Why Does My Water Pressure Drop When the Toilet Flushes?

You’re in the bathroom enjoying your morning shower, and suddenly, you hear the toilet flush. Then comes the showerhead’s pressure drop, followed by a short blast of hot water. While this phenomenon is normal and expected, it’s still frustrating. You’ll have to wait a few more seconds before everything returns to normal. You start asking yourself, “Why does my shower water pressure drop when the toilet flushes?”

This issue is primarily caused by the pressure-balancing shower mixing valve. This component plays a major role in regulating your water’s temperature, but its mechanisms create the small inconvenience we occasionally experience. At The Plumber Guy, we want to dive into this topic to help you understand how the valve works and what alternatives are available. Keep reading to learn more.

The Mechanism of a Pressure-Balancing Valve

A pressure-balancing valve regulates the temperature of your shower water, protecting you from drastic temperature changes. The valve doesn’t actually monitor the temperature. Instead, it adjusts the temperature directly, controlling the hot-to-cold water pressure ratio, hence the valve’s name.

Let’s say you’re in the shower and desire a warmer temperature. Adjusting the lever prompts the pressure-balancing valve to reduce the flow of cold water while increasing the flow of hot water, elevating the water temperature to around 120°F in most US showers.

Why Does the Pressure Drop?

After we flush, the toilet water tank requires a lot of water to refill. The water comes from the cold water supply. So when someone flushes, the pressure-balance valve senses a drop in cold water pressure. To counteract this, the valve restricts the release of hot water, resulting in a pressure drop. This minor inconvenience will continue until the water tank completely refills.

The Better Option: Thermostatic Valve

One sure way to avoid pressure drops is by using a thermostatic valve. This system can actually measure the temperature of the water, allowing it to make accurate adjustments and maintain constant pressure. You’ll have two handles that allow you to independently control either water pressure or temperatures.

Other Benefits of Thermostatic Valves

Thermostatic valves offer more than just accurate temperature control and consistent water pressure. Here are other advantages of this system.

• Added Safety: Thanks to the more precise temperature control, you can prevent instances of scalding accidents.
• Customization: You can work with your plumber to add customizations. These systems often feature additional controls like flow rate adjustments or preset temperature settings.
• Energy Efficiency: Since thermostatic valves maintain consistent temperatures, your water heating system spends less energy trying to compensate for temperature changes.

Installing a Thermostatic Valve System With an Arizona Plumber

If you want to enjoy the benefits of thermostatic valves and avoid the annoying water pressure drops, you can install a thermostatic shower system in your Arizona home. This project is not DIY-friendly. You must work with a professional plumber like us at The Plumber Guy. This way, you can ensure accurate installation and water heater longevity.

In terms of costs, a typical thermostatic valve costs $375 on average. This is just for the valve itself, and the cost can still vary depending on the manufacturer. The total expense depends on other factors, like the complexity of your plumbing system and other materials you’ll use. We offer consultations to help you understand the extent of the replacement and possible costs.

Call The Plumber Guy for Expert Help

The Plumber Guy has been one of the most trusted teams in the Phoenix metro area and SE Valley. We come to properties all over the region to address water heating needs, including repairs, replacements, and installations. Whether you have a traditional heater or a tankless system, you can count on us to handle it. When you work with us, you can take advantage of our:

• Years of Experience: Since we began in 2001, we have gained in-depth experience and knowledge that we leverage in every project we handle.
• Skilled and Reliable Plumbers: We are composed of dedicated professional plumbers. Each member of our team has the knowledge and training needed to deliver quality outputs and provide outstanding customer service.
• Free Estimates: Need to get an idea of plumbing service costs? We provide no-obligation estimates to help with your decision-making.

Whether you need a simple repair for a leaky water heater or require installation of a thermostatic shower system, we can handle the job. Call us now at (602) 975-3660.

Request a Quote

Do you want an inspection of your plumbing? Are you looking for plumbing specialists near you that can address issues with your water heater? We’re the team to trust in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Gilbert, Peoria, Tempe and Avondale. Contact us today for a service price quote or a repair visit!