How to Fix Shower-Mixer Faucets
A shower-mixer faucet has a mixing valve and valve assembly inside the handle that performs temperature control and water-pressure functions. This system contains two seals over the hot and cold water valves that crack and break after prolonged usage. If your shower faucet is leaking, or you can no longer adjust the water to your liking, this part is easy to replace. The project takes about 20 minutes and is easy enough for anyone to complete. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Turn the water supply off by turning the home's main water valve off. This is usually near the water meter.
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2
Take the handle off the shower by finding the screw in the side of the handle and removing it with an Allen wrench. The handle slides off easily after this screw is taken off. Some handles (on round, single-handle faucets) have a protective cap on top of the handle. Take this off to find the screw.
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3
Pull out the retaining clip which fits over the head of the faucet. It is visible after the handle is removed. If there is no clip, remove the cartridge nut or bonnet cap. Once removed, pull the cartridge out. The mixing valve is part of the cartridge and comes out with it.
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4
Insert a new cartridge into the fixture to replace the old one. Use only a matching cartridge made for your particular shower.
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Put the bonnet cap or retaining clip on. Tighten the bonnet cap by hand, or use a pair of pliers if you need to. To install the retaining clip, just press it into the groove in the faucet head.
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Put the handle on the stem and align it with the hot and cold symbols. Install the screw with the Allen wrench.
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References
Resources
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