It’s quite a frustrating and unexpected situation when you have no hot water in shower but sinks are fine. But don’t worry you are not alone here as it’s an often case when users experience no hot water in the shower but everywhere else in the house.
It mostly occurs due to blockages in the shower head itself. Other major reasons include:
- Incorrect adjustment of the anti-scald valve
- Malfunctioning thermostatic or pressure balancing valve
- Defective shower cartridge
- Blockage or leaks in hot water lines
- Or due to the high hot water demand of your household.
It is simple to fix if the shower is the culprit itself. Clean the clogged shower head or adjust the temperature-controlling valve in your shower. In most cases, you may need to replace the shower faucet cartridge.
If you can’t solve it on your own, head to our detailed troubleshooting guide to explore all the effective and tricky methods to regain hot water from your shower.
Table of Contents
Possible Reasons & Solutions For No Hot Water In Shower But Sinks Are Fine [Quick Overview]
Before heading over to the details, let’s have a short glimpse at the quick table below, highlighting all the probable reasons for this issue with the recommended fix:
| Probable Reasons | Recommended Fix |
| Clogged shower head | > Clean the clogs from shower head |
| Wrong adjustment of the anti-scald valve | > Adjust the anti-scald valve to get water at the maximum temperature. |
| Faulty anti-scald valve | > Replace faulty valve |
| Malfunctioning shower mixing valve or pressure balancing valve | > Adjust the valve to the adequate temperature setting. > If required, clean the blockages from the valve. |
| Faulty shower cartridge | > Replace your faulty shower cartridge. |
| Blocked or leaky hot water pipes | > Inspect the hot water pipes leading to your shower for any signs of leaks and blockage. > Clean the clogs or repair the leaks. |
| System overload for your water heater | > Clean the clogs from the shower head |
Why Is My Shower Water Cold But Sink Hot [Easy Solutions]
Let’s explore the detailed guide, explaining what causes no hot water in your shower while sinks are fine with effective fixes!
1. Wrong Adjustment Of The Anti-scald Valve
Most shower systems equip an anti-scald valve that is designed to detect potential changes in the water temperature and adjust it to keep the water coming out of the shower at a safe level. It basically mixes cold water in with outgoing hot water so that the hot water is not hot enough to scald a person.
In case your shower not getting hot water but the sink does, the best chances are there is some malfunction from the valve.
Either the valve isn’t adjusted correctly, particularly concerning the water temperature limit or it stops functioning at all.
It is essential to set the anti-scald valve limit correctly to get water at an adequate temperature. Setting the temperature too low will begin to trigger at much lower temperatures than you like.
Don’t worry! A quick adjustment of the valve will help you to get back the hot water again.
How To Fix:
To adjust your shower anti-scald valve, here are the simple steps to follow:
Step 1: Start by turning off the water supply to your shower system. Typically you can do it from the main water shutoff for your home or at a dedicated shutoff valve for the shower.
Step 2: Now you will need to remove the shower handle and any other covering and caps to access the valve assembly for instance the handle-removing process will differ depending on the type of handle and faucet you have.
In general, use a screwdriver or Allen wrench and remove the visible screws located on the handle.
Step 3: Once the screws are removed, pull the handle away from the faucet valve. Now you will see the anti-scald valve there.
Step 4: You will find a plastic or metal ring with a screw or a dial on the valve. Simply grab the plastic device and pull it slightly toward you to free it from the level.
Now turn the adjustment device counterclockwise to get water at maximum temperature.
Step 5: After adjusting the temperature, set the device back in place. Now it’s time to check the temperature of the water. If it looks hotter than before, then be sure your anti-scald unit was the issue.
2. Faulty Anti-scald Valve
After adjusting the anti-scald valve, there is still no hot water in the shower but hot water in the sink, I bet the anti-scald is defective and has stopped operating at all.
In case of a faulty anti-scald valve connection in your shower, it fails to regulate the water temperature as it should and ends up with colder water running through the shower.
After long use, it is obvious the anti-scald valve may fail. Especially over time, mineral deposits from hard water make it difficult for the valve to balance hot and cold water properly.
Besides corrosion can occur on the internal components of the valve which may prevent it from functioning properly.
How To Fix:
Whatever the fact is, if you are certain about your faulty anti-scald valve, be sure it is time to replace it with a new one. For a safe and effective replacement, we will recommend to consult the manufacturer’s instructions.
In case you are not experienced with plumbing work, it’s better to seek the assistance of a professional plumber.
3. Malfunctioning Shower Mixing Valve
If you have a shower mixing valve in your shower valve, it would be a major factor if your shower not working but the sink is. In general, this type of shower valve can be found in the older home.
The shower valve is mainly designed to mix hot water and cold water from the taps before sending it to the shower. By mixing hot water and cold water, it helps to maintain a consistent temperature of the water from the shower and prevents the chances of scalding.
However, in case the shower valve malfunctions or does not function as it should, it may fail to mix the hot and cold water correctly. This will result in the shower receiving only cold water or fluctuating and inconsistent water temperature.
Several factors are attributed to the malfunctions of the shower valve:
- Either it is not adjusted correctly or sediment builds up in the valve. It is obvious if you have hard water with high mineral content. Over time, the minerals accumulate within the mixing valve, creating the passageways of the valve and affecting the valve’s function.
- Over time, the corrosion builds up in the internal components of the mixing valve which can cause leaks and reduce the valve’s effectiveness.
- Another chance is that the valve is stuck in a particular position, such as fully open or fully closed. If so, there will be a lack of hot water or an inability to control the temperature.
How To Fix:
It is important to address shower mixing valve problems immediately when you are struggling with water pressure and temperature issues. Here is all how you will do so:
Phase 1: Adjust The Valve
As for the first step, check the adjustment for the shower mixing valve. You will find three pipe attachments there. One each for the hot water and cold water and another one is for the mix.
Any way to adjust the temperature, remove the protection cap from the valve. Take a small Allen key and adjust the temperature by rotating the knob clockwise and anti-clockwise.
To get the desired temperature, you can use a calibrated thermometer to measure the temperature of the water leaving the shower.
Phase 2: Clean The Valve
If still there is no hot water, inspect the valve for any blockages. If so, remove the shower mixing valve from the connection. Clean it with warm, soapy water and a brush.
If there is stubborn debris, soak the valve in a vinegar and water solution. In case the valve is beyond cleaning or repair, it’s better to replace it. Consult a professional for your assistance.
4. Faulty Pressure Balancing Valve
Besides the mixing valve, most shower systems have a pressure balancing valve that also senses the volume of hot and cold water and adjusts it to continually deliver water at your desired temperature.
It has two main inlets, one for hot water and one for cold water, and both are connected to the water supply lines of your shower.
After turning on the shower, water enters through the valve and the balancing bool regulates the pressure variation. When it passes through the thermostatic part, the temperature sensor controls the temperature.
Anyway, if the pressure valve is not adjusted correctly, it is obvious you won’t get the hot water you need. In most cases, it is obstructed by dust or sediment deposits that need your special concentration.
How To Fix:
However, while dealing with the hot water in the sink but not the shower issue, a malfunctioning pressure balancing valve is one of the big culprits. Here is all how you will deal with it:
Start by verifying that the valve is adjusted as per the manufacturer’s instructions. For instance, remove the handle from your shower faucet and get access to the valve assembly.
You will see an adjustment ring in the valve body. Take a Phillips screwdriver and turn the adjustment ring slightly counterclockwise to increase the temperature.
Test the water temperature and if still the same cases, make sure the valve assembly for visible debris, mineral buildup, or corrosion. If so, you will need to clean it. Also, verify the adjustment ring whether it is worn or damaged.
In case of a defective ring, replace it with a new one. [Make sure the correct size and type of O-rings for your specific valve model]
5. Clogged Shower Head
While dealing with the same issues when you may find that there is no water in the shower but the sinks are fine, you will notice the problem lies in the shower system itself.
The best possibility is you are dealing with a clogged shower head that is highly affecting the flow and distribution of the hot water in your shower.
Over time, the shower head becomes clogged due to the accumulation of mineral deposits, sediments, and other debris carried by the water supply. It is quite a common phenomenon to me as I live in a hard water area where the water contains high levels of minerals, particularly calcium and magnesium.
When hard water is heated, these minerals form solid deposits and accumulate in the shower head opening. Also, other sediments present in the water supply like sand, dirt, or rust can get stuck in the showerhead’s nozzles and reduce water flow.
How To Fix:
Here is a quick process to follow to clean the clogged shower head:
Step 1: As for the first step, turn off the water supply to your shower system. Now take a toothbrush or a small brush.
Step 2: Gently scrub the nozzles while the shower head is still in place. Now rinse with clean water to remove the remaining debris.
Step 3: Turn on the water supply and check the water flow. If still the same case, fill a plastic bag or a small plastic container with white vinegar.
Step 4: Place the bag over the showerhead, making sure the nozzles are submerged in the vinegar.
Step 5: Next secure it with a rubber band or zip tie. Leave it for several hours or overnight. This will help to dissolve the hard particles that are clogging the nozzles.
Step 6: After soaking, remove the bag, turn on the shower, and rinse the showerhead with clean water to flush out any loosened debris. Now check the water flow and you should get the hot water again.
5. Faulty Shower Cartridge
If it is all okay from the shower head, a faulty shower cartridge is another most probable fact that is leading to a lack of hot water in your shower.
A shower cartridge is an essential part of a shower faucet or valve that is designed to regulate the temperature of the water. It does this by adjusting the ratio of hot and cold water flowing into the shower.
In addition to regulating temperature, most shower cartridges control the water flow rate as well. By adjusting the shower handle or lever, the shower cartridge increases or decreases the water flow.
Several factors are contributing to the malfunctioning shower cartridge. Like:
- Hard mineral buildup within the cartridge’s moving parts and seals.
- Incorrect installation or not securing it properly within the valve
- Water leakage due to wear and tear
- An imbalance in water pressure is affecting the cartridge’s ability to mix hot and cold water accurately.
How To Fix:
Whatever the fact is, here is all on how you will deal with a faulty cartridge:
As for the first step, inspect your cartridge for any signs of blockages. The best possibility is the cartridge is clogged with sediment or hard mineral deposits. If so, simply pull out the cartridge and clean it with vinegar solutions.
After cleaning the cartridge, visually inspect the associated element for any leak or damage. Secure the loosened parts. If needed replace the damaged O-rings and gaskets surrounding it. In most cases, you may need to replace the damaged cartridge or whole valve assembly.
6. Problems With The Hot Water Pipes
If you are still noticing that your shower is cold but the taps are hot, it would more likely be related to the hot water lines of your shower system.
There are several factors that would be responsible here. Have a glimpse at all with effective fix ideas:
i) A Clogged Pipe
The blocked pipe is the first culprit for why the shower water is cold but the sink is hot. it’s possible for the shower pipe to be clogged while the sink pipes remain unclogged.
This can even occur if you are living in an old house like mine where the pipes haven’t been replaced for many years.
Old pipes can easily accumulate sediments or mineral deposits due to the long contact of hard water, containing high mineral contents. This creates clogs in the pipes, blocking hot water from reaching the shower.
How To Fix:
Inspect the pipe for any blockages, and use a plumber snake to remove the blockages. If you suspect severe hard mineral deposits there, it’s better to consult a professional to deal with the issue.
ii) A Leak In The Pipe
A leakage in the water pipe, especially on the hot water supply line can lead to a lack of hot water in your shower. A leak in the pipe causes a drop in hot water pressure in your shower. Inspect the visible hot water pipes for any signs of leaks.
If you identify a leak, try to repair the leak or if required, seek professional help to complete the task for you.
iii) Frozen Pipe
A frozen pipe can cause no hot water in the shower, while still allowing hot water to flow from the sink. This mainly happens if your hot water supply pipes leading to your shower are frozen or partially frozen due to a sudden drop in the temperature outside.
If you suspect frozen pipes in your shower that are causing the lack of hot water to your shower, you will need to take immediate action to thaw the pipes.
For instance, use a hair dryer, or a space heater and gently warm the frozen section of the pipe. This will help to regain hot water flow to your shower.
8. The Water Demand Is Too High
If you have a water heater in your house for delivers hot water throughout all the fixtures, it would be highly responsible if you are still confused about why is my shower water colder than my sink. This is more likely related to the high water demand for your household.
Basically, all water heaters have specificity which determines the maximum volume of hot water delivery at a specific temperature within a certain time.
When the demand for hot water exceeds the heater’s capacity, the water heater has to struggle to keep up with the demand.
When multiple hot water fixtures or appliances in your house are being used simultaneously, resulting in no hot water coming out of the shower but the sink has. The term is commonly known as system overload for the water heater.
How To Fix:
As for the first step, verify the water temperature setting in your water heater thermostat. For instance, 120 degrees Fahrenheit is the safety recommendation to set against scalding.
Now if multiple fixtures are running simultaneously, turn off a few of them and check the water flow in your Sinks.
If you are getting hot water now as before, be sure your water heater is too small for the hot water needs of the household.
As a solution, avoid using multiple hot water appliances at the same time, especially during peak demand periods. Or, you will need to upgrade your water heater with a high-capacity one.
FAQs:
Why is there no hot water in my single-handle shower faucet?
Single-handle shower faucet no hot water issue can be attributed to various reasons. Like incorrect adjustment of the temperature limiter, bad thermostatic mixing valve, faulty shower cartridge, malfunctioning pressure balancing valve, or problems in the water supply lines.
Why is there no cold water in the shower after replacing the cartridge?
There are several reasons why there is no cold water in the shower after replacing the cartridge. Like incorrect temperature adjustment, turned off water shut-off valve, incompatible new cartridge, incorrect installation, or blockage in the water lines.
How can I make my shower water hotter?
You can make your shower water hotter by adjusting the handle all the way to the hot side. Also, you can set your water heater to a high-temperature setting. If required, install a thermostatic mixing valve to get hot water in the shower without changing the water heater settings.
In Closing
No hot water in shower but sinks are fine is the most common query to the household owner, leaving a frustrating experience for them. At times, the problem is more likely related to only malfunctioning the shower itself.
Simply cleaning the clogged shower head or adjusting the temperature control mechanism in the shower valve will help to get hot water again. If the problem persists, be sure the problem lies in the plumbing lines leading to your shower system or due to high water demand during peak periods in your area.
Whatever the fact is, we’ve all optimized each of the facts with the easiest solutions for why you may face no hot water in the shower but everywhere else in your house. Follow each of your troubleshooting tricks and restore the warm embrace of the soothing shower!!!
About Atikul
Atikul Islam shares his expertise with various tips & tricks to fix the problems with home appliances related to toilet, kitchen, bathroom, heating, & cooling systems. Read to know more about Atikul Islam.