Single Handle Tub Faucet - HOT Runs Slow After Valve Replacement
I have two Delta single knob shower faucets (T13422). These were installed in both upstairs bathrooms when the house was built in 2002. Several months ago I wanted to cure both bathrooms of dripping tub faucets (the water bill was going up), and the diverters were fine (even though I replaced one due to corrosive buildup inside). I figured valves must be leaking. So, I turned off the water to the house and replaced the cartridges in both upstairs showers. This fixed the dripping; however, the hot water side of BOTH showers now has low water pressure. I had a man from the City Water Department come check my water pressure, and it “could” be turned up some, but given the fact I didn’t have any problems before, and it just happened after I replaced the valves…I am skeptical, and I do not want to cause undue pressure on pipes by turning up pressure…especially since it is just the hot water affected. In researching, it seems logical that I might need to flush the hot water tank for about five minutes by attaching a garden hose and running the water out of the house, to remove sediment? By turning off the house water and then turning it back on, do you think I may have sent sediment through the house lines upstairs? I have noticed a small amount of redish silt in the shower after draining. Would that account for it, or do you think I need to hire a licensed plumber to come in and investigate? I cannot access the individual pressure screws behind the shower for hot and cold, and even if I could…the issue only happened when I changed both valves. What processes do you think I should take? I would like to resolve this this weekend. Thank you.
