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Inconsistent water temperature in your home can be annoying and even dangerous.
Several culprits could be behind inconsistent water temperature, and multiple problems may happen simultaneously.
Here are a few ways to check for and mitigate some of the most common causes.
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Warning
Novice DIYers should not attempt to repair or work on their water heater.
Most modern homes have pressure-balanced and thermostaticshower/tub controlsto prevent this.
If this cartridge wears out, you’ll likely experience inconsistent water temperatures.
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This guide offers a general solution for situations where you have a pressure balance valve or TMV already installed.
Find the manufacturer and model of your current product for replacement parts.
Shut the Water Off
Turn off the waterand terminate the drain stopper.
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Replace the Cartridge
Gently pull out the metal clip holding the cartridge in place.
Slide the new cartridge in place, with its hot side on the left.
Replace the cartridge retainer clip.
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drop in the Guard and Handle
drop in the scald guard.
Turn the water back on and adjust the scald guard while the water is running.
Two pipes on top of a water heater tank extend inside.
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A dip tube can become faulty if it snaps, cracks, corrodes, or develops holes.
Instead of replacing the entirewater heater, you could replace the tube itself for far less.
Unscrew and Separate Union
Usingchannel lock pliers, unscrew and separate the dielectric union.
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Remove the union or fitting, and set aside.
Remove the Dip Tube
Use a pipe wrench to turn the dip tube fitting off.
Use your hands to pull the dip tube straight up and out of the water heater.
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implement the New Dip Tube
Slide the new dip tube straight down into the water heater.
Wrap the threads withTeflon tape, then screw the fitting into place with one of the wrenches.
Finish Installation
Wrap the nipple with plumber’s tape.
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Reinstall the dielectric union and reattach the pipes.
On-demand water heaters, however, only heat water when needed.
Use a descaler cleaning kit every 12 to 18 months to rid the system of mineral deposits.
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Multiple or severe blockages can be very dangerous.
Blocked vents can lead to carbon monoxide leakage into your home.
These gases are odorless and can be deadly.
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Newer and instantaneous heaters usually come with a safety switch called a spill switch.
These shut down the heater when a blockage or backdraft occurs to prevent carbon monoxide leakage.
This happens when two water demands have been placed on the system back-to-back.
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Either space out the water demands or replace your current heater with anon-demand water heaterwith greater output.
281-287, 2013. doi:10.1097/BCR.0b013e31827e645f
Showerheads.
United States Environmental Protection Agency.
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Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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