Why does my cold water sometimes run hot water?

Question

No, it's not 2 pipes too close to each other! But somehow, hot water seems to find its way "backwards" into cold water pipes.
Facts: Well, pump, pressure tank (40-60 psi), softener plant, electric water heater, washing machine (valves always open).

Answer 1

Although not usually an issue in a home system, I've run across this at work many times. It involves a mixing valve. The only place I can think of this happening is in the shower. Even though the water is shut off at the shower, the seals between the hot and cold inlets are leaking by. I suppose it could also happen at the sink if there is one handle that operates both the cold and hot water. In either case the cartridge need to be changed which is fairly easy if you can turn the water off completely. Find out the brand of faucet and if possible model no. and go to a plumbing supply store or call a plumber.

Answer 2

Hmmm, have you run the cold long enough to see if it actually becomes cold? How far is the water heater from the outlet you speak of? How well insulated is the house, or even the hot water plumbing? How much of any plumbing is subject to the "heat transfer"?

At some point any standing water, in a cold line will become an ambient temp, especially in a low use situation. That also applies to the hot water line but because of the heater, we expect it to remain warm at least.

Consider this example,,,opposite of what you describe.

Have you ever noticed when beginning a shower, or bath, or laundry,. or dishwashing, that it took a bit for the HOT to actually be hot at the tap/faucet?

Have you measured the comparative temps of each lines expulsion, and at diff intervals? Have you checked the heater thermostat?

All the periphreals have no bearing on the issue. If COLD water is a critical issue, I'd suggest ice, or a pitcher ion the refrig.

I doubt seriously iof backing up,,,or hot water intrusion,,, is taking place.

Rev. Steven

Answer 3

Is it possible your pipes are exposed enough that the heat of the day warms them and thus the cold water pipe would flow with warm water for a bit? I've had that happen.

Answer 4

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Answer 5

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Answer 6

the attic get pretty hot during the summer.If the pipes are up there that's why