Repairing Guides

how to repair a mixing valve

by Chris Thompson Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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How to Repair a Lever-Type Mixing Faucet

  • Different Valve Styles. When repairing a faucet, it helps to know what kind of mechanism you're dealing with, and a...
  • Disassembly. No matter what type of faucet you're fixing, you need to turn off the water supply and remove the faucet...
  • Replacing Seals. The seals that cause leaks are usually located in the water inlet holes at...

Part of a video titled How to Replace a Shower Mixing Valve | This Old House
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6:09
Off now we're ready to excavate to get the cap off of the valve there's two brass screws that theyMoreOff now we're ready to excavate to get the cap off of the valve there's two brass screws that they have to turn counterclockwise. I want to push in against it so i don't strip the head of the screw.

Full Answer

How do you replace the water mixing valve?

How to Adjust a Price Pfister Shower Valve Stem

  • Price Pfister Shower Valves. The anti-scald feature is meant to protect the homeowner from accidentally adjusting the water to a completely scalding shower straight from the water heater.
  • Important Safety Considerations. ...
  • Adjusting the Valve Trim. ...
  • Alternatives for Newer Models. ...

How do you change a mixing valve in a faucet?

Replace the Valve in a Two Handle Faucet

  • Turn off the water to your faucet and remove the handle (Fig. ...
  • With the handle removed, the top of the valve will be visible (Fig. ...
  • Use an adjustable or fixed wrench, or a 5/8 inch deep socket wrench, to loosen the valve by turning it counterclockwise (Fig. ...
  • Remove the valve (Fig. ...

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How do you replace a shower mixing valve?

  • Remove the old valve assembly and disconnect from piping.
  • Fit the new valve assembly into place.
  • Connect the new shower valve to the water supply using appropriate methods. ...
  • Turn on water supply and monitor the valve for leakage. ...
  • Replace the trim plate and handle.

How to install a mixing valve?

  • Switch off all power (and gas) to the water heater.
  • Close the hot and cold valves and run off some cold and hot water from nearby taps to drain the pipes while you work.
  • Allow the water heater to cool for a couple of hours before you start working on the job to avoid scalding risks.

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How do you fix a thermostatic mixing valve?

0:132:05How do I clean a thermostatic mixing valve? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOnce you get that mixing valve body out of there. It can actually be soaked in a vinegar. WaterMoreOnce you get that mixing valve body out of there. It can actually be soaked in a vinegar. Water solution or CLR a lime away for a few hours. And then the valve body can be put back into service.

How do you know if your mix valve is broken?

3 Signs Your Thermostatic Mixing Valve Has a ProblemYour water temperature isn't right. If a TMV valve stops working correctly, then you may notice that your hot water suddenly starts to run hotter than it should. ... Your water doesn't flow normally. ... You have leaks or drips.

How much does it cost to fix a mixing valve?

Replacing a shower mixing valve costs $225 to $575 on average for materials and labor....Shower mixing valve replacement cost.Valve typeValve unit costTotal replacement cost*Pressure-balancing$50 – $300$150 – $600Thermostatic$150 – $600$250 – $900Sep 23, 2021

How do you tighten a mixing valve?

3:115:23ADJUST HOT WATER for SHOWER VALVE - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo look at that little arm that little that little cutout right there and the more you adjust aMoreSo look at that little arm that little that little cutout right there and the more you adjust a counter clockwise harder it's gonna be pretty hot all right there.

What causes mixing valves to fail?

Older model hot water mixing valves age over time and can break down with usage. As a result they can begin to fail in correctly controlling water temperature.

How do I know if my shower mixing valve is bad?

Signs You Could Have a Faulty Shower ValveTrouble Turning the Handle. Do you have difficulty turning on your shower? ... Unexpected Temperature Changes. ... Loss of Water Pressure. ... Shower Head Leaks.

How much does a shower mixing valve cost?

The average cost to replace a shower valve is between $50 to $400, depending on if you hire someone, the type of valve you're looking for, and what parts of the system you need to replace.

How long should a shower valve last?

A good-quality shower faucet cartridge will last as long as 20 to 30 years. With regular maintenance, it can serve you for the foreseeable future. There are plenty of signs of a cartridge needing to be serviced or replaced. Among them is when you have a drip or running water after turning off the handle.

Do you have to replace valve when replacing shower faucet?

The first issue to look for is if there are any leaks in the valve when you turn on the water. If there are drips, that's a good indication that you should think about replacing the valve. Because, not only are you wasting water, but water that leaks behind the wall can cause rot as well as mold and mildew growth.

How do you fix a leaky shower mixer tap?

0:222:32How To Replace a Leaking Shower Mixer - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipGive the handle a shake and pull that handle right off. The next is the cover. Place your water pumpMoreGive the handle a shake and pull that handle right off. The next is the cover. Place your water pump pliers over the edge of the nut. And gently. Turn it in the anti-clockwise.

Can you adjust a thermostatic mixing valve?

To adjust the temperature supply remove the plastic cap on top of the valve and adjust with a close fitting spanner. To increase the temperature turn anti-clockwise To decrease the temperature turn clockwise To set the valve to a maximum recommended mixed water temperature, see table below.

How do I fix my hot and cold shower mixer?

4:367:12Fix shower faucet that is only hot or cold. Valve cartridge replacement.YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipInside all right take a flashlight and look in that tube and make sure there isn't any hard waterMoreInside all right take a flashlight and look in that tube and make sure there isn't any hard water deposits or anything that could be blocking. The new valve that you're gonna be placing.

How do I test my shower mixing valve?

0:026:09How to Replace a Shower Mixing Valve | This Old House - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTurn it on full cold you have full pressure yeah full hot you've got full pressure but right in theMoreTurn it on full cold you have full pressure yeah full hot you've got full pressure but right in the middle where you want it mixed right the pressure dies down dramatically.

How do you test a shower mixing valve?

After the shower head is installed (and the tub spout, if using a combination shower and tub valve), turn on the cold water and let it run for 10 to 15 seconds. Then do the same for the hot side. If testing is being done with air, the procedure is the same.

How long does a mixing valve last?

How Long do Tempering Valves Last? Tempering valves have an expected lifespan of 5 to 8 years. That's around half the lifespan of the hot water system, so it's likely that your valve will need to be replaced before the water heater.

Why is my shower mixer not mixing?

The usual suspects for this problem are a blocked shower head, kinked or damaged shower hose, or blocked inlet filters in the shower itself. It could also be due to faulty non-return valves.

How to get minerals off of old cartridges?

If you can't scrape the minerals off with a knife or small wire brush , you can usually dissolve them by soaking the cartridge overnight in white vinegar.

What is a single handle lever faucet?

Single-handled lever style faucets can have one of three different types of valve mechanisms, but the repair procedures don't differ much between them. If the faucet leaks, the problem is often a worn rubber washer or O-ring, and although you may have to disassemble the faucet to get to it, it's easy to replace.

Can a ball valve leak?

Ceramic disks, ball valves and cartridges are often fitted with external O-rings, and these can also cause leaks when they wear out. Cut off a worn one with a utility knife, and spread plumbing grease on the new one before rolling it on to improve the seal it makes.

Exploring Thermostatic Mixing Valve Problems & Solutions

Let’s go through the possible causes that mean you are having a faulty thermostatic mixing valve issue.

The Temperature of Water Is Not Right

The very obvious scene that we basically started this piece of writing with. If you notice that suddenly your well working hot water shower is switched to cold temperature without any reason, then it must be the valve having a problem.

The Normal Flow Of Water Is Missing

Have you noticed the way the water comes out from the tap is somewhat different than usual? Such change in water flow is a very common indication of having a thermostatic mixing valve problem. Usually, the flow turns out less and the same goes for the pressure.

Drips Or Leaks Noticeable

One more common sign that you need to go for a thermostatic mixing valve repair is having water seeping out from parts. There could be water accumulated beneath on the floor as well. This is most probably due to a corrosion issue or even a faulty seal could be the reason.

Thermostatic Mixing Valve Troubleshooting

If you are having temperature being inconsistent issues, then you need to work on calibrating the valve properly. Follow the installation instructions to readjust the valve and the too hot/cold discharge should be solved.

How to Replace Thermostatic Mixing Valve?

You probably need to spend one or two hours to get the thing replaced. Anybody with a little bit of plumbing and soldering idea would be able to complete the task. Get a thermometer, a solder, hex wrench, adjustable wrench, and screwdriver.

Frequently Asked Questions

With constant usage, your holder model thermostatic mixing valves can get bad quite easily. And so, you must be prepared for a replacement sooner than later once it has served for quite a few years.

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