How to Troubleshoot a Thermostatic Shower

A thermostatic shower.
  • 1-2 hours
  • Beginner
  • 0-30
What You'll Need
Water
White vinegar
Soft bristled brush
Wrench
What You'll Need
Water
White vinegar
Soft bristled brush
Wrench

A thermostatic shower has a pre-set thermostat that will sense a dramatic change in temperature and correct it avoiding extremely high temperature for the user. Some thermostatic showers will even cut the water source off when there is a problem detected. This is perhaps one of the best options you can install in your bathroom without having to worry about water being too hot because inside is an automatic adjuster that maintains temperature by adjusting the flow of each water supply.

When the water temperature starts to go down the system will lessen the flow of cold water to balance the temperature. The same works for hot water flow so that scalding can be avoided. This type of thermostatic shower is dependent on water pressure created by the hot water. Certain problems do arise and must be addressed to ensure proper function.

Step 1 - Check for Dirty Valves

To fix this, valves simply have to be cleaned. Remove the valves and inspect it. When calcium deposits from the water start to build up and clog the whole on the showerhead. Because of this, the pressure changes and this could affect the regulator sensors and the result is inefficient regulation of water temperature.

Step 2 - Check for Reversed Water Supply

The valve has to be inspected because the valves might have been placed in reverse. Check if the hot water supply is correctly draining into the “hot” valve and the “cold” water into the cold valve. This problem could have been done upon installation. Make sure the valves are in their proper position before letting family members use the shower.

Step 3 - Check Possible Reversed Installation of Valves

To fix this, simply reverse the valve the correct way.

Step 4 - Check Water Pressure

Check for a lack of water pressure in one of the inlets. To fix this, the water pressure has to be fixed. Your owner’s manual will have this information and will depend on the model and brand of your thermostatic shower.

Step 5 - Check Showerhead

The showerhead can become blocked by dirt and debris. To solve this, heat enough water to soak the whole showerhead. Mix 1 part warm water 1 part vinegar in a bucket and soak the clogged showerhead in it. It will help if you use a soft-bristled brush on the showerhead to loosen all dirt and debris. Test the showerhead after. Observe if all holes on the head release water. If not, keep brushing until all holes are unclogged.

Step 6 - Check Calibration of Valves

Check if valves are properly calibrated. Calibrate your valves by looking into your owner’s manual. The calibration technique will differ depending on the brand and model.

Step 7 - Check for Incorrect Water Settings

Simply adjust water heater settings.