Repairing Guides

how to repair a leaky shower valve stem

by Lonie Bayer DVM Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Put a deep well socket wrench over the metal stem of the faucet that is leaking. Use it to grip the valve nut as the base of the stem. Unscrew the valve nut and put it aside for later. Remove the wrench and nut from the valve. Using your fingers, carefully pull the metal stem out of the wall. Replace the old rubber washer with a new one.

Full Answer

How to replace a broken Moen shower valve stem?

  • Remove retainer clip (#3) from valve body (#5).
  • Screw a 1/2"-13 (N.C) or a 1/2"-20 (N.F.) tap wrench into the inside of the cartridge shell. ...
  • Remove the tap wrench.
  • Cut a 3/8" hardwood dowel 1-3/4" long.
  • Drop the hardwood dowel into the cartridge shell (#2).
  • Re-thread the tap wrench into the cartridge shell (#2). ...

How to repair a Moen Mixing valve for a shower?

Using the pliers, grab on to the mixing valve. Move it gently from side to side to loosen it. You can then pull the valve cartridge out. Check the valve for any visible signs of wear or cracks. Use a brush to remove dirt and get a better look at the valve.

How to remove "stuck" valve stem from shower faucet?

  • Flathead screwdriver
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • Hex key
  • Pump pliers

How do I repair the diverter in a shower?

How do I fix shower diverter?

  • Soak your faucet in vinegar to get rid of dirt and hard water residue.
  • Spray the diverter knob with cooking spray to lubricate its sticky bits.
  • Replace the shower diverter gate using a store-bought repair kit.
  • Replace the whole spout with a newer model from the hardware store.

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How do you fix a leaky shower stem?

Gather Tools and Materials. ... Turn Off the Water Supply and Open the Faucet. ... Remove the Handle Cap, Handle and Faceplate. ... Remove the Locking Clip. ... Remove and Replace the Cartridge. ... Replace Other Parts and Test. ... Remove the Metal Stem in a Shower Faucet with Two Handles. ... Replace the Metal Stem if Needed.More items...

Why is water leaking from my shower valve?

When water drips or drizzles from a shower head, there is a problem with the shower faucet (valve). In most cases, inner seals are worn, or parts have become corroded or clogged with hard water deposits. And the rubber O-rings and gaskets that seal connections between moving metal parts wear down with time and use.

Can a shower valve be repaired?

Shower valves can get damaged, you have to get a replacement immediately to prevent water from leaking out completely. While this is a serious concern, you can fix it without seeking the help of a professional plumber. All you need is to pay attention to details and make sure nothing is left out.

Can I replace the shower trim without replacing the valve?

Simply replace the visible trim for an brand new appearance Change out tub/shower control handles and spouts to achieve a brand new look, without redoing the valve plumbing. Use a simple replacement kit.

What causes cartridge to leak?

The brass and rubber can no longer fit properly into the hole in the cartridge cylinder and it can leak. The O-ring that the cartridge rests against can have small cracks and deviations which can a leaky or dripping faucet. When you replace parts in a faucet, generally you will have to replace all of the inside parts.

How do you know if your shower cartridge is bad?

There are a few ways to tell if your shower cartridge has gone bad:Dripping or running water when you turn your shower off (most common)Difficulty turning the shower handle, which worsens over time.Shower handle gets stuck or “slips” and doesn't turn on the water.

How do you replace a shower valve stem?

1:167:15How to Repair a Shower Valve Stem | Ask This Old House - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou have to pry off the index from the end a good tip is to make sure you have something in the tubMoreYou have to pry off the index from the end a good tip is to make sure you have something in the tub drain. So you don't drop it right down the drain.

How do I know what type of shower valve I have?

Count the Number of Shower Faucet Handles Often, the type of shower faucet and handle(s) will indicate what kind of shower valve is behind it. Zero handles may imply a shower panel faucet with buttons to control water flow and temperature.

How do I fix a leaking mixing valve?

Turn off your hot and cold water supply. ... Open your bath mixer tap and let the excess water in the pipe run out. ... Now you can start dismantling the mixer tap. ... You can now remove any cover plates.Now you can get to the valve. ... Use plumber's putty to replace an old gasket. ... Replace any washers at the shower stem.More items...•

How do you replace a shower trim kit?

2:263:59Tub and Shower Faucet Trim Replacement Tip - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWe use the allen wrench to loosen up the handle. And slide it off then remove the screws that attachMoreWe use the allen wrench to loosen up the handle. And slide it off then remove the screws that attach the faceplate to the valve assembly and the wall. Now.

Can you replace shower valve without removing tile?

This may require some cutting or removal of the tile around the shower valve opening to access the leak. While your plumber will take great care to cut or remove only enough tile as necessary, you could face some minor tile repair depending on the size of the opening.

When should a shower valve be replaced?

The first issue to look for is if there are any leaks in the valve when you turn on the water. If there are drips, that's a good indication that you should think about replacing the valve. Because, not only are you wasting water, but water that leaks behind the wall can cause rot as well as mold and mildew growth.

How do you fix a leaking shower diverter?

0:025:28Replace that Leaking Bathtub Shower Diverter For Good - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo you're going to have to use the right tool. And what I like to use is I only to use a pipe wrenchMoreSo you're going to have to use the right tool. And what I like to use is I only to use a pipe wrench now here's the thing with the pipe wrench coming close up I can show you better.

Can a shower valve leak inside the wall?

Most times shower valve leaks behind the wall are very slow. Usually, they are pinhole leaks from a faulty valve or sloppy soldering from the water connection points to the valve.

How often do shower valves leak?

This depends on how hard your water is, how much water you use, and the quality of the faucet. With soft water and a high-quality shower valve, it may be 20 years before you need a replacement. Some shower faucets only last about five years.

How to Repair Leaky Shower Valve?

The worst thing that can happen with a broken valve is internal leakage, which can cause foundational damages and mold problems. Another thing that can result from valve leakage is shower head dribbling.

About Big Apple Plumbing

Do you need help with repairing your leaky shower valve? Choose Big Apple Plumbing for all your installation and maintenance needs. We are a local, family-owned plumbing business that has been in operation since 2014. Our team can install and repair your kitchen, bath, drain, and sewer plumbing.

What to do if shower is leaking?

If your shower is still leaking, you'll need to call a professional plumber. They can figure out what's causing the leak and fix it.

Where to find shower valve?

If you’re having trouble finding your shower valve, look in the room next to your shower. You may find the panel there.

What is the sleeve on a shower valve called?

Use your hands to carefully remove this sleeve, then set it aside for later. This sleeve is called an escutcheon.

How to replace a valve cartridge?

Fit a deep well socket wrench over the valve cartridge. The cartridge looks like a long cylinder with a metal rod sticking out of the top. Choose a deep well socket wrench that’s the right size for your cartridge, then slide it over the cartridge inside the valve. Turn it counter-clockwise to make sure it grips the cartridge. If the socket is too loose, choose the next size down.

How to remove a valve clip?

Use pliers to remove the locking clip if your valve has one. Look for the locking clip on the top of your valve. It will look like a metal rod, and the end should stick out of the top. If you see one, use a pair of needle-nose pliers to carefully pull it out. Set it to the side so you can replace it when you’re finished installing the new cartridge.

What is the cartridge in a water valve?

The cartridge is the part of the valve that controls the flow and temperature of the water.

Where is the locking clip on a valve?

The locking clip should be visible on the top of the valve. They aren’t present on all valves, so don’t worry if you don’t see one.

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