How to Get Your Shower Cartridge Out: A Step-by-Step Guide
Removing a shower cartridge can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, it can be a relatively simple process. A shower cartridge is a type of valve that controls the flow of water in your shower, and over time, it may need to be replaced or cleaned out. In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to get your shower cartridge out, ensuring a smooth and successful replacement or cleaning process.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before starting the process, make sure you have the following tools and materials:
- A wrench or basin wrench
- A needle-nose pliers or a long-handled tweezers
- A cloth or paper towel for cleaning up any spills
- Optional: a bucket or drain pan to catch any water that may flow out during the removal process
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
The first step in removing your shower cartridge is to turn off the water supply to the shower. You can do this by locating the shut-off valves, usually located near the water supply lines under the sink or near the water meter. Turn both valves clockwise to shut off the water supply. Check the shower to ensure no water is flowing out by turning on the shower and checking for leaks.
Step 2: Remove the Handle or Cap
Next, you’ll need to remove the handle or cap covering the shower cartridge. You may need to use a wrench or pliers to loosen any screws or clips holding the handle in place. Gently lift or pull the handle off to expose the cartridge.
Step 3: Identify the Cartridge Type
Before proceeding, identify the type of cartridge you have. There are two main types: single-handle and two-handle. Single-handle cartridges have a single cartridge that controls both hot and cold water, while two-handle cartridges have separate cartridges for hot and cold water.
Step 4: Disconnect the Water Lines
Use your wrench or basin wrench to loosen and remove the nuts holding the water lines in place. You may need to rotate the lines while loosening the nuts to dislodge them from the cartridge. Once the nuts are removed, lift the water lines off the cartridge.
Step 5: Remove the O-Rings and Gaskets
You’ll need to remove any O-rings or gaskets that may be covering the cartridge threads. Use your needle-nose pliers or tweezers to gently remove these parts, taking care not to damage them. Set the O-rings and gaskets aside for reassembly later.
Step 6: Remove the Cartridge
Use your wrench or basin wrench to loosen and remove the cartridge from the shower assembly. If the cartridge is stuck, you may need to use a bit of force and wiggle it back and forth while removing it. Be careful not to touch any of the cartridge’s internal parts.
Step 7: Clean the Area
Once the cartridge is removed, clean the area around it to ensure any debris or mineral buildup is removed. Use a cloth or paper towel to wipe down the area and remove any loose particles.
Step 8: Reassemble (Optional)
If you’re cleaning or replacing the cartridge, now is the time to do so. Make sure to follow any manufacturer’s instructions for assembly and replacement.
Conclusion
Removing a shower cartridge can be a bit tricky, but by following these steps, you should be able to successfully remove the cartridge and carry out any necessary maintenance or repairs. Remember to be patient and gentle when handling the cartridge and its parts to avoid any damage or leaks. With these instructions, you should be able to get your shower cartridge out and get your shower flowing smoothly once again.
Plumber wanted to charge me over $1500 to replace my bathtub spout and shower cartridge. I got the spout off pretty easily but I can’t seem to get my cartridge out. Do I need a puller or do I need to do something else? It’s an Olympia unit. Thank you.
Take the pic to your hardware store and ask for the right shower cartridge wrench. The probably have the cartridge too.
I’ve always used needle nose pliers and never had a problem. $1500 for a cartridge replacement is robbery. FYI – hardware stores will give you FREE cartridges as the manufacturers have lifetime warranties on them.
IS YOUR WATER TURNED OFF? For all that is holy be 100% sure the water is off. If it isn’t, be prepared for absolute panic and chaos. I’ve seen it to many times.
Looks like it requires a special wrench on the silver ring. Might be able to get away with a simple wrench or needle nose pliers if it isn’t caked on with minerals
That silver ring should be removable just make sure the water is off to the fixture first (I could be wrong I’m not 100% sure the brand/style but it is similar to ones I’ve seen) after that you can pull the old cart out and replace.
On the other hand it could also be a screw in stem and you would need the stem tool for that brand or size either way make sure the water is off to it.
Had mine replaced a few weeks ago. Lots of iron in my water so I knew that it would be tough to get out. Plumber tried pliers, no go. Ended up using a puller that screws in. Took about 20 minutes. No idea of the cost yet as the plumber needs to come back for other work. I would expect $100 – $200 all in parts and labor.
I remember reading thread on replacing Moen cartridge earlier this year when I had to replace mine. Someone asked if they should replace it with the plastic or brass cartridge. The best response was along the lines of if you go with plastic you’ll need to replace sooner, if you go with brass it will last forever but you’ll wish you replaced it sooner.
Anyway I went with plastic figuring replacing it more frequently will be easier to remove – sometimes planned obsolescence is a good thing.
If you call Moen with the type of cartridge they probably send you a new one for free. And as others have said that silver piece is what’s probably holding down. So unscrew that and you should be able to pull the cartridge out. Good luck!