How To Fix a Leaking or Dripping Shower / DIY Replace Shower Cartridge, by PatriotDIY on YouTube. 11 min 49 s.
- Video length
- 11 min 49 s
- Time to do it
- 45 minutes
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Shut off the water supply to the shower. Turn the main house valve or the fixture stops behind the wall, then open the shower to release pressure.
Pry off the handle cap with a small flat screwdriver. Remove the screw underneath and pull the handle straight off the stem.
Unscrew the chrome escutcheon sleeve by hand or with a strap wrench. Wrap the strap around it so you do not scratch the finish.
Use the retaining nut wrench or pliers to loosen the bonnet nut holding the cartridge. Turn it counterclockwise and set it aside.
Pull the old cartridge straight out by the stem. If it sticks, wiggle it gently. Keep a bucket and towel under the valve to catch leftover water.
Flush the valve body briefly to clear debris, then wipe the inside clean. Check the new cartridge matches the old one in shape and length.
Coat the new cartridge O-rings with silicone plumber's grease. Slide it in with the tabs lined up with the slots in the valve body.
Refit the bonnet nut and tighten it snugly, not hard. Screw the escutcheon sleeve back on and reattach the handle and screw.
Turn the water back on slowly and run the shower. Check for drips at the head and around the handle, then tighten the bonnet nut a little if needed.
Tips and common mistakes
Take the old cartridge to the store or note the valve model so you buy the right Delta replacement.
Do not overtighten the bonnet nut, or the cartridge can bind and the handle will be stiff.
Grease the O-rings before fitting so the cartridge slides in without tearing.
If the drip continues after the swap, check the shower head connection and the valve seats.
Questions
How do I know which cartridge I need?
Look for a model number on the handle trim or valve body, or bring the old cartridge to the store. Delta cartridges differ by valve series, so match the shape and length.
Can I do this without shutting off the main water?
Only if your shower has individual shutoff stops behind the trim plate. Otherwise turn off the main supply, or you will get soaked when the cartridge comes out.
Why is my shower still dripping after the repair?
The bonnet nut may be loose, or debris may be trapped in the valve. Recheck the cartridge seating and clean the valve body before tightening again.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
