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Nothing beats a warm shower. However, what happens when it’s not warm? A cold shower can mean a few things, such as issues with your water heater, a faulty valve, a leak, or problems with the pipes. To help you determine why your shower water is cold, we have created a comprehensive outline of common issues, troubleshooting recommendations, and tips.

Top Reasons the Water in Your Shower is Running Cold

Wondering why your shower gets cold so fast? Here are some possible reasons why your shower may be stuck at a cold temperature.

1. Malfunctioning Hot Water Heater

If your water is not being heated properly, it could be due to a water heater problem. Check your water heater for any of the following issues:

• The pilot light needs to be relit or will not stay lit
• The thermostat is not functioning or is set incorrectly
• Debris or minerals in the heater (if your water is colder than normal but not ice cold)
• Broken dip tubes (the tube that channels water to the bottom of the tank to be heated)

For some of these issues, like the pilot light, call a professional instead of trying to do it yourself. Our specialists can diagnose the problem and revive your hot water fast.

2. Water Heater is Not Capable of Handling the Demand

Are you consistently running out of warm water? Your water heater might need to be a different size to meet your needs. This is especially true if multiple showers or appliances are using water simultaneously. It’s important to understand how much water each appliance uses daily. The usage is listed as such:

• One shower – 27 gallons
• Faucet – 27 gallons
• Washer – 22 gallons

If your family is using these appliances or fixtures at the same time, your current-sized water heater might not be able to keep up. When you are looking to upgrade to a new water heater, a Corley specialist can help you select the best one for your home.

Read More: What Are the Benefits of Installing a Water Heater Drip Pan?

3. Damaged Shower Mixing Valve

A defective shower mixing valve can be the source of your cold shower water. The mixing valve helps blend hot and cold water. Inside the valve is a safety limit that stops you from turning the valve to the hot side. If you are not getting hot water at all, your limit may be set too low.

You can actually adjust this limit yourself. To do this, take the cover off and slightly turn the plastic ring counterclockwise. This increases the amount of hot water in the shower mix. Always test the water when you make small changes like this.

Other options include checking for broken or worn-down components. These prevent the valve from being able to turn completely. If you need to replace your mixing valve contact our team of local plumbers in Greenville, South Carolina to receive support.

4. Water Leaks

A leak in your water line can result in cold water but can also lead to costly expenses. Be sure to check your water bill for any increases, as a leaking water heater can waste a significant amount of water.

Older water heaters tend to wear down over time, eventually causing water leaks to develop. If your tank is leaking, it will need to be replaced. If you are looking for a replacement, our team at Corley is happy to assist you.

5. Old Pipes

Do you have an older house? Old piping configurations conflict with modern shower technology, like newer valves. If your old pipes and modern plumbing fixtures aren’t working together, we can help. Our expert team performs any necessary repiping to get your hot water flowing perfectly.

6. Faulty Boiler

A boiler is what supplies hot water throughout your house. If your hot water has turned cold, you could have a boiler issue. The cold water drip tube may need repair; this can cause cold water to go into the hot water pipe instead of the burner.

Read More: Do Gas Hot Water Heaters Require Electricity to Operate?

To Avoid Warm Water Shortages, Coordinate With Family

A busy house uses up a lot of hot water. With a little family coordination, there will be enough for everyone. It all comes down to timing. If you are planning to shower but someone else wants to do laundry, simply coordinate it. Your warm water supply only has enough for one or the other before needing to refill. Waiting about 30 minutes between these will allow the water to resupply.

Professional Water Heater Repair and Emergency Plumbing Services in Greenville, South Carolina

Tired of cold showers? It is time to book an appointment for water heater repair services with the team of expert plumbers at Corley. Our team has been a leader in plumbing services for Greenville, South Carolina for years. Throughout the years, we’ve understood the importance of warm water. To get your water back, our specialists thoroughly inspect and resolve any issues you may have with your current system.

From water heater repair, water line installation, drain cleaning, to repiping, our expert technicians are available to help you with all types of plumbing problems. We want to ensure every resident is comfortable with their plumbing. As experts in plumbing services for Greenville, SC, our team has the plumbing skills you need. With our team’s help, cold showers can be a thing of the past. Give our staff a call at (864) 256-0643 to receive assistance with a defective water heater or other plumbing issues in your house.