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Why Does Your Shower Get Hot After Flushing the Toilet?

Mark J. Biel • July 8, 2020

Have you ever noticed how when someone flushes the toilet while you’re in the shower, the water suddenly gets too hot? If you’re wondering if you need heating repair , however, in this case it’s not always necessary. There are some inexpensive ways to fix this issue, though your best bet is to enlist professional help. But what causes it to happen in the first place?

This is Common in Most Plumbing Configurations

If this happens in your home, then your plumbing is likely configured in a trunk and branch system. This means you have water running from one side of your home to the other in one large pipe, with small offshoot pipes connecting to different plumbing fixtures like your shower, washer, toilet and sink. If any of these fixtures are used, then the water pressure decreases. This causes the water in the shower to get hotter because there’s less cold water in the mix.

Some homes only have one water line for a shower, tub and toilet in the same bathroom. After you flush the toilet, the tank gets filled up with water. Since it only uses cold water, there’s less cold water available for your shower while the tank fills up. 

How You Can Solve This Issue

Most of the time, this is a problem that’s easy to fix by your own. One way to do so is to slightly close the supply valve in the wall behind your toilet. This slows down the tank from being filled up, which frees ups more cold water for your shower. 

With the help of a trusted  local  drain and sewer repair contractor, another way to address the problem is to install a new mixing valve in the shower to reduce or eliminate temperature fluctuations. Thermostatic mixing valves automatically balance the amount of hot and cold water being mixed, which will prevent fluctuating changes in shower temperature. If water flow is reduced due to a toilet flush, the valve automatically adjusts the amount of hot water being mixed, keeping the shower temperature more consistent.

When it comes to certified plumbing and   air conditioning repair , R.A. Biel Plumbing & Heating, Inc. has got you covered. Call us today at (505) 327-7755 , or you can reach us online by filling out our contact form

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