How to Fix a Leaky Shower Faucet by Yourself

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A step-by-step guide to fix a dripping shower faucet
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A leaking shower faucet is annoying and costly because it will likely lead to higher water bills. Fortunately, it’s easy to fix! We spoke with plumbing and home improvement experts to learn exactly how to fix a leaky shower faucet yourself with a few tools and supplies. This article covers both single- and double-handle shower faucets. However, you may need to call a professional plumber if your DIY fix doesn't work.

How to Fix a Leaky Single-Handle Shower Faucet

  1. Shut off the water valve and open the faucet handle to release pressure.
  2. Use a screwdriver to remove the handle and faceplate.
  3. Remove the metal sleeve from the shower valve.
  4. Take out the locking clip on top of the valve cartridge.
  5. Use a cartridge puller or pliers to loosen and remove the cartridge.
  6. Slide in a new cartridge and replace the valve pin.
  7. Replace the valve sleeve, trim, and shower handle
Method 1
Method 1 of 2:

Installing a New Cartridge in a Single-Handle Faucet

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  1. Your water valve controls the flow of water to your shower. Professional Plumber David Balkan recommends turning off your water valve first, so you don’t have to worry about water spraying everywhere. [1] It’s not always easy to find your water valve . 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. Then, turn on the faucet to relieve water pressure.
    • You may find the panel that houses your water valve in the room next to your bathroom. It may even be in a closet.
    • The experts at Roto-Rooter recommend closing the drain to avoid losing any small parts and spreading out a towel to protect the tub or shower floor from falling tools or parts. [2]
  2. The screw will be in the center of a knob handle or on the side of a curved handle. Choose a screwdriver that fits into the screw head. Then, carefully turn the screwdriver counter-clockwise to loosen it. Pull out the screw and set it aside to reuse when you replace the shower handle. [3]
    • Your handle may have more than 1 screw, so make sure you remove all of them.
    • If your handle won’t come off, try heating it with a hair dryer. Set the heat to high, then blow the hot air onto your handle for 1 minute. Drape a towel over the handle to protect your hand from the heat. Then, try to pull off the handle.

    Tip: While each shower faucet is different, most will come off with a screwdriver. If you’re having trouble removing yours, you may need to consult a professional plumber.

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  3. The faceplate – also called the escutcheon – is the flat metal piece that's behind your handle. “Chances are good that you’ll need to pry off the decorative covers from the handle using the edge of the flathead screwdriver. Be careful not to damage the finish,” say the experts at Roto-Rooter. [4] Fit the screwdriver tip into the screws on the faceplate. Next, turn it counterclockwise to loosen the screws. Set the screws aside for later, then carefully pull off the faceplate and set it aside. [5]
    • The faceplate may stick to the tile or shower wall. If this happens, gently wiggle it until it comes free.
  4. The shower valve looks like part of a metal pipe that connects to your shower handle. It will have a metal sleeve that covers the end of the valve. Use your hands to carefully remove this sleeve, then set it aside for later. [6]

    Variation: Some valve sleeves screw onto the valve, so you may need to unscrew it. If it screws on, you should see threads on your valve. Twist the metal sleeve counterclockwise to loosen it.

  5. Look for the locking clip on the top of your valve. It will look like a metal rod, and the end sticks 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 to use when you’re finished installing the new cartridge . [9]
    • The locking clip is at the top of the valve. They aren’t present on all valves, so don’t worry if you don’t see one.
    • Use a screwdriver or awl to pry up the clip if necessary.
  6. The cartridge is the part of the valve that controls the flow and temperature of the water. It looks like a long cylinder with a metal rod sticking out of the top. A cartridge puller is a T-shaped tool that fits over the end of the cartridge. After placing it on the end of the cartridge, twist left and right with a wrench or pair of pliers to loosen the cartridge. Keep turning until the cartridge feels like it’s free. Then pull it free of the valve. [10]
    • Faucet manufacturers have specific types of cartridge pullers for their brands. Make sure you get the cartridge puller made for your brand of faucet.
    • Use a deep-well socket wrench with a long metal tube on the end if you can’t find a cartridge puller for your faucet.
    • “Shine a flashlight down into the hole that the cartridge came out of. Inspect for debris, and if you see any, remove it with your finger or a needle nose pliers,” advises the expert at Roto-Rooter. [11]
    • If you don’t have your replacement cartridge yet, take the old cartridge to your local hardware store to find a match.
  7. Slide the new cartridge into the empty valve. [12] “Some brands guarantee their faucets for life and will supply replacement cartridges free of charge if you contact them directly. You may also be able to buy a replacement cartridge from a hardware/home center store or a plumbing supply store,” say the experts at Roto-Rooter.
    • Some new cartridges come with a lubricant to make them slide into the valve more easily. Follow the directions for your specific cartridge to ensure you place the lubricant on the correct surface.
    • Cartridges are marked with an arrow or letters to show you which side faces up. Refer to the instructions for your cartridge to see what your cartridge’s markings mean.
  8. Slide the valve sleeve back over the valve, then put the faceplate back into place. Use your screwdriver to secure the faceplate against the shower wall. “Thread on the retainer collar and tighten it in place. Do not over-tighten. It only needs to be snug. Next, put the faucet handle back over the cartridge and collar and tighten it down with the set screw. Again, do not over tighten,” warns the experts at Roto-Rooter. [13]
  9. Turn the knob on your water valve counterclockwise so the water will come back on. Then, turn on the shower faucet to check if you the leaky faucet handle is repaired . Finally, turn off the shower and make sure the leak is gone.
    • If your shower is still leaking, find a professional plumber to fix it.
    • If you notice hot water coming out of the faucet when you turn the handle to cold, remove the handle, faceplate, and valve sleeve. Twist the cartridge 180 degrees, then put the faucet back together.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 2:

Replacing the Washer in a 2-Handle Faucet

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  1. The water valve controls the flow of water to your shower faucet, and it’s often located in your bathroom or basement. Balkan says you may find it behind a panel that’s located on the other side of your shower. [14] Turn the knob on your shower valve clockwise to shut off the water.
    • If you’re having trouble finding your shower valve, look in the room next to your shower. You may find the panel there.
  2. To fix your leaking shower , put your hand under the leak to check the temperature of the water. If it’s cold, then it’s likely the cold faucet that’s leaking. On the other hand, hot water means the hot side is likely leaking. [15]
    • It’s possible that both sides are leaking. If this is the case, replace the washer on the second side if the leak doesn't go away after you replace the first washer.
  3. Look for the screw in the center of the shower handle. Fit your screwdriver into the screw that holds the shower handle in place. Then, turn your screwdriver counter-clockwise to loose the screw and remove it. Finally, set the screw and the handle aside for later. [16]

    Tip: If your handle has a decorative plate over the screw, you’ll need to pry this up first. Use a flathead screwdriver to pull it free.

  4. This is the metal piece that goes under the handle. Look inside the faceplate to see if it has threads, which it likely will. Gently unscrew the metal plate by turning it counterclockwise. When it comes off, set it aside until you’re ready to put it back on. [17]
    • This is also called an escutcheon.
  5. The nut will be deep inside your wall, so get a deep well socket wrench to reach it. Choose the size that looks right, then slide it over the metal stem. Secure the end of the wrench over the valve nut that’s at the base of the stem. [18]
    • A deep well socket wrench is a wrench with a long metal tube on the end. It allows you to reach nuts that are embedded inside a structure.
    • Deep well socket wrenches are often sold in sets, so choose a socket that is the right size.
    • To size the socket, place it on the nut and turn the wrench counterclockwise to make sure it’s gripping.
  6. Turn the wrench counter-clockwise until the nut comes free. Then, remove the wrench and the nut from the valve. Set the nut aside to put it back on later. The metal stem is the part of your faucet that the handle turns. Use your fingers to carefully remove the metal stem. It slides out easily without the nut holding it in place. Set the metal stem to the side to reuse it. [19]
  7. Use a pair of needle-nose pliers to pull the old rubber o-ring washer from around the valve. It easily comes off because it’s just pressed onto the valve. Discard the old rubber washer, then press a new rubber o-ring washer over the valve. Line it up in the exact place as the old one. [20]
  8. Slide the metal stem back into place. Then, put the nut into your deep well socket wrench. Slide the wrench over the metal stem and replace the nut by turning it clockwise. Next, put the faceplate against the wall and turn it to secure it in place. Finally, screw the shower handle back onto the metal stem. [23]

    Variation: If your metal stem is damaged or worn down, you can purchase a replacement from your local hardware store for about $15. Bring your old stem to the store to help you find the correct match.

  9. Turn the knob on your water valve counterclockwise so the water will come back on. Next, turn on your shower faucet to make sure that the water is running correctly. Finally, turn off the faucet and check that the leak is fixed. [24]
    • If the leak isn’t fixed, replace the washer on the other side. If this doesn’t work, call in a professional plumber.
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    How do I stop my shower faucet from dripping?
    David Balkan
    Professional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Water Main
    David Balkan is a Professional Plumber, CEO of Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service, and President of Balkan Sewer and Drain Cleaning. As a hands-on owner of these companies for over 40 years, David is knowledgeable about water service lines, sewers, and drain line issues. David is a Committee Chairman of the Master Plumbers Council and has sat on the Executive Committee of the Sub Surface Plumbers Association of New York for over 30 years. His knowledge and solution-oriented approach contributed to Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service being the largest and most trusted service in New York City and the recipient of the 2017 Angie’s List Super Service Award.
    David Balkan
    Professional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Water Main
    Expert Answer
    Try replacing the washers behind the faucet. Just be sure to pick up a kit with an assortment of washers since you won't really know what you need until you take it apart.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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    Not Helpful 1 Helpful 6
  • Question
    I have a three handle faucet for my bathtub. The hot water leaks from the handle when it is turned on. How do I fix this?
    Community Answer
    Whichever handle it leaks from, the packing is worn. You'll need to take the valve apart to replace the packing or O-ring.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
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    Not Helpful 4 Helpful 19
  • Question
    Why is my shower leaking after I changed the valves?
    Community Answer
    If you replace the valves and it still leaks, that usually means there is damage to the seat. You may need a complete new faucet install.
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      Things You’ll Need

      Installing a New Cartridge in a Single-Handle Faucet

      Replacing the Washer in a 2-Handle Faucet

      Tips

      • If you purchase a cartridge puller, be sure that it works with your brand of faucet. If you are unsure what brand you have, take the cartridge to the store with you and an experienced associate knows which products will work.
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      Warnings

      • If your shower is leaking behind the wall or your valve is damaged, call in a professional plumber to repair or replace the valve. The cost of replacing a shower valve ranges from $125 to $500. The final cost depends on the type of shower faucet and how difficult it is to access the valve. [25]
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      References

      1. ↑ David Balkan. Professional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Water Main. Expert Interview. 29 April 2021.
      2. ↑ Dave Jones. Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. Expert Interview. 29 March 2021.
      3. ↑ https://youtu.be/p1PbddsekGg?t=52
      4. ↑ Dave Jones. Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. Expert Interview. 29 March 2021.
      5. ↑ https://youtu.be/Pzri-vBBnCM?t=81
      6. ↑ https://youtu.be/N4ttaJzoHrI?t=235
      7. ↑ Dave Jones. Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. Expert Interview. 29 March 2021.
      8. ↑ Dave Jones. Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. Expert Interview. 29 March 2021.
      9. ↑ https://youtu.be/Pzri-vBBnCM?t=115
      1. ↑ https://www.bhg.com/home-improvement/plumbing/how-to-fix-replace-tub-shower-faucet-cartridge/
      2. ↑ Dave Jones. Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. Expert Interview. 29 March 2021.
      3. ↑ https://youtu.be/deUtmsZB8v8?t=188
      4. ↑ Dave Jones. Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. Expert Interview. 29 March 2021.
      5. ↑ David Balkan. Professional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Water Main. Expert Interview. 29 April 2021.
      6. ↑ https://youtu.be/y_DWX2oTYxo?t=12
      7. ↑ https://youtu.be/WUQSjhO-K0I?t=251
      8. ↑ https://youtu.be/xNQTQj2qkXI?t=156
      9. ↑ https://youtu.be/xNQTQj2qkXI?t=182
      10. ↑ https://youtu.be/xNQTQj2qkXI?t=229
      11. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/leaking-shower-head/
      12. ↑ David Balkan. Professional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Water Main. Expert Interview. 29 April 2021.
      13. ↑ Patrick Johns. Home Improvement Specialist. Expert Interview. 13 October 2022.
      14. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/leaking-shower-head/
      15. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/leaking-shower-head/
      16. ↑ https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-should-it-cost-replace-bathroom-tub-valve.htm

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To fix a leaky single-handle faucet in your shower, start by turning off the water supply to your bathroom. Then, use a screwdriver to take the shower handle off. Once that's off, unscrew the faceplate, which should be located right behind where the handle was. Next, pull off the metal sleeve of the shower valve that's behind the faceplate, and use pliers to remove the locking clip that's on top of the valve. After you take that off, use a socket wrench and needle nose pliers to remove the valve cartridge. Finally, install a new cartridge into the valve, and reassemble everything before turning the water back on. To learn how to fix a double-handle shower faucet, scroll down!

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