We have two moen shower mixer valves with the scald guard pressure balancing feature. (Code required)
Occasionally we have trouble getting the water hot enough out of the shower. There is plenty of hot water in the heater.
Could the valve be sensing a pressure imbalance? (both have done it)
Has anyone one else had this issue?
We keep our water at a safe temperature – can we bypass the feature?
Replies
In additon to the pressure balance those type of unit have a mechanical stop. That is you can only bet 70%, 80%, etc of hot water.
Under the handle there is some kind of stop or cam that can be adjusted to set that limit.
Also it might have sticky, worn, or dirt in the PB cartridge.
Try adjusting the stops. If that doesn't work (or you can't figure out how to do it) then call Moen.
If they think that it is the cartridge they will send you a new one, free.
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Place a rag over the drain (to stop screws getting away from you). Remove the handle (check instructions at Moen.com unless you have them).
Under the handle is a stop to prevent too much hot water. Adjust this for the max heat you want. (no more than 110) You can check this by removing the rag and running the water, replace the stop and your good to go. Put some grease on the screw to prevent corrosion.
Thanks. I have already pulled the stops. And the problem is intermittent. Maybe I'll be in touch with moen soon.
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take all the "bits" out and flush the pipes. You might have some dirt in there.
I had a similar problem and it was to much grease in the unit blocking the hot water. Took it apart and flushed a teaspoon sized blob out. Works great now.
The "code required" scald guard does not have to be on the individual shower itself, you can put a mixing valve on the water heater outlet.
Personaly I wouldn't cause I don't want temp changes in my shower cause of simultanious use by someone else.
Pressure balance valves have no clue on what the temp is they only know pressure so if one side drops in pressure so will the other side.
I would check another fixture that has a isolated hot valve & see if it changes in temp when being ran for the same time period.
But like you said it's an intermitant problem & those are the toughest to solve, my guess if it's the shower valve, then something is hanging up on the equalizing diaphram & allowing more cold water in than hot.
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