The thermostatic cartridge is an crucial component in your washbasin or shower mixer tap, ensuring a steady flow an d temparature of water, even when supply conditions change. Recognizing the early signs of damaged cartridge is essential to maintaining comfort and efficiency. In this article, we’ll guide you though the key indicators that your thermostatic cartridge may need attention.
A faulty thermostatic cartridge: the main signs
First and formost, it is essential tounderstand that athermostatic shower mixer relies on the thermostatic cartridge to function correctly. Given its crucial role, it is important to watch for signs of damage, so you can address any issues with a repair or remplacement.
Water is too hot or too cold
If the thermostatic cartridge is faulty, the water temperature may not match your desired setting. Therefore, you only need to carry out a test by activating the thermostatic mixing valve on both sides to check if the temperature is correct. If this is not the case, it is possible that the thermostatic cartridge is damaged.
A flow problem
Generally, the water flow rate becomes too low when the cartridge is malfunctioning. This is a serious issue that can hinder your ability to shower or complete chores effectively. However, it should also be noted that a flow problem does not necessarily come from the thermostatic cartridge.
Water leakage
A broken thermostatic cartridge can sometimes lead to a leak in the water mixer. Usually, this is a sign of a completely damaged cartridge. In other words, you may have taken too long to notice the temperature or flow problem because the water leakage is the result of a completely broken cartridge.
How to avoid problems related to the thermostatic cartridge?
The thermostatic cartridge is an exposed piece of equipment because it is subject to hot and cold water supply and possible temperature variations. Here are our main tips to avoid problems with leaks and temperature variations.
Secure the thermostatic cartridge
Sometimes the water leakage can come from a thermostatic cartridge that is not well installed. In this case, you will have to dismantle the mixer and check that the cartridge is perfectly in place. If you don’t know how to do this, you can always contact a professional.
Carry out maintenance of the thermostatic cartridge
The best thing is to learn how to dismantle your thermostatic mixer yourself. If you want to prevent the cartridge from becoming defective, you will need to perform maintenance on it. To do this, start by removing the thermostatic cartridge located inside the shower mixer. Next, you will need to descale the entire cartridge to restore it to its original condition. For an even more effective maintenance, you can also immerse the thermostatic cartridge in hot white vinegar for several hours. All these maintenance methods will prevent you from having to replace the thermostatic cartridge if it is not functioning.
Purchase from the most reputable brands
Discover our selection of thermostatic cartridges
Today, the leading brands provide the most durable thermostatic cartridges. By choosing their products, you will be able to avoid buying faulty equipment from the start. Some of the best known brands are Grohe, Axor, Geberit, Franke, etc. Of course, it is important to buy a product that is suitable for your shower’s thermostatic mixer.
When should the thermostatic cartridge be replaced?
At the beginning of this article, we have presented the main signs of a defective thermostatic cartridge. However, it is important to know that you don’t always have to replace this equipment immediately. As we have already mentioned, you can clean and decalcify the cartridge so that it becomes functional again.
If the mixer still does not work properly after maintenance, the first thing to do is to contact a qualified professional. He or she must diagnose the real problem with the tap, as it may not be the cartridge. Based on this diagnosis, you will be able to carry out the necessary repairs.
If the specialist identifies a broken cartridge, you will have to replace it as soon as possible, making sure to select the right equipment for your mixer. You can replace the cartridge yourself by following the installation instructions. If the water still does not flow properly, contact a specialist to fix the thermostatic cartridge. You need more information ? Read our article on thermostatic and single level mixer.
