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How to Replace a Shower Cartridge: Step-by-Step Instructions

To avoid leaks, you may need to replace your shower valve if it is beyond repair. It may take some time to remove your old valve and replace it with a new one, but with patience, even a beginner handyman can accomplish it without the assistance of a plumber. Working attentively to ensure you don’t overlook any vital aspects while you replace your shower valve is essential.

If you are looking to replace a faulty shower cartridge, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through the entire process of how to change a shower cartridge without any hiccups. With the right tools, knowledge, and planning you’ll have your new, working shower cartridge in no time.

Everest Plumbing Aug 29, 2021
shower valve
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Before You Begin

Because most brands have different stems and splines, figure out what size and kind of shower valve cartridge you’ll need. Users may usually discover the proper component by identifying the shower valve brand and visiting the manufacturer’s website to locate the suitable cartridge. If you can’t identify the brand, you’ll have to remove the shower valve cartridge and take it to a home improvement store to obtain a replacement. To avoid water damage, the shower’s water must be turned off at this period.

When Do You Need to Replace a Shower Valve?

To begin, if you have a leaking shower, you should replace the shower valve as soon as feasible. Over time, a leaking valve wastes a lot of water in your home, which raises your utility expenses. There’s also the possibility of a hidden valve leak behind your shower’s wall, which may result in significant water damage and mold development.

You may improve the performance of your shower by replacing a shower valve. A new pressure balancing valve overcomes the problem of water temperatures fluctuating in the shower when the toilet flushes or other taps throughout the house are used.

Homeowners gain convenience and safety by replacing their shower valves. Upgrade to a thermostatic shower valve with preset water temps. The use of a thermostatic valve removes the need for finicky temperature changes! They also guarantee that water temperatures do not rise too high, which is especially essential in households with young children or older family members, who are more susceptible to burns and scalds from hot water.

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How do I replace a shower valve?

 

  • Shut off the Water

    Before you begin, it’s essential that you shut off the water from the main supply. You can do this by turning off the shutoff valves located outside or in the basement of your home. Once they’re off, it’s also a good idea to open up all of your showers and faucets to help drain any excess water. Leave them open until you finish replacing your shower cartridge.

  • Locate and Remove the Handle.

    Use a screwdriver to loosen the screws located underneath the handle. Depending on your shower, you may have a Phillips or flat-head screw. When the screws are loose, pull them out and take off the handle. Make sure you keep all of the parts in a safe place while you’re working.

  • Take Out the Cartridge.

    Use the pliers to remove the cartridge from its housing. Place the flat edge of the pliers on the top of the cartridge, then turn the pliers counter-clockwise until it’s loose and can be removed. Once you have removed it, you can safely discard it and move on to installing your new cartridge.

  • Install the New Cartridge.

    To install the new cartridge, carefully insert it into its housing and begin to rotate it clockwise until it is securely in place. Make sure to use pliers for this part of the process if needed, and that you keep consistent pressure on the cartridge when you do so, as this will ensure a good seal. After the cartridge is securely in place, turn on the shower and check for any leakage or other issues.

  • Reassemble and Test the Faucet.

    Once the cartridge has been replaced, it is time to reassemble the faucet. Carefully put all of the parts back into their original positions and secure them in place. Finally, turn on the water supply to the faucet and test for any leaks or other issues. If all appears to be fine, your shower should now be working properly with no further problems!

​​Types of Shower Valve

Pressure balancing shower valve

It regulates the temperature of water outflow and are found throughout your home. Pressure balancing valves keep a consistent ratio of hot and cold water in your shower and adjust as required to accommodate for pressure fluctuations.

Thermostatic valves 

They are used to regulate the temperature of water to a specified level. Simply turn on the tap and wait for the water to reach your chosen temperature with a thermostatic valve; these valves remove the need for continual temperature changes.

Transfer valves

Shower water flow is controlled by diverter and transfer valves. The component that allows you to turn off the water flow from the tub spout is this valve.

Get Plumbing Help

As you can see, replacing a shower valve necessitates a certain amount of plumbing expertise. This isn’t a job for everyone; if you’re not up for it, you might end up with leaks and damage to your property.

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When you hire the experts at Everest drain and plumbing to repair a complex shower valve, you can be assured that the job will be done correctly. Our skilled plumbers can fix leaking shower valves and update your home’s shower system for greater functionality. Call us today to schedule plumbing repairs!

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