How to Change the Washer in a Shower Faucet

Co-authored by Patrick Johns

Last Updated: December 11, 2022 References

Tub and shower faucets function similarly to sink faucets; they each have handles that are used to twist cartridge-based valves hidden below a decorative finish. At the base of these cartridges is a washer that helps to prevent leaks and drips from happening by keeping the cartridge thoroughly shut off. When these washers wear out, you may find your tub faucet or shower head beginning to drip. Replacing the shower faucet washer is much like replacing a sink faucet washer, with the only differences being the orientation of the cartridges; in the wall, instead of on the sink.

Steps

1
Turn off the water at the nearest water valve. If you are unable to locate a close valve, shut off the water at its main source where it enters the house.^{[1]
X
Research source}
2
Look on the sides of the faucet handles for a small screw. It is usually at the base of the handle, near the escutcheon or decorative portion. It may be beneath or on the underside of the faucet handle.^{[2]
X
Research source}

Advertisement
3
Use a screwdriver to remove this screw and set it aside.
4
Lift the faucet handle off of the escutcheon and set it aside.
5
Look for the screws holding the escutcheon to the wall. They are usually hidden by the handle; once the handle has come off, they should be easily seen.
6
Remove the screws holding the escutcheon to the wall.
7
Take off the escutcheon and set it aside. This will expose the faucet cartridge.
8
Grasp the cartridge with a pair of pliers.
9
Turn the cartridge with the pliers counterclockwise until it comes loose and slips out of the wall.
10
Turn the cartridge upside down to see the washer at its base.
11
Remove the old washer from the cartridge by using a screwdriver to loosen the screw holding it in place. Grasp the cartridge with the pliers to help it loosen, if you are having difficulty.^{[3]
X
Research source}
12
Slip the new washer into the place left by the old one.
13
Insert the end of the cartridge into the wall.
14
Grasp the end of the cartridge with the pliers.
15
Twist the pliers clockwise to lock the cartridge back into place.^{[4]
X
Research source}
16
Set the escutcheon back over the cartridge.
17
Screw the escutcheon back into place.
18
Screw the handle back onto the escutcheon.
19
Run a thin bead of silicone caulk around the edge of the escutcheon to seal it into place.^{[5]
X
Research source}
- Cut the tip of the caulk tube off at a 45-degree angle with a utility knife.
- Squeeze the tube slowly and carefully to fill the gap around the escutcheon.
20
Turn on the water at its source.
21
Test the cartridge and new washer to ensure no drips occur.

Community Q&A

Question

Where do I turn off the main water line?

Community Answer

Usually, it's extremely close to the water meter. There should be a shut-off valve both immediately before and after the water meter. Both can be turned off if one isn't doing the trick. If neither shut off the water completely, then you'll need a plumber to replace both with ball type valves for vastly improved predictability and reliability.
Question

What do I do if the cartridge just spins and doesn't come out?

Community Answer

Make sure you removed the large outermost nut, an extremely common setup. You can also both push and pull to free the possible O-ring(s), or you can spray some oil into the back. It should just pop out, but some corrosion or buildup may need to be overcome. If nothing's working, then call a plumber and they'll grease up everything so future replacements are uneventful.
Question

Do I have to turn off the water to do this?

Community Answer

Yes, you must turn off the water. The washer holds back the water pressure from the main line. If you remove the handle and washer without cutting off the water supply, water will spray everywhere.