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Unsuspectingly stepping into the shower on an early morning workday only to be blasted with a shot of freezing cold water startles you into the reality that something within the system is malfunctioning. When temperatures go from one extreme to the next, the underlying problem can stem from the mixing valve.
This valve combines hot and cold water before sending a consistent temp and flow through mix shower taps like the quality options offered by Buildmat.
When this component is defective, it can be incredibly frustrating for homeowners who must contact a specially licensed plumber for repairs. Let’s review common mixing valve issues you can encounter.
Shower Problems Resulting from the Mixing Valve
The TMV – thermostatic valves are critical in maintaining safe operation and consistent temperature as water flows from shower mix taps.
When valves loosen or become damaged, it can lead to numerous plumbing issues. For this reason, plumbers with specific expertise must repair these and also handle the valves’ installation and calibration. Here are shower problems that result when a mixing valve malfunctions.
The heat
The primary function of the valve is to keep the water flowing from quality showerheads and mix taps such as Buildmat at an even and safe temperature. When heated in a water heater, water’s temp is roughly 140 degrees F, capable of quickly scalding a person’s skin.
When your shower starts to feel warmer than normal, the valve has either become loose or is developing a blockage.
While you can adjust the valve in a DIY capacity, the recommendation is to enlist the help of a professional since they have the proper tools and equipment and are specially trained and experienced in repairing these valves.
Visit https://www.hunker.com/13416398/how-to-determine-the-shower-faucet-type/ for guidance on determining shower tap types.
The fluctuations
The objective with a mixing valve is to combine hot and cold water into a single line that can be adjusted to a comfortable temp and even consistent flow from the showerhead or mix tap,
When issues arise with this component, the temperature goes from one extreme to the next and back again, fluctuating randomly up and down. This is not only a frustration for homeowners, but it can prove dangerous if the water temp spikes to scalding suddenly.
The recommendation is to check all the fixtures in the home to see if this is a consistent problem throughout the house.
If the fluctuations only happen in a single shower or tap, it could be a problem with that specific fixture and not involve the mixing valve at all. Go here for details when replacing a shower valve becomes too complex.
No heat
When the showerhead or tap is only producing cold water regardless of attempts to adjust or waiting sufficient time for the temp to warm up, there’s likely damage to the valve or it’s broken.
Homeowners troubleshooting the problem tend to want to blame the water system or the heater. What many don’t realize is that when valves break, they can stick to “off.” This can keep hot water from flowing through the showerhead or from the tap.
In that same vein, the hot water mixing valve can create problems when homeowners try to get the coldest water flowing from the system, like a cool shower in the sweltering summer.
In this situation, the valve is stuck “on,” sending hot water through the system and flowing from the showerhead and through the tap.
Health concerns
The mixing valve has multiple purposes, a vital one of which is to restrict dangerous microorganism growth within the hot water system. This part is integral in maintaining the 140-degree F + temp to eliminate bacteria. Without it, people would have increased risks of waterborne illnesses.
If respiratory concerns develop or you develop a waterborne illness, you may want to reach out to a plumbing professional to inspect your valves and make the necessary repairs.
The water heater
The temperature and flow are not the only issues affected by faulty valves. Many other problems can develop when this component becomes damaged or malfunctions due to its many functions. It is responsible for regulating the water pressure to keep the flow rate consistent from the showerhead and tap.
The pressure is something many people are unaware of unless an issue develops, but it’s important to pay attention to where you keep the lever when taking a shower.
If you notice you need to turn it higher, or it takes more time to thoroughly rinse the shampoo from your hair, or there are fluctuations, you may need to have the valve checked.
Sometimes, debris can build up inside the component, reducing the pressure, or can stem from corrosion or an old part. If left neglected for a prolonged period, the valve will eventually fail.
The leaks
A pressing problem involving mixing valves that needs to be addressed as soon as you notice the issue is leaking. Any time you notice leaks of any kind with your plumbing system, you must reach out to a plumbing professional for a diagnosis and immediate corrections to avoid the possibility of water damage.
This is true with taps or the showerhead dripping as well. Many homeowners will overlook drips, but the fixture can have a defect and need repairs or replacement. It’s important to inspect the piece that’s dripping or have a professional take a look at the plumbing to determine where the issue lies.
A plumber will let you know whether you need to make a repair or if you need to invest in a replacement component.
Final Thought
Thermostatic valves are a complex and intricate aspect of plumbing that combine hot and cold water to produce a consistent temperature and even pressure single flow through Buildmat showerheads and mix taps. The slightest defect can result in numerous issues, including extreme temperature fluctuations.
When you notice issues with the system, you can attempt a DIY adjustment, but the recommendation is to seek the assistance of a plumbing professional.
These experts have specialized training and experience and come prepared with the proper tools and equipment to diagnose the issue and resolve the issue for the long term.
