If you've noticed dripping coming from your shower head, chances are you have a leaky shower valve. Not only can the sound of dripping water be annoying to you and your family, but the constant steady leak wastes water and can add up over time, impacting your water bill.
If you find you have a leaky valve, it's a good idea to address the problem sooner rather than later. Fortunately, replacing shower valves is an easy process with a little preparation:
With these step-by-step instructions on replacing a shower valve and a little help from your new valve manufacturer's instructions, you can have a blissfully leak-free shower in no time.
Red Cap Plumbing, Air & Electric offers a full range of kitchen and bath services to cover all your plumbing needs. Our courteous and knowledgeable technicians will treat you like family, having the same respect for your time and home as they do for their own. Our honest prices ensure you're never surprised by hidden charges and fees, making it easier to budget for the work you need completed.
Before you replace the shower valve, the first step should always be turning off the water supply to the affected area. Depending on your plumbing system, this could require shutting off the main valve to your home or you may have a zone valve that only affects the area you need.
Along with your replacement valve, there are several tools you may need on hand depending on your removal and installation needs, including:
Before you begin, make sure to read through the manufacturer's instructions to get a clear picture of what is required for installation. Check for any special tools or materials not included in the lists above, and make sure you have everything you need.
Set up a container to hold the shower parts you will be keeping, and place down a towel or plastic to catch any debris for easy cleanup. Stuff rags into your drain to ensure small parts, like screws, don't accidentally fall in. Start by removing the shower head and handle, placing these pieces and any connecting hardware into your container. Next, remove the trim plate and take this opportunity to clean it by soaking it in some vinegar while you work. This will improve the look of your shower when you're finished. Use a utility knife to carefully cut away any old caulk, and pliers can be used for caulk that has hardened or is thick with multiple layers.
The old valve should be visible through a hole in the exposed wall. If it isn't easily accessible, you can carefully cut the hole larger as long as you don't go beyond the size of the trim plate. Use your pliers to pull out the valve clip and remove any retainer nuts with an Allen wrench. Then, simply remove the old valve.
When installing the new valve, make sure you are following the instructions listed by the manufacturer. Insert the new valve and ensure it lines up with your existing pipes. If you have the right size valve, it should line up perfectly. For PEX pipes, use thread tape and add coupling and crimp fittings as needed for a strong connection. If you're working with copper piping, you'll need to solder the connections, taking care not to damage the new valve with the solder's heat.
Once everything is connected, turn the water back on to check for leaks. Tighten any areas that allow water to escape or plug the leak using additional solder. Once you're confident the connections are secure, replace the trim plate and carefully caulk around it to seal the edges. To finish the job, reconnect the shower handle and shower head. If you've followed all these steps correctly, you should have a solid shower valve for at least the next four to five years.
If you'd prefer to let the professionals handle your plumbing services, call the experts at Red Cap Plumbing, Air & Electric. Our on-time guarantee ensures you never have to wait around for a late technician, or we'll give you a $100 credit towards your current or future service.