How To Fix A Leaky Bathroom Shower Faucet Single Handle

Dripping faucets lead to water waste, high utility bills, and can be a constant source of annoyance. A leaky bathroom shower faucet single handle is a common problem, but it's one that you can fix yourself with a few simple tools and a little bit of time.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before you begin, you'll need to gather the following materials:

Adjustable wrench
Phillips head screwdriver
Flathead screwdriver
Replacement cartridge
Plumber's tape

Step 2: Turn Off the Water Supply

Locate the shut-off valves beneath the sink or behind the shower faucet. Turn both valves clockwise until the water supply is completely shut off.

Step 3: Remove the Handle

Use the Phillips head screwdriver to remove the two screws that are holding the handle in place. Once the screws are removed, you can pull the handle straight off of the faucet.

Step 4: Remove the Cartridge

Use the flathead screwdriver to pry the cartridge out of the faucet body. Be careful not to damage the cartridge or the faucet body.

Step 5: Inspect the Cartridge

Once you have removed the cartridge, inspect it for any signs of damage or wear. If the cartridge is damaged, it will need to be replaced.

Step 6: Replace the Cartridge

If the cartridge is damaged, you will need to replace it with a new one. Apply a small amount of plumber's tape to the threads of the new cartridge before inserting it into the faucet body.