
How to Repair a Leaky Single-Handle Bath & Shower Faucet
- Shut Off the Water Supply to the Leaking Bathtub Faucet. Cut off the water to the leaking bathtub faucet, either by...
- Find the Screw. Look for the set screw that holds the handle to the faucet stem. It may be behind the faucet lever or...
- Unscrew the Screw. Unscrew the screw that holds the handle with a...
Full Answer
How to replace a single knob shower faucet?
- Use a Philips screwdriver to remove the screw. ...
- Once the screw is out, pull out the knob. ...
- Remove the escutcheon. ...
- Install the new escutcheon. ...
- If you don’t want to replace the escutcheon, clean the old escutcheon/stop tube especially if there are mineral deposits on it to allow the new handle to slide in freely.
How do I replace a shower faucet handle?
- Some bathrooms have a separate valve for the shower located in the bathroom, but this is uncommon.
- If the water supply handle is round and looks like a wheel, turn the handle clockwise to switch it off. It will take around 2 full turns.
- If the water supply handle is a lever, give the handle a 1/4 turn, where it will stop.
How do you repair a single handle kitchen faucet?
- Improper installation: Using the wrong-sized piping, screw, faucet, or other components will lead to a loose tap.
- Loose screws: Multiple screws hold the faucet pipes to the sink’s base. ...
- Loose faucet base: The spigot’s handle fits in the center of the faucet’s base. ...
How to fix a stuck shower faucet handle?
Removing a Stuck Faucet Handle
- Tools You Will Need: The tools you will need will largely depend on the type of faucet you have. ...
- Step One: Cover the Drain. Close the drain to avoid losing any screws. ...
- Step Two: Check for Damage. ...
- Step Three: Lubricate the Handle. ...
- Step Four: Locate the Set Screw. ...
- Step Five: Pull Up to Remove Faucet Handle. ...
- Optional Step: Remove Cartridge. ...

How do you fix a leaky single handle shower faucet?
0:172:38Repairing a Leaky Single Handle Tub/Shower Ball-Type FaucetYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTurn off the main water supply to your home. For an obstacle remove the index button by prying offMoreTurn off the main water supply to your home. For an obstacle remove the index button by prying off with the screwdriver. Then unscrew the handle screw. And remove the handle.
How do you fix a dripping single handle Moen shower faucet?
0:2810:07How to fix a leaking Moen Shower - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipStep is you're going to verify that the water is in fact off by turning the handle. And this alsoMoreStep is you're going to verify that the water is in fact off by turning the handle. And this also will drain out any excess water that's inside the valve.
How do you fix a shower faucet that leaks water?
3:016:24Fix Tub Spout That Leaks Water When Shower Is On - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBut i have good luck with clr in the past. Then i'll just let the tub spout. Sit in the solution.MoreBut i have good luck with clr in the past. Then i'll just let the tub spout. Sit in the solution. For 15 minutes where it will start to loosen up and break free all those mineral. Deposits.
Why is water dripping from shower handle?
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.
How do I know what shower cartridge I have?
1:323:16Who Made Your Shower Faucet? Tips to Find the Brand and ManufacturerYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOnce those screws are out you should be able to just pull this plate. Off and then you can lookMoreOnce those screws are out you should be able to just pull this plate. Off and then you can look behind the plate to see if there's a sticker in here that has the manufacturer.
How do I identify my Moen shower cartridge?
If not the series number can be usually be found on the underside of the faucet or on the decorative escutcheon ring that goes around it. The second way to identify your Moen valve cartridge is to remove the old one. You will do this by first shutting off the hot and cold water feed to your shower.
Why is my new Moen shower faucet leaking?
InstructionsRemove Handle. Before you begin, shut off the water to the fixture and turn the faucet on until water stops running. ... Remove Retaining Clip. If there is a chrome sleeve, unscrew it or pull it out. ... Remove Cartridge. Some cartridges can be removed easily with pliers. ... Replace O-Rings. ... Install New Cartridge.May 28, 2022How to Replace a Tub or Shower Cartridge to Fix Your Faulty Faucethttps://www.bhg.com › home-improvement › plumbinghttps://www.bhg.com › home-improvement › plumbingSearch for: How do you replace a shower faucet cartridge?
How do you remove a Moen shower cartridge?
Recommended Solution-Moen faucets are designed with an interior component called a cartridge. This part is responsible for controlling the water flow. If a faucet is leaking water from the spout, the reason is usually the cartridge. Single handle faucets will contain one cartridge and dual handle faucets have two.
How do you remove a Moen faucet handle without screws?
1:043:14How to Remove & Install the 1222 Cartridge - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipMake sure the cartridge is in the on position the notch in the stem should be facing up remove theMoreMake sure the cartridge is in the on position the notch in the stem should be facing up remove the cartridge from the valve. You can also use the Moen cartridge removal tool to pull out the cartridge.
How do you fix a leaky Moen bathroom faucet?
You can use an allen wrench (also called an allen key) to remove it. Once you've done that, you can typically just lift the faucet handle off. However, if it has a cartridge inside, you may need to unscrew a top piece as well to be able to remove the cartridge.
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.
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.
Where is the water valve in a shower?
Your water valve controls the flow of water to your shower. It may be located in your bathroom or your basement. In some cases, it's behind a panel near your shower. Once you locate the valve, turn the knob clockwise to turn off the water.
What to do when putting faucets back together?
TIP: When putting faucets back together, a little faucet grease will help prolong the life of the parts. Lightly apply it to O-rings, washers, and cartridges.
What is a shower cartridge?
The cartridge is the piece of metal work you see sticking out of the exposed fixture. In a single handle shower faucet, you will likely see the hot and cold water shut offs on either side of this cartridge. They are small screws that can be tightened with a flat-head screwdriver. There will be a nut or pin holding the cartridge tightly in place.
How to clean a cartridge after removing it?
After removing it, you may see the cartridge is mildewed or damaged, so take this opportunity to clean the cartridge under running water. If it is damaged beyond repair, you should replace the entire thing. Otherwise, simply remove the small rubber O-ring.
Can you repair a single handle faucet?
Repairing a single handle faucet is not entirely different than repairing a double handle faucet. Typically, a leaky faucet is due to a worn out O-ring, a small rubber ring which ensures the seal between your shower cartridge and plumbing is tight. Keep in mind, this will be an ambitious task for someone unfamiliar with the work.
How to fix a water cartridge that is leaking?
Inspect the cartridge, and if it's full of mineral deposits, soak it overnight in white vinegar to dissolve them. The deposits can prevent the cartridge from sealing out water and may be responsible for the leaks. If you notice pitting or cracking on the cartridge, replace it.
How to replace O rings on a washer?
Cut the old O-rings off the cartridge with a utility knife and replace them with new ones. Coat the new washers in plumber’s grease to make it easier to slide them on.
How to unscrew a cartridge?
Pull out the retaining pin that holds the cartridge with needle-nose pliers. Some cartridges are held by a collar that you can unscrew with adjustable pliers. Wrap a rag around the collar before unscrewing it to prevent damage to the finish.
Can you remove a cartridge from a faucet?
Cartridges can be stuck so completely that you may actually break one apart when you try to remove it with an extractor. If this happens, you can still extract the cartridge and save the faucet, but the best course of action is to call a plumber to help you do it.
What is a single handle faucet?
In a single-handle faucet, the handle causes the internal cartridge to rise or lower within the faucet body to start and stop the flow of water. Both hot and cold water flow into the same cartridge, and a turn of the handle controls the mixture and temperature. Two-handle cartridge faucets operate in a similar fashion, ...
How to shut off water valves?
In most cases, you will turn the handle clockwise to tighten it and shut it off. Make sure the valves are turned snugly tight. Other types of valves may have a lever handle that is closed by turning them perpendicular to the water line.
What is a cartridge faucet?
The cartridge faucet is a special type of washerless fixture commonly used in kitchens and bathrooms, and it's designed so that the cartridge insert is easy to replace when the faucet begins to drip and leak. Cartridge faucets come in both single-lever and two-handle versions, and various models use different types of plastic or brass-body ...
How to remove a clip from a sleeve?
Insert a flat-blade screwdriver behind the clip and gently pry it away from its retention slot. You can also try this with needle-nose pliers. Carefully remove the clip, then set it aside with other parts in the order it was removed.
How to remove a retainer nut?
If you see the retainer nut once the handle is removed, use channel-type pliers or an adjustable wrench to turn the retaining nut counter- clockwise and remove it. Set the nut aside.
How much does it cost to replace a single handle faucet?
Replacement is the easiest way to fix cartridge-related problems. Time: 15 minutes to 1 hour. Cost: $20 to $100.
Why does my shower drip after turning off the water?
It’s normal for your shower to drip for a few minutes after the water is turned off. But a steady flow may indicate a leak. Replacing your faulty hardware is a common fix, but leaks can also be stopped by repairing your valve or stem. Here’s a quick rundown of simple repairs.
How to remove retainer clip from cartridge?
Use a screwdriver to remove the retainer clip at the top of the cartridge housing. Be sure not to lose this piece.
Where to take old faucet cartridges?
Take the old cartridge to the hardware store to ensure you get the right replacement. Cartridges are specific to faucet make a model.
How to remove a cartridge from a valve?
Remove the cartridge by gently pulling with pliers. Some manufacturers provide a cap that threads onto the valve to aid in removal. You may have to buy a cartridge removal tool if it’s stuck. Take the old cartridge to the hardware store to ensure you get the right replacement.
What is a stem on a faucet?
Common in two-handle faucets, stems are mechanisms that use threaded handles and rubber seals to open and close water lines. Installing a new stem is the easiest way to fix a malfunction, but you can an also replace faulty hardware like seals and O-rings.
Does hard water affect showers?
Hard water will leave behind a residue that can affect the looks and usability of your fixtures. Over time, this mineral buildup will accumulate in your valves and showerhead and make replacement a must. Ignoring mineral residue will impact your water flow and turn a relaxing shower into a frustrating chore.

Step 1 - Remove The Fixture
- Turn off your water valve before beginning. Your water valve controls the flow of water to your shower. It may be located in your bathroom or your basement. In some cases, it's behind a panel near your shower. Once you locate the valve, turn the knob clockwise to turn off the water.[1] X Expert Source David Balkan Professional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Wate…
- Remove your shower handle using a screwdriver. The screw will be in the center of a knob ha…
Step 2 - Remove The Cartridge
Step 3 - Replace The O-Ring
Step 4 - Reassemble
Cutting Off The Water Supply
- The cartridge is the piece of metal work you see sticking out of the exposed fixture. In a single handle shower faucet, you will likely see the hot and cold water shut offs on either side of this cartridge. They are small screws that can be tightened with a flat-head screwdriver. There will be a nut or pin holding the cartridge tightly in place. Re...
Look For The Screw and Unscrew It
- After removing it, you may see the cartridge is mildewed or damaged, so take this opportunity to clean the cartridge under running water. If it is damaged beyond repair, you should replace the entire thing. Otherwise, simply remove the small rubber O-ring. You can take this O-ring to your hardware store to locate an appropriate replacement. Replacing the tired O-ring with the new on…
Repair Or Replace Cartridge
- Complete the steps in reverse to reassemble the fixture. This is a good opportunity to clean any soap scumor mildew off of your shower fixture as well. If you sliced the caulking to remove the faceplate, re-caulk this piece, and once the piece is back together, test your work. Turn on the hot and cold water independently to assure there are no leaks.
Replace O-Rings