Bathroom plumbing repair can refer to two distinct projects. It could mean simple repairs to temporarily or permanently increase water pressure or stop leaks. It can entail a total fixture upgrade that requires replacing the shower faucet. Each project has distinct steps and neither are difficult to complete. Does this Spark an idea?
It Could Be the Water Pressure
How often have you taken a shower when suddenly the water flow slows considerably and often turns either extremely hot or cold? It is likely that someone elsewhere in the home has flushed a toilet or opened another water source, pulling water away from the shower.
You have just experienced a change in water pressure, and likely you are not very happy about the personal consequences, especially if you are still full of lather or shampoo. Other situations when a drastic change in water pressure can occur include the opening of fire hydrants in a neighborhood and a break in an underground water main.
When this happens, nothing is wrong with the shower faucet or shower head. Any corrections for water pressure will need to occur elsewhere in the internal or external water supply lines.
Check the Shower Head
Sometimes minerals from the water clog the holes in the shower head and restrict water flow. Unscrew the head and let it soak in vinegar. Use a toothpick to unblock clogged holes. For hand-held shower heads, check the tubing for holes and slits. It is better to replace the entire unit than to try to repair the hose.
Shower Faucet
If problems continue to occur that can't be traced to water pressure or a clogged or damaged shower head, look at the shower faucet mechanism. If the unit is a combination bath/shower system, they usually share the same faucet.
If the mechanism is a washerless faucet, internal parts need to be cleaned or replaced. This could include O-rings, springs or the cartridge. If the bath/shower share the same faucet, unscrew the tub-shower diverter before proceeding with repairs. The diverter valve switches water from the tub spout to a shower head.
A compression faucet has parts that are aligned in the same order as found in a sink faucet. The bonnet nut may need to be removed to clean or replace parts, which includes O-rings and washers. In most instances, the nut is recessed in the wall. To access, remove tiles or a fiberglass wall protector.
Tags: shower head, water pressure, bath shower, change water, change water pressure, faucet mechanism
