Are you frustrated by leaks in your shower faucet? Want to repair them? Stop looking here and there. You have landed at the right place. A leaky shower faucet can become a costly issue if you don’t address it immediately. It can increase your utility bill and cause unnecessary damage. The best part is that you can perform the leaky shower faucet repair yourself. You need the right tools and follow simple steps for shower faucet leak repair.
In this article, we will go through the common causes of the shower faucet leak. Also, we will learn about the steps to resolve it.
Understanding Shower Faucet Leaks
There are many issues that can cause leaks in the shower faucet. There can be worn-out parts or mineral build-up. You can repair the leaks at the early stages with a proper understanding of the causes. This will lower the water wastage and prevent any major damage.
Common Causes of Shower Faucet Leaks
Worn-out Washers and O-rings
Washers and O-rings help in sealing the faucet connections. They prevent the water from escaping. Over time, these components wear out due to frequent usage and constant water pressure. When they degrade, they lose their tight seal which leads to leaks. Damaged washers are the main cause behind the dripping faucet. If the O-ring is damaged, then you can find the leak near the handle.
Corroded Valve Seats
A valve set connects the faucet and spot. When it is corroded due to mineral build-up then it can cause a water leak. Corrosion of the valve seat occurs due to hard water. It contains high mineral levels that corrode the surface over time. The water seeps out of the damaged area causing a leak in the faucet. You can see constant dripping even when it is turned off.
DIY Shower Faucet Repair Techniques
You can tackle the minor issues yourself at home. You have to stop the supply in the shower faucet. Now, you have to take out its handle. At this point, you must check all the internal components like O-rings, washers, etc. In case anything is damaged, replace or repair it. You have to test the faucet for leaks again. If you are still facing the leaking issue, then call a professional for help.
When to Consider Shower Faucet Replacement
Sometimes, you cannot repair a leaking shower faucet. So, if you have failed to repair the faucet multiple times, then you should opt for shower faucet replacement. Older faucets can corrode which are pretty difficult to repair. You must install a new one to save your money and conserve water in the long run.
Tools Needed for Leaky Shower Faucet Repair
Repair shower faucet with the following tools:
- Screwdriver
- Adjustable wrench
- Plumber’s tape
- New washers, O-rings, or valve seats according to the need
- Faucet grease
- Allen wrench if required
- Towel
Step-by-Step Guide to Repair Shower Faucet
- Turn-off the water supply: You can stop the supply by turning off the main water supply. It will stop the water in the entire building. Besides this, you can turn the valve near the shower to stop teh supply in the shower faucet. You must place a towel on the shower floor. It will protect the floor from any spills and drops. Also, cover the drain so that nothing goes into it.
- Remove the cap, plate and handle: You have to use a screwdriver to remove the handle screw. It will be covered by a cap. So, remove the cap to unscrew the handle. Now, you have to remove the faceplate behind the handle.
- Check the valve stem: Now remove the valve stem with the adjustable wrench. You have to look for some visible signs of damage that can cause a leak. If it is damaged, then replace it with a new one.
- Inspect washers and O-rings: You have to check and replace the old washers with new ones. Also, you must check the O-rings. Replace the old ones with new ones to prevent any leaks.
- Check the valve seat: If you are still facing a leak after replacing the internal components then you must inspect the valve seat. If it is corroded then you have to replace it with a new one.
- Apply grease and reassemble: Don’t forget to apply faucet grease to washers and O-rings. It increases their life. Reassemble the shower faucet by adding all the components in the correct order.
- Re-test for leaks: It is time to turn on the water supply to test. You have to make sure that there are no leaks.
Preventing Future Shower Faucet Leaks
Here are some tips to prevent future leaks:
- You have to clean the faucet and valve seat at a regular period. It prevents mineral buildup which increases their life and prevents leaks.
- Don’t use excessive force to turn the faucet handle while operating it. High force can damage the internal components which can lead to leaks.
- You have to check and replace the damaged O-rings and washers regularly.
