Repairing a leaky shower faucet in the bathroom
A leaky shower faucet in the bathroom is annoying, wasteful, and leads to higher water bills. The cause is usually worn or damaged parts in the faucet, often the washer on the shower shaft.
It is advisable to completely replace all seals when repairing a shower fixture. If you are repairing a particular faucet for the first time, you may need to figure out exactly how many and what types of gaskets and washers you need.
Turn off the water
Turn off the water heater in your home, which is usually located in the basement or garage. If there is a laundry tub or basement bathroom in the basement, open the sink faucet to drain the water from the system.
Disassemble the faucet
There are two main types of shower faucets: single-handle and dual-handle. If you have a two-handle system, you will need to remove and replace both valves. First, unscrew the valves and remove the knobs or handles. Carefully remove the trim that covers the hole where the valve sits and set it aside.
There is a nut here called the "packing nut". Do not be tempted to loosen or remove it. Instead, you need to remove the entire hex piece. This is the actual valve stem. You may need a set of valve stem socket wrenches. Find the right size for the solid brass valve stem and unscrew it with pliers. Pay attention to how the shower stem is assembled.
Replace bad washer
There is a washer at the end of the valve stem. You can either remove the washer and get a new one at the hardware store, or buy an assortment of washers and find one that fits.
Check the fit of the valve stem
It is important to check the fit inside the faucet where the valve stem sits. If you look inside the faucet where you just removed the valve stem, you will see the seats. Use a flashlight. If you replace the washers on the valve stem and the seat is damaged, the valve will continue to leak.
Remove the seat and replace it
Purchase a seat removal tool or seat wrench from a hardware store. Insert the tool so that it fits into the seat and is tight. Use pliers with a channel lock and unscrew the seat. Since it is a brass fitting, it should not be too difficult to remove. Take it to the hardware store and get a replacement that you install with the seat wrench. Tighten it up, but not too tight.
Call the Emergency Plumber in Wolverhampton. Our Customer Service is available around the clock. Call us whenever you want, 01902933802.
