sierra

Wow. Thanks so much. I'm so glad to have an answer.

Update: I drained my hot water tank of the sediment. I also replaced the shower head. My son said the problem was still there (happened 3x in a 6 minute shower). So I used his shower and it did not happen to me. We figured out that he opens the hot water valve fully to shower. I didn't. When he tried a shower and turned the hot water valve 1/2 way, it didn't happen to him either. So, we solved the problem, but I'm still wondering why this occurs.

Right, five minutes. I really am stupid about plumbing. You'd never suspect I put a new thermostat in my old water heater by myself, would you? I was scared, but I did it. the access panel to one shower is huge. I'm hoping both accesses are there in the one place. It would be par for the course of the DIYer who built this house that both showers are controlled in one place. Still, I think I'll hire a plumber to do the valves if it comes to that. It just seems to make more sense to have someone else to blame.....

OK, so I will shut off the power and drain that tank this weekend. I will try the low-flow shower head since that sounds cheapest right now (and simplest). we'll see how that goes. Thanks again, I'll let you know.

Thank you both. No, I didn't know I was supposed to drain my hot water tank so I'll try that this weekend. I've had two people (well guy and plumber) tell me that a 20 gallon pressure tank was all I needed. I asked because the internet sites said "bigger is always better." But neither of them thought I needed a bigger one. So I'll drain the hot water tank and then look into the regulating valves. Thanks so much for the help.

sorry to be so obtuse. I didn't know if I should try new shower heads or go for the thermostatic valve. I can change the shower head myself but I am assuming I'll need to get the plumber back to do the valve? Any range on costs for 2 shower valves? Thanks again. I really appreciate the help.

Hi, I'm hoping to get some advice. 6 years ago I moved into this older home (20 years) that is on a well. My shower has had no problems but right from the outset, the other two showers issued a snorting sound and then would turn all cold for 30 seconds or so, then resume at normal temperature. It happens about every 8 minutes. I've had several sets of plumbers out, all of whom said there was no problem. The kids got used to it and treated it like a game but now they are cranky adolescents and want it fixed. I googled....and discovered that it was likely my well pressure tank. I had a well guy come out and sure enough, the tank was waterlogged. Got that replaced yesterday. I was very disappointed when my son say this did not correct the problem. any thoughts? Thanks in advance