HOW TO FIX LEAKING SHOWER TAP | Quick and easy fix to change tap valve in a shower. Stop dripping!, by LifeOfRyan on YouTube. 4 min 25 s.
- Video length
- 4 min 25 s
- Time to do it
- 20 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Turn off the water supply to the shower before you start. Open the tap afterwards to drain any water left in the pipe.
Lay a towel under the tap and keep a bucket handy. Small parts and water will come out once you open the fitting.
Pry off the cap on the tap handle, then remove the screw underneath. Pull the handle off the spindle.
Unscrew the cover or shroud around the tap body by hand or with a cloth for grip. Set it aside.
Hold the tap body steady with one spanner and unscrew the spindle nut with a second spanner. Lift out the spindle.
Unscrew the old tap valve from the body and pull it out. Note how it sits so the new one goes in the same way.
Screw the new 13mm tap valve into the body and tighten it firmly, but do not overtighten it.
Refit the spindle, then the cover and the handle. Replace the screw and push the cap back on.
Turn the water back on and check for leaks around the fitting. Run the shower and confirm the drip has stopped.
Tips and common mistakes
Take the old valve to the hardware store so you match the size, usually 13mm for a shower head tap.
Do not overtighten the new valve or you can damage the seat and cause a new leak.
If the drip continues after the swap, the valve seat may be worn and need reseating or replacing.
Questions
How do I know which size tap valve I need?
Remove the old valve first and measure it, or take it to the store. Many shower head taps use a 13mm valve, but check yours before buying.
Do I have to turn the water off at the mains?
Yes, unless the shower has its own isolation valve. Turn off the supply and open the tap to drain the line before you take anything apart.
Why is my shower still dripping after replacing the valve?
The valve seat inside the body may be worn or scratched. Clean or replace the seat, or call a plumber if the leak continues.
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.
