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How to fix a leaking shower mixer?

I have a shower faucet handle that has been dripping water, as depicted in the attached photo.

Can you please instruct me how to DIY fix this leaking issue?

Is this something I can fix myself by replacing the cartridge?

Also, I'd like to know the steps I need to take when turning the water mains back on after fixing the leaking issue.

For example, if we get dirty water after turning the water mains back on, how long/much would I need to let the water run to get safe and clean water?

leaking shower handle

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EricL

Hello @plumb1

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us and thanks for sharing your question about fixing a leaking shower mixer.

The handle you currently have has a hole at the bottom where you will find a grub screw. You'll need to insert an appropriately sized Allen key in order to turn the grub screw. Once it is loose you'll be able to remove the handle. Once the handle is off, you can then remove the face place. From there you'll be able to see where the leak is coming from.

If it is from the front, odds are the front locking nut is loose and needs to be tightened up with a shifter. But if the leak is coming from someplace else along the body of the mixer, I suggest calling the plumber straight away to prevent further water damage.

If the cartridge itself is leaking, I suggest bringing it with you to the store to make sure you get exactly the same type or same size. In regards to turning off your mains water, if you happen to see brown water coming out of your tap and it does not dissipate it's highly probable that you have a plumbing leak. In this circumstance it's best to call the plumber to investigate.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

plumb1

Hello Eric,

Thank you for your prompt reply.

Do I need to turn the water mains off first before confirming the leak?

Also, how would I know where the leak is located when the water mains is off?

EricL

Hello @plumb1

I suggest removing the handle first before turning the water off, this will give you the opportunity to see where the leak is coming from. Once you've identified the source of the leak you can then turn the mains water off. Please make sure to inform the household that you are turning the mains water off. This will give everyone a chance to prepare for the cut off.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

plumb1

Thank you Eric.

We'll give it a go and let you know.

plumb1

Hi again Eric,

We just removed the grub screw using the allen key.

But the shower handle is still not coming off.

What should we do?

EricL

Hi @plumb1

Calcium deposits sometimes occur on the interior of the handle. It will be slow going as you'll need to crack the brittle cake that has enveloped the handles interior. The handle will need to be moved left to right, forwards and backwards until it loosens up. If you decide to use tool or lever, just be aware that you could accidentally crack the tiles when leaning on them.

If it proves to be too difficult, I suggest engaging the services of a plumber, they will have the tools to remove your shower handle without damaging your tiled wall.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

plumb1

Hi Eric,

Thank you very much, we just did as you said and managed to remove the handle after a bit of struggle.

It did seem like it was stuck from all the calcium deposit.

We have found where the leak starts from, please see the attached photo.

What do we do from here to stop the leak?leaking from here

EricL

Hello @plumb1

It appears that the cartridge itself is leaking. You'll need to dis assemble the mixer by removing number 4 and 5 on the diagram. That would be called the cover ring and the locking ring. Make sure that the mains water is off before you start disassembly. Quickly go to Bunnings and bring the cartridge with you to make sure you get the correct size. Re-assemble the shower mixer by doing the steps in reverse.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

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