Adjusting the Temperature of Your Kohler Shower Valve
If you’re struggling to get the right water temperature from your Kohler shower, don’t worry! You can easily make adjustments to the Kohler shower valve temperature. It’s essential to know how to perform this adjustment correctly to achieve the desired results.
You will need to modify the temperature limit stop to either lower or increase the temperature of your shower water. To raise the water temperature, turn the temperature limit stop counterclockwise, and to decrease it, turn it clockwise. First, you’ll need to find and access this component.
This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step process for adjusting a Kohler shower valve temperature. We’ll also cover related topics to help enhance your understanding.
Step-by-Step Guide to Adjusting Your Kohler Shower Valve Temperature
One of the common issues you might face with your Kohler shower is improper water temperature. Fortunately, adjusting the temperature on a Kohler shower valve is straightforward and generally involves modifying the valve’s temperature limit stop.
1. Locate the Temperature Limit Stop
The temperature limit stop is typically a screw or lever located behind the handle or trim plate of your shower valve. The exact location can vary depending on the specific model of your Kohler shower valve.
If your shower valve features a handle, you will first need to remove it. Look for a set screw or decorative cap, then loosen and remove it using either a screwdriver or an Allen wrench. Once done, gently pull the handle off the valve stem.
If your shower valve has a trim plate, check for any visible screws that secure it to the wall. Use a screwdriver to remove these screws and take off the trim plate.
Once you’ve removed the handle or trim plate, you should have access to the valve assembly. Look for the temperature limit stop, which may appear as a round or rectangular mechanism located behind the handle or trim plate, or as a small adjustable lever or screw. It’s crucial to note the current position of the temperature limit stop, as this will guide you in determining how much to adjust it.
2. Adjust the Temperature Limit Stop
After locating the temperature limit stop, identify whether it is a lever or a screw-type adjustment. A lever-type temperature limit stop will have a small handle or tab that you can manipulate up or down.
Conversely, a screw-type temperature limit stop will require a screwdriver or Allen wrench for adjustment.
Adjusting Lever-Type Temperature Limit Stops
- To increase the maximum temperature, move the lever upward. This allows the handle to rotate further toward the hot side.
- To decrease the maximum temperature, move the lever downward. This limits the handle’s range of motion toward the hot side.
Adjusting Screw-Type Temperature Limit Stops
- To increase the maximum temperature, turn the screw counterclockwise (left) using your screwdriver or Allen wrench.
- To decrease the maximum temperature, turn the screw clockwise (right).
Make incremental adjustments to the temperature limit stop, then reassemble the handle or trim plate. After reassembly, turn on the shower and test the water temperature by gradually moving the handle toward the hot side while observing the temperature changes. Continue to adjust the temperature limit stop as necessary until you reach your preferred temperature range. It’s advisable to make small adjustments and test the water temperature each time to find the optimal setting.
3. Reassemble the Trim Plate
Once you are satisfied with the temperature adjustment, securely reattach the handle or trim plate to the shower valve. Align the screw holes on the trim plate with those on the valve body, ensuring the trim plate is flush against the wall. Next, insert the screws you previously removed through the screw holes on the trim plate, tightening them carefully to avoid damaging either the trim plate or the valve.
Gently tug on the trim plate to confirm that it is securely attached and does not wobble. Additionally, inspect the edges of the trim plate to ensure there are no visible gaps or misalignment, making adjustments as needed to ensure a neat and professional appearance.
Understanding How a Kohler Shower Valve Works
Like many other shower valves, a Kohler shower valve is designed to control both the water flow and temperature of your shower. However, the specific operation can depend on the model and type of valve in your unit.
i) Handle or Control Mechanism
A Kohler shower valve typically includes a handle or lever that you can turn or rotate to adjust the water temperature. Depending on the model, this could be a single lever, separate knobs for hot and cold water, or even a digital interface.
ii) Water Supply Connections
The shower valve is connected to your home’s water supply lines, which deliver water directly from your plumbing system. Each shower valve usually has two inlets—one for hot water and another for cold water—connected to their respective hot and cold supply lines.
iii) Mixing Mechanism
Inside the valve, a mixing mechanism combines hot and cold water to achieve your desired temperature. Depending on the specific model, this may involve a cartridge, a thermostatic valve, or a pressure-balancing valve.
- Cartridge: Cartridge-based valves utilize a cylindrical cartridge that either moves back and forth or rotates to control both flow and temperature. It contains seals and mixing chambers to regulate the water.
- Thermostatic Valve: Thermostatic valves feature a thermostatic element that reacts to temperature changes through expansion and contraction. This mechanism helps maintain a constant temperature by adjusting the flow of cold and hot water accordingly.
- Pressure-Balancing Valve: Pressure-balancing valves ensure consistent water pressure, especially when there are fluctuations in the water supply. They balance the pressures of hot and cold water to prevent sudden temperature changes.
iv) Temperature Adjustment Mechanism
To adjust the water temperature, simply turn the handle or control mechanism. The mixing mechanism will respond to your adjustments, regulating the flow of hot and cold water. The mixing chamber may contain a mixing cartridge or a thermostatic mixing valve (TMV) assembly responsible for blending the hot and cold water to achieve the desired temperature.
Temperature-sensitive components, such as wax elements or a thermostatic element, may be included in the cartridge or TMV assembly, responding to changes in water temperature. When you adjust the handle or lever, it controls the positioning of the cartridge or TMV assembly.
By moving the cartridge or adjusting the position of the thermostatic element, you can change the ratio of hot and cold water flowing through the valve, which ultimately dictates the mixed water temperature that comes out of the showerhead. As you turn the handle or lever, the internal valve mechanism adjusts the flow of hot and cold water accordingly, allowing you to fine-tune the water temperature to your liking.
It’s important to note that a Kohler Mixing Shower Valve can develop issues, such as the water being too cold or too hot. Fortunately, many of these problems can be diagnosed and resolved independently.
v) Flow Control
In addition to temperature adjustments, the handle or control mechanism also allows you to regulate the water flow rate. By turning the handle further, you can increase or decrease the water flow.
Note: Kohler offers a variety of shower valve models, each with its distinct features, functionalities, and technologies. While the fundamental principles remain consistent, the specific mechanisms and controls may differ between models.
How to Make Your Kohler Shower Faucet Hotter?
The method for increasing the water temperature in your Kohler shower faucet largely depends on the type of handle it features. Kohler shower faucets come in various handle designs, such as single lever or separate handles for hot and cold water.
a) Single Lever Handle
If your faucet has a single lever handle with a rotational motion, moving the handle to the left will increase the temperature, whereas turning it to the right will decrease the temperature.
b) Separate Hot and Cold Handles
If your unit has separate handles for hot and cold water, turn the left handle (for hot water) counterclockwise and the right handle (for cold water) clockwise to make the water hotter. Adjust both handles until you arrive at your preferred temperature.
Testing the Water Temperature
After adjusting the handles, turn on the shower and allow the water to run for a moment to check the temperature. Be cautious during this step to avoid any risk of scalding.
What Is the Maximum Water Temperature for Kohler Fixtures?
Generally, Kohler shower faucets provide water temperatures ranging from 100 °F to 120 °F (approximately 38 °C to 49 °C), although this can vary based on the specific faucet type and model. Most users find this range comfortable and safe.
Additionally, many Kohler shower faucets come equipped with built-in safety features, such as scald guards or temperature limiters, to prevent water from reaching excessively high temperatures, thereby minimizing the risk of scalding. These safety features help maintain the water temperature within a safe range, even when the handle is set to maximum.
Understanding Kohler Rite-Temp Technology
Kohler Rite-Temp is a pressure-balancing valve system utilized in various shower and bath fixtures. This innovative system ensures that the water temperature remains consistent, even in the face of fluctuations in water pressure, providing a comfortable and reliable showering experience.
The Rite-Temp valve employs a piston or diaphragm that responds to changes in pressure. If there is a drop in hot or cold water pressure, the valve automatically adjusts to balance the flow and sustain the desired temperature. This feature is particularly beneficial in households or buildings where water pressure may vary due to other simultaneous uses, such as flushing toilets or operating appliances.
The Rite-Temp system also enhances safety by reducing the risk of scalding from sudden temperature changes. To adjust the water temperature on your Kohler Rite-Temp, first, turn on the water to ensure the system is actively regulating the temperature. Gradually turn the temperature control handle or lever clockwise for hotter water and counterclockwise for colder water.
To make adjustments to the water temperature on a Kohler Rite-Temp valve, remove the faceplate, handle, and the O-ring to access the collar (usually marked in red) and stem. Next, turn the collar counterclockwise to raise the maximum temperature.
Summary of Kohler Shower Valve Temperature Adjustment
There’s no reason to endure an uncomfortable water temperature while showering when you can easily adjust your Kohler shower valve’s temperature limit stop. Just remember to proceed with caution to avoid damaging any components.