Why Your Shower Refuses To Turn Off And How To Finally Fix It

Why Your Shower Won't Turn Off

It can be incredibly frustrating when the shower in your home won't properly turn off. The constant flow of water can lead to higher utility bills, potential water damage issues, and general annoyance when all you want is for the shower to stop running.

Common Causes of a Shower That Won't Turn Off

There are a few common culprits behind a shower that persists in streaming out water, even after you've attempted to turn it off:

• Faulty or worn out shower cartridge
• Problems with the shower handle or knob
• Clogs in the shower head
• Leaky plumbing connections

The most typical cause is issues with the shower cartridge or shower valve. The cartridge controls the on/off function and regulates the water flow and temperature. Over time, the components inside the valve can become corroded or simply wear out. This leads to the shower handle not being able to properly stop the water flow when turned to the off position.

Signs Your Shower Cartridge Needs to Be Replaced

How can you tell if problems with the shower cartridge are behind your running shower? Here are some signs it's time to replace this important part:

• Water continues dripping or running even when the shower is turned "off"
• The temperature regulation isn't working properly
• It's become difficult to turn the shower on and off
• You have to jiggle or forcibly turn the shower handle to temporarily stop water flow

If any of those sound familiar, a worn out cartridge is likely to blame.

Fixing a Shower That Refuses to Shut Off

Taking the right steps to get your shower under control again will depend on identifying the underlying cause. But in most cases, you'll end up needing to replace the shower cartridge or shower valve.

Replacing a Failing Shower Cartridge

Although the specifics can vary slightly depending on your particular shower type and model, the general process for shower cartridge replacement is straightforward:

1. Turn off your home's main water shut off valve so no water flows.
2. Take the shower handle/knob off to access the cartridge.
3. Remove the faulty cartridge with a wrench.
4. Clean the valve area thoroughly.
5. Add plumber's grease to the new replacement cartridge.
6. Slide the new shower cartridge into place.
7. Replace the handle/knob and turn your water back on to test.

This shower repair often takes less than an hour. And it comes with the perk of once again having a fully functioning shower with reliable on/off capabilities and pleasant water pressure.

When to Call a Plumber

In some situations calling in a professional plumber is the best course of action. It's wise to let a plumbing expert handle:

• Showers where the valve area is complicated or in an awkward spot
• Cartridge replacement in special shower niche models
• Installation of new shower valves or mixing valves
• Whole home water shut off and reopening
• Any necessary drywall repairs

Even if you have some plumbing know-how, don't be afraid to delegate shower issues you aren't comfortable resolving. Shower valves can be sensitive and you want the job done right.

Preventing Future Shower Problems

While it's nearly impossible to avoid shower repairs and replacements altogether, you can take some steps to prolong the lifespan of your shower and avoid annoying ongoing issues.

Tips to Minimize Shower Problems

Here are some tips:

• Invest in a quality shower cartridge initially. Poor quality typically fails faster.
• Check seals around the shower for drips and leaks and re-caulk as needed.
• Clean shower head openings regularly to avoid clogs.
• Consider installing a water filtration system to filter out mineral deposits.
• Turn water supply off to shower area when away from home for long periods.

A little preventative maintenance and high-quality shower components can help reduce the chances you'll wind up dealing with shower hassles like a shower that just won't turn off no matter what you try.

Dealing with shower problems can be a headache, but a little knowledge about common causes, cartridge replacement steps, and maintenance tips can help you get your shower functioning properly again. And prevent future breakdowns.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.