Hi, We thought our problem was the hot water heater (electric) but now we don't know. In our shower, which has 3 shower heads, one suddenly only gives out lukewarm water, while the 2 next to it give out nice hot water. Also, our daughter's bathroom shower only gives off lukewarm water, while her sink - and other rooms in the house - have good hot water coming out. How can there be varying levels of hot water at differing shower heads/faucets? Is this something we can fix ourselves? We'd really like to know what's going on before we call a plumber and have him/her go on a wild goose chase. Thanks in advance for any help. --Kirsten in Virginia

The water heater is fine. The problem is in the valves assciciated with the suspect fixtures. This involves removal of the control handle & then the valve. Clean the valve (replace the rubber parts if necessary) & re-assemble the unit. No need for a plumber; you can do this yourself.

Hi Cordialk:

I want you to start by looking at the shower valves themselves...

Remove the handle and trim to each SINGLE HANDLE SHOWER VALVE and see if you can adjust the TEMPERATURE LIMITING DEVICE.

Once handle/trim is removed you should see something that has gradations (delta, grohe, Kohler, and price pfister valves) or you may see a simple screw (symmons valve). This will need to be adjusted to allow more hot water into the valve.

In terms of the three shower heads, does each have its own volume control or diverter..? Let me know?

See what you find, and then if no luck pop back here with a name and model or a picture with the handle/trim Off the valve and we'll see what we can come up with.


MARK