My 1921 bungalow has updated copper piping and a modern (but getting a bit old) gas water heater. Over the last several months, we have started having a problem with the temp of the water in the shower.
The shower has a single lever control (ie, you can control temp by turning the lever, but not pressure- it is always full blast). Lately, while you are showering the temp will randomly get VERY hot. This is not related to water use elsewhere in the house, as it happens even when no other water is being used. If you turn the temp down, it will be ok for a minute or two, and then it gets cold. Then you put it back to the normal lever location, and it is fine untill it suddenly gets full hot again.
Is there a failure mode for a pressure-balancing valve that would cause this to happen? That is my first theory. The only other thing I can think of is that the water heater is sending “slugs” of really hot water through the pipes.
Thanks
Erik
Replies
Do you seem to run out of hot water too fast? Could be a bad dip tube.
no, not really
The only other thing I can think of is that the water heater is sending "slugs" of really hot water through the pipes.
Yes, this is what it is - you need to get some slug killer.
Actually, it does sound like a failing pressure-balancing shower valve. They often have an internal diaphragm which might be failing from fatigue or scaling. Is your water hard?
Solar & Super-Insulated Healthy Homes
As noted you probably have a bad pressure balance valve.
The diaphram is hanging up when trying to equalize the pressure.
Rebuild kits are available for most shower valves.
In search of a new tagline, don't worry I'm sure I'll find one that will bother somebody.
;-þThanks guys, I'll try and take it apart this week and get the parts I need.
Erik
No label on the visable part that I can see, although the shower head (which appears to match) says Price-Pfister.
Thanks,
Erik
What brand shower valve?