How to Fix a Dripping Shower Faucet

A leaky shower faucet can be an annoying problem.

A leaky faucet is an especially annoying problem. Most times, it is the result of a cartridge that has gone bad. The quickest and most surefire way to solve the problem is to replace the offending cartridge. Fortunately for you, this is a process that can be completed in about an hour using tools that, if you do not have them on hand, can be purchased for as little as $20.

Things You'll Need

• Pocketknife
• Screwdriver
• Pliers
• New cartridge

Instructions

1. Turn off the shower’s water supply. Look for the fixture shutoff valves on your home’s main valve. They should be clearly labeled. If you have to experiment to find out which one it is, just make sure that you return each valve to its original position when finished.

2. Pry off the handle cap with a small pocketknife, small flat-head screwdriver or any sturdy, thin flat edge. This will expose the internal handle screw.

3. Remove the internal handle screw and pull off the stop tube. Look for the cartridge retaining clip on top of the exposed rounded top of the cartridge.

4. Pull the cartridge retaining clip up using a small screwdriver. Remove the handle washer (visible right in front) and twist the cartridge stem loose. If you have trouble, use pliers to get it out. Another alternative is to purchase a cartridge pull at the hardware store. Just make sure you purchase the right size.

5. Insert the new cartridge and fit the new handle washer onto it. Now reverse the process used to take the faucet apart in the first place. Replace the cartridge retaining clip, insert the stop tube and screw the internal handle screw back on. Snap the handle cap back on and test the shower. If done right, the faucet should no longer leak.

References

• The Family Handyman: How to Fix a Dripping Shower