The worst-case scenario is standing under a shower on a hot day, expecting cool water to cascade over you, only to get too hot water instead. With the water being excessively hot even on the coldest temperature setting, it is understandable that you will be puzzled by this. I can clear things up for you.
A damaged faucet cartridge is one of the most common causes of your shower being too hot on the coldest temperature setting. To fix it, first, remove the shower handle so that you can access the faucet cartridge, and then swap out the outdated cartridge for a new one.
If you’re someone who likes their showers on the coldest setting, you might find yourself disappointed if the water coming out is too hot. This can be frustrating, especially if you’re trying to cool down after a long day.
However, this does not necessarily have to be the case in your circumstance. So, let’s go over the other causes of such an occurrence, as well as their solutions to assist you in dealing with your issue.
Step-By-Step Fix for a Faulty Faucet Cartridge
#1 Turn off the Water Supply
It’s essential to turn off the water supply before fixing the defective faucet cartridge because doing so would require unscrewing the shower handle. This will prevent water from spilling when the shower handle is removed.
#2 Drain the Faucet
After you’ve switched off the water supply, drain the faucet to ensure that all of the water within has been emptied before beginning the process and that the bathroom does not flood while you work on the plumbing.
#3 Unscrew the Shower Handle
The shower handle must then be unscrewed in order to reach the faucet cartridge. Use the proper screwdriver and unscrew in accordance with the shower handle’s type.
To avoid breaking or damaging the shower handle, you must proceed cautiously when handling it.
#4 Remove and Replace Faucet Cartridge
Look for the outdated faucet cartridge. Get rid of it if you see any deterioration, including signs of wear and tear, decay, or shape loss. In exchange, swap it out with an equivalent component.
#5 Reattach the Shower Handle
After you’ve replaced the cartridge, reattach the shower handle. Tighten the shower handle properly.
#6 Test for Warm Water
The final step after making all the adjustments is to confirm that everything is in order. Select the hot water settings first, then change to the coldest settings to test it.
You’re good to go if there is a quick change in the temperature and the water is ice cold. If not, the problem is most likely caused by something else.
Other Reasons Why the Shower Is Too Hot
Old Water Heater
Obviously, a water heater is the first thing that springs to mind when you hear about the problem of hot water.
Showers that stream excessively hot water instead of cold may very well be caused by a water heater.
This issue may arise if you have an outdated water heater because of its potential for temperature regulation issues, which may result in the complete opposite result of what you intended.
Faulty Water Heater Dip
If a water heater is not the cause, a broken water heater dip may be.
Two dip tubes hang from the top of your water heater; one forces the cold water to the bottom of the heater, while the other elevates the hot water.
It can pose complications if there is damage, such as a crack, or if the tube is old. A broken tube may mix hot and cold water, resulting in hot water in your shower even though you chose cold water.
Damaged Piping
Water temperature fluctuations may also be brought on by worn-out or damaged pipes.
If the shower is not correctly fitted by professionals, there may be a chance of leaks in the pipes or valves. And the leaks allow hot water to enter the cold line.
Sediment buildup might also be a factor in pipe deterioration. As a result of the mineral residue that a water heater produces, deposits are formed that produce heat and regulate the temperature inside the appliance.
Problem With Thermostat
Showers include thermostats that prevent the water from heating up past a set temperature since too much heat might damage your skin. Consequently, if your shower is pouring too hot water, even on the coldest setting, there is a chance that the thermostat is at fault.
Old System Shower
A flow restrictor was incorporated in the older shower systems to reduce water consumption. When the temperature drops, a flow restrictor causes the pressure in the shower to decrease.
As a result, if you still have an outdated shower system in your home, low pressure could make the water extremely hot, even in the coldest setting.
Fixes for a Too Hot Shower
Faulty Water Heater Dip
Since a damaged tube cannot be returned to its original form, the only option for a broken dip tube is to be replaced.
Here is how to replace it;
- Cut off the water heater’s electricity
- Set the cold water inlet valve to on
- Cut off the water heater’s cold water supply
- Remove the nipple to uncover the top of the dip tube
- Remove the dip tube using a screwdriver
- Place a new tube inside the water heater
- Resecure the nipple
- Reconnect the electricity and cold water supply
Damaged Piping
The damaged pipes can be easily fixed. Simply give these pipes a quick cleaning; if you’re unable to do it yourself, you can always contact a plumber to do it for you.
By properly servicing the water heater at least once every two years down the line, you could even prevent this situation from occurring.
Problem With Thermostat
When a thermostat fails to function properly, the readings and regulations are all off. You must first confirm that the thermostat is in direct contact with the water heater’s body so you can fix it. This will ensure the most accurate temperature sensing and control.
To avoid any gas leaks or other hazardous occurrences, unplug your electric water heater before you begin the repair.
Additionally, if you don’t feel secure using these appliances, you can contact an expert to perform some tests for you.
Conclusion
You no longer have to take showers in too hot water because you now understand the root of the issue and can either resolve it yourself or by hiring a plumber.
Amos Christen graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Interior Design from Drexel University — Philadelphia, PA. Since 2003, Amos has worked with top interior design professionals in this area, including architects and interior/graphic/lighting designers. As a skilled interior designer, Amos Christen is highly versed in fine arts and crafts and uses that to supplement his main area of expertise. He often publishes articles related to home décor on several websites, including Sprucetoilets.com, Sprucebathroom.com, and Mybesuitedhome.com. He also contributes to leading interior design magazines.