Showers are not supposed to leak. Fix them by installing new cartridges.
A dripping shower causes multiple problems like unwanted moisture in the tub, stains and eventually mold. To stop a shower from leaking you must understand what makes it leak. Typically, the cause is not a loose handle, or a bad pipe, but a worn out cartridge valve within the handle system. Water leaks through this cartridge and into your tub basin. To fix the drip you must replace the cartridge. It takes less than an hour to complete this task.
Instructions
1. Turn off water to the shower by turning off your bathroom's main water valve. Insert a flat knife or screwdriver into the seam around the top or face of the shower handle, and pry off the cap. Underneath the cap you will see a small screw head. Remove this screw with a Phillips head screwdriver.
2. Pull the shower knob towards you to remove it from the shower fixture. This does not require the removal of the trim piece for most shower faucets.
3. Locate the small retaining clip in the shower knob shaft. Slide the screwdriver head under the top of the retaining clip. Carefully pry up on the screwdriver to slide the retaining clip off the cartridge.
4. Pull the cartridge out of the pipe head. Try grabbing the end of the cartridge with a pair of pliers and pulling forward. If this does not work, try reattaching the shower handle (without the retaining clip) and pulling the cartridge out.
5. Purchase a new shower cartridge that matches the make and model of your faucet. Consult with your plumber parts dealer to match the exact part.
6. Slide the new cartridge into the pipe head by lining up the grooves on the cartridge with the grooves in the pipe head. Replace the retaining clip (a new one should be included with the new cartridge). Replace the handle and tighten the retaining screw. Pop the handle cover back into place. Turn on your water supply, and test the shower handle.
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