Check Out These Top 5 Ways to Tell if a Shower Valve is Bad

Leaks and drips are frustrating. They cause water wastage, raise water bills, and worsen over time to cause significant bathroom damage if not repaired.

A shower valve lies behind the shower faucet handle. Its functions are to control the water pressure and regulate the water temperature coming out of the shower. When properly installed, shower valves make the shower experience more pleasant. Some shower valves are pressure-balanced to prevent sudden temperature changes for protection from boiling or freezing temperatures. Shower valves can be exposed or concealed. Modern homeowners prefer concealed shower valves more than exposed valves.

Types of shower valves

Some standard shower valves include mixing valves, thermostatic valves, pressure balancing valves, transfer valves, and diverter valves. A faulty or bad shower valve can affect the shower routine. Failure to fix a failing shower valve can result in high water bills and cold showers. 

Here are some tell-tale signs of a malfunctioning shower valve:

Shower head drips and leaks

Leaks and drips are frustrating. They cause water wastage, raise water bills, and worsen over time to cause significant bathroom damage if not repaired. A leaky or dripping shower head indicates a faulty shower valve. The inner rubber seals of the shower valve wear out with time and fail to create a proper seal for effectively holding the water when the shower is shut off. Besides the rubber seal, worn-out O rings and rubber gaskets can also cause shower valve leaks. Replace my old shower valve to fix drips and leaks.

Shower handle problems

If a homeowner faces resistance in turning the shower handle, a bad shower valve is a likely culprit. A shower valve can become faulty or misaligned due to damage or corrosion. It results in a difficult-to-open or stuck shower faucet. It often indicates a significant issue and requires a prompt solution. A plumber can inspect and perform the needed shower repairs.

Changes in water temperature

While mineral build-up in the shower head, a damaged shower cartridge, a faulty water heater, and general wear and tear can cause water temperature fluctuations, in most cases, the culprit is the shower valve. A damaged or worn-out shower valve fails to control the water temperature. At times, the showerhead fails to provide hot water, and only cold water comes out for taking a shower.   

Low water pressure

A common reason behind sudden pressure changes or overall pressure loss is faulty mixing or a thermostatic shower valve. Corroded old valves or worn-out internal components can affect the proper water flow. Clean the showerhead to remove sediment build-up. Any issue with the mixing shower valve is best left for the experts to handle. 

Water coming out of the spout

When water comes out simultaneously from the spout and the showerhead, either the shower valve is faulty or installed upside down. Call a plumber to inspect the valve for correct installation. 

Preserve the home's plumbing

Plumbing problems, including faulty shower valves, are better fixed promptly to prevent them from getting worse and avoid significant plumbing repairs. Contact an experienced plumber to identify issues with the shower valves and perform required repairs.

Evenflow Home and Commercial Services of San Antonio offers impeccable house cleaning services, professional plumbing, electrician services, HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair. Our technicians offer 24-hour emergency electrical and HVAC service for San Antonio, Schertz, Converse, Floresville, Elmendorf, and more. Call us at (210)941-3503.