Why Does My Shower Keep Cutting Out? Resolved!

By Ben Victor

Updated: 7th August 2023

Contents show

Picture this: you step into the shower, ready to enjoy a relaxing and refreshing experience, only to find the water flow cutting out after just a few minutes.

The most common reason for your shower to keep cutting out is an issue with the water pressure, temperature fluctuations, a faulty pressure balancing valve, an airlock fault, insufficient supply or water heater problems.

In this article, we’ll explore the common reasons why your shower keeps cutting out and discuss potential fixes to restore your showering experience to its optimal state.

Common Reasons Why Your Shower Keeps Cutting Out

Water Pressure Issues

One of the most prevalent reasons behind a shower cutting out after a few minutes is water pressure problems. Low water pressure can disrupt the consistent water flow, leaving you with a weak and sporadic shower.

There are several reasons why water pressure issues may occur:

Clogged Showerhead: Mineral deposits, sediment, and debris can accumulate inside the showerhead over time, obstructing water flow. To fix this, detach the showerhead, soak it in equal water and vinegar, then scrub the buildup with a brush. Rinse thoroughly before reattaching.
Faulty Pressure Regulator: Your shower’s pressure regulator, located in the plumbing system, may malfunction, causing irregular water flow. Hiring a professional plumber to inspect and replace the pressure regulator can resolve this issue if necessary.
Water Leak: Leaky pipes can reduce water pressure, resulting in intermittent water supply to your shower. Check for any signs of leakage in the plumbing and have them fixed promptly.

Read Next: Why is My Electric Shower Leaking?

Temperature Fluctuations

A shower alternating between hot and cold water can be uncomfortable and inconvenient. Temperature fluctuations can happen due to various reasons:

Thermostat Problems: The thermostat in your shower’s water heater may malfunction, causing it to regulate the water temperature inaccurately. Have a qualified technician check the thermostat and replace it if needed.
Overuse of Hot Water: In households with limited hot water capacity, excessive hot water usage in other areas may cause the shower to experience fluctuations. Try staggering hot water use or consider upgrading to a larger water heater if possible.
Mixing Valve Issues: The mixing valve, responsible for blending hot and cold water to achieve the desired temperature, can develop faults over time. A professional plumber can repair or replace the mixing valve to resolve this problem.

Faulty Pressure Balancing Valve

A pressure balancing valve is crucial for maintaining a steady water temperature during pressure fluctuations in modern showers. If the valve malfunctions, it can result in a sudden loss of water flow.

To address this, consult a plumbing expert to inspect and replace the valve, if necessary.

Airlock in the Pipes

An airlock in the pipes is a common plumbing issue when air pockets get trapped within the water supply lines, disrupting the water flow.

This can lead to reduced or intermittent water flow in the affected fixtures, such as faucets, showers, or toilets.

Read Next: Aqualisa Shower Problems Resolved

Causes of Airlocks

Airlocks can be frustrating and inconvenient, but fortunately, they are relatively simple to diagnose and fix.

Here are the common causes of airlocks:

New Plumbing Installations: Airlocks are more likely to occur in newly installed plumbing systems or after plumbing repairs. Air can get trapped in the lines when pipes are disconnected and reconnected.
Water Supply Interruptions: If the main water supply is shut off for maintenance or due to water outages, air can enter the pipes when the water is turned back on.
Draining Water Lines: Water supply lines may sometimes be drained to perform maintenance or repairs. When the water is turned back on, air can enter the empty pipes and create an airlock.

How to Fix an Airlock?

To resolve an airlock in your plumbing system, you must allow the trapped air to escape – here’s how to do that:

Turn Off the Water Supply: Before attempting any fixes, turn off the water supply to the affected fixture. This will prevent water from flowing while you work on releasing the airlock.
Identify the Affected Faucet or Fixture: Determine which faucet or fixture is experiencing the airlock issue. It’s essential to know the specific area where the airlock is located.
Open All Faucets: With the water supply off, open all the faucets in your home, including the affected one. This step is crucial to allow air to escape from the pipes.
Start from the Lowest Point: Start by opening the faucet at the lowest point in your plumbing system. This is typically a faucet in the basement or on the ground floor.
Gradually Move Upwards: Slowly move up to higher floors, opening each faucet individually. This process helps the trapped air to rise and escape through the open faucets.
Wait for Steady Flow: Once you’ve opened all the faucets, wait until a steady flow of water emerges from each one. This indicates that the air has been released from the pipes.
Close the Faucets: After a few minutes, close all the faucets, starting from the highest point and moving downwards.

Insufficient Water Supply

If your shower shares a water supply with other fixtures or appliances, simultaneous usage may temporarily reduce water flow. This can cause your shower to cut out unexpectedly.

Upgrading your water supply system or staggering water usage can help mitigate this problem.

Water Heater Issues

Your water heater plays a significant role in maintaining a consistent water supply for your shower. Several water heater-related problems can cause interruptions in your shower:

Sediment Buildup: Over time, sediment can accumulate in the water heater’s tank, affecting its efficiency and causing sporadic water flow. Flushing the water heater regularly can help remove sediment and improve performance.
Heating Element Problems: Electric water heaters use heating elements to warm the water. If these elements fail, your water heater may not supply a steady hot water. Contact a professional to inspect and replace faulty heating elements.
Malfunctioning Thermostat: A malfunctioning thermostat in your water heater can lead to inadequate heating and intermittent hot water supply – or none at all. Have a technician inspect and repair the thermostat to ensure consistent hot water flow.

Final Thoughts

Experiencing a shower that keeps cutting out after a short time can be frustrating, but with a thorough understanding of the potential causes, you can troubleshoot and resolve the issue effectively.

From water pressure problems to water heater issues, each problem has its own set of fixes. While some solutions can be DIY projects, others may require the expertise of a professional plumber or technician.

Regular maintenance and periodic inspections can prevent these issues from recurring, ensuring you enjoy a continuous and satisfying showering experience.