How to Replace a Broken Pull-Out Shower Valve

A faulty pull-out shower valve may leak.

Pull-out shower handles have a valve attached to the handle of the shower. When the handle is pulled, the valve, or cartridge, releases water from the pipes in the wall, which then travels up to the showerhead. Over time the washers on the valve will break down, causing leaks to appear around the handle or prevent the shower from shutting off completely. Removal of the handle and the valve is necessary to make this repair.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Pliers
• Valve puller
• Wrench

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Instructions

1. Shut off the water to the shower at the water main or in the basement.

2. Pry off the cover on the shower handle to expose the screw underneath.

3. Remove the screw from the handle by turning it counterclockwise with a screwdriver.

4. Pull the handle off the valve.

5. Pull off the washer at the end of the valve with a pair of pliers.

6. Lift the retaining clip on the top of the valve with a flathead screwdriver.

7. Screw a valve remover onto the valve and turn the handle of the valve remover until the valve pops out of the wall. Use a wrench if a valve remover is not available.

8. Line up the new valve with the hole in the wall and insert it into place. Insert the retaining clip and replace the washer at the end of the valve. Reassemble the handle, turn on the water and test the new valve.

References

• "The Family Handyman"; How to Fix a Dripping Shower; June 2003
• This Old House; How to Troubleshoot a Leaky Shower; Richard Tretheway