Choice and repair of shower mixer tap

Few people want to face problems with the functioning of the plumbing in their own shower. Nevertheless, sometimes it can't be avoided. There is only one option - to solve the problem at once, not to put it off for later. Otherwise, the consequences can be the most unpredictable, up to flooding the neighbors from downstairs.

In the shower mixers one of the most important roles is played by the cartridge. It is responsible for such parameters as mixing the flow of cold and hot water, pressure and, of course, temperature. If the cartridge fails, the entire system suffers.

Now most residents of apartments and houses give preference to modern faucets for the shower, which are characterized by the presence of ceramic elements instead of the former valve systems. The design has become more reliable, comfortable and durable. However, even the most expensive faucet will not fully get rid of possible failures.

As practice shows, in showers most often installed brass faucets (body), There are two cartridges, holders, handwheel and diverter inside. The latter is responsible for changing the modes of water flow.

To buy the necessary cartridge nowadays is not a problem at all - there are all sizes, shapes, design features and so on. Their body is mainly made of special plastic, and the lower part is made of ceramic. There are rubber inserts on the holes. These seals allow for a reliable and tight connection between the cartridge and the faucet.

As we have already noted, the shower cartridge serves to change the modes of water supply. These devices differ from each other in several ways:

• Stem size;
• Diameter;
• Number of modes;
• Diverter seating surface;
• Type of seating for the stem.

Let's answer the most important question right away - whether the cartridge can be repaired. As a rule, the cartridge is not repairable and the only solution is to replace it completely. So the repair consists of removing the old cartridge and installing a new one in its place.

There are several situations that clearly indicate the need for replacement:

• Water leaks from under the lever when the shower is on;
• Only one water - cold or hot - is supplied;
• It is impossible to adjust the mode by oneself;
• Water temperature changes spontaneously and abruptly;
• A crunch occurs when switching;
• The distributor is jammed;
• Water flows do not mix well, do not match the set mode;
• The lever moves too freely or tightly.

Let you replace the old cartridge with a new one, but you should know the reason why the element failed. Perhaps this will help to keep the installed cartridge from the fate of its predecessor.

• Poor quality water. It is no secret that the quality of water in our water systems leaves much to be desired. It can be eliminated except by installing filters at the inlet. Although it is unlikely that anyone will install expensive equipment for a shower cabin.
• Carelessness. Often the cause of the breakdown lies precisely in the users. Sharp jerks, mechanical shocks and so on. Try to treat your plumbing with care, and it will thank you for it with many years of faithful service.
• Poor quality components. The body may crack, the integrity of seals may be compromised, rings may wear out, etc.

Before you go to the plumbing store for a new cartridge, be sure to answer a few questions:

• How many operating modes does your old cartridge have?
• What is the diameter of its drum?
• What is the height of the metal stem excluding the plastic element?

You can only do this by removing the element from the design of the mixer. We will talk about this in more detail a little later.

So, you have determined that your shower faucet urgently needs a cartridge replacement. Therefore, you should determine what kind of cartridge is used in the plumbing fixture, so you can go to the market and buy a replacement for it.

Unfortunately, not always consultants in stores can answer your questions, because they do not understand the nuances of plumbing equipment. Therefore, it is better to find out for yourself, rather than rely on the qualifications of the seller.

There is nothing complicated in the replacement. You just need to perform a few simple and consistent steps:

• Remove the handle of your faucet. To do this, you need to unscrew the small screw located under it.
• Remove the decorative nut, which you can easily notice on the edge of the retainer. It does not hold the device, that's why it is called decorative.
• Already under it is a nut made of brass, whose role is to fix the element. Unscrewing it is quite simple.
• Having unscrewed both nuts, you will have to pull out the cartridge.
• Do not rush to put a new one in its place. Be sure to remove all accumulated debris, dirt, and thoroughly remove lime scale beforehand.
• Now take the purchased new element and perform the procedure in reverse order.
• Do not remove the tools until you are sure of the effectiveness of the new cartridge. Turn on the water, check all modes.
• The replacement can be considered successfully completed.

As you can see, the cartridge, despite its small size, plays an extreme role in the functioning of the shower. Calling a plumber makes no sense, because you can perform the replacement yourself, not having special skills and experience in repairing plumbing equipment.

If you are afraid concerning the choice of a new cartridge, then simply pull out the old one and take it with you to the store. You will have no problem finding an analogue.