1. Shower Thermostat Problems
Your shower’s thermostat is designed to regulate water temperature by blending hot and cold water. If it’s malfunctioning, it may fail to maintain a consistent temperature.
Signs the Thermostat Is the Problem:
The temperature fluctuates only in the shower, while taps elsewhere deliver steady hot water.
The issue began after recent plumbing work or changes to water pressure.
Solutions:
Clean the Thermostat
: Over time, limescale or debris can clog the thermostat. Remove it and soak it in a descaling solution.
Replace the Thermostat
: If cleaning doesn’t work, you may need a new thermostat cartridge.
2. Boiler-Related Issues
If the problem extends beyond the shower—affecting all hot water outlets—your boiler might be to blame.
Common Boiler Issues That Cause Temperature Fluctuations:
Inconsistent Boiler Output
: If the boiler struggles to maintain a steady temperature, it could be due to a faulty heat exchanger or thermostat within the boiler.
Low Water Pressure
: Boilers require consistent pressure to deliver hot water. A drop in pressure can result in fluctuating temperatures.
Demand vs. Capacity
: If multiple outlets are using hot water simultaneously, your boiler may not be able to keep up.
Faulty Diverter Valve
: In combi boilers, a diverter valve switches between heating and hot water. If it’s malfunctioning, you may experience temperature swings.
Solutions:
Check your boiler’s pressure and top it up if it’s below 1.0 bar.
Schedule a service to inspect the boiler’s components for wear or faults.
Upgrade to a larger boiler if your household demand exceeds the current boiler’s capacity.