If you have ever experienced a situation when showering was an unenjoyable experience due to a leaking shower, low water pressure, or even confusion when it comes to managing the temperature well you know the feeling. Accidents such as these can be blamed on a bad shower faucet valve most of the time. The valve regulates water flow and its heat, thus showering mishaps are inevitable when it breaks down. But don’t worry about replacing a shower faucet valve is a do-it-yourself matter, which can not only help you avoid the expensive plumbing service fees but also bring back your shower to a nearly new state.
Here we’ll explain the process of how to do a shower faucet valve replacement and follow it step by step. Our instructions and advice will acquaint you with all the necessary information to repair the problem and let you obtain a confident and qualitative shower without making a call to the plumber. Let’s get started!
Shower Faucet Valve
What Is a Shower Faucet Valve?
A shower faucet valve is an element that you will find in your shower that regulates the amount and temperature of water. It controls the size and the temperature of the water; you can always control the water pressure from being too high or too low besides the temperature. Normally it is mounted on the wall on the shower side of the wall and it is fitted on the pipes from which hot and cold water is drawn. When the handle is rotated opening, this will open or close the valve for water at a given rate.
Shower valves are normal components of showers; however, these can erode over time because of use, the accumulation of minerals, and general deterioration. This can result in some problems including water leakage, water temperature fluctuations or problems with changes in flow rate. The water can also be running constantly or does not shut off when a faulty valve is present. In some cases, the most effective course of action is to change the valve to fix the problem and prevent future catastrophes which will require expensive repair or replacement of shower components.
Possible Problems Associated With Shower Valves
- Wear and Tear: Shower valves like any other fitting in a home are susceptible to wear and tear with constant usage. The sealing surfaces of the valve may become worn out, and water can surround the valve by causing small holes in it. This can lead to water leaks or higher electricity bills whenever electricity powers them. Further, the component termed bearings fixed within the valve can develop some problems, making the valve work slowly in specific cases when giving directions of water flow or temperature. In some situations, bearings are worn and, as a result, a consistent showering temperature is difficult to achieve.
- Limescale Buildup: Another similarity is that many people complain about the formation of deposits on their appliances. Lime and the dirt from the water supply slowly build up within the valve cartridge. This buildup can sit on the valve and hinder its functionality of controlling water pressure or even temperature. Because of this, there is usually a change or irregular movement of water and at times, temperatures differ, and water barely controls. These problems can be avoided by cleaning and or replacing the valve frequently.
- Hot Water Changes: Alterations to the hot water system can also affect show valve performance The reasons for poor shower valves may also be changes in the hot water system. For instance, in the installation of a new water heater or when arranging the temperature setting, there can be valve modifications. Pressure balancing valves consist of the valve clip and may need to turn to the new hot water temperatures. Likewise, thermostatic valves may need adjustment, because changing hot water thermostat settings may affect the valve’s initial setting to provide hot water at the correct standard consistently.
Equipment and Materials Required
Before getting started, ensure that you have, with you, all the tools required and replacement parts as well. Here’s the list of what you’ll need:
- New shower faucet valve
- Adjustable wrench
- Pipe wrench or channel lock pliers
- Flathead screwdrivers and other kind of screwdrivers
- Plumber’s tape (Teflon tape)
- Electric hacksaw or pipe cutter if pipe work is needed.
- Shower handle removal tool
- Caulk (if you require to reseal the wall after the tiles are removed)
- The plumber‘s putty is used to seal connections between pipes
- Singing glasses or goggles and hand gloves (protective wear)
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
First of all, you should make sure no water supply is connected to the shower so that you would not face an issue of flooding or any other related mishaps. Find the general water supply valve for your residence (it is commonly in the basement, under a crawl space or near the meter outside your house) and turn it. If it is possible, leave the shower faucet to release any water pressure still remaining in the system after closing the supply.
Step 2: The Shower Handle and Trim must be unscrewed.
Next is the shower handle and other associated decorative trims or escutcheon plates that shield the valve will be taken off. You can make it by unscrewing some screws in this case or by using a handle removal tool depending on your model of the faucet. Sometimes you may have to remove the trim plate or escutcheon to get to the valve in question, sometimes you may have to remove or take off the trim plate or escutcheon to reveal the valve in question.
Step 3: Turn off the Old Shower Valve
Now you should be able to see the shower valve after you have removed its handle and trim. You then have to disconnect the valve from the water supply lines at this point in the installation process.
Twist the nut that holds the valve to the water supply pipes with the help of a pipe wrench or adjustable wrench. This may have to be forced if the connection is rather fixed or well done.
Twist the valve in a clockwise direction until it is released from the wall whereby you pull out the set from the pipework. It is common for the valve to be stuck in place, so the pipe fittings may need to be clipped with a hacksaw. It is important to avoid causing harm to the immediately nearby walls or pipes.
Step 4: Replace the New Shower Faucet Handle
When the old valve has been replaced the new valve is inserted. First, you can use some plumber’s tape (Teflon tape) and wrap it around the threads of the pipe connection. This assists in giving a hermetic closure which is very important should there be any further cracks. The tape must be wound several times around the threads to gain coverage and to guarantee that it fits perfectly.
Subsequently, put the newly developed valve in the opening while ensuring that these align with the water supply pipes. The valve must be in proper alignment and be touching the pipework before it is to be fastened properly on the pipework system. After the valve is correctly aligned use the adjustable wrench to close up the connection tightly. However, it is important not to over-tighten the connection, this might lead to tearing of the pipe as well as damage to the valve. After tightening the new valve should sit properly and be ready for use.
Step 5: Reassemble the Shower Handle and Trim
After the new valve is in place then the procedure is to replace the remaining parts of the shower assembly. The first step involves connecting the shower handle to the valve and this is done by fixing screws that were earlier loosened. Thus, it will help in the restoration of its handle to enable users to regulate the water flow and temperature. If the handle is installed securely, put back the trim plate or escutcheon around the valve if necessary. Make sure that it rests tightly against the wall to provide a nice, finished edge to the S in design. Screw the pieces trimming the gaps properly; do not over screw, since this may affect the appearance of a decorative piece.
Step 6: Test the New Valve
It is also important to make sure that the new shower faucet valve is all right before finishing up the whole process. First, try to open the water hose and inspect the presence of any dripping at the valve and junctions of the pipes. Once the water is running, turn on hot and cold controls to ensure the water temperature is correct. Make sure that the side of the shower that controls the water flow’s pressure is steady and the other controlling the temperature of the water is sensitive to the actions made by you. After that, wait for some time again and then using some iodine, check around the valve connections for any leakage. It’s important to fix them right away if at any instance you find yourself with a leak; switch off the water supply and tighten the connections to make them tighter.
Step 7: Seal the Wall (If Necessary)
If you had to cut the tiles or some wall material to get to the valve or if there were loose tiles around the valve, you may wish to use a sealant around the particular area to avoid water getting into the wall. Place a thin line of paint or caulk around the trim or escutcheon plate before pushing it in place to lock it properly and also to effectively seal it against water.
Step 8: Clean Up and Enjoy Your New Shower Valve
After everything is already set for the test and sealing, clear the area where you worked and put the old materials in the right place. Congratulations on having been able to change your shower faucet valve; you can now use your shower perfectly without leaking or temperature problems.
Conclusion
Replacing a shower faucet valve is an economical and easy do-it-yourself job that helps solve the problem with the shower without having to call for a plumber. Read this guide to the end and you’ll walk through the process of removing the old valve, installing the new one and making sure that everything required for the proper function of the valve is in its proper place. Although it does take some basic tools and a little time, the reward of being able to solve the problem without having to deal with leaks or low water pressure ever again is well worth every effort. If at any time you are in doubt, do not hesitate to consult a professional; however, for most homeowners, replacing a shower valve is a doable and fulfilling project.