, pumps, and filters serve significant roles in piping systems, they do not specifically control or balance temperature. Headers distribute fluids within a system, pumps move fluids from one place to another, and filters remove impurities from the fluids. None of these components actively adjust temperatures or mix different temperature flows the way a mixing valve does. Therefore, the mixing valve is the correct answer, as it directly addresses the need for temperature balance in the piping setup.