Single Handle Shower Faucet Repair: Find the single lever shower valve leaking problems and fix the leaky shower mixer taps. Removing the shower faucet handle is the first step! Shower and other bathroom equipment require upgrading after a certain period of time. Not only the bathroom doors get worn with time, but your shower valves too need repairing. Since it regulates the amount of water flow, pressure and temperature, having a good condition shower valve is not optional. Otherwise, shower valve problems may cause sudden temperature shifts, resulting in cold water shocks and scalding. More information on shower valve problems and shower valve repair coming in the following paragraphs.
Shower Valve: Problems and Repair Tips
Shower valve malfunctions do not always need a professional plumber for repairing. In case you have basic plumbing skills, you can try correcting them on your own. And the solution regarding ‘how to repair a shower valve’ depends on the malfunctions. Thus, identifying shower valve problems is the first step before busying yourself in troubleshooting them. For this, you need to go through the user manual and understand the parts.
Based on the type of existing shower valve, it can be single handled or double handled. Also, the unit may be regular valve, pressure balanced or thermostatic valve. Accordingly, you can look out for the troubled parts and consider shower valve repair on your own. Remember to take precautions before handling shower valve, such as turning off valve or main water supply. As the shower valve unit is installed inside the wall, it is very difficult to locate. Hence, extra care should be taken to avoid damaging the wall as well the valve.
No Hot Water
One of the most commonly faced problems is restricted hot water supply. To proceed with repairing, take a look at your water heater. If it is running correctly, open the shower valve for any clogging or corroded pipes. For closed hot water valves, simply opening and flushing it will solve the problem. Another probable cause may be swelling of the rubber parts, which is restricting or obstructing hot water flow. Disassemble the fixture and examine the rubber components. Replacing the damaged parts will definitely remedy the condition.
Leaking Shower Faucet
In order to repair a dripping shower valve, the shower diverter should be replaced with a new one. Shower units of different brands have a slightly varied diverter. Make sure you purchase an appropriate part for your existing model. For this shower valve repair project, you need to remove the diverter knob first and remove the old shower diverter. Then install the brand new diverter and the knob. Tighten the valve by using a wrench, while ensuring that the knob is oriented correctly. Read more on how to fix a leaking shower faucet.
Checking Shower Valve
For safety considerations, check whether the shower valve is running perfectly or not. You can place a meat thermometer in the bathtub and run water for a few minutes. In case the temperature falls within the bearable range, then only reassemble the fixture. Some shower valve problems cannot be corrected on your own. In such cases, hire a professional service to troubleshoot them. Do not take the risk of solving yourself or else, the shower valve may get damaged totally. This also applies if you are new to plumbing works.
As you see, shower valve repair tips vary according to the problem. If necessary, consider shower valve replacement and install a new one. You can opt for a thermostatic temperature control valve or pressure balanced, anti-scald valve. It is configured in such a way that the pressures for hot water and cold water are balanced, thus preventing temperature shifts. Even though such a shower valve unit costs some extra dollars, it is worth spending for a quality product.
