ᐅ There is no hot water coming through in the shower anymore.

Hello building experts and helpers,

I have a problem in my new condominium and wanted to ask you for advice.

In the bathroom, in the shower, there is an exposed mixing valve that is currently not installed. Two pipe connections come out of the wall—one for hot water and one for cold water. Next to this, there is a washbasin with two pipe connections coming from the wall as well, where the water is mixed directly in the faucet.

The problem: Only a small amount of hot water is coming from the shower’s hot water pipe, while everything is normal at the washbasin. When I turn off the main valve for the shower, the dripping stops; when I turn it back on, hardly any water flows. The cold water pressure is normal both in the shower and at the washbasin. The apartment was empty for about two years before, but I don’t know if the valve was turned off during that time.

All other hot water connections in the apartment, for example in the kitchen, have normal flow.

I hope I have explained my problem clearly enough. How can I get the water flowing properly again?

Thank you very much for your answers.

Hello.

Based on your problem description, the shut-off valve for your shower is likely defective. (It is interesting that your shower apparently has its own shut-off fittings.) There might be a check valve inside that is stuck, preventing the valve from opening properly. It is also possible that the valve is clogged. Ultimately, replacing it is the easiest solution.

Thanks, I had almost expected that. Yesterday, my building superintendent was here and said that the shut-off valve might be fine, but he suspects the water meter could be clogged and would recommend replacing it... I’d better stay away from it and call a professional.

I only know this issue in connection with the check valve. But usually, these valves are installed on all pipes in an apartment or house.
That means only a small amount of hot water should come out everywhere...
How did the building manager check the valve? Did he disassemble it and clean it with a scouring pad? Or did he X-ray it from the outside?

What does the water meter have to do with a hot water problem at a single location?

So either the valve
or the fitting in the shower...

But the water meter? I don’t understand...

I just spoke with the company that installed the water meter. They also told me that they have never seen a clogged water meter before...

Since all the fittings in the bathroom have been removed, the problem can’t be with the fittings.

On April 18th, I will check whether water actually comes out of the sink, or if it was just residual water in the pipe. If no water comes out, I also think it could be the shut-off valve.

The building manager slightly loosened and closed the nut on the shut-off valve about three times. He didn’t want to open it further because the water in the main line was not turned off (which would have to be done if the valve is replaced, right?).

Ok, after the pipe apparently ran dry, no hot water is reaching the washbasin anymore. Only a little hot water is coming from the shower and the washbasin. I will get in touch with the building manager again, who can replace the top part of the shut-off valve.