A Price Pfister shower faucet is basically a valve that operates when you turn the handle to get hot or cold water. It works with the handle functioning like an airlock, only that the element going through it is water. By turning the handle, the valve will open 2 valves that let more hot and cold water through as you turn the handle more. This type of faucet definitely has a lot of moving parts in it, which means that it is more likely to get wear out more quickly than other types of faucets. Due to constant use, the seals inside it, such as the O ring, wear away and cause leaks, which you should repair. In this article, we offer you a step-by-step guide on removing a Price Pfister shower faucet.
1. Secure The Things That You Will Need.
Removing this faucet is a very simple task, considering that you got all the need tools at hand. These include a Phillips screwdriver, flat-head screwdriver, adjustable wrench and shower stem sockets.
2. Turn Off The Water Supply To Your Shower Or Tub.
Make sure you do this before you start removing any component. You will find the shut-off valve in your bathroom or basement. If you do not find it in these areas, then turn off the main water supply to your home instead. To remove any standing water in the plumbing system, turn the faucet handle during this step.
3. Remove The Handle.
First, make sure to shut the drain, as the last thing you would want when working with small parts is accidentally dropping them down the drain. With the drain shut, locate the screw at the center of the faucet handle that secures it to the shower stem. If there is a decorative cap at the center of the handle, pry it with a small flat-head screwdriver to access the screw. Remove the screw by turning it counterclockwise and then remove the handle from the stem by pulling it straight out from the wall. Most likely, there is an escutcheon, which is a decorative casing around the stem, which you have to remove as well. This can be done by pulling the component off or unthreading it by hand.
4. Slide The Appropriate Shower.
Put the tub socket over the shower valve stem and then attach an adjustable wrench to the back-end of the socket. To loosen and finally remove the stem, turn the wrench counterclockwise.
More Useful Tips
By the time you get the handle off, you will find a little piece with a Phillips head, so make sure you set it aside. You will also find a piece of plastic that determines the hotness and coldness of the water. Take a picture of how it is set, so you will be able set it back the way it is, or you will get either a really hot or really cold shower.
When turning the water supply valve back on, make sure you do it gradually to prevent a huge and sudden build-up of pressure in your plumbing system, which can damage connections and seals.
