Shower Faucet Realignment
Home repair expert Henry Harrison helps a homeowner how to fix a shower faucet that dispenses hot water when turned to cold and vice versa
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Materials and Tools:
plumber’s basin wrench
5-in-1 painter’s tool
adjustable wrench
grease pencil
shower valve cartridge socket (included with replacement valve)
putty knife
screwdriver
needle-nose pliers
paper towels
safety glasses
plumber’s grease
non-toxic tub and tile caulk
tile cleaner
Steps:
1. Shut off main water supply valve outside using the basin wrench.
3. Since the water control is reversed, you should be able to correct the problem by removing the valve stem and rotating it 180 degrees. Mark the top of the valve stem with a grease pencil so you have a starting reference point.
4. Pull out the retaining clip out locking the stem in place using needle-nose pliers.
5. Use the plastic socket supplied with the cartridge and an adjustable wrench to turn the cartridge valve and break the friction between it and the housing.
6. Remove the plastic socket and pull out the cartridge valve with pliers.
7. Apply plumber’s grease to the valve and O-rings, and reorient it 180 degrees from its former position
8. Reinstall the valve and retainer clip. Replace the backing plate and shower knob.
9. Turn water back on and test flow to make sure hot is on the left and cold is on the right.
10. Remove the backing plate again and clean up the tile surface using the painter's tool. Replace the backing plate and seal around the edges using caulk. Tool the caulk with your finger and wipe away excess with a damp towel.
11. Reinstall the backing plate and the shower handle.
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(video 04:45)See Also:
- Bath and Shower (video 02:07)
- Tranquil Master Bath (video 05:54)
- Installing a Heated Towel (video 02:33)
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