Why There is NO Cold Water in My Shower?

Everyone is familiar with the problem of no hot water in the shower, but the flipped version of this problem is also possible: no cold water. While showering with cold water is chilling, hot scalding water can damage your skin. If you are not getting cold water from the shower, then read through this article to learn of the possible causes and their fix. Neighborhood Plumbing has years of experience dealing with this issue. Our certified plumbers in Pittsburgh PA are ready to handle the repair if you would like to save the hassle and put your faith in the experts. We are available to take your call at any time.

Check the Other Faucets in The House

Let’s start with a quick troubleshooting. Determine whether the issue is only in one shower or in the whole house. Check some of the other faucets to see if they provide cold water. If the other faucets also do not have cold water, then it is likely that a shutoff valve in the main water supply line was turned off. The fix in this situation is simple: turn the valve back on and continue with your shower.
If, however, the other faucets in the house are working normally and the issue is with just the shower’s water, then you likely have a defective pressure balancing valve. This valve is often located in the faucet of the shower and is responsible for regulating the pressure and ratio of cold and hot water flowing from the showerhead. Replacing the defective pressure balancing valve should have you back to your regular schedule.

Cause of Pressure Balancing Valve Malfunction

If your shower isn’t in use on a regular basis or if the water quality is low, then there is a higher likelihood for a mineral buildup or corrosion in the cartridge holding the pressure balancing valve. This clog might be stopping the cold water from reaching your showerhead. Your best bet is to replace the cartridge. This job is going to require a unique tool: a cartridge puller. If you do not want to waste your time or risk damaging your shower, then feel free to call the professionals at Neighborhood Plumbing to have a certified plumber take care of this job.

Replacing the Shower Cartridge

The tools you will need to replace a cartridge are as follows:

• Phillips and flathead screwdriver
• Cartridge puller
• Allen wrenches
• Needle-nose pliers
• Plumber’s grease
• Locking pliers
• New cartridge

Begin by shutting off the water supply to the shower and cover the drain so that small components do not fall into the drain and get lost. Remove the shower handle and metal covers by removing the screws. Hold the handle and take it off the stem. Remove all parts in the faucet structure but first take a picture of the inside for reference when putting it back together. Clean out the buildup with a cleaning solution. Pull out the retainer clip with the needle-nose pliers and remove the cartridge with the cartridge puller. Add the new cartridge using the plumber’s grease then replace all of the faucet parts into their original positions. Now turn the water supply on and give it a test.
If you are overwhelmed by these steps, then please call the professionals at Neighborhood Plumbing to arrange for a certified plumber to dispatch to your location as soon as possible. Our friendly staff are waiting to take your call.