How to Replace a Shower Valve
Have you ever jumped into your bathroom after a tiring day, prepared to take a hot shower, only to feel cold water dripping on your head? This is the worst experience and one of the first signs that your shower valve needs replacement. The other sign is when your shower’s water temperature quickly changes from very hot, to very cold, whenever someone uses a faucet or flushes a toilet.
You may need to replace the shower faucet and upgrade to a better one. So, how do you do it without having to hire a plumber? Below are simple steps that you can follow and successfully replace the valve.
But just before we look at that, what tools will you need to complete the task?
- The new valve
- Metal valve clip
- Pliers
- Needlenose pliers
- Screwdriver
- Caulk
- Piece of cloth
How to Replace a Shower Valve – Steps
Step 1:
Cover the shower drain with a piece of cloth to ensure no screw will fall in as you work on the valve. Losing a single screw can be stressful. It is advised you place back all screws to the same position to avoid losing them.
Step 2:
The shower handle and ensure that you place all the screws aside on a flat surface to keep them safe until you are ready to screw them back. Also, remove the piping plate by unscrewing it. You can dip the handle and trim plate in vinegar to make them look new again.
Step 3:
The next step will be to remove the old valve. Remember to shut the water off before you start removing the valve. You can cut an access hole to reach the valve easily. The dent should be small enough to be covered by the plate or the handle. Use the needlenose pliers to remove the valve clip and pliers to pluck the valve out of the wall.
Step 4:
You are now ready to install the new valve. Hold the end of the new cylinder with pliers and slide it back into the opening in the wall. Wiggle it back and forth until it is tight.
Step 5:
Move smoothly the metallic clip back into its place. You will Use the needlenose pliers. It is supposed to fit in the same spot as the old one.
Step 6:
Turn the water supply on. If you forget this step, you will have to open the trim plate and handle again.
Step 7:
Place back the trim plate and the handle back in their place. Insert all the screws back and make sure they are well tightened.
Step 8:
Turn the shower handle on to ensure that it is working before finishing up. After confirming you can now remove the cloth covering the shower drain. If by any chance you broadened the hole on the wall earlier ensure you fill it back.
Things to Consider on How to Replace a Shower Valve
- It is good to know the kind of valve that is the best fit for your shower before taking off the old one and even before purchasing a new one. If you have no idea of how to do this it is advisable you consult a plumber or any repair person. Do not waste your money buying something that won’t fit in your shower.
- You can also consider using the details on the trim plate to carry out online research on the manufacturer and instruction of replacing the valve.
- While carrying out all the activities, it is good to ensure that you keep in mind your safety.
Final Verdict
A leaking shower can make your bathroom look a little messy. Also, a shower that changes from hot to too cold now and then can be disappointing. Replacing the valve is the only solution to these problems. This doesn’t have to cost you a lot; you do not need to hire a plumber. Get the tools listed and a new valve (right one for your shower) and easily follow the steps above and do it on your own. In less than 30 minutes you should be done with the replacement and enjoy taking showers with no worries and leave you bathroom clean and dry.
