Replacing a Shower Valve

mediumHome Repaircheck locally8 steps

Safety Warnings

Ensure the main water supply is shut off before beginning disassembly to prevent flooding.

Monkey wrench — check locally

Rubber ball (Red for hot water) — check locally(1)

String packing or candle wicking — check locally(as needed)

Shut off the water supply to the faucet.

Unscrew the body from the tailpiece using your hands or a monkey wrench on the hexagonal part of the body.

Tip: If the tailpiece turns, use a second wrench on the hexagonal nut of the tailpiece and press downward to hold it in place.

Unscrew the stem nut that holds the brass cap and rubber ball on the stem.

Remove the old rubber ball and install a new one.

Tip: Use red rubber balls for hot-water faucets as they are considered superior to black ones.

Replace the brass cap and tighten the stem nut.

Tip: Avoid using a ball that is too large, as swelling may hinder water flow.

Wrap a small amount of string packing or candle wicking around the thread on the faucet to ensure a water-tight joint.

Tip: Apply the packing just before the joint closes.

Screw the faucet back into the tailpiece.

Restore water supply and test for leaks.

If a washer requires frequent replacement, check if the seat is rough or scoring the washer.
Flat washers are used for seats with a crown or round ridge; tapered washers are used for tapered seats.

Synthesized from 5 verified sources:

USDA Farmers' Bulletin (Gutenberg)View →

Gutenberg: Simple Plumbing Repairs (FB 1460)View →

Gutenberg: Dwelling ConstructionView →

Gutenberg: Electricity for the 4-H ScientistView →

Gutenberg: Economical Farmhouse PlansView →