Running the washing machine while showering might seem like a time-saver, but plumbers don’t always recommend multitasking in this way. The main problem arises from the fact that both your shower and washing machine often share the same water line. While it may seem trivial, there are good reasons to rethink this habit.
When the Shower and Washing Machine Fight for Water
We all know that doing two things at once is an easy way to get things done faster. But sometimes, the results aren’t quite as expected. That’s exactly what happens when you run the washing machine while taking a shower.
Why? Because both your washing machine and shower draw water from the same source. In many homes, it’s the same pipe supplying water to both fixtures. “When you step into the shower, and your washing machine is looking for hot water to fill its drum, you’re fighting for the same hot water at the same time,” explained Chris Hunter, director of customer relations at ServiceTitan.
Overstuffed Freezer? Here’s Why It Could Cost You More Than You Think
The Root of the Problem: The Water Heater
The main issue lies with your water heater. Most homes have a 30- to 40-gallon water heater, which may be too small to supply water to multiple fixtures simultaneously. When you use hot water for the shower and the washing machine also pulls hot water at the same time, the water heater struggles to keep up with demand.
As a result, you’ll quickly run out of hot water, especially if you have a conventional water heater. If your water heater isn’t powerful enough, you’ll find yourself taking a cold shower with low pressure and a pretty unpleasant experience.
Expert Advice to Avoid This Situation
There are several solutions to avoid turning every shower into an endurance test. Here are some simple and affordable tips to optimize your routine:
1. Check the Size of Your Water Heater
The size of your water heater plays a crucial role. If your heater is too small, you’ll run out of hot water at the wrong time. One simple solution? Upgrade to a larger water heater. A 50-gallon model or more could give you a little extra room to handle simultaneous demands from the shower and washing machine.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider installing a tankless water heater. These units heat water on demand, so you’ll never run out of hot water.
2. Install a Pressure-Balancing Valve
If you’re really committed to showering peacefully while the washing machine is running, a pressure-balancing valve could be your magic solution. These little devices help maintain a steady water pressure in the shower, even when other appliances are using water at the same time.
3. Run Your Washing Machine After the Shower
This may seem obvious, but sometimes the simplest solution is the best one. Why not just avoid running the washing machine while you’re in the shower? If you can adjust your schedule, this is a simple but effective way to avoid any issues with water pressure or temperature.
4. Try Cold Wash Cycles
If you really need to do laundry while showering, consider selecting a cold wash cycle. It doesn’t require hot water, and therefore won’t disrupt your shower’s hot water supply.
Don’t Let Plumbing Spoil Your Relaxation Time
Another important point is the impact on your water and energy bills. Running the washing machine while you shower doesn’t just affect your shower quality—it can also drive up your energy costs.
When both the shower and washing machine need hot water at the same time, your water heater has to work harder to meet the demand. This can reduce its efficiency, leading to higher energy bills. If you want to save money, the simplest trick is to avoid having your water heater work overtime by running both appliances simultaneous.
