2nd opinion reqd: Thermostatic Shower Valve

[tdw]

Hi, I have an exposed sequential thermostatic shower valve, running from a combi boiler. Both installed about 13 years ago.

Recently the temperature of the shower water has dropped to cool. The boiler still ouputs very hot water, and the mains cold pressure doesnt' seem to have changed.

If I turn a mains cold tap on full, the shower temperature gets hotter, but the shower flow is reduced greatly. Also, when the lever is at around 3 o'clock - which was the optimum position, there is some slack and the lever sometimes falls to 5 o'clock.

I'm thinking that the thermostatic cartridge has failed, what do other people reckon?

Can the cartridges be reconditioned or replaced? Are they generic, or manufacturer specific. My unit looks similar to this one, its a B&Q or Homebase no-name one though. http://www.diytrader.com/PI/Q-661CP.jpg (for illustration only, I am not connected with that site)

Thanks

[Agile]

As far as I am aware you can only get the cartridges from the manufacturers. That would need to be able to identify them. Thats why buying cheap unbranded showers is not a good idea!

After 13 years I would doubt that many manufacturers will be supporting their products with spares.

Last time I enquired a replacement cartridge was about £90 and the whole shower about £130 so there is little benefit in repairing.

Tony

[tdw]

Thanks Tony

It wasn't all that cheap in the first place, but after 13 years I can't really complain however much it cost.

I ordered a branded twin exp/therm valve on Friday as a replacement, now lets hope its not the boiler.



Tim