Leaky shower faucet valves are a common plumbing problem for homeowners, so it's important to know what to do while you wait for help from a professional plumber. From identifying the issue at hand to knowing what the worst case scenario could entail, a little DIY repair and familiarity with the problem will go a long way to making your life easier. Reference the guide below so you don't find yourself in a situation that leads to further repairs and expenses. 

How to Repair a Leaky Shower Faucet Valve

Identify the Problem

Whenever the water keeps dripping from your shower even after you’ve turned it off, you're looking at an issue within the valve itself. In many cases, this is a simple case of wear and tear over time. When the interior components erode with use, water will make its way through, and it becomes more difficult to shut it off completely. Don’t attempt to simply tighten the valve, as if you do it too tightly, you’ll only cause further damage. 

Repair Different Valves

Before you get started on repairs, you'll need to determine which type of shower faucet valve you have. There are two common types: two-handle compression faucets and cartridge faucets. Individual brands all have different components and accessibility.

Shut off the water supply to the shower head before getting to work. You may need to shut off water to your entire home. Protect your shower floor from falling components with cardboard or rags. 

While methods vary depending on the design, you'll need to remove the shower handle carefully, preferably with the help of valve-specific instructions. The next step for two-handle faucets involves removing and replacing washers, seals, and O-rings. Cartridge faucets will require a manufacturer-specific replacement, so you should always have one on hand before you start repairs.

Avoid Neglect

Unfortunately, neglecting to repair this problem yourself or with the help of a licensed plumber can be costly. Leaky shower faucet valves go through hundreds of gallons of water each week, and energy costs will pile up on top of that if the valve handles hot water. If the leak in question occurs within the walls of your bathroom, you may experience mold growth or eventual structural damage. If you ignore the problem, you’ll likely have to invest in more serious and time-consuming repairs, so take care of that leaky valve as soon as possible.

 

 

Faucet valve leaks are rarely as simple as they seem, so don't hesitate to get in touch with a plumber if the job is beyond your capabilities. Residents and businesses in Honolulu, HI, have been calling upon the family-owned experts at Fast Rooter Plumbing for over 20 years. They handle everything from leaky and damaged pipes to clogged drains to garbage disposal installations. No job is too large or too small. Call them at (808) 734-4938 to schedule a consultation today, and head to their website for an overview of their services.