A: Thank you, Jane. When I wrote my book Ed Del Grande's House Call , I pointed out that what homeowners really want and need is real information from real contractors. Not fluff thrown out by actors, as you see so often these days. Fluff never helped anyone, so let me tell you straight out on how to deal with your problem.

First, the main concern I have is that you described the water temperature in the rest of your house's fixtures as "scalding hot." That is not a safe condition. Manufacturers of water heaters recommend that temperature settings for water heaters not exceed 120 degrees F under any condition. Most water heaters even have a little drawing of a hand under a hot faucet and the print says something like, "Danger, hot water can burn!" I know that sounds like basic advice, but this is a serious warning that many homeowners overlook. So the first thing you need to do is have your water heater temperature lowered to your manufacturer's safe hot-water temperature range.

I know what you're thinking; in fact, everyone out there is saying, "Wait a minute, Ed. If she can't get a hot shower now with a very high water temperature, how is she ever going to get a hot shower with an even lower water temperature?" Great question, and to understand the answer, let me explain to you how most modern one-handle anti-scald shower mixing valves work. (By the way most three-handle mixing valves may not have anti-scald protection. Every mixing valve should be checked by a licensed plumber to ensure safe operation.):

Modern one-handle anti-scald tub and shower valves have balancing water-flow pistons and/or thermostatic mixing controls built into the valve. These controls protect the user from excessive hot-water conditions. Many of them also have a built-in stop settings; the handle cannot be turned past a certain point. That would account for lukewarm shower water.

The good news is that most tub/shower valves can be adjusted and reset to match your water heater's temperature. That should give you back a reasonable hot shower. Since we are talking about adjusting your water heater and resetting your mixing valve, I suggest you call a licensed plumber to take care of both issues with one service call; that should save you a little money.

The best non-fluff information I can give any homeowner about working around their own house is to know when you should call in a professional. Trust me, when it comes to your family's safety, you don't want to get yourself into hot water by fooling around with equipment and controls that you're not familiar with.