Not much is worse than planning on taking a nice hot shower only to be met with freezing water. It can be very frustrating to deal with your shower refusing to heat up with no understanding as to why. To combat this, it’s good to familiarize yourself with some common causes of having no access to hot water in the shower and when it’s time to call a professional.
5 Reasons Why Your Shower Won’t Heat Up
Is your showing failing to heat up? There are several reasons as to why this might be the case. Some common causes of a cold or lukewarm shower include:
Water Heater Malfunctions
You rely on your water heater daily for the hot water you need to get by safely and comfortably. If your water heater is malfunctioning, it may not be able to produce the hot water you need for your shower. Your system needs to be inspected for power issues, leaks, thermostat problems, sediment buildup, and more, and should be tuned-up or replaced as needed.
Shower Valve Issues
The shower valve is responsible for mixing hot and cold water to create your desired temperature. Over time, its components can become worn down and not work as intended. To fix this, check the O-ring and/or washers. If they’re broken or worn down, they can be repaired or replaced yourself after ensuring you locate the specific parts needed.
Running Out of Hot Water
Running out of hot water can result from a water heater tank that is too small for your plumbing needs, a faulty thermostat, a faulty heating element, and more. With the help of a professional, you should pinpoint the issue and determine what route to take for repair or replacement.
Limescale Buildup
Limescale can build up in your showerhead, pipes, and heating elements over time, especially if you have hard water. This can hinder your system’s ability to properly distribute hot water. Using vinegar or specified cleaning products can remove any limescale and restore proper operation to your shower. You can also invest in water treatment options, like whole-home water filtration systems, to get ahead of the issues caused by hard water and other contaminants.
Outdated Plumbing System
Your plumbing system will eventually reach the end of its lifespan. When this happens, it won’t be able to meet your plumbing needs, including a hot shower. To resolve this, it’s time to consider plumbing upgrades with a professional plumber.
When To Call a Professional
While some issues can be handled by a DIY project, others require the help of a professional. Any systems that require in-depth repair or a complete replacement must be handled by a team of experts to ensure the issue is resolved efficiently and safely. If you attempt to perform repairs and replacements yourself, you risk making the issue worse and racking up more costs that could have been avoided. If you’re constantly running out of hot water, it’s time to consider a professional tankless water heater installation.
Call Goode Plumbing for Expert Shower Plumbing Services
Goode Plumbing is your one-stop shop for top-notch shower plumbing services in Chicagoland. Since 2007, we’ve delivered exceptional services to our community performed by licensed, insured, and Nexstar-trained technicians. We offer upfront pricing and financing options, including 0% financing for your added benefit. We proudly service the Chicago area with integrity!
For fast and dependable results, schedule quality plumbing services with the Goode Plumbing team today.